Cusco, Santa Maria, Hidroeléctrica, Machu Picchu
- Time 3 Days / 2 Nights
- Tour Type Hike
- Altitude 4315 m.a.s.l.
- Place Cusco
- Difficulty Moderate
Trip Description
Welcome to the incredible Inca Jungle Imperial Trek expedition! If you are a thrill-seeker looking for something extraordinary, this option is perfect for you! This trip will take you through breathtaking trails in the Andes and the jungle, with numerous fun activities. On the tour, you will have the opportunity to contemplate the cultivated fields in the Andes and visit the impressive salt mines of Maras, which have been used since the time of the Incas. You will also visit Inca archaeological sites, learn about their fascinating history and enjoy the native flora and fauna. The most exciting part of the expedition will be the thrilling downhill biking through the mountainous areas of Cusco, where you will feel the speed of the wind and marvel at the breathtaking scenery. Afterwards, you will head to the Vilcanota River, where you will enjoy rafting and feel the thrill of white water rafting. Then, you will continue your journey into the lush jungle until you reach Aguas Calientes, experiencing how your heart beats faster as you travel through this wonderful place. Finally, you will visit the amazing Wonder of the World, Machu Picchu, and have an informative guided tour of the highlights. This exciting adventure is perfect for people full of energy and passion for adventure, join us for an unforgettable experience!
Short Itinerary
Day 01 : Cusco – Abra Malaga – Santa Maria – Santa teresa
- 05:00 hrs. We will pick up guests at the hotel and take them by bus from Cusco to Abra Malaga.
- 17:00 hrs. We will start the exciting biking adventure to Santa Maria.
- 16:30 hrs. We will transfer by bus to Santa Teresa (1 hr. Apox.)
- 18:00 hrs. We will enjoy dinner and spend the night in Santa Teresa.
Day 02: Santa Teresa – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes
- 05:30 hrs. Breakfast
- 08:00 hrs. We will hike for about 6 hours from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes.
- 19:00 hrs. Overnight in Aguas Calientes.
Day 03: Aguas Calientes – Machupicchu – Cusco
- 04:00 hrs. After breakfast, we will walk to Machu Picchu (1h 30 min. approx.).
- 07:00 hrs. We will have a guided tour of approximately 2 hours.
- 18:35 hrs. We will return by train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. 20:30 hrs. We will transfer by bus from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | |
Exit point | Cusco | Santa María | Santa Teresa | Machu Picchu |
Arrival point | Santa María | Santa Teresa | Aguas Calientes | Cusco |
Distance / duration | 210 km / 7 h | 22 km / 7 h | km / 7 h | |
Breakfast | ||||
Lunch | ||||
Snack | ||||
Dinner | ||||
Activities | Transfer from Cuzco Abra Malaga -Biking | Hike | Hike | Tours |
Complete itinerary
Day 01: Cusco – Abra Malaga – Santa Maria – Santa teresa
Early in the morning, we will pick you up at your hotel to begin our journey in a private vehicle to the sacred valley, passing through the picturesque villages of Chincheros and Ollantaytambo. Then, we will arrive at the highest point, called Abra Malaga, located at about 4,230 m above sea level. From there, we will begin the exciting descent by bicycle that will last about 4 hours. During the ride, you will see several archaeological sites such as Inkatambo and Huamanmarca, as well as small communities, fruit orchards, rivers and streams. At the appropriate time, we will take a break to enjoy an outdoor lunch. After a brief rest, we will continue until we reach the village of Santa Maria, which is located at an altitude of 1,430 m (4,870 ft). Here we will finish the cycling part of the tour and take a bus to Santa Teresa, where we will enjoy dinner and spend the night in a hostel.
- Time: 8 Hours Approx.
- Distance 01: Cusco – Abra Malaga 132 Km, 3 Hours Approx. by Bus.
- Distance 02: Abra Malaga – Santa Maria 75 Km, 4 hours Approx. by bike.
