Inca Jungle Trail to Machu Picchu Return by Train 4D–3N

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

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.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
  • Biking Distance: 65 km, approximately 3 to 4 hours of downhill biking.
  • River Rafting Adventure: 1 to 1.5 hours of exhilarating fun.
  • Difficulty: Moderate day full of adventure.
  • Weather: Warm and windy during the day, with very warm nights.
  • Accommodations: Overnight stay in a hotel in Santa Maria.
  • Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Santa Maria to Santa Teresa: Scenic 22km Hiking Journey through Quellomayo
  • 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

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
  • Hiking distance: 22 km, approximately 7 to 8 hours of hiking
  • Difficulty: Moderate day (full day hike)
  • Weather: Warm and Tropical, with very warm nights
  • Accommodations: Hotel nigh in Santa Teresa
  • Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Santa Teresa to Aguas Calientes: Exhilarating 2-Hour Zip-lining & Scenic 10km Hiking Adventure
  • 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.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
  • Zipline Adventure: Experience 4 Unique Ziplines and 1 Thrilling Suspension Bridge
  • Hiking distance: 11 km takes 3 to 3.5 hours
  • Difficulty: Moderate day (full of Adventure)
  • Weather: Warm and Tropical very warm nights
  • Accommodations: Hotel nigh in Aguas Calientes
  • Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Machu Picchu - Cusco
  • 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.

  • Leisure Time and 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).

RETURN BY TRAIN

If you return by train, it can be on the Tren at 14:30 p.m., 19:00 p.m. or 21:50 p.m. that will depend on the availability of the trains
(PeruRail or IncaRail) the time is 2 hours by train to Ollantaytambo Train Station and 2 hours by car to reach Cusco.

Important: We recommend booking in advance to get the best times to return to Cusco by train.

INCLUSIONS

INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED

PRICES

Adult

$ 280 Book with $120
  • The lowest price guaranteed
  • Real local operator (cusco)
  • English, Spanish
30% off

Student

$ 260 Book with $120
  • The lowest price guaranteed
  • Real local operator (cusco)
  • English, Spanish
30% off
ASK FOR PRIVATE SERVICE

HOW TO BOOK

FOLLOW THESE SIMPLE STEPS:

  1. First select the best package for you.
  2. Fill in “Book Online” FORM, select the date, and complete the booking information. Have one person fill it out for the entire group to ensure you’re booked together.
  3. Make a payment online using any debit or credit card, Our system will charge you 40% in advance of the total number of passengers.
  4. When you complete your payment, you will receive an email from our reservations staff, who will ask you for the following information for each passengers (by email and photo).
  • Name and surname
  • Passport Nro
  • Nationality
  • Date of birth
  • Sex
  • Phone
 

Optional: You can pay the full tour amount upfront to avoid any future payment concerns. Ask for the total payment link.


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 Enhancements:
Huayna Picchu Mountain: $30 USD (subject to availability). Check availability at https://www.machupicchu.gob.pe/inicio
Machu Picchu Mountain: $30 USD (subject to availability). Check availability at https://www.machupicchu.gob.pe/inicio
Sleeping Bag Rental: (for the entire trek): $15 USD
Trekking Poles Rental: (one pair for the entire trek): $10 USD
Upgrade Train: Vistadome – Panoramic Train (if you choose the train return option): $35 USD.
Extra night: $20 USD (per person «based 2 people») $40 USD (Single accommodation)


Important: Book the normal tour with a deposit and pay the remaining balance and any additional upgrades you choose upon arrival in Cusco.

STUDENT DISCOUNT

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:

  1. The name of the university or institute
  2. The student’s first and last names
  3. The current date of the university card
  4. You have to be under 25 years old
 
student-discount-card

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