Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu 4 days

We begin our adventure with a journey from the Imperial City of Cusco to the majestic Sacred Valley of the Incas. Along the way, we enjoy a delicious energizing breakfast before continuing to Abra Málaga, located at 4,350 masl (14,160 ft), the starting point of our exciting biking experience.

After a briefing from the guide, we receive our full safety gear and get ready for a downhill bike ride of approximately 3 hours (55 km). Along the route, we pass through spectacular landscapes, from towering snow-capped mountains to the transition into the Amazonian high jungle, crossing small streams and enjoying the change from cold to warm tropical climate. We make technical stops to adjust our equipment and capture stunning views.

Upon arrival in Santa María (1,250 masl), we enjoy a well-deserved traditional lunch. In the afternoon, the most adventurous travelers have the option to go rafting on the Vilcanota River (optional, $40 USD per person). This thrilling descent through class III and III+ rapids is carried out with high-safety equipment, including helmets, class V life jackets, and windbreakers. Swimming ability is mandatory, and the activity is available from April to December, in accordance with Peruvian government regulations.

We end the day at the cozy in a Santa Maria Lodge, where we enjoy a hearty dinner and rest surrounded by nature, preparing for the next day of adventure.

Day Details:

• Biking distance: 45 km / 30 miles
• Riding time: Approx. 2.5 hours
• Weather: Cold at the start, warm by night
• Accommodation in  Santa Maria Lodge
• Maximum altitude: 4,350 masl / 14,271 ft
• Minimum altitude: 1,250 masl / 4,691 ft
• Included meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

After an energizing breakfast at the Lodge, we get ready for a day full of adventure, culture, and nature. Today we begin our hike toward Santa Teresa, walking along historical trails and stunning landscapes that connect us with the essence of the Peruvian Andes.

The first stretch is a one-hour ascent until we reach a section of the Inca Trail, an ancient route once used by the incas. Along the way, we stop to admire the region’s flora and fauna, spotting medicinal plants, fruit trees, and native species like birds and butterflies.

One of the most enriching moments is the visit to a local family, where we learn about their customs and traditions. We discover their connection with nature, their crops, and the importance of cacao and coffee in their economy. We’ll also get the chance to taste traditional products they have made.

We then cross the Qellomayo valley, while our guide explains Inca history and their communication system based on strategic roads. Here we encounter one of the most spectacular views: the Salkantay snow-capped peak, one of the most sacred mountains in the Andes.

We descend to Qellomayo, where we enjoy a delicious home-cooked lunch prepared by local families. With renewed energy, we begin the final two-hour hike to the Cocalmayo hot springs, where the crystal-clear warm waters are perfect for relaxing sore muscles after the hike.

At the end of the day, a vehicle takes us in 15 minutes to our hotel in Santa Teresa, where we enjoy a comforting dinner and a well-deserved rest in a cozy atmosphere.

Day Details:

• Hiking distance: 14 km
• Hiking time: Approx. 7 hours
• Weather: Hot during the day, mild at night
• Accommodation in Santa Teresa Lodge
• Maximum altitude: 2,100 masl / 6,233 ft
• Minimum altitude: 1,430 masl / 4,691 ft
• Included meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

We start the day with a comforting breakfast, preparing for a day full of adventure and stunning landscapes. The first activity of the day is the zip line (an optional experience full of adrenaline) with one of the most reliable operators in the area. This activity, which costs $40, lasts approximately two hours and allows us to glide over the valley, enjoying unmatched panoramic views.

After the zip line, we take transport to Hidroeléctrica, the access point to the Historical Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. Here, we go through the government control, where we register our entry before beginning the hike to Aguas Calientes.

The trekking route passes through the archaeological site of Intihuatana, an Inca site of historical importance, where our guide will explain its meaning and function during Inca times. We continue hiking to San Gabriel, where we enjoy a home-cooked lunch prepared by the Gonza family, local residents who greet us with hospitality and typical dishes from the region.

From this point, we have the opportunity to admire the sacred mountains: Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu, towering majestically over the high jungle. The hike ends in the town of Aguas Calientes, where we will stay in a comfortable hotel and enjoy a special dinner, preparing for the big day at Machu Picchu.

Day Details:

• Hiking distance: 10 km / 6.21 miles
• Hiking time: Approx. 6 hours
• Weather: Hot during the day, mild at night
• Accommodation in Aguas Calientes
• Maximum altitude: 2,050 masl / 6,725 ft
• Minimum altitude: 1,430 masl / 4,691 ft
• Included meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

The day begins with a key decision: to hike to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes on foot or by bus.

Option 1: Hiking (1 hour and 30 minutes). A challenging route with 80% stone steps. It is well-marked and does not require a guide, ideal for those seeking adventure and contact with nature.

Option 2: Bus (30 minutes, $12 USD per person). A comfortable alternative for those who prefer to conserve energy before exploring the Inca citadel.

Both options lead to the same entry point, where the guide will be waiting at the agreed time. This decision is usually made the night before during dinner, coordinating the details with the group.

Upon arrival at the entrance of Machu Picchu, we will go through the access control. It is mandatory to present the original passport. If you booked in advance, you will also be able to access Huayna Picchu ($65 USD, limited spots, book up to 6 months in advance).

The entry time and route inside Machu Picchu depend on availability at the time of booking. The sooner you confirm your participation, the better the assigned times and routes will be.

During the guided tour, which lasts approximately 2 hours, we will explore temples, terraces, and iconic buildings like the Temple of the Sun, the Sacred Plaza, and the Intihuatana. You will learn about the history, architecture, and engineering of the Incas, as well as the mysteries surrounding this archaeological site.

After the tour, you will have free time to take photos and enjoy the surroundings. The impressive flora and fauna of the Historical Sanctuary of Machu Picchu make this a unique moment to connect with nature and history.

At the end, we will take the bus back to Aguas Calientes, where you will have time to have lunch and explore the town. Later, we will board the train back to Cusco, marking the end of an unforgettable experience at one of the Seven Wonders of the World.