- Climate: Cold and Warm, Ceja de Selva.
- Maximum Altitude: 4,316 masl.
- Difficulty: Moderate, Easy
- Overnight: Santa Maria
- Meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch, Dinner
Day 02: Santa Teresa – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes
The day begins with a comforting breakfast that will give us energy to undertake a hike of approximately 15 km, which will last about 6 hours, towards Aguas Calientes. We will cross the Aobamba Valley until we reach the Intihuatana, from where we will be able to admire the imposing mountains of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu, as well as an exuberant jungle with a great diversity of life. We will continue our tour to Hidroeléctrica, where we will enjoy a refreshing lunch. Then, we will continue walking along the railway line until we reach Machu Picchu Village, also known as “Aguas Calientes”. The excursion culminates with a delicious dinner, and then we will rest in a cozy lodging.
- Time: 7 to 8 Hours Approx.
- Distance: 15 Km.
- Climate: Warm, Ceja de Selva.
- Maximum Altitude: 1550 masl.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Overnight: Santa Teresa
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 03: Aguas Calientes – Machupicchu – Cusco
This day will be dedicated exclusively to the visit of Machu Picchu. We will have a guided tour of approximately 2 hours and then enough time to explore on our own or visit Huayna Picchu (not included in the tour). After the tour, we will head to Machu Picchu Village. There you will find a variety of restaurants to choose from. Then, we will board a train that will take us approximately 2 hours to Ollantaytambo station. From there, a transport will be waiting for you with your name to take you back to Cusco City, a trip of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- Time: 6 Hours Approx.
- Climate: Warm, Ceja de Selva (jungle).
- Maximum Altitude: 2, 040 masl.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Overnight: Aguas Calientes
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional:
- Huayna Picchu: If you wish to add to your experience the climb to Huayna Picchu, which offers spectacular views, it is necessary to book in advance and has an additional cost of $25 per person. The climb to the top takes about 45 minutes and represents quite a challenge.
- Machu Picchu Mountain: You can also choose to climb Machu Picchu Mountain, a very demanding 90-minute upward trek, at an additional cost of $15 per person. This option offers probably the most beautiful and spectacular views, from where you can enjoy breathtaking landscapes.
- Buffet Lunch: We suggest you visit the MAPI Restaurant, with an additional cost of $20.00.
NOTE
- The program of activities may be subject to change depending on the availability of reservations and spaces in the camps at the time of our arrival.
- Campsites may vary due to weather conditions and the health of the hikers.
- The train included in all excursions is the Expeditions Train (round trip from Ollantaytambo). Train schedules are confirmed close to the date of the trek. If you join the group at the end of the day, we cannot guarantee that you will travel on the same trains as the rest of the group.
- Train schedules are subject to change according to Peru Rail’s schedule and availability.
What's included
What’s Included Inca Jungle:
- Transfers In / Out
- Transportation Cusco – Abra Malaga (Start by bike)
- Mountain and Technical Bicycles with the Respective Equipment.
- Professional bilingual guide (English – Spanish).
- Transportation Urubamba -Alfamayo.
- 01 Night hotel in Agua Caliente in Machupicchu Pueblo.
- 03 Breakfast, 03 Lunches, 03 Dinners.
- First Aid Kit
- 02 nights in basic hotel in Santa Maria and Santa Teresa Machu Picchu.
- Entrance tickets to the Inca City of Machupicchu.
- 01 Bus up and down Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu.
- Guide for two hours in Machupicchu Sanctuary.
- Return train tickets (Expeditions train) to Cusco.
- Transfer to the hotel, Ollanta – Cusco
Recommendations
Recommendations – What you need:
- Original passport and * International Student Identity Card (ISIC) if applicable.
- Walking boots
- Waterproof jacket / rain poncho
- Warm jacket, hat and gloves
- T-shirts
- Comfortable pants
- Hat
- Sunscreen cream (factor 35 recommended)
- Reusable plastic or metal water container or camel bags.
