Complete Guide to the Inca Jungle Trek: What to Expect Day by Day
If you’re looking for a route to Machu Picchu that combines adventure, culture, and stunning natural beauty, the Inca Jungle Trek is the ultimate choice. Unlike the Classic Inca Trail, this alternative route isn’t just about hiking — it’s a multi-adventure experience that includes mountain biking, rafting, hiking, hot springs, and ziplining.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the Inca Jungle Trek day by day, so you’ll know exactly what to expect, what makes it unique, and why it’s one of the most exciting ways to reach Machu Picchu.
🗓️ Day 1: Cusco – Abra Málaga – Santa María (Biking & Optional Rafting)
Your adventure begins early in the morning with a drive from Cusco (3,400 m / 11,154 ft) to the high mountain pass of Abra Málaga, located at 4,350 meters (14,271 ft). The scenery shifts dramatically as you leave behind the bustling city and climb toward the snow-capped peaks of the Andes.
At the top of Abra Málaga, the real fun begins: a downhill biking adventure. Over the course of about 3 to 4 hours, you’ll descend nearly 3,000 meters through breathtaking landscapes — from icy peaks into lush cloud forests. Along the way, you’ll pass waterfalls, small villages, and winding roads surrounded by dramatic mountains.
For those craving even more adrenaline, the afternoon offers an optional white-water rafting experience on the Urubamba River. The rapids vary from class II to III+, making it safe but thrilling.
You’ll spend the night in Santa María, a small jungle town, enjoying local food and the warm hospitality of Andean families.
- 🚴 Downhill biking from Abra Málaga (4,350 m).
- 🌊 Optional rafting on the Urubamba River.
- 🌄 Transition from Andes to jungle landscapes.
🗓️ Day 2: Santa María – Santa Teresa (Hiking & Hot Springs)
Day 2 is often considered the most beautiful part of the trek. After breakfast, you’ll begin a hike along trails that combine both authentic Inca paths and jungle routes. This is where history and nature intertwine.
You’ll pass through coffee, cacao, and coca plantations while learning about local farming traditions. Many tours include a stop at a family-run coffee farm, where you can roast, grind, and taste fresh organic coffee — a unique cultural experience.
As the trail climbs, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the Urubamba Valley and walk along original Inca roads. After several hours of hiking, the route descends before reaching Cocalmayo Hot Springs, one of the highlights of the trek.
Accommodation is in the nearby town of Santa Teresa, where you’ll enjoy dinner and a restful night.
- 🥾 Hiking through Inca trails and jungle plantations.
- ☕ Visit to coffee farms and interaction with locals.
- 🌿 Relaxing at Cocalmayo Hot Springs.
🗓️ Day 3: Santa Teresa – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes (Ziplining & Trekking)
The third day begins with an optional but highly recommended activity: ziplining. If you’ve never tried it before, this is your chance to soar above valleys, rivers, and forests while enjoying panoramic views of the Peruvian jungle.
After ziplining (or simply relaxing), you’ll take transport to Hidroelectrica, where the final hiking stage begins. From here, you’ll walk along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu.
The hike is relatively easy (around 3 hours) and follows a path through lush rainforest with beautiful views of rivers and mountains. Along the way, you may catch your first glimpse of Machu Picchu from a distance.
In the evening, you’ll arrive at Aguas Calientes, staying in a comfortable hostel or hotel, and enjoy dinner before the final day.
- 🌉 Optional zipline adventure.
- 🚶 Scenic trek along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes.
- 🌄 First glimpse of Machu Picchu.
🗓️ Day 4: Machu Picchu – Cusco
The final day is the reason you came: visiting Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
You’ll start early, either hiking up to the entrance or taking the bus from Aguas Calientes. Arriving early gives you the best chance to see the citadel at sunrise, a magical experience as the first light of day illuminates the ruins.
Your guide will lead a 2-hour tour of Machu Picchu. Afterward, you’ll have free time to explore or hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (with tickets booked in advance).
In the afternoon, you’ll take the train back to Ollantaytambo and then a bus to Cusco, concluding your adventure.
- 🌅 Sunrise at Machu Picchu.
- 🏯 Guided tour of the citadel.
- 🗻 Optional hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
Tips for the Inca Jungle Trek
- Pack light but smart — Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a rain jacket.
- Be ready for altitude changes — Stay hydrated and acclimatized.
- Try every activity — Biking, rafting, and ziplining make the trek special.
- Respect local communities — Support family-run farms and buy local products.
- Book Machu Picchu tickets early — Especially for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
Conclusion
The Inca Jungle Trek is much more than an alternative to the Classic Inca Trail. It’s a multi-adventure journey through breathtaking landscapes, authentic cultural experiences, and adrenaline-pumping activities, all culminating in the unforgettable reward of visiting Machu Picchu.
If you’re seeking a trek that combines adventure, history, and natural beauty, this is the perfect route. Whether you’re biking down mountain roads, relaxing in hot springs, or standing at the Sun Gate looking at Machu Picchu, every moment of the Inca Jungle Trek is unforgettable.
👉 Ready to plan your adventure? Join us on the Inca Jungle Trek and experience one of the most unique routes to Machu Picchu!
