Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu 4 days

The trek begins when our Lorenzo Expeditions driver picks you up from your hotel or accommodation very early in the morning.

DAY 1: CUSCO – ABRA MÁLAGA – SANTA MARIA:   Biking and Rafting.

Pick up 6.00 a.m. We will leave the Imperial City of Cusco heading to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, where we will have our first breakfast before continuing our journey to the Malaga Pass, at 4350 masl (14160 ft), the starting point for our exciting biking tour. After a briefing by our guide, we receive all the necessary equipment for this activity. We then embark on a 3-hour descent by bicycle (55 km) until we reach the town of Huamanmarca. During the ride we experience the beauty of the snow-capped mountains and the tropical forest, where the Peruvian Amazon begins, crossing small streams and enjoying the change from cold to tropical climate. We make several technical stops to check our bikes and equipment. Finally, we arrive in the town of Santa Maria (1,200 meters above sea level) to enjoy a well-deserved lunch.

In the afternoon we have the option of rafting on the Vilcanota River (US$ 40 per person). This river offers us category III and III+ rapids. For this activity, we have helmets, windbreakers, and category V life jackets. This activity is only available from April to December, and according to the Peruvian government, it is mandatory to know how to swim.

Here is the first night accommodation in a beautiful Typical Lodge, they, in turn, will prepare food such as lunch, dinner, and breakfast. In this way, in this reactivation 2023 our company has decided to support the communities and families that inhabit these valleys and contribute to their economy. (Bernal and Tumpay Families)

• Cycling distance: 45 km / 30 miles.
• Cycling time: Approximately 2½ hours.
• Weather: Cold at the beginning of the cycling and hot at night.
• Lodging: Bella Victoria Lodge.
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
• Maximum altitude: 4350 masl / 14271 ft.
• Minimum altitude: 1250 masl / 4691 ft.

DAY 2: SANTA MARIA – COCALMAYO hot spring – SANTA TERESA: Trekking

After a delicious breakfast at the Lodge, we will be ready to make the first day of trekking to Santa Teresa. The first hour of our tour will be an ascent to the original” Inca trail”. On the way, we will have several stops to learn a little more about the rich flora and fauna of the area where we will be. We will also stop at the home of a local family, where we will learn a little more about their customs and traditions. Later we will cross EL MIRADOR, Here our guide will explain a little more about the history of the Incas and also the communication system they had in those times (the Inca route).

At this point, we will also have some of the most impressive views and visualize in the distance the majestic snow-capped Salkantay. Then we will descend to the village of Quellomayo, where we will enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by the local families. We will continue with the last two hours of walking to the thermal baths of Cocalmayo, where we will have a good time enjoying this very special and pleasant place. Here we will spend the night in Eco Lodge Cocalmayo

• Hiking distance: 14 Km.
• Hiking time: 7 hours approximately.
• Weather: hot during the day and warm at night.
• Lodging: Hotel plaza *.
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
• Maximum altitude: 2100 masl / 6233 ft.
• Minimum altitude: 1430 masl / 4691 ft.

DAY 3: SANTA TERESA – HIDROELECTRICA – AGUAS CALIENTES : Zip Line and Trekking

We will start our day with breakfast, and then the zip line activity with one of the most trusted operators in the area ($40). This activity is optional and lasts approximately two hours. Then we will have transportation to the hydroelectric, where the government control is located, to enter the Machu Picchu National Park (Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary). At this point we will start our trekking to the town of Aguas Calientes, passing through the sector called Intihuatana, a small archaeological site where the guide will give us an explanation. Then we will continue to San Gabriel where we will enjoy our lunch prepared by another family (Gonzas). From this area, we will have the opportunity to contemplate the majestic mountains Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu, and other constructions on top of the mountain. We will finish the trek in the town of Aguas Calientes, where we will spend the third night and the last dinner.

• Hiking distance: 10 km / 6.21 miles.
• Hiking time: 6 hours approximately.
• Weather: Hot during the day and warm at night.
• Lodging: Hotel Killa** in Aguas Calientes or similar.
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
• Maximum altitude: 2050 masl / 6725 ft.
• Minimum altitude: 1430 masl / 4691 ft.

DAY 4: MACHU PICCHU.

Our day will start with the option of hiking or taking the bus (US $12). Once inside the archaeological site, in your guided tour inside the Inca city of Machu Picchu, you will see its most important temples, such as the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Three Windows, etc. You will then be free to explore Machu Picchu on your own. If you booked in advance, to hike Huayna Picchu ($60) or Machu Picchu mountain($60), you will have that opportunity after your guided tour. You must make the reservations to hike either mountain three months in advance because the space is limited to only 200 people a day to climb Huayna Picchu. We also recommend allowing time to relax, meditate and rest while taking advantage of the magical and spiritual energies of this great wonder.

