Inca Jungle Trail to Machu Picchu Return by Bus 4 Days

OVERVIEW

The Inca Jungle Trail to Machu Picchu is a thrilling 4-day adventure that takes you on an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Inca Jungle. Combining exhilarating activities such as biking, rafting, zip-lining, and hiking, this tour allows you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and rich history of the region. From ancient Inca ruins to lush plantations, this adventure offers a unique blend of cultural treasures and breathtaking landscapes. With a focus on safety and customer satisfaction, our knowledgeable guides provide exceptional service throughout the journey. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a history enthusiast, the Inca Jungle Trail is an experience that will create lasting memories.

ITINERARY

DAY 1: Cusco to Santa Maria Adventure - 65km Biking Extravaganza & 1.5 Hours of Thrilling River Rafting
Pick up in Cusco
Hotel pick-up around 6 am Drive through the scenic Sacred Valley of the Incas, passing by Vilcabamba and Vilcanota mountain ranges, and the town of Chinchero. Stop and explore the ancient Inca town of Ollantaytambo.
Biking
Continue the journey to Abra Malaga Pass (4350m / 14,271ft) and receive a biking tutorial. Begin a thrilling 60km downhill bike ride, enjoying stunning views of the Veronica peak.
Lunch
Stop at the fascinating Inca site of Huamanmarca for lunch and exploration of the ruins. Engage in a 1.5-hour white river rafting adventure in Santa Maria.
Bus Santa Maria
Get back in the car and drive to Santa Maria, appreciating the stunning landscapes along the way.
Check-in Santa Maria
Arrive in Santa Maria, check into your accommodations, take a shower, and relax.
Breakfast
Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local restaurant around 6:00 AM.
Hiking
Begin the remarkable hiking day with a 45-minute hike along the car route. Enter the original Inca trail, historically connecting Machu Picchu with Vilcabamba, the last Inca capital.
Lunch
Stop at the charming village of Quellomayo for lunch at a local restaurant. Take the opportunity to relax, recharge, and explore the surroundings.
Hiking
Continue the 3.5-hour trek along the Vilcanota River.
Cocalmayo
Arrive at the rejuvenating Colcamayo hot springs.
Check-in Santa Teresa
45-minute hike from the hot springs to reach Santa Teresa Spend the night at a cozy hostel in Santa Teresa and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant
Breakfast
Rise and shine at 6:30 am and fuel up with breakfast.
Zipline Adventure
Around 8:00 am, the zipline company will pick you up and transport you to the zipline base. Participate in a brief orientation before embarking on a thrilling 2-hour adventure across four different ziplines and a suspension bridge.
Lunch
Enjoy a 1-hour car ride to Hidroelectrica and have a well-deserved lunch.
Hiking
Embark on a scenic 3-hour hike along the train tracks from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes town.
Check-in Aguas Calientes
Check-in and Recharge: Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, check into your hotel and take the time to recharge and relax.
Arriving at Machu Picchu's Main Gate from Aguas Calientes
Choose between a 1.5-hour hike or a bus ride ($12). Depart from Aguas Calientes at 4 am after breakfast.
Machu Picchu Guided Tour
Explore with a pre-arranged ticket (circuit 01 or 02). Experienced guide leads a 2.5-hour tour, visiting iconic locations.
Time at Leisure, Optional Hikes
Enjoy free time to explore and relax. Optional hike: Huayna Picchu (2-hour round-trip, pre-booking required, $30) or Machu Picchu Mountain (3-hour round-trip, $30).

INCLUSIONS

  • Briefing and Assistance

    Receive all the necessary details before the start of the tour to travel safely and confidently.

  • Experienced tour guide

    Accompaniment of a professional guide who will enrich your adventure with cultural information and continuous orientation.

  • First Aid Kit

    We have a first aid kit for basic care in case of minor emergencies.

  • Customer service 24/7

    Support available at all times to answer questions or help you with any unforeseen event.

  • Tourist transportation

    Comfortable and safe transfers throughout the itinerary in authorized units for tourism.

  • Pick up service

    Includes pick up from your accommodation or agreed point to start the tour on time.

  • Meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners and 3 snacks (with vegetarian option)

    All main meals are included, with vegetarian options available for those who require it.

  • Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu

    Official access to the Inca citadel without the need for a separate ticket.

  • Mountain biking equipment (bike, helmet and gloves)

    Includes complete and safe equipment to make the most of the biking experience.

