Machu Picchu by Inca Jungle in 3 days

05:30 – 06:00 AM | Hotel Pickup in Cusco
We’ll pick you up early from your hotel in Cusco to begin your unforgettable Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu.

06:00 – 09:30 AM | Drive to Abra Málaga (4,316 m / 14,160 ft)
Enjoy a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley, passing snow-capped peaks and charming villages until we reach Abra Málaga Pass.

09:30 – 12:30 PM | Downhill Biking to Santa María
From Abra Málaga, we switch gears for an adrenaline-filled downhill mountain bike ride. Over about 3 hours, we descend into the tropical cloud forest toward Santa María, surrounded by lush landscapes.

12:30 – 02:00 PM | Lunch in Santa María
We pause in Santa María for a delicious local lunch to recharge after the ride.

02:00 – 03:00 PM | Drive to Santa Teresa
After lunch, we continue by private transport for about an hour, heading to the jungle town of Santa Teresa.

03:00 – 05:00 PM | Cocalmayo Hot Springs Visit (Optional)
Check into your hotel, then enjoy a relaxing soak in the soothing Cocalmayo Hot Springs, famous for their natural pools.

07:00 PM | Dinner and Overnight in Santa Teresa
Enjoy a hearty dinner and get some well-deserved rest for the adventures ahead.

07:00 – 08:00 AM | Breakfast in Santa Teresa
Start your day with breakfast at a local tourist restaurant.

08:30 – 10:30 AM | Zipline Adventure
Embrace your adventurous spirit as you experience an exciting zipline tour across lush jungle valleys under expert supervision.

10:30 – 12:00 PM | Transfer to Hidroeléctrica
After the zipline, we travel by vehicle to Hidroeléctrica, the starting point of today’s trek.

12:00 – 01:00 PM | Lunch at Hidroeléctrica
We’ll enjoy lunch here before the hike.

01:00 – 06:30 PM | Hike from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes (Approx. 11 km)
Our scenic hike follows train tracks and parts of ancient trails through the tropical forest, offering glimpses of waterfalls and Machu Picchu towering above. The walk takes around 5 to 6 hours at a leisurely pace.

06:30 – 07:30 PM | Check-In & Rest in Aguas Calientes
Arrive in Aguas Calientes, check into your hotel, and relax. Optionally, visit the local thermal baths to soothe your muscles.

07:30 PM | Dinner at a Tourist Restaurant
We gather for dinner and a briefing for your upcoming visit to Machu Picchu.

04:30 – 05:00 AM | Breakfast in Aguas Calientes
Fuel up for the grand finale of your Inca Jungle Machu Picchu 3 Days Tour.

05:00 – 07:00 AM | Climb or Bus Ride to Machu Picchu
Choose between:

A 2-hour early morning hike up ancient stone steps Or a 30-minute bus ride to Machu Picchu’s entrance (ticket required and arranged in advance)

07:00 – 10:00 AM | Guided Tour of Machu Picchu (Circuit 2)
Explore the wonders of Machu Picchu, including:

The Intihuatana (open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM)

Temple of the Sun

Main Temple

Temple of the Three Windows

Temple of the Condor

Sacred Rock

Water Mirrors, and more
Your guide will bring the Inca citadel’s history and mysteries to life.

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Free Time in Machu Picchu
Take extra time for photos or explore more corners of this incredible site.

12:00 – 01:30 PM | Lunch in Aguas Calientes
Enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants in town or at the exclusive Tinkuy Restaurant near Machu Picchu’s entrance (reservation recommended).

02:00 – 04:00 PM | Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
Board the Expedition train back toward Ollantaytambo. Optionally, upgrade to the Vistadome train for panoramic windows and live entertainment.

04:30 – 06:30 PM | Transfer to Cusco
Private transportation will bring you from Ollantaytambo back to Cusco.

Approx. 09:00 PM | Arrival in Cusco
We expect to arrive in Cusco around 9:00 PM. Your drop-off point will be coordinated in advance.

After a nourishing breakfast at a local restaurant, we dive into one of the most exciting activities of the Inca Jungle Machu Picchu Trek—an exhilarating zipline adventure. Under the supervision of experienced guides, you’ll soar across the valley, taking in sweeping views and feeling the pure adrenaline of flying above the treetops.

