Inca Jungle Trek 4D/3N

4 days

Group up to 8 people

5,860 m.s.n.m.

Challenging

The Inca Jungle Trail is one of Peru’s most exciting multi-activity adventures, combining mountain biking, river rafting, trekking and a visit to the iconic Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. This unique route follows an alternative path through the Andes, taking you far beyond the traditional tourist trails and into some of the country’s most diverse natural landscapes.

Throughout the journey, you will descend from the high Andes into the cloud forest and tropical rainforest, passing coffee plantations, fruit farms, ancient Inca trails and picturesque local communities. Along the way, you’ll experience thrilling outdoor activities while enjoying spectacular scenery before reaching one of the New Seven Wonders of the World—Machu Picchu.

Carefully organized by Auki Cusco Explorers, this adventure is ideal for travelers looking to combine culture, nature and adrenaline into one unforgettable experience.

Itinerary

Your adventure begins early in the morning with pickup from your hotel in Cusco by a representative of Auki Cusco Explorers.

Travel through the Sacred Valley toward Ollantaytambo, where there will be time to enjoy breakfast before continuing the journey by vehicle to Abra Málaga Pass, located at approximately 4,350 m (14,357 ft) above sea level.

After arriving at the pass, your guide will provide all necessary biking equipment along with a comprehensive safety briefing before the cycling adventure begins.

Enjoy an exciting downhill ride of approximately three hours, descending through an incredible variety of ecosystems. As you travel toward Santa María, you’ll pass through high Andean landscapes, cloud forest and lush rainforest while enjoying spectacular scenery and passing archaeological sites such as Incatambo and Wamanmarca.

Following lunch, the adventure continues with an exciting white-water rafting experience on the Urubamba River. Accompanied by experienced instructors and equipped with the appropriate safety gear, you’ll spend approximately two hours navigating the river’s exciting rapids before returning to the countryside lodge.

After arriving at the lodge, relax with refreshments before enjoying dinner and a peaceful evening surrounded by nature.

Meals Included: Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Countryside Lodge

Minimum Altitude: 1,500 m (4,950 ft)

Maximum Altitude: 4,350 m (14,357 ft)

Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

After breakfast, begin a full day of hiking through the beautiful tropical landscapes surrounding Santa María.

The trail passes through coffee plantations, avocado orchards, cacao fields, orange groves, banana plantations, coca crops and other native vegetation, offering an authentic glimpse into daily life in the Peruvian high jungle.

Continue walking along scenic mountain paths until reaching Quellomayo, where a well-deserved lunch awaits.

In the afternoon, follow a section of the original Inca Trail as the route gradually climbs toward the famous Cocalmayo Hot Springs.

Upon arrival, enjoy free time to relax in the natural thermal pools, whose warm mineral-rich waters provide the perfect opportunity to recover after the day’s hike.

After your visit to the hot springs, travel by vehicle to Santa Teresa, where you will spend the night at a comfortable countryside lodge.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Countryside Lodge

Minimum Altitude: 1,500 m (4,950 ft)

Maximum Altitude: 1,900 m (6,270 ft)

Approximate Hiking Distance: 14 km

Difficulty: Moderate

Today is considered the most demanding yet one of the most rewarding days of the entire adventure.

After breakfast, a short drive of approximately 30 minutes takes you to Lucmabamba (2,000 m / 6,600 ft), where today’s trek begins.

The trail gradually ascends for about three hours through lush cloud forest and well-preserved sections of the original Inca Trail until reaching Puncuyoc Pass. Along the route, enjoy spectacular scenery while learning about the natural and historical significance of this ancient pathway.

From there, continue with a short descent to the archaeological site of Llactapata (approximately 2,700 m / 8,907 ft). This remarkable Inca complex offers one of the most unique panoramic viewpoints of Machu Picchu, providing outstanding views of the citadel, Huayna Picchu Mountain, Machu Picchu Mountain, and the impressive Aobamba Valley.

After spending time exploring and photographing this exceptional viewpoint, continue descending toward the Hydroelectric Station, where lunch will be served.

In the afternoon, follow the scenic railway track through the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, surrounded by lush vegetation and spectacular mountain scenery, until reaching the town of Aguas Calientes. Guests who prefer may take the local train for this section if available.

Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy some free time to explore the town, browse local shops or simply relax before dinner.

In the evening, meet the group for dinner at a local restaurant while your guide provides final information for the following day’s visit to Machu Picchu.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

3 Accommodation: Ferre Hotel Machu Picchu (or similar)

Minimum Altitude: 2,000 m (6,600 ft)

Maximum Altitude: 2,850 m (9,407 ft)

Approximate Hiking Distance: 16 km

Difficulty: Moderate

After an early breakfast, it’s time to visit one of the most extraordinary archaeological sites in the world.

