Inca Jungle Trek 4 days to Machu Picchu
- Cusco
- Santa Teresa
- Aguas Calientes
- Machu Picchu
- Cusco
Moderate
Diary
Group/ private
All years
Overview
Experience the thrill of the Inca Jungle Trek 4 Days to Machu Picchu, a high-energy adventure designed for travelers seeking excitement, natural beauty, and cultural immersion. This unique trek blends downhill mountain biking, white-water rafting, zip-lining, and scenic jungle hikes through lush valleys and local coffee plantations, offering a perfect combination of adventure and discovery.
This alternative route to Machu Picchu takes you deep into the vibrant Peruvian jungle, allowing you to explore remote villages, relax in natural hot springs, and witness stunning landscapes that few other trails offer. Each day delivers a new mix of adrenaline-fueled activities, awe-inspiring scenery, and opportunities to connect with local communities.
Ideal for both experienced adventurers and first-time explorers, this 4-day trek combines heart-pumping activities with cultural experiences and breathtaking natural beauty. From thrilling rides to serene jungle paths, the Inca Jungle Trek offers a one-of-a-kind journey culminating in a magical visit to the legendary Machu Picchu.
Inca Jungle trek 4 days to Machu Picchu
The Inca Jungle Trail 4 Days to Machu Picchu is one of the most thrilling and adventurous ways to reach the legendary Lost City of the Incas. Over four action-packed days, you’ll journey through diverse landscapes while enjoying a mix of outdoor activities that make this trek truly unique. Kick off your adventure with an exhilarating downhill bike ride from the Andes into the lush jungle, setting the tone for an unforgettable experience.
Each day brings a new adventure, from white-water rafting on the Vilcanota River to trekking along ancient Inca trails, relaxing in natural hot springs, and zip-lining through the jungle canopy. Along the way, you’ll immerse yourself in local culture, visiting rural villages, coffee plantations, and remote communities. The trek culminates with a guided tour of Machu Picchu, where you’ll explore the iconic citadel, learn about its history, and uncover the mysteries of the Inca Empire.
Tour Details:
- Tour Name: Inca Jungle Trail 4 Days to Machu Picchu
- Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Activities Included: Mountain Biking, Hiking, White-Water Rafting, Zip-lining, Cultural Experiences
- Max Altitude: 4,350 m / 14,271 ft
- Accommodations: Comfortable lodges and hostels (private rooms available on request)
- Group Size: Small groups (2–10 people)
- Start/End Point: Cusco
- Departure: Daily departures with prior booking
- Best Season: April to October (dry season)
This multi-sport trek is perfect for adventure travelers seeking a dynamic and immersive route to Machu Picchu. From high-altitude mountains to tropical jungle trails, every day brings new landscapes, adrenaline-filled activities, and unforgettable memories along the way.
Highlights
Inca Jungle Trail 4 Days – Highlights
- Thrilling downhill biking: Descend from the high mountain pass of Abra Málaga (4,350 m) through cloud forests and lush jungle landscapes for an adrenaline-filled start to your adventure.
- Optional white-water rafting: Navigate the exciting rapids of the Urubamba River, surrounded by tropical scenery and breathtaking views.
- Authentic jungle hiking: Trek along ancient Inca trails, fruit plantations, and native jungle paths while learning about local culture, flora, and fauna.
- Relax in natural hot springs: Unwind in the rejuvenating thermal pools of Cocalmayo, an ideal way to recover after a day of adventure.
- Optional zip-lining: Soar over the jungle canopy in Santa Teresa, enjoying spectacular aerial views and a thrilling experience.
- Scenic railway trek: Hike along the tracks from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes, passing through lush rainforest and stunning landscapes.
- Machu Picchu guided tour: Explore the iconic citadel with a professional guide and optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
- Adventure for all thrill-seekers: Ideal for travelers seeking a unique, action-packed alternative to the traditional Inca Trail, combining culture, nature, and adventure.
Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1: Cusco – Santa Maria
Start your adventure with an exciting 65 km downhill mountain biking journey followed by white-water rafting on the Urubamba River. Overnight in Santa Maria.
Day 2: Santa Maria – Santa Teresa
Hike 22 km through jungle trails, crossing coffee plantations, fruit orchards, and hot springs in Cocalmayo. Stay overnight in Santa Teresa.
Day 3: Santa Teresa – Aguas Calientes
Begin with an optional zip-line experience, then hike along the rail tracks for 10 km to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu.
Day 4: Machu Picchu – Cusco
Explore the majestic Machu Picchu with a guided tour, then return by train and vehicle to Cusco.
Inca Jungle Trek 4 Days – Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Santa Maria – Biking & Rafting Adventure
Your adventure begins early with a hotel pick-up in Cusco around 6:00 AM. We drive through the stunning Sacred Valley, offering panoramic views of the Vilcabamba and Vilcanota mountains. A breakfast stop at Ollantaytambo prepares you for the exciting day ahead.