  • Full-face helmet

    More protection during mountain biking with a closed helmet of high security.

  • Integral gloves

    Special gloves for greater comfort and control during cycling activities.

  • Knee pads

    Extra protection for your knees during demanding or downhill rides.

  • Waterproof jackets

    Rain jacket included to keep you dry and comfortable in case of bad weather.

  • One night tourist class hotel in Aguas Calientes

    Comfortable and well located accommodation to rest before or after visiting Machu Picchu.

  • RETURN BY BUS

    Return by bus from Hidroeléctrica to Cusco (6 hours approximately), arrival point near your hotel The return is by tourist transport from Hidroeléctrica to Cusco, with arrival at a central point near your lodging.

  • Buses up / down (Consettur)

    The official transportation between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu is not included. It can be purchased directly in Aguas Calientes.

  • Tips

    Tips for guides, drivers or other team members are not included. It is at the discretion of the passenger.

  • Additional expenses

    Any expenses not specified in the itinerary, such as snacks, souvenirs or extra services, will be paid by the passenger.

  • Entrance ticket to the hot springs in Aguas Calientes

    Entrance to the hot springs is optional and is not included in the package.

  • Air tickets

    Domestic or international flights are not included. We recommend purchasing them in advance.

  • Personal expenses

    Shopping, phone calls, laundry or other personal services are not part of the service.

  • Entrance ticket to Huayna Picchu (USD 25.00)

    Access to Huayna Picchu mountain has an additional cost and is subject to availability.

  • Downhill bus Machu Picchu - Aguas Calientes

    The return bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes is not included. It can be done on foot or purchased separately.

  • TRAIN RETURN:

    Return by train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (2 hours approximately) and pick up at the train station and transfer to Cusco, arrival point near your hotel This service is not included in the standard package. It is available as an additional option upon request.

PRICES

Adult

$ 250 Book with $100
  • The lowest price guaranteed
  • Real local operator (cusco)
  • English, Spanish
30% off

Student

$ 235 Book with $100
  • The lowest price guaranteed
  • Real local operator (cusco)
  • English, Spanish
30% off
ASK FOR PRIVATE SERVICE

Book Online

Related Trekking

HOW TO BOOK

Choose Your Package

Select the package that best suits your travel plans.

Fill Out the Online Booking Form

Click on the “Book Online” button, choose your travel date, and complete the booking form.

Important: Only one person should fill out the form for the entire group to ensure you're all booked together.

Make Your Payment

Secure your booking by paying online with any debit or credit card.

Our system will charge 40% of the total amount in advance.

Send Passenger Information

After your payment is completed, our reservations team will contact you via email to request the following information for each passenger (please include a photo or scanned image of the passport): Full name, Passport number, Nationality, Date of birth, Gender, Phone number

Full Payment Method
You can pay the full tour amount upfront to avoid any future payment concerns. Ask for the total payment link.
Balance Payment
The remaining BALANCE is due 48 hours before the tour begins. You can pay in CASH (soles or dollars) or CREDIT CARD (+ 4 %) at the office in Cusco or in your hotel/hostal/apartament.
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment. Obtain insurance before departing and consider working with a reputable agency for affordable coverage.
Additional Enhacements
Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain: 30 USD (subject to availability). → Check availability
Sleeping Bag Rental: 15 USD or the entire trek
Trekking Poles Rental: 10 USD one pair for the entire trek
Extra night: 20 USD per person based 2 people 40 USD single accommodation

STUDENT DISCOUNT

If your student card meets Peruvian government requirements, reserve the tour with a deposit and pay the remaining balance upon arrival in Cusco. The student discount will be applied at that time.

All university cards must be laminated and clearly show the following information:

INCA JUNGLE PACKING LIST

The essencial packing list for trek

INCA JUNGLE WEATHER

The essencial guide to the climate

WHAT TO PACK FOR A INCA JUNGLE TRAIL - COMPLETE GUIDE

Get your backpack ready with the following recommendations!

General Essentials for Multi-Day Treks in Peru

These are must-haves for any multi-day hike in the Andes, especially if you're joining a guided Salkantay tour:

  • Valid Passport or ID – Needed for checkpoints and Machu Picchu entry.

  • Cash in soles – Small bills for tips, snacks, or hot springs.

  • Camera or phone – Capture epic landscapes and memories.

  • Power bank – Electricity is limited; keep your devices charged.

  • Travel insurance – Strongly recommended for trekking in remote areas.