- Water, water purification tablets, or money to buy water along the way
- Insect repellent
- Toiletries
- Personal medications
- Camera
- Torch with spare batteries (headlamps are useful)
This tour offers a unique adventure experience. Explore various routes, including the option of mountain biking on the first day, long nature walks and many other exciting activities. Find answers to frequently asked questions about the Inka Jungle here.
Prices
SHARED SERVICE TOURInca Jungle Tour to Machu Picchu PRICE PER PERSON Minimum 02 people |
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Tour Summary
What is included in the tour
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Important note:
THE VOYAGER Train service – Inca Rail or EXPEDITION Train – Peru Rail, if you prefer to add the VISTADOME Train service the additional is US$ 45.00 per person Return.
Differential prices for students, children, infants.
FAQS
Frequently Asked Questions from travelers
What does the Inka Jungle tour consist of and how long does it last?
This incredible tour is part of our adventure packages. It includes an exciting hike through the ancient Inca trails that connected the empire, as well as alternative routes, where you will cross unforgettable landscapes and discover archaeological remains. You will also visit several typical villages and walk through them on foot (walking tour). On the last day, you will take an exciting walking tour from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, where you will explore the impressive citadel of the Inca nobles.
During the first day, you will have the option to enjoy an exciting mountain biking tour. The total duration of the Inka Jungle tour is 4 days and 3 nights.
What activities are included in this package?
- You have the option to enjoy the exciting mountain biking.
- Walking tours in the picturesque Andean villages of Santa Maria, Santa Teresa and Aguas Calientes, as well as in the famous
- Machu Picchu Hydroelectric Plant.
- Hike through the majestic geography of the region, including mountains, valleys, rivers, canyons and finally the beautiful
- Urubamba River valley, where Machu Picchu is located.
- Hike to the Inca citadel and enjoy a guided tour with professionals. Optionally, for an additional cost, you can hike to Huayna Picchu.
- Enjoy the delicious typical gastronomy of the region.
- Nights will be spent in family lodges and hostels.
- Relax to the maximum in the thermal baths of Santa Teresa (not included).
What is the cycling part like?
On Day 1, we will arrive at Malaga Pass (4,316 meters above sea level) at noon, after a relaxing ride through the beautiful Sacred Valley. You will begin the exciting mountain biking adventure, descending rapidly through the impressive Andean geography to the archaeological site of Huamanmarca. You will have the option to continue biking to Santa Maria or use our support car. We will provide a quality BMX bike and accessories such as helmet, visor, gloves, and elbow and knee protectors.
How are the hikes?
The Inka Jungle tour is ideal for those who love long hikes. From day 2 to day 4, walking will be the main activity. In certain sections, you will follow parts of the Classic Inca Trail. You will start at high altitudes near the snow-capped mountains, moving through the beautiful and energetic Andean geography. As the days go by, the tour will approach the jungle region, with its pleasant climate and lush vegetation. The imposing green mountains are shrouded in clouds, creating a breathtaking landscape. Undoubtedly, this experience will leave a beautiful and unforgettable mark in your memory.
Does this tour include camping?
That is an excellent question. Another distinctive feature is that you will not spend the nights in camps. Instead, you will enjoy dinners, rest and a comfortable, revitalizing sleep in family accommodations for the first two nights, and finally in a hostel in Aguas Calientes for the third night.
What are the age requirements for this package?
It is suggested that children be at least 10 years old to participate in any type of adventure, as long as they possess the necessary stamina, patience and discipline. From the age of 16, there are no age restrictions, as long as visitors are in normal physical condition. For older adults, it is recommended that they themselves evaluate their physical capacity, adaptability to altitude, cold, heat, and other relevant factors.
Is any previous training needed?