After you have finished enjoying Machu Picchu, you will return to Aguas Calientes to take the train back to Ollantaytambo and Cusco.

• ✅ Tour with Professional guide.
• ✅ Mobility bus from Cusco to Abra Málaga and Santa Maria.
• ✅ 03 nights Hotel in (Santa María: Hotel Bella Victoria, Santa Teresa: Hotel Plaza, Aguas Calientes: Hotel Andino***)
• ✅ Admittions to Hot Springs in Cocalmayo.
• ✅ Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu.
• ✅ Specific Meals: 03 Breakfasts,03 Lunches, 03 Dinners.
• ✅ Bikes: Specialized Status 1 or KONA Stinky.
• ✅ Integral Helmet.
• ✅ Integral Gloves.
• ✅ Knee pads.
• ✅ Waterproof jackets.
• ✅ Vegetarian Food upon request.
• ✅ First aid kit.

• ❌ Return train to Cusco.
• ❌ Rafting or Zip line: $40 USD (each one).
• ❌ Bus in Machupicchu
• ❌ Personal insurance (compulsory)
• ❌ Drinks.

We recommend carrying only the necessary luggage for the days of the tour. Large backpacks with equipment that are not needed for the expedition should be left in the city of Cusco (at your hotel or in our main office)

• Small backpack from 30 to 40 liters
• Light T-shirts, shorts and / or leggings
• Only a light coat
• Bathing suit and sandals
• Hiking boots
• Hat or cap
• Sun glasses.
• Towels
• Sunscreen
• Mosquito repellent (25% Deet)
• Rain poncho or rain jacket.
• Original Passport
• Personal medicines
• Personal hygiene items: wet wipes, toothpaste and toothbrush
• Flashlight
• The most friendly and positive attitude possible.

These are the different options how you can improve your experience in Machu Picchu after doing our inca jungle trek.

1. Rafting in Santa Maria.

Rafting is an extra activity on the first day of our Inca Jungle tour, it costs $40USD per person, and is not available during the rainy months from December to April.

2. Zip Line in Santa Teresa

This activity is optional and has an additional cost of $40 USD per person. This activity can be done on day 3 of our tour.

3. Huayna Picchu: The cost of the ticket is $60 USD per person.

Huayna Picchu is a mountain within the archaeological complex of Machu Picchu, it is a 45 minute hike to the top.

To purchase this additional you have to let us know at least 3 months in advance due to high demand, schedules and details of your visit to this site will be confirmed in the previous meeting that we will have.

4. Machu Picchu Mountain: The cost of the ticket is $60USD per person.

Machu Picchu Mountain is also an extra inside the archaeological complex of Machu Picchu, it is a 1 hour and a half walk to the top.

To purchase this extra you have to let us know at least 3 months in advance due to the high demand, the schedules and details of your visit to this site will be confirmed in the previous meeting we will have.

5. Hotels for Upgrade

• Vertikal Lodge in Santa Teresa $35usd. (Santa Teresa)
• Ecoquechua Santa Teresa $40usd.(Santa Teresa)
• Hotel Cabaña in Aguas Calientes $40 (Aguas Calientes)

Do you want to know more about the Inca jungle trail? Read our useful information section and learn more about availability, food, entrance fees and more.

Inca Jungle trek Availability

There is no space limit for the Inca Jungle Trek tour. However, for safety reasons we restrict some activities in the rainiest months, which are from December to March.

What you need to know about the Inca Jungle 4 days trail?

• This 4-day tour to Machu Picchu is not recommended for travelers with back problems.
• You will have a guide during your Inca Jungle trek and your visit to Machu Picchu. (English speak and Spanish)
• Departures with  02 to 08 persons maximum.
• No wheelchair access.

DO NOT FORGET ESSENTIALS: original passport, insurance card, and personal medications.
This hike will be composed of a maximum of 06 travelers.

Return from Machu Picchu to Cusco

The best way to return to Cusco is by Train, you will check and buy it for yourself according to your schedule.

Weather on the Inca jungle trek 4 days

The Inca jungle trail has a warm climate every day since we are in the high jungle of Cusco. Except for the first hours of the first day, we must climb up to the Malaga pass and then descend.

The rainy and dry season also applies in this area of the Cusco jungle. This means that the rainy months go from October to April and the dry months from May to the end of October.

The best time to hike the Inca Jungle Trail

The best time to do the Inca jungle trek is the dry season, which covers March/April/May/June/July/August/September October/November. These last months are especially good if you want to go rafting in Santa Maria.

Temperatures are fairly constant throughout the year, with warm days reaching 20 degrees Celsius. Nights and early mornings are cold (single digits and sometimes below freezing, especially in the dry season).

