Inca Jungle + Inca Trail 5 days

The first day of the trip begins early. At 6:00 a.m., we depart from Cusco towards the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Before starting the adventure, we enjoy a buffet breakfast at Lorenzo Lodge Cusco.

Next, we continue by bus to Abra Málaga, a mountain pass located at 4,350 meters above sea level. This is where the bike experience begins. Our guide will give a brief safety talk and provide all the necessary equipment.

Bike Descent

The bike ride is approximately three hours (55 km) towards Huamanmarca. Along the way, we cross various landscapes, from the imposing snow-capped mountains to the lush tropical jungle where the Peruvian Amazon begins. You’ll experience a gradual climate change, from cold temperatures to a warmer and more humid environment. There will be strategic stops for rest and equipment checks along the way.

Upon arrival in the town of Santa Maria (1,200 m.a.s.l.), a comforting lunch is served before continuing with the next optional activity.

Rafting on the Vilcanota River (optional)

In the afternoon, there is an option to go rafting on the Vilcanota River ($40 per person). This river has Class III and III+ rapids, providing a safe and exciting experience. To ensure the safety of participants, specialized equipment is provided, including helmets, life jackets, and protective suits.

It’s important to note that this activity is available only between April and December, and according to Peruvian regulations, it is mandatory to know how to swim in order to participate.

Accommodation and Dinner

The first night is spent in a typical local lodge, where a dinner prepared by local families is served. As part of Lorenzo Expeditions’ commitment to responsible tourism, we directly support local communities, such as the Bernal and Tumpay families, promoting their economic development and strengthening sustainable tourism.

Summary of the Day

• Bike distance: 45 km
• Estimated bike time: 2½ hours
• Weather: Cold in the morning, warm in the afternoon and evening
• Maximum altitude: 4,350 m.a.s.l.
• Minimum altitude: 1,250 m.a.s.l.
• Accommodation in Santa Maria
• Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

A day full of adventure, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable experiences.

The second day begins with a nutritious breakfast, perfect for recharging energy before a day full of adventure. Then, we travel by vehicle for approximately one and a half hours to Lucmabamba, a small town surrounded by coffee plantations.

Coffee Experience and Zip Line (optional)

In Lucmabamba, we will have the opportunity to experience the coffee experience, where we will learn about the cultivation and production process of one of the region’s most iconic products.

For adrenaline seekers, there is an option to do a zip line ($40 per person). This activity allows you to glide along steel cables suspended in the air, enjoying a spectacular view of the cloud forest.

Hike on the Inca Trail

After lunch, we will begin a hike of approximately three hours along an original section of the Inca Trail. Along the way, we will make strategic stops to learn more about the local flora and fauna, while gradually ascending to the mountain’s peak.

At this point, our guide will share information about the Inca history, explaining their advanced communication system and the importance of the roads that connected their vast empire.

Panoramic View of Machu Picchu

Upon reaching the archaeological site of Llactapata, we will enjoy one of the most impressive views of Machu Picchu. From this natural viewpoint, you can also admire in the distance the majestic snow-capped Salkantay, one of the most sacred mountains of the Incas.

Rest and Dinner at the Lodge

After the hike, we will descend to our accommodation, where a home-cooked dinner prepared by local families awaits us. This type of lodging not only offers comfort but also directly supports local communities, promoting responsible and sustainable tourism.

Summary of the Day:

• Hike distance: 8 km
• Estimated hike time: 3 hours and 30 minutes
• Weather: Warm during the day and cool at night
• Maximum altitude: 1,828 m.a.s.l.
• Minimum altitude: 1,430 m.a.s.l.
• Accommodation: Lodge at Llactapata
• Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

A perfect day to combine adventure, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.

The third day begins with a delicious breakfast, preparing us for a hike full of stunning landscapes.

Descent to the Hydroelectric Station

We will start the trek with a descent of approximately 3 hours on trails surrounded by vegetation and panoramic views of the jungle. As we descend, we will feel the climate become warmer and more humid, gradually approaching the lower zone of Machu Picchu.

Entry to the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu

Upon reaching the hydroelectric station, we will pass through the government control point, the entry to the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. Here, we will begin our walk towards the town of Aguas Calientes, enjoying the beautiful landscape along the route.

Visit to Intihuatana and Lunch at San Gabriel

Along the way, we will stop at the Intihuatana area, a small but important Inca archaeological site. Our guide will explain the significance of this place and its connection with Inca astronomy and timekeeping.

Further ahead, we will arrive at San Gabriel, where a delicious lunch prepared by a local family awaits us. From this point, we will have a privileged view of the Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu mountains, appreciating them from a different angle before reaching the town.

