Overview
INCA JUNGLE TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU
If you’re looking for an adventure-packed journey, our 4-day Inca Jungle Trail to Machu Picchu is perfect for you! Imagine biking through the breathtaking High Forest of Cusco, rafting down the thrilling Urubamba River, hiking along ancient Inca trails, and relaxing in natural hot springs. You’ll even get to zip-line through the lush landscapes before reaching the iconic Machu Picchu.
This experience is more than just a hike; it’s a fun and exhilarating way to explore one of the world’s wonders with friends. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or love the great outdoors, this adventure has something for everyone.
DAY 1: CUSCO – ABRA MALAGA – SANTA MARÍA
We’ll start our adventure on the Inca Jungle Trail to Machu Picchu with a thrilling bike ride from Abra Málaga to Santa María, surrounded by breathtaking scenery. In the afternoon, get ready for an exhilarating rafting experience on the sacred Urubamba River. It’s the perfect mix of adrenaline and stunning landscapes to kick off our journey to Machu Picchu!
Overnight in a Lodge in Santa María.
DAY 2: SANTA MARIA – ZIPLINE – COCALMAYO HOT SPRINGS – LUCMABAMBA
This day will be unforgettable as we dedicate it entirely to trekking. We’ll start from Santa María, pass through the Casa del Mono and Qèllomayo, and finally reach Qocalmayo and Santa Teresa. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to zipline and unwind in the soothing hot springs, making this a truly memorable experience.
Overnight in Lucmabamba Domes campsite.
DAY 3: SANTA TERESA – AOBAMBA – AGUAS CALIENTES
We’ll kick off the morning with an adrenaline adventure that will have your heart racing while being on the Coffee Tour and arriving at the Inti Watana. In the afternoon, we’ll set out on a scenic walk towards Machu Picchu Pueblo, taking in the beauty of the surrounding landscapes as we get closer to our destination.
Overnight in a Hotel in Aguas Clientes.
DAY 4: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO
The highlight of our journey has arrived—the day we visit the wonder of the world, Machu Picchu. You’ll have the chance to explore this iconic site and take in its breathtaking beauty. In the afternoon, we’ll make our way back to Cusco, carrying unforgettable memories of this incredible adventure.
End of our services.
The Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu is available in private service and shared service, depending on availability.
itinerary
DAY 1: CUSCO – ABRA MALAGA – SANTA MARÍA
We’ll kick off our adventure bright and early, picking you up from your hotel at 5:00 AM. Our first stop is the stunning Sacred Valley of the Incas, where you’ll have the chance to enjoy breakfast and make any last-minute purchases. From there, we’ll head to Abra Málaga, the gateway to the Jungle, where our thrilling journey along the Inca Jungle Trail to Machu Picchu begins.
As we cross Abra Málaga, the real excitement starts with a 55 km bike ride down to the town of Santa María. Before we set off, we’ll have a brief talk about the equipment and the route ahead. The three-hour ride will take us through diverse landscapes, transitioning from highlands to jungle. Along the way, we’ll stop at the Huamancarma Archaeological Site, a remarkable testament to the Incas in the jungle, all while being accompanied by our support vehicle.
In Santa María, we’ll enjoy a well-deserved lunch at a local restaurant before diving into an exhilarating rafting adventure on the Urubamba River, with all necessary equipment provided (rafting is available from April to December). We’ll wrap up the day with a delicious dinner before settling in for the night.
Overnight in a Lodge in Santa María.
- Difficulty: 4 out of 5 /Moderate.
- Distance: 55 km (Biking) and 9 km (Rafting).
- Distance Time: Around 3 hrs (Biking) and 1 hrs (Rafting).
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
- Min. Elevation: 1, 200 m / 3, 937 ft.
- Max. Elevation: 4, 350 m / 14, 272 ft.
DAY 2: SANTA MARIA – ZIPLINE – COCALMAYO HOT SPRINGS – LUCMABAMBA
On this day, we’ll embark across lush coca plantations and a variety of tropical fruits, with our guide providing fascinating insights into their significance. After a two-hour uphill trek, we’ll arrive at the unique Casa del Mono, where you’ll witness a demonstration of coffee and cocoa production, giving you a taste of the local culture. Along this Inca trail, which was once used to connect with Machu Picchu, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the majestic Salkantay Mountain and the deep canyon—perfect for capturing some incredible photos.
Continuing our hike, we’ll reach the highest point of the day, where a spectacular view of the Urubamba River awaits. After taking in the scenery, we’ll begin a two-hour descent to the town of Q’ellomayo, where a delicious lunch will be served. This will be a great opportunity to rest or Zipline as the lunch in waiting through this amazing Valley.