  • Altitude pills or coca leaves – To help with high elevation.

  • Plastic bags or dry bags – Keep clothes and electronics dry during rain.

Clothing & Footwear for the Inca Jungle Trek

Weather changes drastically from sun to snow. Dress in layers and stay dry:

  • Hiking boots or trail shoes – Waterproof, durable, and already broken in.

  • Hiking socks – Wool or synthetic (not cotton); bring several pairs.

  • Long pants – Lightweight, quick-drying hiking pants or leggings.

  • Moisture-wicking shirts or T-shirts – Stay cool and dry while hiking.

  • Fleece jacket or thermal layer – For cold nights and high elevations.

  • Waterproof jacket or rain poncho – Essential year-round.

  • Swimwear – For hot springs in Santa Teresa.

  • Sandals or flip flops – Ideal for relaxing at camp or letting feet breathe.

Accessories & Protection
  • Sunglasses – Strong UV rays at altitude.

  • Sun hat or cap – Shield your face from sunburn.

  • Buff or neck gaiter – Great for sun, wind, or dust.

Gear for Hiking & Campsites
  • Headlamp or flashlight – With extra batteries, useful at camp or early morning hikes.

  • Trekking poles (optional) – Helpful for balance and knee support, especially downhill.

  • Water bottle or hydration bladder – At least 1.5–2 liters capacity.

  • Daypack – Comfortable, lightweight pack for your daily essentials.

Toiletries & Personal Items
  • Personal medication – Especially for altitude, allergies, or chronic conditions.

  • Toiletries – Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, small towel.

  • Wet wipes or hand sanitizer – Useful when water access is limited.

  • Toilet paper – Always good to carry your own.

Pro Packing Tips
  • Pack light but smart—you may have a duffel bag carried by mules, but you’ll still carry your daypack.

  • Use ziplock or dry bags to organize and waterproof your gear.

  • Don’t forget snacks for the trail—nuts, energy bars, and chocolate are great.

  • Nights can be cold, don’t underestimate the need for warm layers.

INCA JUNGLE TRAIL – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

We help you solve any doubts you may have!

The Inca Jungle Trail is an exhilarating multi-adventure trek to Machu Picchu, combining mountain biking, hiking, rafting, and zip-lining through the Peruvian jungle.

There are two main options:

  • 4-day/3-night adventure: The classic and most popular route.

  • 3-day/2-night version: A condensed option with fewer activities.

The 4-day trek includes all activities: biking, rafting, zip-lining, and hiking, with more time to explore. The 3-day trek is shorter and may omit some activities, offering a faster-paced journey.

Yes, it’s of moderate difficulty. No prior experience is needed, but a reasonable fitness level is recommended.

The dry season (April to October) offers the best conditions, with sunny days and clear trails.

Absolutely! All tours culminate with a visit to the Machu Picchu citadel, including entrance tickets and a guided tour.

Essential items include:

  • Comfortable hiking shoes

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Rain jacket

  • Swimwear

  • Insect repellent

  • Sunscreen

  • Small backpack

Yes, activities like rafting and zip-lining are optional. You can choose to participate based on your comfort level.

Yes, when conducted with licensed guides and proper equipment, it’s a safe and enjoyable adventure.

The journey starts in Cusco and ends at Machu Picchu, with various stops along the way, including Santa Maria and Santa Teresa.

Yes, most tour operators offer free luggage storage in Cusco for the duration of the trek.

It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and ensure availability.

Travel Information Before Booking Inca Jungle Trail to Machu Picchu

Real Reviews (Happy Tourist)

It’s easy to fabricate written reviews or create fake ones on platforms like TripAdvisor, but we believe the best proof comes from video testimonials. Videos capture real experiences, showing genuine reactions from our travelers. That’s why we encourage you to check out our video reviews to see firsthand the authentic experiences our customers have had with us. Trust real stories from real people, not just words on a screen. You can also visit our social media channels to watch all our video testimonials and get an even better sense of the quality of our service.

Video reviews

More testimonials, visit our social media channels.

Coffee Snack Abra Malaga

A magical break at Abra Malaga

Discover the Experience of Quillabamba Coffee at Café Snack Abra Málaga, an unforgettable 15-minute stop on the Cusco – Hidroelectrica route. Enjoy organic jungle coffee, handcrafted chocolate, and a unique view of the Andes. Part of the exclusive Machu Picchu by Car VIP experience and without a doubt, a 100% Instagram-worthy spot