Board one of the first shuttle buses from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu, allowing you to experience the peaceful atmosphere of the citadel during the early morning hours.

Your professional guide from Auki Cusco Explorers will lead a guided tour of approximately two hours, introducing you to the most important sectors of the sanctuary while explaining its fascinating history, remarkable architecture and the purpose of its agricultural, residential and ceremonial areas.

After the guided visit, travelers who have reserved Huayna Picchu Mountain in advance will have time to complete this optional hike independently unless a private guided service has been arranged.

Later, return by shuttle bus to Aguas Calientes, where you will have free time for lunch (not included). Depending on your return train schedule, you may also enjoy some leisure time exploring the town, shopping for souvenirs or visiting the local museum or thermal baths.

In the afternoon, board the Expedition Train for the return journey through the spectacular Sacred Valley. Along the route, admire the beautiful scenery of the Urubamba River, dramatic mountain landscapes and, weather permitting, views of the archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna high above the canyon.

Upon arrival at Ollantaytambo, a representative from Auki Cusco Explorers will meet you at the station and transfer you by private vehicle back to your hotel in Cusco.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Minimum Altitude: 2,040 m (6,727 ft)

Maximum Altitude: 2,440 m (8,052 ft)

Difficulty: Easy

Included

  • Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu and all archaeological sites included in the itinerary.
  • Round-trip shuttle bus between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
  • Local train service between Hydroelectric Station and Aguas Calientes (where applicable according to the itinerary).
  • Private guided tour of Machu Picchu.
  • White-water rafting experience on the Urubamba River.
  • Professional English-speaking guide experienced in mountain biking, rafting and trekking.
  • Return Expedition Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
  • Private transportation between Ollantaytambo and Cusco.
  • Meals as specified in the itinerary.
  • Two nights at a countryside lodge.
  • One night in a private hotel room in Aguas Calientes.
  • Front-suspension mountain bike and complete safety equipment.
  • All private ground transportation throughout the program.
  • First-aid kit and emergency oxygen available during the tour.

Not Included

  • Optional entrance ticket to Huayna Picchu Mountain.
  • Entrance fee to the Cocalmayo Hot Springs.
  • Optional upgrades for hotels, train service or additional activities.
  • Trekking poles (available for rent).
  • Dinner on the final day.
  • Personal expenses.
  • Travel insurance.
  • Tips for guides, drivers and the Auki Cusco Explorers support team.

Optional Activity: The hike to Huayna Picchu Mountain must be reserved in advance and is completed independently after the guided tour of Machu Picchu unless a private guide has been requested for an additional fee.

Recommendations

Please read carefully the following information. It will help with your questions about our services and the trek to Machu Picchu.

WELCOME TO CUSCO

You will be greeted at Cusco airport and taken to your hotel, please ensure that you inform us of your full flight details at least 14 days prior to arrival. Look for our representative holding an orange Auki Cusco Explorers board at the exit from the arrival terminal.

CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE AT YOUR OFFICE?

Of course! During the trek your main luggage can be stored at our office or at your hotel, whichever is more convenient for you!

HOW TO BOOK THE INCA JUNGLE TRAIL MACHU PICCHU

FIRST, to book your Inca Jungle Trail Machu Picchu, we need you to fill out our booking form by clicking on BOOK NOW on our homepage or click here the link BOOK NOW.

Please be ready with the following information (FROM EACH PARTICIPANT in your group).  We cannot purchase an Inca Jungle Trail Machu Picchu entrances without the following information:

  • Personal information (your full name, exactly as on your passport):
  • Gender
  • Passport number
  • D.OB. (dd / mm / yyyy)
  • Nationality

SECOND, we require a deposit of US$200.00 per person in order to purchase a permit for the Inca Jungle Trail Machu Picchu.  You can make you deposit by clicking on the VISA or PAYPAL symbols on the top of our home page, or you can click on the VISA or PAYPAL symbols on our booking page or click here on the payment of your choice, either VISA or PAYPAL.

WHAT ABOUT THE BALANCE?

If you would like to avoid the high credit card fees in Peru, you may pay in cash at our office (US dollars or Peruvian soles) here in Cusco. There are many ATMS within the historical center to withdraw money. You can also pay by VISA or PAYPAL online but you will have to pay a 5.5% service fee, charged by VISA and PAYPAL.  To pay your balance through PAYPAL, you need to log into your PAYPAL account and use our email address. 

