This is more than just a trek to Machu Picchu, it’s an adventure designed for travelers who want to experience the thrill and visit Machu Picchu. The Inca Jungle Premium is not just about reaching the destination, but about enjoying every part of this journey.
With a perfect balance of excitement, nature, and culture, this tour lets you discover a side of Peru that few get to see or take the risk to do it. You’ll walk Inca paths, cross rivers, zipline over the jungle, and finally arrive at Machu Picchu. This will be the reward after doing this amazing trek.
If you’re searching for an adventure that pushes you, and end up visiting Machu Picchu. This is the one for you!
INCA JUNGLE PREMIUM 4 DAYS
The Inca Jungle Premium is a 4-day adventure that takes you from the high peaks of the Andes to the jungle landscape surrounding Machu Picchu—blending adventure, nature, and breathtaking views.
Your journey will start with an exciting downhill bike ride from the top part of Abra Málaga mountain to the Peruvian jungle. Then, dive into the adrenaline of white-water rafting, hike along timeworn Inca trails, and relax in the natural hot springs of Cocalmayo.
Fly over the jungle on a zipline, then walk along the Urubamba River until you reach Aguas Calientes—the town at the base of Machu Picchu. After a few exciting days, you’ll finally visit the famous Inca city with a guide. It’s the perfect way to end the trip.
Inca Jungle Premium 4 Days at a Glance
Day 1: Cusco – Santa María
Your journey begins with a drive up to Abra Málaga, where you’ll start a fun bike ride descending from the chilly mountain peaks into the warm jungle below. After a tasty lunch, get ready to paddle through some exciting rapids on the Vilcanota River. At night, settle into a charming eco-lodge surrounded by nature.
Day 2: Santa María – Santa Teresa
Today you’ll take a peaceful hike along old Inca paths, walking through a vibrant jungle full of wildlife and plants. Later, unwind in the soothing hot springs of Cocalmayo—a perfect way to refresh after your walk. You’ll spend the night in a comfy local hotel.
Day 3: Santa Teresa – Aguas Calientes
Start the morning with a thrilling zipline flight high above the jungle trees, enjoying incredible views. Then, hike along the railway tracks beside the river as you make your way to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Rest easy in a cozy hotel 3 stars with a private bathroom and warm showers.
Day 4: Machu Picchu – Cusco
It’s time to visit the stunning Machu Picchu. With your guide, explore the ancient ruins and hear the stories behind this incredible place. After the tour, take the train back and relax on the trip home to Cusco, proud of your amazing adventure.
Inca Jungle Highlights:
- Cycle from the Andes into the lush jungle
- Raft the thrilling Vilcanota River
- Trek ancient Inca trails
- Relax in the Cocalmayo hot springs
- Fly across the jungle with ziplines
- Discover Machu Picchu with a professional guide
INCA JUNGLE ITINERARY
Day 1: Cusco – Santa María (Biking & Rafting)
We started our adventure early in the morning with a comfortable ride from Cusco. After about 3 hours driving through the beautiful Sacred Valley, we arrive at Abra Málaga Pass, a high mountain point at 4,350 meters (14,271 feet) above sea level. This is where the fun begins with a downhill bike ride into the jungle.
After a safety talk and putting on your gear, we jump on our bikes and begin the ride. Over the next 55 km (34 miles), the landscape changes dramatically — from cold mountain air to the warm, misty climate of the cloud forest.
As we ride, we’ll pass small villages, waterfalls, and fields of bananas and coffee plants. The ride takes around 3.5 to 4 hours, and we’ll always have a support vehicle close by in case anyone needs it.
In the afternoon, we stop for a well-deserved lunch in Santa María (1,200 m / 3,937 ft). Then it's time for some action on the river! We go rafting on the Vilcanota River, paddling through class II and III+ rapids surrounded by tropical scenery. Whether it’s your first time or you’ve done it before, it’s safe, fun, and all the gear is included.
