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The Inca Jungle trek 3 days includes guided hikes, transportation from Cusco, accommodation, meals, and professional local guides, offering a complete adventure in a short time. This trek blends nature, culture, and excitement on the way to Machu Picchu.
Moderate
Hike, Biking, Rafting, Zip Lining, Jungle, Culture, Adventure
Max: 4316m
Group Service
The Inca Jungle Trail is an adventurous, alternative route to Machu Picchu, offering a unique blend of outdoor activities, cultural immersion, and scenic beauty over three days. It starts with a thrilling downhill bike ride from the high Andes, descending into the lush jungle landscape. Along the way, you’ll pass through small towns, breathtaking waterfalls, and diverse ecosystems. On the second day, the journey continues with a hike through dense jungle trails, where you’ll experience the area’s rich flora and fauna, and visit hot springs for a relaxing soak.
The third day is focused on reaching Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu, where you’ll take a scenic train ride or continue hiking. The trail includes a mix of adrenaline-filled experiences like zip-lining and rafting, as well as opportunities to learn about the Inca civilization. The route is a fantastic option for those seeking adventure, culture, and an unforgettable way to reach the iconic Inca site of Machu Picchu.
DAY 1: Cusco – Abra Malaga – Biking – Santa Teresa
Your adventure begins with an early pickup from Cusco as we travel to Abra Málaga Pass, where you will start an exciting downhill mountain biking experience through the Andes and cloud forest landscapes. Afterward, those interested can participate in optional white-water rafting in Santa María. Later, we continue by vehicle to Santa Teresa for the night.
DAY 2: Santa Teresa – Zip Line – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes
After breakfast, enjoy an optional zip line adventure in Santa Teresa. Then we travel to Hidroelectrica for lunch before starting a scenic hike along the railway to Aguas Calientes town. Upon arrival, we check into the hotel and, if necessary, proceed to purchase the Machu Picchu entrance tickets.
DAY 3: Machu Picchu Tour – Return to Cusco
Early in the morning, hike or take the bus to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of the ancient citadel. After the visit, return to Aguas Calientes to board the train to Ollantaytambo, followed by transportation back to Cusco in the evening.
We begin our adventure early in the morning in Cusco, with hotel pick-up scheduled around 6:00 a.m. The journey starts with a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, passing through the traditional town of Chinchero and enjoying spectacular views of the Vilcabamba and Vilcanota mountain ranges, as well as the picturesque Andean villages along the route.
After approximately two hours, we will stop in the historic town of Ollantaytambo for a short break to stretch, use the restroom, and prepare for the ascent toward the mountain pass. We then continue driving up to Abra Málaga (4,350 m a.s.l.), the starting point of our downhill biking experience toward Santa María (1,430 m a.s.l.).
At Abra Málaga, you will receive your complete biking equipment along with a short safety and technique briefing to ensure a smooth and successful ride.
The 40 km downhill biking route begins high in the Andes, offering breathtaking views of the snow-capped Veronica Mountain. We descend from Abra Málaga to the village of Huamanmarca, enjoying the dramatic change from high-Andean landscapes to lush jungle terrain.
After finishing the biking section, we return to the vehicle and continue to Santa María, where a well-deserved lunch awaits. In the afternoon, the adventure continues with an exciting white-water rafting experience.
Once the rafting activity is completed, we board the vehicle again and head toward the Cocalmayo Hot Springs in Santa Teresa, the perfect place to relax after an active day.
Later, upon arrival in Santa Teresa, you will settle into your accommodation, followed by a delicious dinner at a local restaurant to end the day.
You will begin your day at approximately 6:30 a.m., followed by breakfast. Around 8:00 a.m., the zipline company will pick you up and transfer you to their operations base, where you will receive a full briefing and safety orientation before starting the activity.
The zipline experience lasts approximately two hours, during which you will enjoy four different cables and a suspension bridge crossing. Upon completing the activity, you will travel by vehicle for about one hour to Hidroelectrica, where lunch will be served.
After lunch, you will continue with a three-hour hike along the railway tracks toward Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival, you will be escorted to your hotel to settle in and rest.
Dinner will be served at 7:00 p.m. at a designated restaurant. Afterward, you will return to your hotel to rest, as the next morning begins early for your visit to Machu Picchu.
On the final day of the tour, you will visit the iconic citadel of Machu Picchu. Your morning begins early, around 4:00 a.m., to prepare for the ascent to the main entrance.
After collecting your packed breakfast, you will start a 30-minute walk toward the Puente Ruinas checkpoint, which opens at 5:00 a.m. Here, you must present your original passport and Machu Picchu entrance ticket.
Once you pass the first control point, you will continue with an uphill hike of approximately one hour to reach the main gate of Machu Picchu, aiming to arrive around 6:00 a.m.
When the group gathers at the entrance, you will begin a two-hour guided tour, during which you will explore the most important sectors of the Inca citadel and learn the essential history, architecture, and cultural significance of this World Heritage Site.
After the guided visit, you will have free time to explore Machu Picchu independently. The amount of time you remain inside the site will depend on your return option and whether you have pre-booked additional hikes such as Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, both of which require advance reservation.
