INCA JUNGLE 3 DAYS

3 Days - 02 Nights from US $ 0.00

Overview

Inca Jungle Trail 3 Days to Machu Picchu: Adventure and Culture Combined

The Inca Jungle Trail 3-day tour offers a thrilling adventure to Machu Picchu, blending biking, rafting, zip-lining, hiking, and cultural exploration. Along the way, you’ll visit Inca ruins, coffee and coca plantations, fruit orchards, and enjoy a refreshing dip in the Cocalmayo hot springs. Designed for adventurous travelers, this action-packed tour is guided by professionals to ensure safety and an unforgettable experience.

Highlights include:

  • Biking: A mostly downhill ride from the Andes to the Amazon region with support vehicles and safety gear provided.
  • Rafting: Navigate level 3.5 rapids in Santa Maria for a thrilling river adventure.
  • Zip-lining: Soar above the canopy in Santa Teresa with breathtaking views.
  • Hiking: Follow a section of the original Inca Trail to immerse yourself in the region’s rich history.
  • Machu Picchu Tour: Conclude with a guided exploration of the iconic Inca citadel.
INCA JUNGLE 3 DAYS
3 Days - 02 Nights from
$0.00
per person

Max Altitude
3300msnm
Trip Length
Group Size
Max: 10 People per group
Physical Level
Moderated
Trip Style
Classic Tour
Location
Cusco - Peru
Tour Type
Combined Activities
Meals
03 B, 02 D, 02 L
Departures
Daily Departures
LODGING TYPE
Not Included

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Itinerary

Inca Jungle Trail to Machu Picchu: 3-Day Adventure Summary

Day 1: Thrilling Cusco Adventure

Begin your exhilarating journey early in the morning with a 6:00 AM pickup from your hotel in Cusco. Travel through the breathtaking Sacred Valley of the Incas, passing picturesque towns like Vilcabamba, the Vilcanota mountain ranges, and the traditional village of Chinchero. After a 2-hour drive, take a refreshing break in the ancient Inca town of Ollantaytambo.

Continue to the Abra Malaga Pass (4350m / 14,271ft), where you’ll gear up and receive a biking tutorial before embarking on a 60 km downhill ride. Enjoy stunning views of the snow-capped Veronica Peak as you cycle through the Andes, making a pitstop at the Huamanmarca Inca site for lunch and exploration.

After immersing yourself in history, return to the car and head to Santa Maria for an adrenaline-pumping 1.5-hour white river rafting adventure, navigating exciting rapids amidst captivating landscapes. Following rafting, catch a local car for a 1-hour ride to Santa Teresa.

Upon arrival in Santa Teresa, check into your hotel and unwind. If desired, visit the nearby hot springs to relax in their soothing warmth before enjoying a delicious dinner in town and settling in for the night.

Tour Details:

  • Biking Distance: 60 km, approximately 3-4 hours of downhill biking
  • River Rafting: 1-1.5 hours of exhilarating fun
  • Difficulty: Moderate, adventure-filled day
  • Weather: Warm and windy during the day, very warm nights
  • Accommodation: Hotel night in Santa Teresa
  • Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 2: Santa Teresa to Aguas Calientes

Rise and shine at 6:30 AM with a hearty breakfast to fuel your day. At 8:00 AM, you’ll be picked up by the zipline company and transported to the zipline base. After a brief orientation, embark on a thrilling 2-hour zipline adventure across four unique ziplines and a suspension bridge, offering breathtaking aerial views.

Post-ziplining, enjoy a 1-hour car ride to Hidroelectrica for a well-deserved lunch. After lunch, embark on a scenic 3-hour hike along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes, immersing yourself in the lush surroundings and stunning landscapes. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and recharge.

In the evening, indulge in a delicious dinner at a local restaurant in Aguas Calientes before heading back to your hotel for a restful night, preparing for the next day’s exploration of Machu Picchu.

Tour Details:

  • Zipline Adventure: 4 unique ziplines and 1 suspension bridge
  • Hiking Distance: 11 km, approximately 3-3.5 hours
  • Difficulty: Moderate, adventure-filled day
  • Weather: Warm and tropical, very warm nights
  • Accommodation: Hotel night in Aguas Calientes
  • Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 3: Machu Picchu Exploration and Return to Cusco

Begin your final day bright and early with a 4:00 AM breakfast at your hotel in Aguas Calientes. You have two options to reach Machu Picchu’s main gate:

  1. Walking Option: Start your journey at 4:30 AM with a 1.5-hour hike from your hotel to Puente Ruinas, presenting your tickets and passports to gain entry. Continue with an uphill trek of approximately 1,700 steps (1-1.2 hours) to the main gate, where you’ll join your group and guide for a 2.5-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu, exploring iconic landmarks like the Temple of the Sun, Sacred Plaza, and Intihuatana Stone.
  2. Bus Option: Purchase a $12 bus ticket in Aguas Calientes and board a bus departing at 5:30 AM, reaching Machu Picchu in about 30 minutes. Meet your group and guide around 6:00 AM for the guided tour.