Next, we continue our journey by private transport to Hidroeléctrica, where a delicious lunch awaits. Here, we’ll have time to rest and stretch in preparation for our afternoon hike.

From Hidroeléctrica, we embark on a scenic walk of approximately 11 kilometers (around 6-7 miles) to Aguas Calientes. The trail meanders along railway tracks and lush jungle paths, offering glimpses of waterfalls, vibrant flora, and the occasional glimpse of Machu Picchu’s silhouette high above. The hike takes around 5 to 6 hours at a relaxed pace, perfect for soaking in the magnificent surroundings.

Upon arriving in Aguas Calientes, you’ll check into your hotel and have the option to visit the town’s inviting thermal baths to unwind your muscles. Later, we’ll gather for dinner at a local tourist restaurant and discuss plans for our much-anticipated visit to Machu Picchu the following day.

The highlight of your Inca Jungle Machu Picchu 3 Days adventure arrives today! After an early breakfast, we begin our ascent to the legendary Machu Picchu citadel. You can either choose the scenic hike up the ancient stone steps (approximately 2 hours) or take a 30-minute bus ride to the entrance—just let us know your preference in advance so we can arrange tickets accordingly.

Our entrance ticket includes Circuit 2, giving you access to many of Machu Picchu’s iconic landmarks. With your professional guide, you’ll explore significant sites such as the Intihuatana (open only from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.), the Temple of the Sun, the Main Temple, the Temple of the Three Windows, the Temple of the Condor, the Sacred Rock, and the mesmerizing Water Mirrors. Your guide will share fascinating insights into the architecture, history, and mysteries of this ancient Inca sanctuary.

After exploring Machu Picchu, you’ll descend to Aguas Calientes, where you’re free to enjoy lunch at one of the many local restaurants—or indulge in the buffet at the renowned Tinkuy Restaurant near the entrance if you’ve made a reservation in advance.

In the afternoon, we’ll board the train (Expedition service) back to Ollantaytambo. If you prefer an upgraded experience, you can choose the Vistadome train, which features panoramic windows and onboard entertainment. From Ollantaytambo, our private transportation will transfer you to Cusco, arriving around 9:00 p.m. The exact drop-off point in Cusco will be coordinated in advance for your convenience.

All briefings are done at our office at 7:00 PM one or two nights before your trek. If you are unable to make this time, you need to coordinate another time with a member of the Xtreme Tourbulencia office team. Briefings are approximately 40 minutes long.

Xtreme Tourbulencia is one of the only companies to pick you up directly from your hotel. As long as your hotel is in the center of Cusco city, we will coordinate this pickup based on a time that your guide will discuss at the briefing. Pick up times may vary 30 – 45 minutes based on traffic conditions and previous pickups.

Cusco is an old city with cobblestoned streets and very narrow passageways. Smaller hotels and Airbnbs are often located on streets that cars can´t pass through.

They also are frequently on hillsides with long steep climbs, making it difficult to carry luggage. We highly recommend that you book accommodations with better access. We have a list of hotels that are all comfortable with easy access to pick up and drop off.

Machu Picchu is most beautiful when seen from above, which is why hiking one of the mountains next to the ruins is very popular to do after your tour.

Huaynapicchu is the most popular and must be booked in advance since it sells out very quickly. This hike takes approximately 1 hour to the top, and another 45 minutes back down. Tickets are sold in time sessions stating when you can start this hike. The first session is from 7-8 AM, and the 2nd session is from 10-11 AM.

Again, this refers to the timeframe when you can start your hike. We usually book the second session so you can enjoy your tour with your guide first. You will do this hike on your own, but your guide will show you where to begin.

Machu Picchu Mountain is a bit longer and a bit less popular. It takes 2 hours to the top and another 1 hours to the bottom. Again there are two time windows – from 7-8 AM and 9-10 AM and we usually purchase the second time window. 4 Day treks, the Trekkers CAN NOT do this hike and enjoy a tour of the ruins. Time will not allow for this.

Hiking either mountain will allow you to have some extra time at the ruins once you complete, as listed above.

You must be honest with your guide about any health conditions or concerns you might have. While our guides are not medical professionals, they do have first aid training. We also work with a clinic in Cusco that can help assist our team.

