Inca Jungle Trek – Machu Picchu 4D/3N

Duration

4 Days/3 Nights

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

10 people

Languages

English, Spanish

ITINERARY

DAY 1: CUSCO – “ABRA MÁLAGA” – SANTA MARIA (BIKING AND RAFTING)

At 06:00 a.m., we will pick you up from your hotel lobby in our private van and begin the scenic journey towards the high mountain pass of Abra Málaga (4,300 m.a.s.l.). After approximately four hours of travel, we’ll arrive at Carrizales or San Luis, where our adventure officially begins.

Equipped with full biking gear, we’ll descend for about three hours through the breathtaking cloud forest, enjoying stunning views of coffee plantations, coca leaf fields, and lush landscapes until reaching the village of Santa María.

Upon arrival, we’ll enjoy a well-deserved lunch. In the afternoon, for those seeking extra adventure, there’s an optional rafting experience on the Vilcanota River (Class III-IV rapids), lasting around 1.5 hours.

In the evening, we’ll settle into a comfortable hostel in Santa María, where we’ll spend the night.

DÍA 2: SANTA MARIA – BAÑOS TERMALES – SANTA TERESA

After a hearty breakfast, at approximately 06:30 a.m., we’ll begin our trek towards Santa Teresa. The first two hours will involve an uphill hike, during which we’ll make several stops to appreciate the area’s rich flora and fauna. One of these stops will be at a local family’s house, where we’ll relax for about 20 minutes, replenish our water, and taste delicious tropical fruits from the region.

Continuing our journey, we’ll walk along an authentic section of the Inca Trail, once connecting Machu Picchu with Vilcabamba. Here, your guide will explain the Inca communication system and share insights into their impressive network of trails. At this high point, we’ll enjoy stunning views of the Huancarccasa canyon before descending to the village of Quellomayo, where we’ll pause for lunch and a well-deserved rest in cozy hammocks.

In the afternoon, we’ll hike for another two hours to reach the Cocalmayo Hot Springs, a perfect reward after a day of trekking. You’ll have time to relax and enjoy the natural thermal waters in this peaceful setting.

Finally, we’ll head to the nearby village of Santa Teresa, where we’ll spend our second night in a basic accommodation.

Overnight in Santa Teresa.

DAY 3: SANTA TERESA – “AGUAS CALIENTES” (ZIP LINE)

This morning, you’ll have the option to enjoy an adrenaline-filled Canopy or Zip Line (Monkey Tail) adventure before breakfast.

Afterwards, we’ll head towards Old Santa Teresa, where we’ll cross the Urubamba River via a local barrage. From there, we’ll begin a 2-hour hike, passing through lush plantations of bananas, oranges, avocados, and mangoes, and spotting small waterfalls along the way. Weather permitting, you may even catch your first glimpse of the majestic Machu Picchu Mountain.

We’ll then reach the Hydroelectric Station, where we’ll stop for lunch. After a short rest, we’ll continue our journey, walking approximately two hours along the railway line towards the town of Machu Picchu (Aguas Calientes).

Upon arrival, we’ll check into our hostel for the night, allowing you to rest and prepare for your Machu Picchu visit the next day.

Overnight in Aguas Calientes.

DAY 4: MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

After an early breakfast, your guide will meet you at your hotel lobby and accompany you to the bus station. From there, we’ll take a 30-minute ride up to the entrance of the Machu Picchu citadel.

At the entrance, you’ll pass the control point where you must present your passport and entrance ticket. Then, enjoy a private guided tour of Machu Picchu’s most iconic sites, including the Main Plaza, Sun Temple, Sacred Sundial, Royal Quarters, Temple of the Three Windows, and more. The guided tour will last approximately 2 to 3 hours, after which you’ll have free time to explore the site on your own.

Optional activities (not included):

  • Climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (additional $35 USD per person – prior reservation required).
  • Hike to the Sun Gate or Inka Bridge (no extra cost).

At the scheduled time, we’ll board the bus back to Aguas Calientes. In the afternoon, you’ll take the train to Ollantaytambo, followed by a private transfer back to your hotel in Cusco, arriving in the evening.

Overnight in Cusco.

Included / Excluded

INCLUDED

  • Professional tour guide in English and Spanish.
  • Pick up from hotel.
  • Private transportation from Cusco to Carrizales where we started the tour.
  • Train back to Ollantaytambo and bus to Cusco.
  • Biking equipment (bike, arm and knee protector, helmet, gloves, etc.).
  • Entrance to Machu Picchu.
  • Food: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners (Optional vegetarian).
  • 3 nights hostel.
  • First aid kit.
  • Canotage or Vilcanota River Rafting.
  • zip line (monkey tail).

EXCLUDED

  • First breakfast and lunch in Aguas Calientes.
  • Entrance to the hot springs of Santa Teresa.
  • Entrance to Huaynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain ($ 35 USD optional).

reviews

RELATED TOURS