We end the day at a cozy jungle lodge where you can relax, enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature, and get ready for the next day’s hike.
- Biking time: 3.5 to 4 hours
- Rafting time: 2 to 3 hours
- Accomodation Altitude: 200m / 3,937 ft (Santa María)
Day 2: Santa María – Santa Teresa (Trekking & Hot Springs)
After breakfast at the lodge, we set out on a rewarding day of hiking through lush Amazonian jungle and historical trails. The route includes a stretch of the original Inca Trail, once walked by Inca messengers over 500 years ago.
Along the way, we’ll pass by local coffee farms, cacao plantations, and avocado trees, offering a chance to connect with local families and even taste freshly brewed coffee. Our experienced guide will enrich the journey with fascinating stories about Inca history and the region’s culture and wildlife.
The trail includes scenic climbs with panoramic views of green valleys and tropical mountains. We’ll pause for lunch at a small local restaurant before continuing to the town of Santa Teresa (1,550 m / 5,085 ft).
In the afternoon, we’ll head to the popular Cocalmayo Hot Springs, a hidden gem where you can soak in natural thermal pools surrounded by jungle and mountains. It’s the perfect way to relax and recharge. We’ll spend the night in a comfortable hotel in Santa Teresa.
Day 3: Santa Teresa – Aguas Calientes (Ziplining & Trekking)
After breakfast at the lodge, we’ll head to the zipline site, just a short drive from our accommodation. This is one of the highest and most exciting ziplines in South America!
You’ll fly across strong steel cables stretched between mountains, where you will be able to appreciate amazing views of the jungle, river, and the mountains. This activity is guided by a professional who will be with you the whole time. We provide all the gear needed. It’s an exciting and safe way to observe the area from above.
The activity includes three ziplines and one hanging bridge, covering about 3 kilometers in total:
- The first line is 450 meters long.
- The second line is even longer, at 600 meters.
- Then you’ll walk across a 120-meter-long hanging bridge, with great views of the river and jungle below.
- Finally, the last and longest zipline is 950 meters—a thrilling way to finish!
Ziplining is optional. If you'd rather relax this morning, you’re welcome to take it easy and enjoy some downtime instead.
After the activity, we’ll take a short drive to Hidroeléctrica, where we’ll begin the final stretch of our journey on foot. We’ll follow a well-known trail along the train tracks and the Urubamba River, walking about 14 km (8.7 miles) to reach Aguas Calientes, the small town at the base of Machu Picchu.
This part of the hike is more relaxed, with plenty of time to enjoy the nature around you, listen to the sound of the river, and look out for birds and native plants. When we arrive, we’ll check into a cozy hotel with private bathrooms and hot showers. In the evening, we’ll enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and meet our guide for a briefing about tomorrow’s big visit to Machu Picchu.
Day 4: Machu Picchu – Cusco (Guided Tour)
We’ll get up early and take the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu with cooler air and soft morning light.
Your guide will show you around for about 2 to 3 hours (this is in case we book Circuit 2), telling you the history and stories of the important places you visit, like the Main Plaza, Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana stone, and Sacred Rock.
After the tour, you’ll have some free time to walk, take photos, or simply enjoy the incredible views. Later, we’ll take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes, where you can have lunch before boarding the train to Ollantaytambo. From there, a private transfer will bring you back to Cusco, arriving in the evening with amazing memories of your trip.
INCLUDED
- Pre-trip briefing the night before at our office
- Transportation from Cusco to Santa María
- Bus service to/from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
- Biking, rafting, and ziplining activities (with all necessary equipment)
- Entrance to Cocalmayo Hot Springs
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish)
- 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners (vegetarian options available)
- 1 night in Rustic Eco Lodge (Bella Victoria or similar)
- 2 nights in hotels with private bathroom and hot water
- Complete first aid kit
- Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
- Transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco
NOT INCLUDED
- First breakfast (Day 1) and last lunch (Day 4)
- Personal expenses (snacks, drinks, etc.)