After lunch, we’ll set off on a final 2.5-hour walk towards the Cocalmayo hot springs. Here, you can enjoy a well-deserved soak in the soothing waters, letting the natural hot springs relax your muscles after a full day of trekking. Our transportation will be ready to pick us up and take us to our lodge. We’ll wrap up this adventurous day in the town of Santa Teresa, where we’ll have dinner and settle in for the night, ready for more adventures tomorrow.
Overnight in Lucmabamba Domes campsite.
- Difficulty: 4 out of 5 /Moderate.
- Distance: 7 km approximately.
- Walking Time: Around 4 – 5 hrs approximately.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
- Min. Elevation: 1, 200 m / 3, 937 ft.
- Max. Elevation: 2, 000 m / 6, 562 ft.
DAY 3: SANTA TERESA – AOBAMBA – AGUAS CALIENTES
After a Tasty breakfast, we’ll begin our hike early, taking on a section of the renowned Inca Trail and exploring an organic farm where you can savor the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and learn about the local coffee-making process. Most Likely known as the “Coffee Tour Cusco”.
After a 3-hour climb with breathtaking views of Santa Teresa Valley, we’ll reach the Inca site of Llactapata, where you’ll get your first glimpse of Machu Picchu. Enjoy exploring this historic site and capturing some memorable photos.
Following our visit, we’ll descend for lunch in Aobamba. From there, you can either catch a train to Aguas Calientes (not included) or walk for 3 hours beside the train tracks. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife and the famous Intihuatana rock. Once in Aguas Calientes, check into your hotel, relax, and explore the town before dinner as we prepare for the big day ahead.
Overnight in a Hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- Difficulty: 4.5 out of 5 /Moderate to Challenging.
- Distance: 25 km approximately.
- Walking Time: Around 8 – 9 hrs approximately.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
- Min. Elevation: 1, 800 m / 5, 906 ft.
- Max. Elevation: 2, 800 m / 2, 040 ft.
DAY 4: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO
Today is the day you’ve been eagerly anticipating—the visit to Machu Picchu, one of the 7 Wonders of the World! You’ll start early to beat the crowds and experience the citadel in the peaceful morning light.
Once inside, you’ll enjoy a 2-hour guided tour through the most important sections of this ancient Inca site, including houses, temples, terraces, and crop fields. You’ll marvel at the Inca’s advanced engineering, from their mountain-side construction to their intricate water systems, which remain a mystery even today.
Fun fact: When Hiram Bingham first saw Machu Picchu, it was hidden under thick vegetation. Today, it’s a beautifully restored and protected UNESCO World Heritage Site, cherished by people worldwide.
After your visit, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch before boarding the 2:55 pm train to Ollantaytambo. From there, our private bus will take you back to Cusco, arriving around 8 pm. You’ll finally rest your feet, but the rhythm of the Andes will stay with you for a lifetime.
Overnight in Cusco (On your own)
- Difficulty: 2 out of 5 / Easy.
- Walking Time: Around 2 – 3 hrs approximately.
- Meals: Breakfast.
- Machu Picchu Elevation: 2, 430 m / 7, 972 ft.
- Cusco Elevation: 3, 399 m / 11,150 ft.
TO TAKE INTO ACCOUNT:
- Expect to line up for buses between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu, depending on the season.
- Follow the one-way circuit 2 at Machu Picchu with (Included) no re-entry unless your ticket includes Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (Not included).
- Plan to visit Inti Punku or the Inca Bridge before your guided tour. Train availability varies by reservation time and season.
ADDITIONAL:
- If your train schedule allows, we recommend visiting the Chavez Ballòn Museum, which is the Machu Picchu site museum, from noon, admission is free, to enter you must only show your passport.
- Another place you can visit is the Butterfly House, where you can appreciate the growth stages of a butterfly from being a cocoon to an adult butterfly. The entry price is S /. 10.00.
Include
WHAT DOES THE INCA JUNGLE TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU INCLUDE?
IT INCLUDES:
- Informative briefing prior to the adventure where our guide will provide all the information of the Tour.
- Experienced professional guide.
- Transportation Cusco – Santa María.
- Transportation Santa Teresa – Hidroeléctrica.
- CONSETTUR bus ticket Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes.
- EXPEDITION train ticket Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo.
- Bike activity (Bikes, helmets, and gloves).
- Rafting with all the equipment.
- Zip Line with all the equipment.
- 3 lunches, 3 dinners, and 3 breakfasts. Vegetarian option available. Breakfast on the first day and lunch and dinner on the last day are not included.
- Tea time (before each dinner)
- First aid kit and oxygen bottle.
- Entrance to Machu Picchu. Machu Picchu Circiut 2.
IT DOESN’T INCLUDE:
- Walking sticks (20.00 USD).
- Extra nights in Aguas Calientes.
- Additional costs beyond our control (bad weather, itinerary modifications due to safety or illness problems, political instability, strikes, etc.).
- Clothing and personal equipment.
- Entrance to the Cocalmayo Hot Springs.