Return to Cusco: Your return schedule will vary depending on the option selected at the time of booking:
Return by Bus (Hidroelectrica):
You must arrive in Hidroelectrica by 2:00 p.m., which requires ample time to descend from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes and continue the hike. From Hidroelectrica, you will board the bus back to Cusco. Approximate arrival time in Cusco: 10:00 p.m.
This option does not allow for additional hikes (Huayna Picchu or MP Mountain).
Return by train:
You will take the train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, a journey of approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.
Upon arrival, a bus from the same train company will transport you back to Cusco (about 2 hours).
While we strive to provide a comprehensive and memorable experience, please note that the following items are not included in your Inca Jungle Trail package:
Returning by Train Adult: $360 USD per person
Returning by Bus Adult: $300 USD per person
Returning by Train Student: $340 USD per person (Valid University student ID required)
Returning by Bus Student: $280 USD per person (Valid University student ID required)
Key Information: Understanding the Differences Between Returning by Car & by Train
Train Return Option: Depart from Aguas Calientes between 13:30 and 9:20 pm (subject to availability). After a 1.5-hour train ride to Ollantaytambo, you will transfer to a vehicle for a 2-hour drive to Cusco, arriving around 10:30 pm. Aprox.
Car/Bus Return Option: Start a 3-hour hike from Machu Picchu to the hydroelectric station by 11:00 am at the latest to catch the bus at 2:30 pm. This journey will take approximately 6-7 hours, reaching Cusco around 10 pm. Both options will end at Plaza Regocijo.
Choose the option that best suits your preferences for a memorable journey through the stunning landscapes of Machu Picchu.
The Inca Jungle trek 3 days is one of the most popular alternative routes to Machu Picchu, especially among backpackers and travelers who want more than just walking. This experience mixes adventure, nature, and local culture, creating a fun and flexible journey through the Andes and the jungle.
The Inca Jungle trek 3 days is considered moderate. You don’t need technical trekking experience, but you should be comfortable with long days and changing weather conditions. The mix of activities keeps it exciting without being too demanding.
Please read the following information carefully as it will help you with any questions about our services and the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
The briefing will be held the night before the trek at 5 p.m. at our office
Yes! During the Inca Jungle Trail to Machu Picchu, you can store your main luggage at our office or your hotel, whichever is more convenient. Please pack only what you need for the trek!
To avoid high credit card fees in Peru, you may pay in cash at our office (US dollars or Peruvian soles) in Cusco. There are many ATMs in the historical center to withdraw money.
Unfortunately, no. Once permits are purchased, the Peruvian government does not allow any changes. If you need to change your trek date, the fee is $100 because we have to buy a new permit. Permits are also non-transferable and non-refundable. If you cancel your Classic Inca Trail trek, the deposit is non-refundable.
Generally, if you exercise regularly and spend a few days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, you should acclimate normally. It usually takes between 24 hours to 2 days. The recommended remedies for altitude sickness are WATER, COCA TEA, and OXYGEN, if needed. Our guides are trained to handle altitude sickness. See our detailed information about altitude sickness under FAQs.
Yes, we are a local, sustainable, and responsible tourism operator that follows universal tourism principles: protect the environment and benefit the local communities by respecting their culture and religion. With this in mind, we have trained all our local staff to understand and respect the places and people we visit.
The Inca Jungle trek 3 days is an adventure-packed journey from Cusco to Machu Picchu that combines biking, rafting, zip-lining, hiking, and cultural exploration. Because this route is very different from traditional treks, travelers often have practical questions about logistics, difficulty and safety.
The Inca Jungle trek 3 days is considered moderate. It does not require technical trekking experience, but it does involve long and active days. The biking, hiking, and optional adventure activities are suitable for travelers with a normal fitness level who enjoy being active.
No previous experience is required. Before the biking and rafting activities, you’ll receive a full safety briefing and proper equipment. The biking section is mostly downhill, and the rafting is done on beginner- to intermediate-level rapids, always with professional guides.
The highest point of the tour is Abra Málaga (4,350 m / 14,270 ft) on day 1, where the biking section begins. Because you only spend a short time at this altitude, most travelers tolerate it well, especially if they have spent at least one day acclimatizing in Cusco beforehand.
Yes, it is strongly recommended to spend at least one or two days in Cusco before starting the Inca Jungle trek 3 days. This helps your body adjust to the altitude and makes the first day much more comfortable.
Biking and zip-lining are included in the Inca Jungle trek 3 days. Rafting is usually included when weather and river conditions allow it, but in rare cases it may be optional or replaced for safety reasons. Your guide will always prioritize safety.
The hike from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes is easy to moderate. It follows mostly flat terrain along the train tracks and takes about three hours at a relaxed pace. It’s more about endurance than difficulty.
Accommodation is in local hotels or lodges in Santa Teresa and Aguas Calientes. Rooms are basic but comfortable, clean, and designed for travelers who want rest after active days.
Need help deciding on the right trip? Whether it s a quick question or full itinerary advice, we re here to help.
Enjoy the views on our 3 days Inca Jungle trip, filled with unforgettable moments, from high mountain passes to lush jungle paths. Each day brings a new setting, a new adventure, and a different way to experience Peru.