You are responsible for assessing whether a Tour is suitable for you. You should consult your physician to confirm your fitness for travel and participation in any planned activities. You should seek your physician’s advice on vaccinations and medical precautions.

Xtreme TourBulencia will not provide medical advice. It is your responsibility to assess the risks and requirements of each aspect of the Tour based on your unique circumstances, limitations, fitness level, and medical requirements.

If you develop extreme altitude sickness or any other illness that prevents you from hiking, and you still wish to visit Machu Picchu by train, we will work with you to coordinate this trip. Since this will be a new trip, it may require additional fees. We will use as much of the original itinerary to keep costs low.

If you experience issues while hiking and can not continue, a porter will accompany you to the closest road and wait while a car comes to pick you up and bring you to the nearest health clinic.

Group tours are made up of all different types of people, with various hiking skills and ages. By agreeing to a group tour, you agree that some people might be slower or faster than you are.

Everyone can go at their own pace for the trek, and the guide will work with the group to spend time with everyone. Groups might request some modifications to the tour, and the guide will work with everyone to make the best decision for the group.

Unfortunately, strikes are frequent in Peru and can disrupt our tours. Roads are often blocked, and trains stopped. We will make sure your trek continues as planned, even if that means leaving the night before your start date.

Under these circumstances, tours might need to be canceled. But our operations department will coordinate with you in this situation. Your safety is always our top concern and will dictate how we decide.

You are responsible for your items throughout the Tour. Please be diligent about where you leave your things and remember to remove all items from our vans, your tents, restaurant, etc.

Do not leave anything unintended during your hike. Other trekkers or teams might pick it up not knowing whos it is.

Tipping is part of the tradition of any trek to Machu Picchu. While we pay good wages to our entire team, anything extra is always appreciated. Please know that this is not obligatory and that you should never feel pressured into this.

Typically the participants in a group pool their tipping money together for the porters and chef. The amount recommended is different per trek and listed below.

For the guide, this is more personal and needs to be decided based on your relationship with them and done separately from the group. Porters and Chefs prefer soles if possible. Guides are happy with U.S. dollars, Peruvian Soles, or even your credit card.

Travel insurance is inexpensive and strongly recommended. With trips being planned months ahead of time, you never can predict what could happen. Adventure travel includes more risk than the average trip.

Insurance is a way to protect the investment you have made on this journey. We can help recommend an agent to walk you through this type of insurance if needed.

Of course, the weather is unpredictable. Typically the dry season in Cusco is from April through October, but this does not stop rain from falling in June or the sun from coming out in December so just be prepared.

No matter what month you are doing the trek, make sure that you have rain gear that includes a waterproof jacket, pants, poncho, and waterproof gloves. Many people forget about gloves, but being cold and wet makes hiking very unpleasant.

Also, prepare for four seasons. Several of the treks through the Andes involve various microclimates and you will need to be prepared. Layers are always key since they are easy to adjust to different temperature changes. Be prepared with a warm packable down jacket since the evening will be cold.

It’s also important to note that the weather can change a listed itinerary. There are times that routes become impassable, and our guides will be forced for your safety to rework your tour.

As soon as people book their trip to Peru, specifically Cusco, they start wondering about altitude sickness. The air at high altitudes contains less oxygen than at sea level and forces your body to work harder to get the oxygen it needs.

Over several days at high altitude, your body adjusts to the lower amount of oxygen in the air. For this reason, we always recommend spending at least two days in Cusco before beginning any trek in the Andes. Cusco is a marvelous city with lots to do, so if you have more time to acclimate you won´t be bored.

With altitude sickness, you may first feel like you have the flu or a hangover. You may have a headache, tiredness, loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, trouble sleeping, trouble breathing during exercise. If any of these effects become severe, please contact our office, and we will help you get to a doctor.

Most of the time, these symptoms will be mild. We always recommend easing into activity slowly, allowing your body to adjust. Drink plenty of fluids such as water or coca tea.

Coca tea has been used since ancient times to help prevent altitude sickness. Leaves from the Coca Plant contain alkaloids that help bring oxygen into your blood, helping your body avoid the effects of altitude sickness. Avoid drinking a lot of alcohol and coffee. They will cause you to urinate more often and become dehydrated. Avoid smoking. Smoking makes it more difficult for your body to get oxygen. Avoid sleeping pills. They may cause shallow breathing at night, making it more difficult for your body to absorb oxygen while you sleep.

