Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu 3D/2N
Experience the Inca Jungle Tour to Machu Picchu in 3 days
The 3 day Inca Jungle Tour offers an adrenaline packed ride down trails and along rivers to the iconic Machu Picchu.
Combining the thrilling activities of downhill mountain biking, river rafting, zip-lining and hiking, you will no doubt arrive at the gates of the citadel with a huge smile on your face!
Perfect for those seeking an unforgettable adventure on route to the lost city of the Incas, this tour will treat you to breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley and the historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
Route Highlights
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Itinerary
- Day 1: Cusco – Abra Malaga Pass – Santa Maria (Biking and Rafting)
- Day 2: Santa Teresa – Aguas Calientes Town (Zip-Lining)
- Day 3: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco (Machu Picchu Tour)
DAY 1: CUSCO – ABRA MÁLAGA – SANTA MARÍA
DOWNHILL BIKING AND OPTIONAL RAFTING
We will begin our adventure at 6:00 a.m. with pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. We will board our private transportation and travel for approximately four hours to the Carrizales or San Luis area, where the Inca Jungle route to Machu Picchu will begin.
During the journey, we will travel through impressive Andean landscapes and cross Abra Málaga Pass, located at approximately 4,300 meters above sea level (14,108 ft). From this point, we will admire mountains, snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and the remarkable changes in vegetation that characterize this region.
Before beginning the descent, our guide will provide a safety briefing and explain the correct use of the bicycles and protective equipment. We will then begin an exciting downhill bike ride lasting approximately three hours toward the town of Santa María.
During the descent, we will pass through different ecological zones, moving from the cold landscapes of the Andean highlands to the warm and humid climate of the cloud forest. Along the way, we will observe lush vegetation, small waterfalls, rivers, and plantations of coffee, cacao, tropical fruits, and coca leaves.
We will make several stops to rest, take photographs, and enjoy the scenery. Finally, we will arrive in the town of Santa María, where we will enjoy lunch before heading to our accommodation.
OPTIONAL RAFTING ON THE VILCANOTA RIVER
In the afternoon, passengers will have the option to participate in an exciting rafting activity on the Vilcanota River. The experience will last approximately one hour and 30 minutes and will take place on Class III and IV rapids, depending on the river level and weather conditions.
Before beginning, specialized instructors will provide a safety briefing and supply the necessary equipment, including a helmet, life jacket, and paddle. The activity will be led by professional rafting guides.
After the rafting experience, we will return to the town of Santa María, where we will enjoy dinner and rest.
Transfer duration: Approximately 4 hours.
Downhill biking duration: Approximately 3 hours.
Maximum altitude: 4,300 m.a.s.l. (14,108 ft).
Optional activity: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes of rafting.
Meals included: Lunch and dinner.
Accommodation: Lodge or guesthouse in Santa María.
DAY 2: SANTA TERESA – OPTIONAL ZIPLINE – HIDROELÉCTRICA – AGUAS CALIENTES
After breakfast, we will board our transportation and travel to the area known as Santa Teresa La Vieja. The journey will take approximately 40 minutes.
In the morning, passengers will have the option to participate in a zipline activity, also known locally as the “Monkey Tail.” Before beginning, specialized instructors will provide a safety briefing and supply all the necessary equipment, including a helmet, harness, gloves, and other protective gear.
Passengers who prefer not to participate in this activity may continue directly to the meeting point previously arranged with the guide.
Afterward, we will begin a hike of approximately two hours toward Hidroeléctrica. Along the route, we will walk through trails surrounded by abundant tropical vegetation and observe plantations of coffee and coca leaves, as well as fruits such as bananas, oranges, avocados, and mangoes.
We will also see small waterfalls, streams, and landscapes typical of the cloud forest. As we continue, we will enjoy our first views of the mountains surrounding the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
Upon arrival in the Hidroeléctrica area, we will enjoy lunch and have time to rest before continuing with the final part of the day’s journey.
After lunch, we will begin another hike of approximately two hours, following the trail that runs parallel to the railway tracks. This section is mostly flat and is surrounded by mountains, rivers, and lush vegetation.
During the hike, it will be important to remain with the group and follow the guide’s instructions, especially when trains are approaching or passing.
Finally, we will arrive in Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo. Upon arrival, we will transfer to the hotel, check in, and rest.
In the evening, we will enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Our guide will also provide all the necessary information for the following day’s visit to Machu Picchu.
Transfer duration: Approximately 40 minutes.
Optional activity: Zipline.
Approximate hiking duration: 4 hours in total.
Difficulty level: Moderate.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes.