Next, we ascend to Abra Málaga Pass (4,350 m / 14,271 ft) and gear up for a thrilling downhill bike ride covering approximately 65 km through lush cloud forests toward Santa Maria. Along the way, you’ll visit the small Inca ruins of Huamanmarca and enjoy lunch nearby.
In the afternoon, you can opt for an exciting white-water rafting adventure on the Vilcanota River (Class II–III rapids, weather permitting). We then head to our lodge in Santa Maria for dinner and an overnight stay.
- Biking Distance: 65 km (3–4 hours)
- Rafting Time: 1–1.5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Hostel in Santa Maria
Day 2: Santa Maria – Santa Teresa – Jungle Trekking
After breakfast at 6:00 AM, begin a scenic 45-minute walk along a quiet road before joining the original Inca Trail connecting Machu Picchu with Vilcabamba. The trek passes banana, coca, and coffee plantations, along with dense jungle scenery.
Stop for lunch at Quellomayo and continue hiking along the Vilcanota River for approximately 3.5 hours, reaching the rejuvenating Cocalmayo Hot Springs where you can soak in natural thermal pools. The day ends with a 45-minute walk to Santa Teresa for dinner and overnight at a local hostel.
- Hiking Distance: 22 km (7–8 hours)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Hostel in Santa Teresa
Day 3: Santa Teresa – Aguas Calientes – Zip-lining & Hiking
Start with breakfast at 6:30 AM, followed by a 2-hour zip-lining adventure featuring four cables and a suspension bridge. Afterwards, a 1-hour van ride takes you to Hidroeléctrica, where lunch is served before a 3-hour hike along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes.
Check into your hotel and enjoy dinner at 7:00 PM while preparing for the next day’s visit to Machu Picchu.
- Zipline: 4 cables + suspension bridge
- Hiking Distance: 11 km (3–3.5 hours)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Day 4: Machu Picchu Exploration – Return to Cusco
Wake up at 4:00 AM for breakfast and take either a 1.5-hour hike or 30-minute bus ride (USD $12) to the entrance of Machu Picchu. Enjoy a 2.5-hour guided tour covering the Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana, and other iconic areas. Optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain can be added (USD $60, limited availability)
- Guided Tour: 2.5 hours
- Optional Hikes: Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain
- Meals: Breakfast
- Return: By car or train
Return Options:
Return Options:- By Train: Hike or bus down to Aguas Calientes. Return train departs at 2:30 PM or 2:55 PM to Ollantaytambo, then transfer to Cusco, arriving by 6:30 PM. (additional payments)
- By Car: Hike back to Hidroelectrica (3 hours), then drive 6 hours back to Cusco, arriving around 9:30 PM.
What’s Included
- Briefing session the night before your trek at your hotel or our office in Cusco.
- Hotel pickup in Cusco on the morning of departure.
- Private transportation from Cusco to Abra Málaga (biking starting point).
- High-quality mountain bikes with full suspension, gloves, and helmet.
- Experienced English-speaking guide for all four days.
- White-water rafting on the Vilcanota River (equipment + certified safety guide).
- Ziplining adventure in Santa Teresa (equipment + instructors).
- All meals during the trek: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners (vegetarian/vegan options available).
- Accommodation: 2 nights in basic hostels, 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu.
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu with a professional licensed guide (approx. 2.5 hours).
- Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (if selected).
- Private transfer from Ollantaytambo to Cusco (if returning by train).
- First aid kit and oxygen tank carried by your guide.
What’s Not Included
- Breakfast on Day 1 and lunch/dinner on Day 4.
- Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu ($12 one way – optional).
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (must be requested in advance, $60).
- Entrance fee to the Colcamayo Hot Springs (approx. $5).
- Travel insurance (highly recommended).
- Tips for guides, cooks, and support staff.
- Any other personal expenses.
What to Bring for the Inca Jungle trek 4 days to Machu Picchu
Here’s what you need to pack for your unforgettable Inca Jungle Trail adventure to Machu Picchu. Be ready for varied climates and activities like biking, rafting, hiking, ziplining, and visiting Machu Picchu.
- Original passport (mandatory for all checkpoints and Machu Picchu entrance).
- Small daypack (25-30L) to carry daily essentials.
- Comfortable hiking shoes (lightweight and with good grip).
- Sandals or flip-flops for hot springs and hostel showers.
- Lightweight clothes for hot and humid weather (t-shirts, shorts).
- Warm layers for cool nights (fleece or light jacket).
- Rain jacket or poncho – weather can be unpredictable in the Andes and jungle.
- Swimsuit for the Colcamayo hot springs and optional rafting.
- Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen (SPF 30+).
- Insect repellent (minimum 20% DEET recommended).
- Reusable water bottle or hydration pack (at least 1 liter).
- Personal toiletries and small towel.
- Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries.
- Personal medications (including altitude sickness pills if needed).
- Snacks like energy bars, nuts, or dried fruit.
