Inca Jungle trek to Machu Picchu 4D/3N

DAY 1: DAY 1: CUSCO – ABRA MÁLAGA – DOWNHILL BIKING – SANTA MARÍA

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 our downhill biking experience will begin.

During the journey, we will travel through the Sacred Valley of the Incas and cross the impressive Abra Málaga Pass, located at approximately 4,300 meters above sea level (14,108 ft). From this point, we will enjoy breathtaking views of high-Andean landscapes, snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, and the changing vegetation that characterizes this part of the region.

Upon arrival at the starting point, our guide will provide a safety briefing and explain the correct use of the bicycles and protective equipment. Helmets, gloves, and all necessary safety gear will be provided.

We will then begin an exciting downhill bike ride lasting approximately three hours. During the route, 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.

As we descend, we will observe the gradual transformation of the landscape. We will ride along roads surrounded by mountains, small waterfalls, rivers, and lush tropical vegetation. We will also see plantations of coffee, cacao, bananas, citrus fruits, and coca leaves, which are traditionally cultivated by local communities.

Several stops will be made along the way to rest, take photographs, and enjoy the scenery. The activity will be carried out at a pace suitable for the group, with our guide accompanying us throughout the entire route.

Finally, we will arrive in the town of Santa María, located at approximately 1,200 meters above sea level (3,937 ft). Here, we will enjoy lunch prepared with regional ingredients before heading to our accommodation to rest.

OPTIONAL RAFTING ON THE VILCANOTA RIVER

In the afternoon, passengers will have the option to participate in an exciting rafting experience on the Vilcanota River. The activity lasts approximately one hour and 30 minutes and takes 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 and carried out with appropriate safety measures throughout the experience.

Rafting is subject to weather and river conditions. It is not recommended for people with heart conditions, serious injuries, physical limitations, or limited confidence in the water.

After the activity, we will return to the town of Santa María. In the evening, we will enjoy dinner and spend the night in a local lodge or guesthouse, surrounded by the peaceful atmosphere and warm climate of the high jungle.

Transfer duration: Approximately 4 hours.
Downhill biking duration: Approximately 3 hours.
Maximum altitude: 4,300 m.a.s.l. (14,108 ft).
Altitude of Santa María: Approximately 1,200 m.a.s.l. (3,937 ft).
Difficulty level: Moderate.
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 MARÍA – INCA TRAIL – QUELLOMAYO – SANTA TERESA

After enjoying a nutritious breakfast, we will begin our hike at approximately 6:30 a.m., heading toward the town of Santa Teresa. This day combines adventure, nature, history, and interaction with local families from Cusco’s high jungle region.

During the first two hours, we will gradually ascend along trails surrounded by abundant tropical vegetation. Throughout the journey, our guide will explain the characteristics of the local flora and fauna, as well as the traditional uses of medicinal plants and products cultivated by the surrounding communities.

Along the way, we will observe plantations of coffee, cacao, coca leaves, bananas, cassava, passion fruit, oranges, mandarins, and other tropical fruits. Depending on the season, we may also spot birds, butterflies, and small animals native to the cloud forest.

We will stop at a local family home, where we will rest for approximately 20 minutes and learn more about the daily lifestyle of the people who live in this region. Here, passengers may purchase water, beverages, and fresh locally grown fruit. On some occasions, the family may also provide a brief demonstration of the traditional coffee or cacao production process.

After the break, we will continue hiking until we reach a section of an ancient Inca Trail. This route formed part of the extensive road network used during the Inca period to connect Machu Picchu with Vilcabamba and other important settlements.

As we walk along this historic trail, our guide will explain the importance of the Inca road system, the communication methods used by the chasquis, and how the Incas transported messages, food, and other products throughout their vast territory.

From the highest sections of the trail, we will enjoy impressive panoramic views of the valley, the Vilcanota River, and the mountains covered in lush vegetation. We will then begin descending along paths surrounded by cultivated fields and small rural communities.

Around midday, we will arrive in the Quellomayo area, where we will enjoy lunch prepared with local ingredients. After resting and recovering our energy, we will continue hiking along trails near the Vilcanota River.

During the final part of the day, we will cross bridges, small streams, and areas of abundant vegetation. The climate will become warmer and more humid, so we recommend carrying sufficient water, insect repellent, and sun protection.

Finally, we will arrive in the town of Santa Teresa, where we will settle into our accommodation and rest.