MAY I CHANGE THE DEPARTURE DATE AFTER THE TICKETS HAVE BEEN BOUGHT?

Unfortunately the answer is generally “No”. Once the tickets for Machu Picchu have been bought the government does not allow any changes, so we can’t change any departure dates. Tickets are not transferable nor refundable. Please contact the office as soon as possible if you need to change your date.
If you cancel your Inca Jungle Trail Machu Picchu, the deposit is not refundable at all!

DO I NEED MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT ON INCA JUNGLE TRAIL MACHU PICCHU?

Yes for sure! You have to bring your original passport and it is very important that it is the same passport number you sent to us to book your Inca Jungle Trail Machu Picchu, other entrances and reservations. The rangers will check your passport when you enter Machu Picchu. The train company will also check your passport before allowing you to board the train. In case you are renewing your passport or changing your name, go ahead and send us your old passport information to secure your permit, and we can change it when you get your new passport number or updated your name for a fee of $25 per person.  We must have a copy of your old and new passport to make the change. Before you change your passport keep a copy of your old one.

If you do not wish to pay this fee you will need to bring both passports to Peru with you.  You can enter Peru with your new passport but you will need to show both passports, old and new to be to enter the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu or the train.  If you do not have both you will not be allowed to enter the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu or get on the train. They are very strict about this here!!

WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE ON THE INCA JUNGLE TRAIL MACHU PICCHU?

The weather is very unpredictable and it’s difficult to foresee.  BUT you will have many different seasons as you pass through the numerous microclimates and will depend on the location. We highly recommend you bring some warm clothes, and good rain gear in your day backpack.  You will be going from a warm jungle atmosphere to higher elevations.  Dress in layers that you can take on and off.

ARE WE GOING TO BE DROPPED AT OUR HOTEL AFTER TREK?

Absolutely!! Included in the package and on the last day we will drop you at your hotel! If you have booked your hotel in the Sacred Valley like Ollantaytambo or Urubamba, we will drop you there too!   If you spend the night at Ollantaytambo before the trek, for sure we will pick you up there !

TIPPING

If you’re happy with the services provided, a tip – though not compulsory – is appreciated. While it may not be customary in your country, it’s of great significance for the people who will take care of you during the trek. It inspires them to give excellent service and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many Auki Cusco Explorers destinations. Of course you are free to tip as much as you feel appropriate, depending on your perception of the quality and the length of your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.

ARE WE SUSTAINABLE? 

Yes, we are a local, sustainable & responsible tourism operator for that we incorporate the universal principles of tourism: protect the environment and benefit the local communities by respecting their culture and religion. With this in mind, we have trained all our local staff to know and understand, respect the places and the local people.

Packing list

Proper preparation is essential to fully enjoy the Inca Jungle Trail. Since this itinerary combines mountain biking, rafting, trekking and a visit to Machu Picchu, we recommend packing light while bringing everything necessary for changing weather conditions and outdoor activities.

Essential Items for the Tour

Please bring the following items with you throughout the journey:

  • Original passport (the same passport used when making your reservation).
  • Valid student ID card, if applicable.
  • Comfortable daypack (30–40L recommended).
  • Reusable water bottles or hydration system (2–3 liters capacity).
  • Comfortable hiking boots with good ankle support.
  • Personal toiletries.
  • Toilet paper.
  • Camera or mobile phone for photographs.

Duffel Bag Information

For your convenience, Auki Cusco Explorers provides each traveler with a duffel bag during the pre-tour briefing.

Your duffel bag will be transported during the trek, allowing you to hike with only your daypack.

To comply with local regulations and ensure safe weight limits for transportation, the duffel bag must not exceed 7 kg (15 lbs), including any sleeping equipment if provided.

If your belongings exceed the permitted weight, the additional items must be carried in your personal backpack.

We recommend packing only the essentials.

Recommended Clothing

We suggest bringing clothing suitable for both warm tropical conditions and cooler mountain temperatures.

Recommended clothing includes:

  • 2 or 3 moisture-wicking T-shirts.
  • At least 2 pairs of hiking pants.
  • Several changes of underwear.
  • Multiple pairs of hiking socks.
  • Swimsuit for the Cocalmayo Hot Springs.
  • Fleece or thermal layer.
  • Warm jacket for cool evenings.
  • Waterproof jacket or rain poncho.
  • Waterproof gloves.
  • Quick-drying towel.
  • Comfortable sleepwear.
$574.35+ 5% booking fee
Estimated total $574.35
1
Subtotal$547.00
Online booking fee (5%)$27.35
Total$574.35
Book Now

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