The Inca Jungle trail 3 days is one of the most exciting routes to Machu Picchu, perfect for those seeking adventure, nature, and culture all in one. This trip includes biking, hiking, and activities along the Inca Trail to reach the Inca fortress.
Duration
3 Days
Difficulty
Easy, Easy
15,090 feet (4,600 meters)
1B, 1L, 1D
by Bus
All year
The Inca Jungle Trail 3 days is an incredible alternative tour that combines adventure sports such as biking, rafting, zipline, and trekking. It also includes sections of recently discovered Inca paths with archaeological remains, offering a mix of culture and adrenaline in one journey.
The route crosses the Malaga Pass at 4350 meters and then descends into the cloud forest, creating a dramatic transition from high mountain landscapes to tropical environments. The adventure begins near Cusco and continues toward Santa Teresa, before finishing in Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.
Although less crowded than more traditional routes, many travelers find this experience equally rewarding due to its diversity and connection with local communities. Sometimes referred to as Selva Inka, it is ideal for those seeking a more adventurous and less conventional way to reach Machu Picchu.
This journey is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, combining multiple activities with the goal of reaching one of the most iconic destinations in the world. With experienced guides who know the route in detail, the experience is designed to be safe, dynamic, and memorable from start to finish.
Name: Inca Jungle Trail 3 Days
Start point: Cusco
Highest altitude: Abra Malaga at 4350 meters
End point: Machu Picchu
Duration: 3 days and 2 nights
Distance: Approximately 80 to 90 km combining biking and trekking sections
Difficulty: Moderate
Includes a long downhill bike ride on day 1 and several hours of trekking on days 2 and 3. Suitable for travelers with a basic to good fitness level.
Main activities: Downhill biking, trekking through cloud forest and jungle, optional rafting, optional zipline, guided visit to Machu Picchu
Accommodation: Local lodges and hotels in Santa Maria, Santa Teresa area, and Aguas Calientes
Recommendation: Recommended for travelers seeking adventure and variety rather than a purely historical route. Good physical condition is advised due to altitude on the first day and long activity hours.
Epic downhill bike ride from the Andes to the jungle
Start the adventure at Abra Malaga at 4350 meters and descend by bike through one of the most dramatic elevation drops in Peru. The ride covers around 55 km, passing snow-capped peaks, rivers, and tropical valleys as you enter the edge of the Amazon ecosystem.
Transition from high mountains to tropical jungle
In just one day, the landscape changes completely from cold Andean terrain to warm, humid jungle. This rapid shift in ecosystems makes the route one of the most diverse trekking experiences in the region.
Optional rafting in Santa Maria
In Santa Maria, travelers can experience rafting on the Vilcanota River, with Class III and IV rapids depending on the season. This optional activity adds an extra layer of adventure to the journey.
Jungle trekking and cultural paths
The route continues through cloud forest trails, small rural communities, and sections of original Inca paths. Along the way, you experience local agriculture, rivers, and lush vegetation typical of the lower jungle region.
Llactapata viewpoint of Machu Picchu
One of the most special moments is reaching Llactapata, where you get a distant and unique view of Machu Picchu from the southeast, a perspective that few travelers experience.
We will leave the Imperial City of Cusco and head towards the Sacred Valley of the Incas. It is here where we will have the opportunity to have breakfast if you did not have it in Cusco. We will continue towards Abra Málaga (4,350 meters) (14,160 feet), the starting point of our bicycle tour. After a brief explanation to help you orient yourself, your guide will provide you with the equipment necessary for the activity.
We will begin our 3-hour bicycle descent of 55 kilometers (34.18 miles) until we reach the town of Huamanmarca . During the trip we will experience the beauty of the snow-capped mountains and the tropical forest. It is here in the tropical forest where our adventure in the Peruvian Amazon begins. We will cross small streams and
We will enjoy the change from a cold climate to a tropical one. During the journey we will stop several times to check bicycles and equipment.
We will arrive at the town of Santa María (1,200 meters above sea level) (3937.01 feet), where we will have lunch and spend our first night in a hotel. In the afternoon we have the option of rafting on the Vilcanota River.
This river offers category III and V+ rapids.for this activity we will provide you with helmets, windbreakers and category V life jackets. This activity is available between the months of April to December, and you must know how to swim to participate in accordance with Peruvian law.
That is our first day of the Inca Trail through the jungle to Machu Picchu.
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