Tour Details:
The Inca Jungle Trail is a thrilling and adventurous 4-day journey that combines biking, hiking, zip-lining, and hot springs on the way to Machu Picchu. Ideal for adrenaline seekers and nature lovers, this alternative route offers a dynamic mix of outdoor activities through the lush cloud forest, river valleys, and authentic Andean villages.
Starting with a downhill biking descent from the high Andes, you’ll traverse a range of ecosystems—from snowy peaks to tropical jungle. Along the way, you’ll hike remote Inca trails, relax in natural hot springs, and optionally experience zip-lining or rafting. On the final day, you’ll visit the world-famous Inca citadel of Machu Picchu with a professional guide.
This active and cultural adventure is perfect for travelers who want more than a trek—those looking for a truly immersive and energetic route to Machu Picchu.
Highlights:
- Downhill mountain biking from the high mountain pass of Abra Málaga (4,350 m) into the high jungle.
- Trek along original Inca trails through lush valleys, rivers, waterfalls, and local plantations.
- Optional white-water rafting and zip-lining experiences for added adventure.
- Relax in the natural hot springs of Cocalmayo near Santa Teresa after a day of hiking.
- Discover authentic rural villages and interact with local Andean and Amazonian communities.
- Enjoy a scenic train ride through the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes.
- Explore Machu Picchu with a certified guide and learn about its history and cultural significance.
- Ideal alternative to the traditional Inca Trail, combining adventure, nature, and culture in one journey.
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Itinerary
DAY 1: Cusco – Abra Málaga – Huamanmarca – Santa Maria (Biking and Optional Rafting)
We begin the Inca Jungle Trail with an early pick-up from your hotel in
Cusco at approximately 5:30 a.m. From there, we travel through the Sacred
Valley, where we’ll stop to enjoy a local breakfast and prepare for the day’s
adventure.
The journey continues to Abra Málaga (4,350 m / 14,271 ft),
the highest point of the trip and the starting point of our downhill biking
experience. After a safety briefing from our guide, we will gear up with
helmets, gloves, elbow and knee pads, and begin our descent. The ride lasts
approximately 3 hours, covering 55 km (34 miles)
through stunning Andean scenery, waterfalls, and traditional villages.
We end the biking portion in Huamanmarca, where our private
vehicle will transfer the group to Santa Maria (1,200 m /
3,937 ft). Upon arrival, we enjoy lunch and check into a local lodge or basic
hotel.
In the afternoon, there’s an optional white-water rafting
activity on the Vilcanota River (Class II–III, depending on season). This
activity is available from April to December and includes
professional gear and experienced river guides. After rafting or relaxing, we
return to Santa Maria to spend the night.
·
Trekking distance: Biking
approx. 55 km (34 miles)
·
Max altitude: 4,350 m / 14,271
ft (Abra Málaga)
·
Min altitude: 1,200 m / 3,937
ft (Santa Maria)
·
Meals included: Lunch and
dinner
·
Accommodation: Basic lodge or
hotel in Santa Maria
DAY 2: Santa Maria – Santa Teresa – Cocalmayo Hot Springs – Lucmabamba (Jungle Domes)
After breakfast in Santa Maria, we begin a scenic hike through the upper jungle, following parts of an original Inca trail. This section offers a mix of adventure and culture, as we pass by local plantations of coffee, bananas, avocados, and coca leaves. Our guide will explain the traditional uses of these crops and their importance in the local way of life.
We continue trekking for approximately 6 to 7 hours, crossing rivers, narrow paths, and jungle-covered hills until reaching Santa Teresa (1,550 m / 5,085 ft), where we’ll stop for lunch.
In the afternoon, we visit the Cocalmayo Hot Springs, a highlight of the day. These natural thermal baths, surrounded by forest and mountains, offer the perfect chance to relax and recharge after the trek.
After a rejuvenating soak, we head to Lucmabamba (2,000 m / 6,561 ft), where our Jungle Domes camp is located. Here, we’ll spend the night in a comfortable and eco-friendly dome surrounded by nature. Before dinner, there will be an optional coffee-making demonstration, where you can learn how local families grow, roast, and prepare organic coffee.
- Trekking distance: Approx. 14 km (8.7 miles)
- Max altitude: 2,000 m / 6,561 ft
- Min altitude: 1,550 m / 5,085 ft
- Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Jungle Domes in Lucmabamba
DAY 3: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes
After an early breakfast at Lucmabamba, we begin the most rewarding day of the trek, following a well-preserved segment of the original Inca Trail. The hike begins with a gradual ascent through lush cloud forest, offering stunning views of the surrounding valleys and distant peaks.
After approximately 3 to 4 hours of hiking, we arrive at the Llactapata archaeological site (2,700 m / 8,858 ft), located directly across from Machu Picchu. From this rarely visited site, you’ll enjoy a unique panoramic view of Machu Picchu, visible from a distance that most tourists never get to experience. Your guide will provide insight into the importance of Llactapata within the Inca network.
From Llactapata, we descend for about 2 hours to the Hidroeléctrica station, where we stop for lunch. After resting, we continue on foot along the train tracks for approximately 3 hours (11 km / 6.8 miles) to reach Aguas Calientes (2,040 m / 6,693 ft), the town at the base of Machu Picchu.