- Tips/gratuities for guides and staff
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional, $70 USD)
WHAT SHOULD YOU BRING?
Clothing
- Comfortable trekking shoes
- Hat or cap for sun protection
- Long and short-sleeved shirts (2 each)
- Long and short pants (1 each)
- Rain poncho or lightweight rain jacket
Personal Items
- Reusable water bottle
- Sunglasses
- Toilet paper
- Flashlight
- Portable charger or power bank for cameras and mobile devices
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Hand sanitizer (small bottle, very important)
- Personal medications or essential medical items
- Cash in small bills (Peruvian soles) to buy souvenirs or other purchases you see necessary during the tour
Important Documents
- ORIGINAL PHYSICAL PASSPORT (required for Machu Picchu)
Why reserve with Conde Travel?
We are one of the original agencies that pioneered the Inca Jungle route to Machu Picchu. With years of experience and a passionate local team, we focus on quality, safety, and authentic experiences. By booking with Conde Travel, you’re choosing expert guides, well-organized logBy booking with Conde Travel, you’re choosing expert guides, well-organized logistics, and direct support from a locally owned company that knows every detail of the route. We’re committed to making your adventure safe, fun, and unforgettable.
istics, and direct support from a locally owned company that knows every detail of the route. We’re committed to making your adventure safe, fun, and unforgettable.
Is it safe to do the Inca Jungle?
Yes. Your safety is our priority. We work with qualified professional guides, provide high-quality equipment for activities like rafting and ziplining, and follow strict safety protocols. Our guides are trained in first aid and emergency response, so you’ll always be in good hands.
How far in advance should I book the trek?
For the high season (April to August), we recommend booking at least 4 months in advance to guarantee your entrance to Machu Picchu Circuit 2 and secure spots for optional hikes like Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
For the rest of the year (September to March), booking 2 to 3 months in advance is usually enough, but earlier is always recommended for holiday periods.
Do I need to be acclimated before starting the trek?
Yes. To fully enjoy the trek and reduce the risk of altitude sickness, we recommend spending at least 2 days in Cusco before starting the tour. To help with acclimatization, we suggest booking other local tours such as the Sacred Valley, City Tour, or Maras and Moray during those days.
Where can I store my luggage during the trek?
Most hotels in Cusco offer free luggage storage for their guests. If your hotel doesn’t provide this service, we’ll store your luggage safely at our office in Cusco while you’re on the trek
Is it necessary to book Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain in advance?
Yes. These additional hikes have limited availability and must be reserved at least 3 to 4 months in advance. They are optional and have an additional cost ($70 USD).
Are vegetarian or special meals available?
Yes, we offer vegetarian and special diet options upon request. Please let us know in advance so we can organize your meals accordingly.
What’s the best time of year to do this trek?
Machu Picchu is open all year round. The dry season (April to October) usually offers better weather with clearer skies. During the rainy season (November to March), expect light rain, cloudy skies, and mist, which can create a mystical atmosphere but may also limit visibility at times.
INCA JUNGLE TRAVEL INFORMATION
Entrance Tickets to Machu Picchu:
We usually reserve Circuit 2, the most recommended for your guided visit to Machu Picchu. If there is no availability, we will book Circuit 3 or Circuit 1 as an alternative, depending on availability, at no extra cost. This will be communicated to you as soon as we receive your inquiry.
Preparation for the Trek:
This trek involves challenging routes at high altitudes, so it’s important to be in good physical condition. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 to 3 days before the trek to help your body acclimate. You can also book additional tours with us to explore the area while preparing for your adventure.
To help prepare your body for the trek, we suggest doing regular cardio or light hiking before your trip to improve endurance and enjoy the experience to the fullest.
Medical Conditions:
If you have any pre-existing medical conditions (such as asthma, heart conditions, or recent surgeries), or if you’re taking specific medications, please inform us at the time of booking. This will help us arrange the safest and most comfortable itinerary for your needs.