Imagine hiking through mist-covered trails, crossing raging rivers, and challenging dense vegetation, all while following in the footsteps of the brave Incas who once roamed these same paths in search of connections with nature and their deities. This journey isn’t just for the adventurous and intrepids; it’s an odyssey for those seeking to immerse themselves in the very essence of the land we tread upon. It’s an opportunity to leave behind the monotony of daily life and embrace adventure in its purest form.
Join us as we uncover the secrets of this ancient route, delve into the Amazon jungle, and discover the treasures that await at every turn. From the heights of snow-capped peaks to the depths of the tropical jungle, this is the ultimate updated guide for those seeking an unforgettable experience on the Inca Jungle trek to Machu Picchu. Get ready for an adventure that will change your life forever!
What is the Inca Jungle trek to Machu Picchu?
Also known as the adventurous journey to reach Machu Picchu, the Inca Jungle Trek offers an experience full of adventure and pure adrenaline, serving as a great alternative to traditional trekking routes through the Andes mountains. The Inca Jungle trail route traverses a beautiful path through the Cusco’s Amazon, where you’ll engage in extreme sports activities like cycling, hiking, rafting, and zip-lining.
Adventure and trekking are part of the Inca Jungle.
Where does the Inca Jungle route lie?
This interesting trekking route lies northwest of the city of Cusco, about 2 hours away from the city. This trail crosses the jungle area, which goes through various towns such as Santa Maria, Santa Teresa, and Aguas Calientes, ultimately leading to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
What is the altitude of the Inca Jungle?
Strictly talking about the hiking activity, the hike takes place at an average altitude of 1,546 m/5,072 ft ASL. This is one of its most notable features, as it is at lower altitudes than other trekking routes like the Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek, which cross altitudes above 4,000 meters above sea level.
Why Choose the Inca Jungle Trek Over Other Hiking Routes in the Region?
Inca Jungle vs. Inca Trail
Although it’s true that the Inca Trail is the most famous trekking route in South America, with its undeniable offer of landscapes, culture, and historical trails, the Inca Jungle Trek is a fantastic alternative. It’s the ideal option for travelers who love adventure sports while traversing a trail located in the heart of the jungle, surrounded by abundant nature.
Two different worlds with the same destiny.
Inca Jungle vs. Salkantay Trek
These two trekking routes are very different. The Inca Jungle Trek is designed for people looking for adventure activities combined with the warm climate of the Cusco jungle, restaurants, and hotels, providing a relaxing and adrenaline-filled experience. The Salkantay Trek, on the other hand, is ideal for lovers of long hikes through mountains and snowy peaks, crossing high-altitude terrains, cold temperatures, and a small part of the could forest, resulting in a much more challenging and different trek.
Climatic environments are totally different.
Inca Jungle vs. Lares Trek
While both are alternative routes to reach Machu Picchu, in fact, the Lares Trek is a more cultural option compared to the Inca Jungle trail. It crosses various high-Andean villages where you can observe daily agricultural, livestock, and artisanal activities. It becomes a great option if your goals are to connect more with living culture, customs, and traditions.
The choice is entirely yours!
How Long is the Inca Jungle?
To understand how many days the Inca Jungle trail lasts, we must know that there are two versions, which are the most offered by various agencies in Cusco. The Inca Jungle trek 4 days is the most suitable itinerary to enjoy all its attractions, activities, and rest stops. However, for travelers with less time who still want to experience this beautiful jungle trail adventure, there is a shorter and faster version known as the Inca Jungle Trek 3 days and 2 nights.
How long is the hiking on the Inca Jungle?
The hiking on the Inca Jungle are not extremely long or difficult and usually last about 3 to 4 hours per day, with their respective resting stops. If you choose the shorter version of 3 days and 2 nights, you will not hike the first section from Santa Maria to Santa Teresa.
Each step tells a different story.
How is the weather along the Inca Jungle to Machu Picchu?
Due to its unique location where the Andes meet the Amazon, the climate is usually warm and humid throughout the year (26°C), providing travelers a pleasant feeling during the entire trip. However, don’t forget that on the first day, you will arrive at the starting point at Abra Málaga (4,350 m / 14,272 ft ASL), where the temperature ranges 9°C / 48.2°F, so you should warm up your body before starting biking down towards Huamanmarca.
Take advantage of the warm climate of the Inca Jungle and take the best pictures.
How difficult is the Inca Jungle?
To understand how difficult the Inca Jungle is, we need to consider factors such as the altitude where the hike reaches 2,000 m.a.s.l., the gentle slopes of the trail, and the relatively short hiking segments, which result in the Inca Jungle Trek being considered of moderate difficulty. It is the ideal option for travelers accompanied by their families (elderly and children) who have no prior experience and do not want a challenging adventure, as the trail and activities are suitable for everyone to enjoy.
Is the Inca Jungle dangerous?