This question is very important. If you are not used to hiking or doing endurance sports on a regular basis, it would be advisable to assess your fitness. It is suggested to do simulations in rural environments with difficult terrain in your area, using a backpack, appropriate clothing, hiking boots, etc. This will allow you to prepare yourself physically and mentally for the 4 days of hiking in the cold altitudes and warm slopes leading to the western jungle of Cusco.
What is the best time of year to hike the Inka Jungle Trail?
The best time to hike the Inka Jungle Trail in Peru is during the dry season, which generally runs from May to September. During these months, there is less chance of rain and conditions are more favorable for outdoor activities. However, keep in mind that the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, so it is always advisable to be prepared for sudden changes in temperature and weather conditions.
What are the main activities that take place during the Inka Jungle?
During the Inka Jungle trek in Peru, you can do several exciting and enriching activities. Some of the main activities are:
- Mountain biking: A descent by bicycle from the high mountains to the valley, crossing scenic roads and enjoying beautiful landscapes.
- Hiking: You walk along scenic trails through mountains, forests and local villages, exploring the natural beauty of the region.
- Rafting: You descend the river in a raft, facing exciting rapids and enjoying the adrenaline while navigating through crystal clear waters.
- Ziplining: You can enjoy the experience of flying on a zip line over the exuberant landscapes, obtaining panoramic views and a dose of adventure.
- Visit to archaeological ruins: You will visit historical and sacred sites, such as the ruins of Machu Picchu and other Inca sites along the way.
- Hot springs: You have the opportunity to relax in natural hot springs, a comforting experience after a day full of activities.
- Cultural interaction: You can have contact with the local communities, learn about their culture, traditions and taste the delicious Peruvian gastronomy.
These are just some of the main activities that can be done during the Inka Jungle. The combination of adventure, nature, history and culture makes this route unique and exciting for tourists.
What is the difficulty level of the Inka Jungle Trek?
The Inka Jungle Trek has a moderate to challenging level of difficulty. Good physical condition is required for cycling and hiking on steep and uneven terrain for several consecutive days. The altitude can also be challenging. It is recommended to assess physical preparedness and individual conditions before undertaking the tour.
What are the destinations and highlights along the route?
Along the Inka Jungle trek in Peru, there are several destinations and outstanding places worth visiting. Some of them are:
- Abra Malaga: This is the starting point of the tour, located at an altitude of approximately 4,350 meters. From here, the descent by bicycle into the valley begins.
- Santa María: This is a small town in the valley that is visited during the tour. Here you can find some stores, restaurants and basic accommodations.
- Llactapata Ruins: These Inca ruins are a highlight on the way to Machu Picchu. They offer an impressive view of the citadel from a different perspective.
- Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo): It is the starting point to visit the famous citadel of Machu Picchu. Here you will find hotels, restaurants and hot springs to relax.
- Machu Picchu: It is the main attraction of the tour. This ancient Inca city is considered one of the wonders of the world and offers breathtaking views of mountain scenery and ancient architecture.
In addition to these main destinations, spectacular landscapes, such as mountains, valleys, rivers and cloud forests, are crossed along the route.
Is it necessary to hire a tour to do the Inka Jungle tour?
It is not strictly necessary to hire a tour to do the Inka Jungle trek, but it is recommended to do so due to the advantages in logistics, local knowledge, security and access to permits and entrance fees offered by a specialized travel agency.
Are there options for vegetarians or people with special diets in the Inka Jungle?
Yes, suitable options for vegetarians and people with special diets can be found during the Inka Jungle tour. However, it is important to request these options in advance.
Is travel insurance necessary for the Inca Jungle?
No, but it is recommended to have travel insurance for the Inka Jungle. It covers medical expenses, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. Check that it includes tour activities and fits your needs.
Are there restrooms on the Inca Jungle?
There are restrooms along the Inka Jungle trail, but they can be basic. It is recommended to bring toilet paper and personal hygiene products. The guides will provide information about the location of the restrooms and the facilities available. You should practice responsible tourism and respect the natural environment.