Remember the trek to Machu Picchu is not a race. Even those in the best shape will suffer from altitude sickness if they race to the top of the mountain too quickly. Go slow, and it will give your body time to adjust to the elevation.

Your healthcare provider may prescribe medications, such as acetazolamide and dexamethasone, to help prevent altitude sickness. Start the medicine two days before you get to a high altitude. Continue to take it while you are at high altitude.

You must remember that this is your holiday and you do not want to stress out about the possibility of getting sick from the mountains. Do everything slowly and drink lots of water, and enjoy the coca tea.

If anything does happen and you, unfortunately, get sick, let your guide know right away. Xtreme Tourbulencia guides are trained to help you get through it.

The airport in Cusco currently is only for domestic flights, so all international travelers by plane must disembark in Lima and go through Customs. Even if your flight to Cusco is the same day by the same airline carrier, you must grab your bags in Lima and then check them back in.

The best way to get to Cusco is by air, and there are several options in airlines. LAN tends to be the most expensive but has the most options and flights. Expect delays or flight cancellations. Due to the high altitude of Cusco, it tends to be difficult to land, and any acclimate weather will stop air traffic.

Bus travel is always available, and while the trip can be long, especially from Lima, the buses in Peru are very well maintained and comfortable. This option is strongly encouraged if coming from a city closer to Cusco, like Puno. Lima buses will take about 20 hours to arrive.

To begin, we’d like to suggest some accommodation options throughout Cusco. Although it’s a small city, more and more streets are becoming traffic-free pedestrian zones.

Therefore, we’ve selected comfortable and well-located hotels that also allow us easy access to pick you up. These are just ideas; you’re free to choose your accommodation.

Check out our hotels

The Inca Jungle Trail is an exhilarating 3-day alternative route to Machu Picchu that combines multiple adventure activities with breathtaking Andean scenery. Unlike the traditional Inca Trail, this route includes mountain biking, hiking, and optional zip-lining and hot springs, taking you through diverse landscapes from high mountain passes to lush cloud forest. You’ll experience authentic Peruvian culture while following ancient paths that lead to the magnificent citadel of Machu Picchu.

The Inca Jungle Trek offers a moderate difficulty level, making it accessible to travelers with basic fitness levels. The first day involves mountain biking downhill from 4,316 meters to 1,200 meters, while the hiking portions cover approximately 6-8 hours daily through varied terrain. Most participants find it less challenging than the classic Inca Trail since there are no extremely high altitude camping sites, and you sleep in comfortable accommodations rather than tents.

Your adventure package typically includes professional bilingual guides, all transportation from Cusco, mountain biking equipment and safety gear, accommodation for 2 nights, daily breakfast and lunch, entrance fees to Machu Picchu, and train tickets from Aguas Calientes back to Cusco. Most tour operators also provide first aid kits, and some include optional activities like zip-lining and hot springs visits, though these may cost extra.

Pack lightweight, quick-dry clothing suitable for various weather conditions, including warm layers for early mornings and rain gear for potential showers. Essential items include comfortable hiking boots, a daypack, water bottles, sunscreen, insect repellent, personal medications, and a headlamp or flashlight. Don’t forget your passport (required for Machu Picchu entry), camera, and some cash for optional activities and tips.

The ideal months for the Inca Jungle Trek are April through October during Peru’s dry season, when you’ll encounter clearer skies and more predictable weather conditions. July and August offer the driest conditions but are also the busiest months. Many travelers prefer the shoulder seasons of April-May and September-October for pleasant weather with fewer crowds and lush, green landscapes.

While the Inca Jungle Trail doesn’t require permits like the classic Inca Trail, advance booking is highly recommended, especially during peak season (June-August). Machu Picchu entrance tickets are limited and must be purchased in advance. Booking 2-4 weeks ahead ensures availability and better accommodation options, particularly if you’re traveling during Peruvian holidays or peak tourist seasons.

You’ll stay in comfortable hostels or basic hotels in small Andean towns, typically with private or shared bathrooms and hot showers. The first night is usually spent in Santa Maria, and the second night in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town). While accommodations are simple, they provide a welcome rest after each day’s adventure and offer opportunities to interact with local communities.