After the guided tour, enjoy 30 minutes of free time to explore Machu Picchu at your own pace. Optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are available for those who have booked in advance.

Return Journey Options:

  • By Car: Begin your trek back to Hidroelectrica around 10:30 AM, completing the 3 to 3.5-hour hike. Board the car at 2:30 PM, embarking on a 6-hour drive back to Cusco, arriving around 9:30 PM.
  • By Train: Choose to walk or take a bus back to Aguas Calientes, explore the town and have lunch, then board the train to Ollantaytambo at either 2:30 PM or 2:55 PM. From Ollantaytambo, enjoy a 2-hour car transfer back to Cusco, arriving around 6:30 PM.

Tour Details:

  • Machu Picchu Guided Tour: 2.5 hours, including key circuits (01, 02, or alternatives if unavailable)
  • Optional Hikes: Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain ($60 per person, advance booking required)
  • Difficulty: Moderate, adventure-filled day
  • Weather: Warm and tropical
  • Meals Included: Breakfast
  • Entrance Ticket: Included, with guided tour

Inclusions

Included

Included in the Tour

  • Machu Picchu Tickets:
    • Access to Machu Picchu via Circuit 02.
    • If Circuit 02 is unavailable, access to Circuits 01, 03, or 04.
  • Pre-Tour Briefing:
    • Detailed briefing at 6:00 PM the day before departure at the Salkantay Trekkers Peru office.
    • Virtual briefing available upon request by contacting +51 962 389 295 at least 48 hours in advance.
  • Experienced Guides:
    • Official bilingual (English and Spanish) licensed guides.
    • Guides are qualified through recognized universities or tourism institutes in Peru.
  • Machu Picchu Guided Tour:
    • Scheduled 3-hour visit to Machu Picchu.
    • Includes a 2.5-hour guided tour and 30 minutes of personal exploration time.
  • Private Group Transportation:
    • Private transfer from Cusco to Abra Malga (4300m) in comfortable vehicles.
    • 3-hour car journey to the starting point for biking, including a 3-hour descent by bicycle.
  • Accommodations on the Inca Jungle Trail:
    • 2 nights in Santa Teresa and Aguas Calientes.
    • Comfortable rooms with hot showers and private bathrooms (double, triple, or matrimonial).
  • Included Meals:
    • 3 Breakfasts: Nutritious morning meals.
    • 2 Lunches: Invigorating midday meals.
    • 2 Dinners: Delightful evening meals.
    • Meals served in local restaurants with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available at no extra cost.
  • All Activities Included:
    • Biking, zip-lining, and rafting are fully included in the package.
    • No additional fees for these adventure activities.
  • Return Trip Options from Machu Picchu:
    • Train Option:
      • Train departures at 2:30 PM, 2:55 PM, or 3:20 PM (subject to availability).
      • 1.5-hour train ride to Ollantaytambo.
      • Private transfer from Ollantaytambo to Cusco, arriving around 6:30 PM.
    • Car Option:
      • 3-hour walk from Machu Picchu to the hydroelectric station.
      • 6-7 hour car journey back to Cusco, arriving around 10:00 PM.
  • Vegetarian and Vegan Dining:
    • Options available without additional cost.
    • Accommodations for dietary restrictions upon reservation.
  • Emergency Provisions:
    • Tour guides equipped with an oxygen bottle and a fully stocked first aid kit for immediate assistance.

No Included

  • Last Lunch: Plan for one meal on your own, as the final lunch after your visit to Machu Picchu is not covered in our package. This offers you the flexibility to explore the local cuisine according to your tastes.
  • Entrance to the Thermal Baths: If you wish to unwind in the Santa Teresa thermal baths, there is a small entrance fee of 10 soles per person payable on-site. This allows you to decide on the spot whether you’d like to indulge in this relaxing experience.
  • Tips: Gratuities for guides and staff are not included and are entirely at your discretion, allowing you to reward excellent service as you deem appropriate. Please note that tipping is voluntary and not mandatory.
  • Drinking Water: To stay hydrated during your journey, you can purchase bottled or mineral water along the way from small local shops. This ensures you have easy access to water throughout your adventure.

By understanding these exclusions, you can better prepare for your trip and enjoy a smooth and delightful journey on the Inca Jungle Trail.

What to Bring

To undertake the Inca Jungle Trail, you only need to carry essential items in your backpack. There is no luggage transfer service, but this is generally not an issue as you won’t need many items. It’s important to note that during activities like biking, zip-lining, and rafting, backpacks are left in secure locations while you participate in the activities. You will only need to carry them during the walking sections. However, if you prefer not to carry anything, you can coordinate with the guide to arrange transportation for your backpack at an additional cost, although this is rarely necessary as the walks are relatively easy and don’t require you to carry much. Below, we detail the essential items you should bring for the Inca Jungle Trail.