DAY 3: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – OLLANTAYTAMBO – CUSCO
We will begin this important day very early. After breakfast, at approximately 5:00 a.m., we will start the uphill hike from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
The ascent follows a stairway trail surrounded by lush vegetation and takes approximately one hour to one hour and 30 minutes, depending on each passenger’s pace. There is also the option of taking the bus, depending on the services included in the package.
Upon arrival at the entrance to Machu Picchu, passengers must present their entrance ticket and the original identification document used to make the reservation, whether a passport, national identity card, or foreign resident card.
We will enter the citadel during the early hours of the morning. Depending on the assigned entrance time and weather conditions, we may see the morning light gradually illuminating the surrounding mountains and Inca structures.
We will then enjoy a guided tour lasting approximately two hours through the areas permitted according to the circuit indicated on the entrance ticket. During the tour, we will visit important enclosures, temples, plazas, agricultural terraces, and ceremonial areas. Our guide will explain the history, architecture, and cultural significance of this extraordinary legacy of the Inca civilization.
We will also have time to take photographs from the authorized viewpoints and admire the impressive mountain scenery surrounding Machu Picchu.
OPTIONAL HIKE TO HUAYNA PICCHU OR MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN
Passengers who have booked in advance may enhance their visit with a hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
This activity has an additional cost of approximately USD 75 per person and is subject to availability. As entrance tickets are limited, it must be requested well in advance. Each mountain has a specific entrance time, difficulty level, and separate admission ticket.
At the end of the visit, we will descend to Aguas Calientes, either on foot or by bus, depending on the services included. Once in town, passengers will have free time to enjoy lunch at their own expense, collect their luggage from the hotel, and make some purchases before heading to the train station.
In the afternoon, we will board the return train to Ollantaytambo. Passengers must arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before the departure time indicated on their tickets.
Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, a representative of our company will be waiting to transfer us by tourist transportation to Cusco. The journey takes approximately one hour and 30 minutes.
Arrival in Cusco is expected at approximately 8:00 p.m., depending on the train schedule, road conditions, and traffic. Finally, passengers will be transferred to their respective hotels, bringing this unforgettable Inca Jungle adventure to Machu Picchu to an end.
Approximate starting time: 5:00 a.m.
Duration of the uphill hike: Between 1 hour and 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Duration of the guided tour: Approximately 2 hours.
Optional activity: Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
Meal included: Breakfast.
Lunch: Not included.
Approximate arrival time in Cusco: 8:00 p.m.
Final transfer: Ollantaytambo train station – hotel in Cusco.
End of our services.
What is included in the Inca Jungle Trek?
Included
- 6pm Briefing at your hotel in Cusco the night before the tour
- Private transport from hotel in Cusco to San Luis
- Professional English/Spanish speaking tour guide
- Food : 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners
- Vegetarian/vegan and special diets requested
- Entrance ticket to Santa Maria River Rafting
- Entrance ticket to Santa Teresa Zipline
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- 2-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu
- Biking equipment : bike, arm and knee pads, helmet, gloves.
- Rafting equipment : windbreaker, vest, helmet
- 1 night hostel in Santa Maria
- 1 night hostel in Aguas Calientes
- Bus ticket : Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
- Train ticket : Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo (expedition/standard class)
- Private transport from Ollantaytambo to Cusco
- Trekking Poles
Not Included
- Breakfast on day 1
- Lunch and Dinner on day 3
- Optional lunch in Machu Picchu town : $ 27 USD (upon client request)
- Hike to Huayna Picchu/Machu Picchu mountain : $ 75 USD (upon client request)
- Optional entrance to thermal baths in Aguas calientes (S / .10 soles)
Recommendations to bring
- Original passport – expiration date no less than 7 months
- Valid Student ID card (if student booking)
- Good quality walking boots or shoes
- Trekking poles – can be rented at agency
- Sandals for down time (very important)
- Good quality trekking socks to avoid blisters
- Raincoat or long poncho (for rainy season)
- Waterproof trousers (for rainy season)
- Long sleeve shirts
- Long trousers
- Shorts suitable for hiking
- Wide-brimmed hat – UPV is strong at altitude
- Canteen water bottle as you should drink plenty of fluid on the trail
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Medicine/personal effects (eg. contact lense liquid)
- Personal First Aid Kit
- Camera or phone camera
- Portable battery charger
- Toilet paper (not usually found on trail)
- Small travel towel
- Cash/coins – small denominations – soles & dollars
- Swimming suit for the thermal baths in Aguas Calientes (optional)
Packing List
ESSENTIAL ITEMS:
- Original Passport
- VALID STUDENT ID CARD (if booked as a student)
- Immigration card (delivered on the airport upon entering Peru)
- Good quality backpack (medium sized)
- Water storage bottle or canteen: Camelbak bottles are recommended, but all need to be sufficient to hold 1-2 litres
- Comfortable shoes, preferably light with good soles (waterproof goretex for rainy seasons)
FOR YOUR BAGGAGE:
The train has a luggage limit of 7kg. We therefore recommend only bringing essentials with you to Machu Picchu.
