Inca Jungle Trek: 4 Days of Adrenaline to Machu Picchu

The Inca Jungle Trek is the most exciting and dynamic alternative to reach the citadel of Machu Picchu. Designed specifically for adventurers and the young at heart, this program combines mountain biking, hiking, river rafting, and zip-lining into one epic journey. Unlike the traditional path, the Inca Jungle allows you to descend from the Andean glaciers into the high jungle, enjoying tropical landscapes, coffee plantations, and the relaxing hot springs of Cocalmayo before crowning your expedition at one of the world’s wonders.

ℹ️ General Information

• Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights.

• Frequency: Daily departures (ideal for groups).

• Start Point: Hotel pick-up in Cusco (07:30 AM).

• Difficulty Level: Moderate / Adventure.

• Price per person: $299.00 USD (Group service).

⭐ Inca Jungle Trek Highlights

• Mountain Biking: Pure adrenaline descent from Abra Malaga (4,316 m) down to the tropical rainforest.

• Inca Trail Hiking: Walk along original sections of the Qhapaq Ñan surrounded by coca plantations and exotic fruits.

• Cocalmayo Hot Springs: Relax in the best natural crystal-clear pools in Santa Teresa.

• Adventure Sports: Optional River Rafting on the Vilcanota River and Zip-lining in Santa Teresa.

• Machu Picchu at Sunrise: A guided tour of the Inca citadel to discover all its ancient secrets.

🗺️ Detailed Itinerary

• Day 1: Cusco – Abra Malaga – Santa Maria (Biking)

• • Departure: We begin the journey by bus toward Abra Malaga (4,316 m), enjoying panoramic views of the Andes.

  • Bike Descent: Equipped with full safety gear, we descend for 3 hours toward the high jungle, passing through cloud forests to the Inca ruins of Wamanmarka.

  • Arrival: Arrive at Santa Maria (1,130 m). Lunch and free time.

  • Optional: River Rafting on the Vilcanota River (not included).

  • Night: Dinner and rest at a basic hostel or campsite.

• Day 2: Santa Maria – Inca Trails – Santa Teresa

• • Hiking: A trek through paths filled with lush vegetation, spotting coffee and cacao plants.

  • History: We will walk along original sections of the Inca Trails with breathtaking views of the Vilcanota Valley.

  • Relax: In the afternoon, we reach Santa Teresa. You will have time to visit the famous Cocalmayo Hot Springs (highly recommended).

  • Night: Dinner and overnight stay at a basic hostel in Santa Teresa.

• Day 3: Santa Teresa – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes

• • Optional Adventure: A morning of Zip-lining (not included).

  • Trek: We continue toward the Hydroelectric station, walking alongside the train tracks surrounded by a wide variety of butterflies, parrots, and exotic birds.

  • Arrival: Final walk toward the town of Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo).

  • Night: Group dinner and a briefing regarding the next day’s visit to Machu Picchu.

• Day 4: Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco

• • The Big Day: A very early hike (04:00 AM) toward the citadel to witness the sunrise (approx. 1h 10min ascent).

  • Guided Tour: A 2-hour tour of the main sectors of Machu Picchu with our professional guide.

  • Free Time: Additional time for photos and personal exploration.

  • Return: Descent to Aguas Calientes, train to Ollantaytambo, and final bus back to Cusco.

For more information about our pricing, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at info@coclatours.com — we’d love to hear from you and help you plan your next adventure!

✅ What’s Included

• Hotel pick-up and transport from Cusco to Abra Malaga.

• Professional bilingual guide specialized in adventure travel.

• Full biking equipment (suspension bike, helmet, gloves, and pads).

• Full board (3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners).

• 2 nights in basic hostels (Santa Maria and Santa Teresa).

• 1 night lodging in Aguas Calientes.

• Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu.

• Return train ticket to Ollantaytambo and bus to Cusco.

❌ Not Included

• First breakfast and last lunch in Aguas Calientes.

• Entrance to Cocalmayo hot springs (approx. 10 soles).

• Bus up/down to Machu Picchu (optional, $24 USD).

• Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (additional $25 USD).

• Optional activities: Rafting and Zip-lining.

🎒 What to Bring

• Light walking clothes and a swimsuit for Cocalmayo.

• Windbreaker or waterproof jacket (jungle weather is unpredictable).

• Insect repellent (essential) and sunscreen.

• Trekking shoes with good grip.

• Small flashlight and portable power bank.

• Extra cash in Soles for snacks and tips.

💡 Expert Recommendations

1. Bike Safety: If you don’t have much experience on a bike, don’t worry—the support vehicle follows the group, and you can hop in at any time.

2. Cocalmayo: This is undoubtedly the best thermal water experience in Cusco. Don’t forget your towel and sandals.

3. Early Booking: If you want to climb Huayna Picchu, let us know at least 2 months in advance; tickets sell out fast!

4. Hydration: Drink plenty of water during the second day; the jungle humidity can be draining.

❓ FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the Inca Jungle Trek harder than the Classic Inca Trail? Physically, it’s less demanding in terms of steep steps, but it has more variety. It’s ideal if you prefer action over pure trekking.

2. Can I do rafting if I can’t swim? The rafting is basic/intermediate level, and you will always wear a life jacket and be with an expert guide, but it is important to inform your guide about your confidence level in the water.

3. Is there Wi-Fi? You will only find Wi-Fi at the hostels in Santa Teresa and Aguas Calientes, though it is usually slow. Take the chance to disconnect!

Some other treks:

• Salkantay Trek 
• Choquequirao Trek