Packing List for the 3-Day Inca Jungle Trail to Machu Picchu:

Essentials:

  • Passport: Mandatory for identification and site access.
  • Student ID: (Mandatory): Required if you booked the tour as a student, as you will need to present the original at the entrance of Machu Picchu to validate your student status.
  • Backpack: A 25 to 30-liter capacity to hold essentials such as clothing, camera, sunscreen, valuables, and a jacket.

Clothing:

  • Headwear: Wool hat or beanie for warmth and a sun hat for protection.
  • Gloves: Essential for comfort during cooler times.
  • T-Shirts (2 – 3): Opt for long sleeves for better coverage.
  • Layering Items: A sweater and fleece to adapt to changing temperatures.
  • Pants (2 pairs): Durable and comfortable, leggings recommended for hiking.
  • Hiking Shoes: Ensure they are well-fitted and broken in.
  • Wool Socks (1 – 2 pairs): Crucial for warmth and moisture management.
  • Rain Gear: Waterproof jacket and pants or a poncho, crucial for unpredictable weather.
  • Bath Linen and Towel: For thermal baths and personal use.
  • Footwear: Sandals or flip-flops for campsite relaxation.

Toiletries & Health:

  • Basic Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, and other personal hygiene items.
  • Sun Cream: High SPF to prevent sunburn.
  • Insect Repellent: Essential for avoiding bites and discomfort.
  • Medication: Personal prescriptions and basic first aid.

Miscellaneous:

  • Snacks: Energy-boosting items like chocolate, cereal bars, and nuts.
  • Cash: Extra, preferably in Soles, for incidental expenses.

Pro Tips:

  • Pack Light: Choose multi-functional items and avoid unnecessary extras.
  • Prepare for Variances: The trail can have diverse climatic conditions.
  • Stay Informed: Check recent trail reports for specific advice.

Remember, an efficient pack contributes to a more enjoyable experience. Ensure you’re prepared, but not overloaded. Wishing you a memorable journey on the Inca Jungle Trail!

Prices

Group Service

The group service for the 3-day Inca Jungle Trail to Machu Picchu offers a shared adventure with fellow travelers, typically in groups of 6 to 12 participants led by an experienced bilingual guide. It includes all core activities such as a 60km downhill bike ride through Andean landscapes, 1.5-hour rafting on the Urubamba River, 2-hour ziplining across four lines and a suspension bridge, a 11km hike along scenic tracks, and a 2.5-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu, plus hotel stays in Santa Teresa and Aguas Calientes, most meals, and transport options like train or car return to Cusco.

Service Type Price per Person (USD)
Group Service 280

Private Service

The private service provides an exclusive experience tailored to your group, with a dedicated guide and vehicle ensuring personalized pacing and attention throughout the itinerary. It covers all-inclusive elements including hotel pickups in Cusco, full equipment for biking and ziplining, rafting gear, comfortable hotel accommodations, all listed meals, and flexible return choices by train or car, allowing seamless adjustments for rest or extended stops.

Opting for private service brings advantages like customized schedules to match fitness levels during the moderate 3-4 hour bike descent or 3-hour hike, in-depth storytelling at sites like Huamanmarca ruins without group delays, and priority access to hot springs in Santa Teresa for recovery after adrenaline activities.

Number of People Price per Person (USD)
1 800
2 550
3 450
4+ 400

Service Upgrades

  • Huayna Picchu hike: $60 USD per person – Essential for panoramic summit views over the Machu Picchu citadel, adding a challenging yet rewarding ascent that deepens the sense of achievement after the trail’s adventures.
  • Vistadome Train upgrade: $50 USD per person – Important for immersive 360-degree scenery on the return from Aguas Calientes, enhancing the tropical canyon vistas compared to standard trains.
  • Private porter: $120 USD per person – Crucial for carrying up to 7kg of personal items, easing the load during the 11km hike and allowing more focus on enjoying ziplining and rafting without fatigue.
  • Walking poles: $15 USD per pair – Valuable for stability on uneven trails and during the 1,700-step ascent option to Machu Picchu, reducing joint strain in moderate difficulty terrain.
  • Extra night in Aguas Calientes: $50 USD per person – Beneficial for additional exploration or relaxation in the town post-tour, providing buffer time before returning to Cusco.
  • Horseback riding segment: $40 USD per person – Useful alternative on select hiking portions to cover distance comfortably, ideal for varying group energy levels after biking.
  • Luxury hotel upgrade: $80 USD per person – Key for superior comfort in Santa Teresa and Aguas Calientes with better facilities, aiding recovery from warm, humid days and active nights.

Discounts

  • University students (under 25): $20 USD per person – Requires scanned valid ID with photo and expiration at booking for approval.
  • Children under 18: $20 USD per person – Submit passport copy during booking.
  • Children under 8: $30 USD per person – Passport copy needed at time of reservation.
  • Groups of 6 or more: $25 USD per person – Applies to bookings made together for the same departure.
  • Early booking (90+ days ahead): $15 USD per person – Common incentive from agencies to fill slots in peak dry season months.0

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