The Inca Jungle Trail offers more diverse activities and landscapes compared to the traditional Inca Trail, combining adventure sports with cultural immersion. It’s generally less crowded, doesn’t require permits months in advance, and costs less than the classic route. However, you’ll see fewer original Inca ruins along the way, and the final approach to Machu Picchu is by train rather than on foot through the Sun Gate.

A moderate fitness level is sufficient for most participants, though some preparation is recommended. You should be comfortable walking 6-8 hours daily and handling basic mountain biking on varied terrain. The trek involves elevation changes, but nothing as extreme as high-altitude mountain climbing. Regular walking, jogging, or gym workouts for a few weeks before your trip will help you enjoy the experience more fully.

Most tour operators welcome travelers from age 12 to 65, though individual fitness matters more than age. Children under 12 may find the daily distances challenging, while older adults in good health regularly complete the trek successfully. The mountain biking portion requires basic cycling skills and confidence on varied terrain, so participants should be comfortable on a bicycle.

Daily breakfast and lunch are typically included, featuring hearty Peruvian cuisine designed to fuel your adventures. Expect traditional dishes like quinoa soup, fresh fruits, sandwiches, and local specialties. Dinners are usually at your own expense, giving you flexibility to explore local restaurants and experience authentic Peruvian food culture in the small towns where you’ll spend your evenings.

While technically possible, joining a guided tour is highly recommended for safety, logistics, and cultural enrichment. Professional guides know the terrain, weather patterns, and can handle emergencies. They also provide valuable insights about Inca history, local culture, and the significance of sites you’ll visit. Independent travel requires extensive planning, equipment, and knowledge of local transportation and accommodation options.

The Inca Jungle Trail operates year-round, with guides experienced in handling various weather conditions. Rain is possible even during dry season, which is why waterproof gear is essential. In extreme weather, routes may be modified for safety, but tours rarely cancel completely. The diverse landscapes actually become more beautiful in misty conditions, and the adventure continues with appropriate gear and positive attitudes.

The third day begins with an early morning hike to Aguas Calientes, followed by either a bus ride or additional hike up to Machu Picchu citadel. Most groups take the 30-minute bus ride to save energy for exploring the ruins. You’ll have several hours to explore Machu Picchu with your guide before taking the train back to Cusco in the afternoon or evening.

The Inca Jungle Trail stands out for its combination of adventure activities, cultural immersion, and stunning landscape diversity. You’ll experience everything from high-altitude mountain biking to tropical cloud forest hiking, visit authentic Andean communities, and enjoy optional activities like zip-lining and natural hot springs. This multi-activity approach creates lasting memories beyond just reaching Machu Picchu.

Yes, most tours offer exciting optional activities including zip-lining through cloud forest canopy, relaxing in natural hot springs at Cocalmayo, and exploring local coffee plantations. These activities typically cost extra but add unique experiences to your adventure. Some operators also offer the option to hike additional Inca ruins or visit local markets in the small towns along the route.

You’ll need a valid passport (the same one used for booking) for Machu Picchu entrance, as guards strictly check identification. Student discounts require valid international student ID cards. Travel insurance is recommended but not mandatory. Make sure your passport has at least 6 months validity remaining and bring copies of important documents stored separately from originals.

Prices typically range from $200-400 USD per person depending on group size, included activities, and accommodation quality. This cost usually covers transportation, guides, basic accommodation, some meals, and Machu Picchu entrance fees. Optional activities, dinners, tips, and personal expenses are additional. Budget travelers often find this route more affordable than the traditional Inca Trail.

Many tour operators offer 4-day versions that include additional activities like visits to Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu, more time for exploration, or extended cultural experiences. Some travelers also combine the Inca Jungle Trail with visits to Rainbow Mountain, Sacred Valley tours, or Amazon jungle excursions for a more comprehensive Peruvian adventure.

Reputable tour operators provide safety equipment including helmets and gloves for mountain biking, first aid kits, and emergency communication devices. Guides are trained in first aid and familiar with evacuation procedures if needed. The route follows established paths with local support, and groups stay in communication with base operations throughout the journey. Travel insurance is strongly recommended for additional peace of mind.