Travel Insurance (Obligatory)

if you become ill or injured while away from home, you can be reimbursed for treatment provided as a result of a covered medical emergency during your trip.

Restrooms and showers on the Inca Jungle trek

Toilets and showers will be at your disposal in the hotels and lodgings we have each night.

Lodging options

You will sleep in comfortable accommodations that have all the basic services, if you need something special, please let us know before starting the tour.

Pre-trip meeting

The day before the Inca jungle trek adventure, our guide and team will meet you in an agreed upon area that they will let you know in order to explain in detail all aspects of the tour.

All about tipping on the Inca Jungle trek

Tipping is customary on Inca jungle trail treks. Along the trail, you will have the assistance of several people that you will not see again on the trail, so if you are in the possibility of tipping you can do so.

For the tour guide, the tip is given after the guided tour of Machu Picchu. You decide the amount depending on your experience with them. The guides can receive dollars or soles without any problem.

Food on the Inca Jungle Trek

The food is varied and changes cook at each place we arrive, the people live on this route and as a way to promote the local economy, we hire them for this purpose.

*Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other options are available upon request (please advise at the time of booking).

Here are some options we have for food on the 4-Day Inca Jungle to Machu Picchu.

These are just examples, and we will not necessarily find the same. Some local restaurants will have options and some will not.

What to pack for inca jungle trek?

You should pack for the next few days of adventure.
-Trekking shoes, sun cream, sunscreen, light clothing 90% of the route is through hot and humid tropical zone, but the first hours during the cycling is cold, a light jacket is enough, insect repellents, hat and sunglasses.

What to wear for jungle trekking?

First day: cold at the beginning of the cycling activity it is recommended to wear warm clothes, but as we go deeper into the jungle the weather changes from cold to hot and humid.
Second day: wear super light clothes to walk all day in this part of the tour will be very hot 25-27 degrees.
Third day: it is also recommended to wear light clothing as the heat and humidity continue.
Fourth day: light clothing and lots of sun protection cream.

What type of backpack is necessary for the trip?

For this trip, we recommend a backpack that can hold between 30–40 Liters, with clothes that are only necessary for the 4 days of the trip. The rest of your luggage will be left in storage at your hotel in Cusco or at the Lorenzo Expeditions office

Is advanced cycling experience necessary?

On the tour, there is a total of 3 hours of downhill biking. 95% of the road is downhill and paved. Therefore, the cycling part of the tour is not difficult. Only basic to intermediate experience is required.

How can I access Huaynapicchu or Machupicchu Mountain?

To climb one of the two mountains, you must purchase the entrance ticket in advance. Huaynapicchu or Machupicchu Mountain has an extra cost of $60 USD per person, and it is recommended to book tickets at least 3 months in advance. If you wish to book the entrance ticket for Huaynapicchu, please contact our reservations team.

Will there be accommodations, or will we be camping?

The tour package includes 03 nights of accommodation.
On the first night, we will provide rooms with double or triple rooms. Private bathrooms and a cold shower. Here is hot weather.
On the second night, we will provide double or triple rooms. Private bathrooms and a hot shower are included + Wi-Fi
On the third night, double or triple rooms will be provided. Private bathrooms, hot shower, and Wi-Fi are included.
Please note: If you would like to require private rooms, please contact us before starting the tour.

What will the weather be like during the tour?

During the first two hours (the cycling route) it will be quite cold because we will be at a high altitude. After those two hours, and for the rest of the tour, the weather will be warm and humid (during the night as well). The temperature in the morning varies between 18–25 degrees Celsius (64 – 77 degrees Fahrenheit). During the months of June, July, and August, the temperature can reach 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). At night, the minimum temperature is 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit) with a maximum temperature of 18 degrees Celsius (64 degrees Fahrenheit). Therefore, we recommend that you bring light clothes.

What form of payment should I use?

You can make a deposit on our website in order to confirm your reservation. It is very important to confirm available spaces before making the deposit. The leftover balance should be paid in cash (dollars or soles) in our office in Cusco. We do not accept credit cards.
Please note: On certain occasions, it is not necessary to make a security deposit. At the moment that you make your reservation, our agency will communicate to you whether it is necessary.

How do I return to Cusco after the tour?

There are two options for your return trip to Cusco. The most popular and safe option is the train. The second, and more affordable option, is by car.

By train: There are two options if you choose to travel by train. The first is from Machu Picchu town to Cusco (about 4 hours of travel) and the second option is from Machupicchu Town to Ollantaytambo (about 2 hours of travel). From the station in Ollantaytambo, it is very easy and affordable to find a car that will take you straight to Cusco (2 hours to Cusco).
To see train availability and prices, please visit:   www.perurail.com or www.incarail.com