Upon arrival, we check in at a hotel. In the evening, your guide will brief you on the visit to Machu Picchu the next morning.
- Trekking distance: Approx. 24 km / 15 miles (7 hours total)
- Max altitude: 2,700 m / 8,858 ft (Llactapata)
- Min altitude: 2,040 m / 6,693 ft (Aguas Calientes)
- Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
DAY 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
The most anticipated day of the Inca Jungle Trail has arrived—our grand finale. Today, we will explore one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site: Machu Picchu.
We begin early to witness the stunning sunrise over the Inca citadel, a moment that captures the magic and mystery of this ancient site. Entry to Machu Picchu starts at 6:00 a.m. We’ll take a short bus ride from Aguas Calientes to the main entrance, where you will join your guide for a 2-hour tour of the archaeological complex. During the tour, you’ll visit key sectors of the citadel and gain insight into Inca architecture, history, and spiritual beliefs.
After the guided tour, you’ll return to Aguas Calientes by bus. You’ll have some free time to explore the town or enjoy lunch at a local restaurant (not included).
In the afternoon, we board a train to Ollantaytambo, where our private vehicle will be waiting to transfer you back to Cusco. Upon arrival, we’ll drop you off at your hotel, marking the end of your unforgettable adventure.
- Meals included: Breakfast
- Max altitude: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft (Machu Picchu)
- Min altitude: 2,040 m / 6,693 ft (Aguas Calientes)
- Accommodation: Not included
- Optional: Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (advance booking required, subject to availability)
Included / Excluded
- Night 1: Overnight in a cozy local hostel (shared double or triple rooms), ideal for resting after an active first day.
- Night 2: Stay in our Jungle Domes—an exclusive experience in nature with comfortable bedding for two people.
- Night 3: Comfortable hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes (double or twin rooms), with hot showers and private bathroom.
- As outlined in the itinerary: 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners.
- Day 1: Private transport from Cusco to Abra Málaga (starting point for the bike ride).
- Day 2: Private transport from Huacayupana to Santa Teresa.
- Day 4: Private transfer from Ollantaytambo train station back to Cusco.
- Professional mountain bikes with front suspension
- Protective gear: gloves, elbow and knee pads, and helmet
- Safety vehicle support during the descent
- First aid kit
- Professional English/Spanish-speaking guide
- Professional bilingual (English/Spanish) guide.
- All guides are certified and have a minimum of 3 years of experience
- Each guide carries a first aid kit and an emergency oxygen bottle
- Personal duffle bag (up to 5 kg per person) provided during the pre-trek briefing
- Rafting activity in Santa Maria
- Entry ticket to Cocalmayo hot springs
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- Pre-trek briefing at our Cusco office the day before departure (at 5:00, 6:00, or 7:00 p.m.)
- Lunch and dinner on the last day
- Drinking water during the trek (please bring enough water or purchase en route)
- Zipline experience: $30.00 USD per person
- Trekking poles rental: $15.00 USD for the whole trek
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain: $60.00 USD per person (subject to availability; must be booked in advance)
- Entrance to Aguas Calientes hot springs
- Shuttle bus between Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes: $24.00 USD round trip (walking is optional)
- Sleeping bag rental (if required)
- Tips for guides, cooks, and support staff
- Travel insurance
- National and international flights
- Any item or activity not specified in the itinerary
What to Bring:
- Original passport (required for trail checkpoints)
- Valid student ID (if applicable, for potential discounts)
- Warm sleeping bag (rated to at least -8°C / 17°F)
- Sturdy hiking boots (well broken-in and waterproof)
- Layered clothing for variable temperatures, especially at night
- Insulated jacket, thermal base layers, and trekking pants (avoid jeans)
- Wool socks, gloves, scarf, and a warm hat for cold nights
- Rain poncho and/or waterproof rain jacket (especially important in rainy season)
- Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
- Sun protection: sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat
- Insect repellent (recommended for forested areas)
- Plastic bags to organize items and protect from moisture
- Garbage bags to line your backpack and keep items dry
- Toiletries, biodegradable soap, toilet paper, and a small towel
- Bathing suit (for optional hot springs visit)
- Reusable water bottle (optional: water purification tablets or filter)
- Personal first-aid kit and any prescribed medications
- Small whistle for emergency signaling
- Camera with extra memory cards and batteries
- Extra cash for snacks, souvenirs, and optional tips
- Trekking poles (strongly recommended; available for rent)
Additional Information
IMPORTANT:
To issue your Machu Picchu entry ticket, the Peruvian authorities require the following information exactly as it appears on your passport:
- Full name
- Passport number
- Date of birth
- Nationality
Please ensure all details are accurate when making your reservation.
Pre-Trip Briefing:
A representative from Sungate Peru Travel will contact you one day before your departure to arrange a pre-trip briefing. This meeting will take place in your hotel lobby or at our office, as agreed in advance, around 6:00 PM.
During the briefing, we will provide a detailed step-by-step itinerary map and deliver all relevant tickets and documents for your journey.
Tour Map
This comprehensive map is designed to guide you through an exciting journey filled with remarkable destinations and captivating experiences.