- Breakfast the first day.
- Lunch and dinner on the last day.
- Phone calls.
- Travel insurance.
- Services not mentioned.
- Gratuities.
OPTIONAL
- Entrance ticket for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain: an additional 65.00 USD per person (Needs to be booked several months in advance)
Packing list
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE TOUR:
- Bring your passport or identity document (DNI) (the same with which the reservation was made).
- Wear trekking shoes.
- Bring a waterproof jacket/rain poncho.
- Bring a warm jacket.
- Wear T-shirts (quick-dry)
- Wear comfortable trekking pants, shorts.
- Bring a hat and gloves.
- Bring extra cash (Soles).
- Bring a 70 L backpack, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent.
- Bring your camera and extra batteries.
- It is only allowed to carry 7 kilos of luggage on the train.
- Book your tickets to the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in advance.
- Bring personal medications
- Bring a bottle of water and snacks.
- Bring toiletries and hand sanitizer
- Bring a flashlight with extra batteries
FAQS
WHAT IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO DO THE INCA JUNGLE TREK 4 DAYS?
The best time is during the dry season, from May to October. The rainy season (November to April) can make trails slippery and challenging.
WHAT LEVEL OF FITNESS IS REQUIRED FOR THE INCA JUNGLE TREK TO MACHU PICCHU?
The trek involves challenging hikes at lower altitudes. However, a good level of physical fitness and some prior trekking experience are recommended due to de distances.
IS ALTITUDE SICKNESS A CONCERN?
Not at all, remember that this trail is mainly in the jungle. Despite this, altitude sickness can occur. It’s important to acclimate in Cusco before starting the trek, stay hydrated, and listen to your body during the hike. Therefore I suggest you check our traditional tours to acclimatize.
ARE THERE FACILITIES FOR CHARGING ELECTRONICS DURING THE TREK?
Charging facilities are generally not available on the trek. Bring extra batteries or a portable power bank. However, you will have this service in all the campsites.
WHAT KIND OF ACCOMMODATION CAN I EXPECT?
Accommodations range from camping in Sky Camp and Mountain Sky View domes to lodges and hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes. Ensure you have sleeping bags rated for cold temperatures.
WILL I HAVE ACCESS TO CLEAN DRINKING WATER IN THE INCA JUNGLE MACHU PICCHU?
Safe drinking water is usually provided or can be treated with purification tablets. Always follow guide instructions regarding water sources.
WHERE CAN I LEAVE MY LUGGAGE BEFORE WE START THE INCA TRAIL 4 DAYS?
Many hotels and hostels offer free store service. If they do not, we can store your things in the office as long as you list the belongings you are leaving. we will store your belongings until you come back from the Inca Trail 4 days.
ARE THERE ANY ADDITIONAL COSTS IN THE INCA JUNGLE TREK 4 DAYS?
Additional costs may include optional activities, tips for guides and staff, and personal expenses. Entrance fees for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain may also be extra.
And taking the train from Aobambainsteat of walking until Aguas Calientes.
HOW DO I PREPARE FOR THE INCA JUNGLE CUSCO?
Acclimate to high altitude in Cusco, train for physical endurance, and ensure you have the appropriate gear and vaccinations. Follow any additional advice from your tour operator.
WHAT HAPPENS IN CASE OF BAD WEATHER OR INCA TRAIL CLOSURES?
In adverse weather conditions or if trails are closed, the tour operator may adjust the itinerary or provide alternative arrangements. Flexibility and understanding are key.
HOW DO I GET FROM OLLANTAYTAMBO TO CUSCO AFTER THE INCA JUNGLE TREK?
After taking the train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, our representative will transport you back to Cusco.
WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I NEED MEDICAL ATTENTION DURING THE TREK?
Guides are trained in first aid and can provide initial care. For serious issues, evacuation procedures are in place, but it’s important to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
WHY BOOK WITH KANTU PERU TOURS?
- Kantu Peru Tours is a Cusco travel agency that operates all the packages directly. We don’t give commissions to travel agencies or other third parties that inflate the costs.
- The staff that works with us are professional and responsible. Before they start working with Katu Peru Tours, we have a training course about customer service.
- We have all the tourist permissions and certificates, granted by the Municipality of Cusco, and the Minister of Peru (DICETUR – MINCETUR), which guarantees us to operate in Cusco and the sacred valley of Machu Picchu.
- Our Customers are our best guarantee. You can see and read our customer’s reviews. Click HERE
- If you want to get more information you can contact 👉 HERE 👈
Tour Price
“Ask first for availability 24 hours before the tour, otherwise we cannot guarantee the availability of the tour”
GROUP SERVICE |
PRICE PER PERSON
|
INCA JUNGLE TRAIL 4 DAYS |
| REGULAR SERVICE | Before: $519.00 USD
Now: $499.00 USD |
BOOK NOW |
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