- Camera or smartphone with power bank.
- Cash (soles) for small purchases, hot springs, tips, and optional activities.
- Optional: trekking poles, especially useful for steep sections.
Inca Jungle Trek 4 Days – Frequently Asked Questions
Inca Jungle Trek 4 Days – Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat is the Inca Jungle Trail 4 Days to Machu Picchu?
The Inca Jungle Trail 4 Days offers an adventurous and alternative route to reach Machu Picchu. This trek combines thrilling activities like downhill mountain biking, white-water rafting, hiking, zip-lining, and relaxing in natural hot springs. It’s ideal for travelers seeking adrenaline, stunning Andean and cloud forest landscapes, and a unique experience before arriving at the iconic Machu Picchu citadel.
How difficult is the Inca Jungle Trek?
This trek is moderately challenging. While it avoids the extreme high-altitude passes of the Classic Inca Trail, participants will engage in physically active adventures, including 65 km of downhill biking, long jungle hikes of up to 22 km, and other adventure sports. A basic level of fitness is recommended, although prior hiking or biking experience is not required.
What is included in the Inca Jungle Trail 4 Days tour?
The tour package includes all transportation (private van, and return by train or car depending on the option), 3 nights of accommodations in hotels or hostels, all meals except the final lunch, adventure activities (biking, rafting, zipline), Machu Picchu entrance ticket, and a professional English-speaking guide. Optional upgrades such as Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain hikes are available for an additional fee.
What kind of accommodation is provided?
During the trek, you will stay in clean and safe hostels or eco-lodges in Santa Maria, Santa Teresa, and Aguas Calientes. Most rooms include private bathrooms, hot showers, and basic amenities. Private rooms can be requested, and upgrades to 3-star hotels in Aguas Calientes are available for added comfort.
Can beginners do the Inca Jungle Trail?
Yes! Activities are suitable for beginners and intermediate adventurers. Professional instructors provide safety briefings and equipment for biking, rafting, and zip-lining. Most biking sections are downhill on paved or well-maintained roads, and rafting/zipline activities follow strict safety guidelines.
Are there limits on group size?
To ensure a personalized experience, group sizes are limited to 12–15 people. Private tours can be arranged for just you and your companions, offering full flexibility and privacy throughout the trek.
When is the best time to do the Inca Jungle Trail?
The optimal time is during the dry season from April to October, which provides sunny skies and safer conditions for biking, hiking, and adventure activities. The rainy season (November to March) is possible but may require adjustments to certain activities.
What should I pack for the Inca Jungle Trail 4 Days?
Essential items include comfortable hiking shoes, light daytime clothing, warm layers for evenings, a rain jacket or poncho, insect repellent, sunscreen, swimwear for hot springs, and a small daypack. A full packing list is usually provided upon booking.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, advance booking is highly recommended, especially during peak season (May–September). Early reservations secure your Machu Picchu entrance ticket, accommodations, and adventure activities. Late bookings may limit availability for optional hikes like Huayna Picchu.
How do I return to Cusco after Machu Picchu?
Return options include:
- Train: From Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, then transfer by bus or van to Cusco (faster and scenic).
- Car: Hike back to Hidroeléctrica (~3 hours), then a 6-hour drive to Cusco.
The choice depends on your schedule, preference, and budget.
Prices – Inca Jungle Trek 4 days to Machu Picchu
Prices – Inca Jungle Trek 4 days to Machu PicchuGroup Service: return by bus to Cusco
- $250 USD per person
Shared experience with up to 20 trekkers. Great for budget-conscious travelers looking to make new friends!
Group Service: return by Tren to Cusco
- $329 USD per person
Shared experience with up to 20 trekkers. Great for budget-conscious travelers looking to make new friends!
Discounts:
- Students with a valid university card: $20 USD off
- Children under 17: $25 USD off (must show passport)
- Children under 8: $25 USD off
Join Andino Tours Peru for an unforgettable adventure
Travel Experience in peru
- Proudly Peruvian and Locally Operated
- Extensive Experience Across All Regions of Peru
- Friendly, Expert Staff Always Ready to Assist
- Custom-Made Tours Tailored to Your Needs
- Unique Itineraries Designed with Care
- Dedicated to Providing Exceptional Service
- Great Value Packages with Extra Perks Included
Related Cusco and Machu Picchu Tours
Explore top Cusco and Machu Picchu tours nearby.
Discover more unforgettable adventures and guided tours in Cusco and Machu Picchu—perfect for extending your journey.
Machu Picchu Full Day
Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Inca Jungle Trek 4 days
Related Articles
Explore a curated selection of articles about the best treks in Cusco and Machu Picchu, including hidden gems like Pallay Punchu, the classic Inca Trail, and alternative routes like Salkantay. Find expert tips, route comparisons, and travel advice to help you plan your next unforgettable adventure.
Tripadvisor Reviews
Defining the Andino Tours Experience