- 3 Long sleeve shirts
- 3 Breathable t-shirts
- 3 Sets of underwear
- 3 Pairs of socks
- 2 Fleece
- 1 Hiking trousers
- 1 Shorts (suitable for hiking)
- 1 Waterproof coat and pants (for rainy seasons)
- Sunglasses
- Sun hat
- Sandals – In case you want to visit the hot springs in Aguas Calientes
- Small quick-drying travel towel
- Portable battery charger for your phone and cameras
TOILETRIES:
- Sunscreen
- Facial moisturiser
- Insect repellent
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Toilet paper
- Personal medication
- First aid kit: band-aids, moleskin, etc.
ITEMS TO TAKE INSIDE MACHU PICCHU:
We recommend taking a backpack into the citadel, however please be aware that bags of more than 25 liters will not be allowed. Larger backpacks will need be stored outside the gates of the citadel.
- Water canteen
- Sun hat
- Rain clothes
- Camera or phone camera
- Hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper and a small plastic bag for waste
- Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, and tips
Map

Additional Information
- Extra tickets will need to be purchased to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain
- There are limited number of spaces available per day, so we recommend requesting booking the tickets in advance
- Once the mountain tickets are sold out for that day, there are no options available for extra tickets
- The cost to climb the Huaynapicchu or Machu Picchu mountain is $ 75 USD per person. This will be added to the total cost
- Those hiking Inca Trail that wish to do Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain, will also be charged an extra $ 75 USD
- IMPORTANT: Before requesting tickets to the Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain, check availability by contacting us!
Important information:
- Departure dates: We have groups for the Inka Jungle trek every day of the year. But it is more advisable to make this trek between the months of April to December, since the months of January, February and March are the rainy season in Cusco.
Where does the tour start and end?
- All ours tours begins with the pick up to the tourists at the door of their hotels “We pick up to our clients from any hotel located in the city of Cusco”, We recommend to stay close to the historical center of the city of Cusco, it will make it easier to find your hotel.
- All our tours ends at the door of the hotels, it means the tours will finish with transfer to your respective hotel located in Cusco.
How to prevent altitude sickness?
- The altitude sickness or soroche can cause you some discomfort during your visit such as dizziness, fatigue or nausea. Try to avoid alcoholic beverages and fatty foods before the visit.
- To reduce symptoms, try to acclimatize yourself one day before to the altitude of the city of Cusco. We recommend to drink infusions of coca leaf (natural plant used by the Incas) is an excellent option to avoid the actitude sickness.
How is the accommodation?
- For all the tours which include hotels. We offer hotels of 3* and 4* category, it has spacious and comfortable rooms, bathrooms, hot showers and bueffet breakfast. If the tourist like, you can change the accommodation to a better service. You just have to request it via email for an additional cost.
Which season is the best time to visit Cusco and Machu Picchu?
- The dry season months between April to December are the best time to come and visit Cusco. During those days the possibility of rain is very little, so the roads are not swampy and the landscapes can be better to enjoy and takes the best pictures. On the other hand, the months with the most rain are January, February and March.
What are the coldest months in Cusco Peru?
- The coldest season in Cusco are in the months from May to July. During this time the sun is strong in the day, but once it goes down or you spend much time in the shade, it can get very cold. It can go below zero at night, so warm clothes and Jackets are necessary to bring during these months.
How long in advance can I request the tour?
- We recommend to purchase the tours weeks or months in advance, this because the train and Machu Picchu tickets has a limit of spaces, dont wait until the lust minute to book your tour, other ways you will not be able to find spaces.
During the trip to Machu Picchu, where the big luggages will stay?
The train company that operates to Machu Picchu does not allow the traveler to carry a suitcase that weighs more than 7 kilograms. To go up and visit the city of Machu Picchu, it is recommended to carry a light and small backpack for your convenience; the rest of the luggages you can leave them without any problem at the storage of your hotel in Cusco, or you can also leave at our office in Cusco city, we have an storage too.
Very Important in case you want to book the Inca trail to Machu Picchu:
- CLASSIC INCA TRAIL 4 DAYS: If you want to book the Classic Inca Trail 4 days, you must to book early to get your desired date. Depending on the month you prefer to do the hike, you may need to book 6 months or more in advance, the limit of spaces for the inca trail 4 days is 400 people per each day.
- SHORT INCA TRAIL: If you are booking the 1 or 2 day Inca Trail, it is preferred that you also book in advance, however 2 to 4 month in advance would be good, the limit of spaces for the short inca trail is 200 people per each day.
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