OPTIONAL VISIT TO THE COCALMAYO HOT SPRINGS

In the afternoon, passengers who wish to do so may visit the Cocalmayo Hot Springs, located just a short distance from Santa Teresa. The complex features natural pools with different water temperatures, surrounded by mountains, tropical vegetation, and the relaxing sound of the nearby river.

Visiting the hot springs is an excellent way to relax your muscles after the hike. Entrance fees and transportation may involve an additional cost, depending on the conditions of the selected tour package.

After this experience, we will return to Santa Teresa for dinner and spend the night in a local hostel.

Starting time: Approximately 6:30 a.m.
Hiking duration: Approximately 7 to 8 hours, including breaks and lunch.
Difficulty level: Moderate.
Climate: Warm and humid.
Optional activity: Visit to the Cocalmayo Hot Springs.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Accommodation: Hostel in Santa Teresa.

DAY 3: DAY 3: SANTA TERESA – OPTIONAL ZIPLINE – HIDROELÉCTRICA – AGUAS CALIENTES

After breakfast, passengers will have the option to participate in an exciting zipline activity, also known locally as the “Monkey Tail.” This experience involves gliding along cables suspended above the valley while enjoying panoramic views of the mountains, the river, and the lush vegetation of the high jungle.

Before beginning, specialized instructors will provide a safety briefing and explain the correct use of the equipment. Helmets, harnesses, gloves, and all necessary safety gear will be provided.

Passengers who prefer not to participate in this activity may rest at the accommodation or go directly to the meeting point previously arranged with the guide.

Afterward, we will travel to the area known as Santa Teresa La Vieja. From this point, we will cross to the opposite bank of the Urubamba River and begin our hike toward Hidroeléctrica.

For approximately two and a half hours, we will walk along trails surrounded by tropical vegetation and agricultural fields. Along the way, we will observe coffee and coca plantations, as well as a wide variety of fruits, including bananas, oranges, avocados, and mangoes.

We will also encounter small waterfalls, streams, and landscapes characteristic of the cloud forest. Our guide will share information about the local crops, the region’s flora, and the lifestyle of the families who live in this area.

As we continue, we will begin to see the mountains surrounding the Historic Sanctuary. Depending on the weather conditions, we may enjoy our first views of Machu Picchu Mountain.

Finally, we will arrive in the Hidroeléctrica area, where we will enjoy lunch and have time to rest before continuing with the final part of the day’s journey.

HIDROELÉCTRICA – AGUAS CALIENTES

After lunch, we will begin a hike of approximately two and a half hours, following the trail that runs parallel to the railway tracks leading to Aguas Calientes.

This section is mostly flat and passes through an environment filled with lush vegetation, mountains, rivers, and small waterfalls. Along the way, we may observe different species of plants and birds while enjoying impressive views of the natural surroundings of Machu Picchu.

It is important to walk carefully, remain with the group, and follow the guide’s instructions at all times, especially when trains are approaching or passing.

In the afternoon, 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 the necessary information for the following day’s visit to Machu Picchu, including the departure time, assigned circuit, entrance procedures, and important recommendations.

Optional activity: Canopy or zipline.
Approximate hiking duration: 5 to 6 hours in total.
Difficulty level: Moderate.
Climate: Warm and humid.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes.

DAY 4: 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 route follows a stone stairway surrounded by lush vegetation and takes approximately one hour and 30 minutes, depending on each passenger’s pace. During the ascent, we will enjoy the natural surroundings of the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.

Upon arrival at the entrance, we will present our identification documents and corresponding entrance tickets. It is essential to carry the original document used to make the reservation, whether a passport, national identity card, or foreign resident card.

We will enter Machu Picchu during the early hours of the morning. Depending on the weather conditions and the assigned entrance time, we may witness 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 assigned on the entrance ticket. Our guide will provide information about the history, architecture, organization, and cultural significance of this extraordinary archaeological complex.

During the tour, we will visit some of the main enclosures, temples, agricultural terraces, plazas, and ceremonial areas, according to the assigned route. We will also have time to take photographs from the authorized viewpoints and admire the impressive mountain landscape surrounding the citadel.

After the guided tour, passengers may continue exploring within the schedule and circuit permitted by their entrance ticket.

OPTIONAL HIKE TO HUAYNA PICCHU OR MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN

Passengers who have made an advance reservation may enhance their visit with a hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.

These activities have an additional cost of approximately USD 75 per person and are subject to availability. Due to the limited number of tickets, they 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. The descent may be completed on foot using the stairway trail or by bus, depending on the services included and each passenger’s preference.

Once in town, passengers will have free time to enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants, 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, we will transfer passengers 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.