Arrival at Aguas Calientes

After approximately 6 hours of hiking, we will arrive in Aguas Calientes, the town that serves as a base for visiting Machu Picchu. Here, we will stay in a comfortable hotel where we can rest and prepare for the big day.

In the evening, we will enjoy a special farewell dinner, where our guide will share important details about the visit to Machu Picchu the next day.

Summary of the Day:

• Hike distance: 15 km
• Estimated hike time: 6 hours
• Weather: Warm during the day and mild at night
• Maximum altitude: 2,050 m.a.s.l.
• Minimum altitude: 1,430 m.a.s.l.
• Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
• Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

A day of connection with nature and history, bringing us closer and closer to the mystical city of Machu Picchu.

The fourth day will immerse us in a unique hike, traversing the legendary Short Inca Trail, passing impressive archaeological sites, and enjoying spectacular views before reaching Machu Picchu.

Start of the Hike: Chachabamba

After a good breakfast, we will head to kilometer 104, where our hike will begin. The first stop will be Chachabamba, an Inca archaeological site located at 2,250 m.a.s.l. Here, our guide will tell us about the history and importance of this place in the network of Inca trails.

Ascent to Wiñay Wayna

We will continue our ascent until we reach Wiñay Wayna, the second archaeological site of the day. Its name means “Forever Young” in Quechua, and it is one of the most impressive places on the Inca Trail, with agricultural terraces, temples, and perfectly preserved Inca structures.

Along the way, we will enjoy panoramic views of the Urubamba River and be amazed by the diversity of flora and fauna in this protected area, the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.

Sun Gate – Inti Punku: First View of Machu Picchu

After a Box Lunch, we will continue our hike to the famous Sun Gate (Intipunku). From this point, we will have our first panoramic view of Machu Picchu, an exciting experience and a perfect moment to take photographs.

After a brief pause to enjoy the landscape and hear an explanation from our guide, we will begin the descent to the Inca citadel. Here, we will have the opportunity to watch the sunset over Machu Picchu, an unforgettable natural spectacle.

Return to Aguas Calientes

After this magical experience, we will take the bus back to Aguas Calientes, where we will stay in a comfortable hotel.

In the evening, we will enjoy a delicious dinner, and our guide will give us the final details about the visit to Machu Picchu the next day.

Summary of the Day:

• Hike distance: 11 km
• Estimated hike time: 5 hours
• Weather: Warm during the day and mild at night
• Maximum altitude: 2,050 m.a.s.l.
• Minimum altitude: 1,430 m.a.s.l.
• Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
• Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

A day filled with history, nature, and the excitement of seeing Machu Picchu for the first time from above.

Our last day of adventure will take us to discover the majestic Machu Picchu citadel, one of the Seven Wonders of the World and the most anticipated destination of our trip.

Ascent to Machu Picchu

We will have two options to reach the entrance of Machu Picchu:

• Hike: A steep ascent of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
• Bus ($12 USD): A 25-minute ride that will comfortably take us to the entrance.

Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

Upon entering the archaeological site, we will take a guided tour where we will explore the most important temples and structures, including:

• The Temple of the Sun: Dedicated to the worship of the sun god.
• The Temple of the Three Windows: With an impressive view of the valley.
• The Sacred Plaza: The ceremonial heart of the citadel.

Our guide will tell us about the history, significance, and mysteries surrounding this legendary Inca city.

Free Time and Optional Hikes: Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain

After the tour, we will have free time to continue exploring Machu Picchu at our own pace. Those who have reserved in advance can hike one of the following mountains:

• Huayna Picchu ($60 USD): A challenging 1-hour ascent with spectacular views.
• Machu Picchu Mountain ($60 USD): A longer hike, but with a unique panoramic view of the citadel.

Important: Reservations for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain must be made at least 3 months in advance, as capacity is limited to 200 people per day.

We also recommend taking this time to relax, meditate, and connect with the spiritual energy of this sacred place.

Return to Cusco

After this unforgettable experience, we will descend to Aguas Calientes, where we will take the train back to Ollantaytambo. From there, we will take transport back to Cusco, concluding our incredible adventure.

Summary of the Day:

• Ascent options: Hike (1h 30min) or bus ($12 USD, 25 min)
• Guided tour time: 2 to 3 hours
• Free time: Explore Machu Picchu or take an optional hike
• Optional hikes: Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain ($60 USD, with advance reservation)
• Return: Train to Ollantaytambo and transport to Cusco

A day filled with history, culture, and magic in the sacred city of the Incas.