No, however, like many outdoor activities, this trail has its level of risk because it involves outdoor sports activities in the wild. Therefore, it is essential to keep the following in mind:
- Hire a professional and experienced agency: This ensures you have the best professional team, state-of-the-art equipment, and the highest quality transportation, with extensive experience to offer you the best service.
- Follow the professionals’ instructions (hiking, cycling, rafting, and zip-lining): Before and during the activities, the professionals in charge will provide the proper advice and instructions to guarantee a pleasant experience free of mishaps and danger.
- Inform us in advance about your health status and allergies: This is very important in case of any discomfort before the tour, as it will allow the professionals in charge to act early and efficiently so you can start the tour without worries.
- Avoid separating from your travel group: We know that curiosity and exploration are within every adventurous traveler, but we recommend not exploring areas off the trail because you could fall over which will definitely ruin your experience.
- Tell the professional in charge immediately of any discomfort: If you experience dizziness or any pain during the activities, you can inform the guide leader, who will take the best measures to ensure your safety.
Get a short briefing and lear how to do the zip line activity safely
When is the best time to do the Inca Jungle Trek?
The best time to do the Inca Jungle Trek is during the dry season, which starts in April and ends in October. During these months, you will enjoy stable and dry weather, making hiking and outdoor activities easier and safer.
Price of the Inca Jungle Trek
It varies depending on your season you will travel, the number of travelers, the tour itinerary (4D/3N or 3D/2N), and the type of service contracted (group or private). But generally speaking, this tour is priced lower than the Inca Trail, and some agencies like Waman Adventures and Inkayni Peru Tours manage to keep their prices steady throughout the year, allowing you to book this great adventure at any time of the year without worrying about price increases.
Facts to know before attempting the Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu
How to book the Inca Jungle Trek
As mentioned, a key factor to enjoying the best of the Inca Jungle Trek is choosing a reliable travel agency with the right professionals and, above all, a solid track quality service record. Book quickly and safely with Waman Adventures by following these steps:
- Choose your ideal travel date along with the version of the trek that suits you better.
- Check the availability for the chosen date.
- Provide relevant information (passport, number of travelers, and type of service requested).
- Make the payment through the methods requested by the travel agency.
- Ready? Now you just have to pack, prepare and embark on this adventure.
Do you need training for the Inca Jungle?
Although the Inca Jungle Trek trail is not considered as challenging because the hike takes place at an altitude lower than 3,000 meters above sea level, we highly recommend engaging in sports activities months before this trip to improve your physical endurance, allowing you to enjoy and adapt to the trekking activity better.
A prepared body can face the challenges of the Inca Jungle.
How to get to the Inca Jungle
If you are an adventurer and looking forward to do the Inca Jungle Trek on your own, you should consider that in order to get to the trailhead of the hike is a must to take a car at the Quillabamba Bus Terminal, which will take you on a trip of approximately 3.5 hours up to Santa María, where the hiking activity begins.
Note: It is essential to know that the Inca Jungle Trek is not just a trekking trail; it offers other activities which are handled by professional travel agencies, so we recommend doing this adventure with Inkayni Peru Tours.
What to pack for the Inca Jungle Trek
To make your adventure in the Inca Jungle Trek much better, we consider it very important to know the correct way to distribute your luggage between the backpack you will carry with you all the time and the suitcase you will leave in the transport. Remember to pack all the essential items for your trip, characterized by having a humid but warm climate, with a wide variety of bugs like mosquitoes.
- Clothes: Whether you are doing the 4-day or 3-day Inca Jungle Trek, you will need extra clothes (pants, socks, t-shirts, and underwear).
- Swimwear: Remember that both versions of the Inca Jungle Trek allow you to enjoy the hot springs of Cocalmayo.
- Personal items: It is very important to carry cleaning items and any medication you might need based on your health status.
- Documentation: Do not forget to bring your passport and entrance tickets to the Incan city of Machu Picchu, otherwise, it is impossible to get in.
What to carry in the Inca Jungle Trek
The items you carry in your backpack during the trek should serve to provide extra support during the activity, such as hydration, food, protection, and comfort against climate change. The essential items that cannot be missing in your backpack during the Inca Jungle Trek are:
- Reusable water bottle.
- Trekking poles.
- Cash (soles).
- Waterproof jacket.
- Snacks.
- Sunscreen.
- Personal medication.
How to wear for the Inca Jungle trek to Machu Picchu
Clothing plays an important role during your adventure in the Inca Jungle Trek, as it should provide comfort and freedom of movement suitable for the climatic environment of this humid trail.
- Trekking pants: Any hiking pants should be suitable for this adventure, but if you can get ones with mesh ventilation and ankle adjustments, that would be ideal as they will provide more effective breathability while protecting you from possible bug bites.
- Trekking shirts: Trekking shirts have the characteristics of quick-drying technology and sun protection, and for this trail, it would be ideal if they are long-sleeved (due to mosquitoes and sun).
- A warm jacket: This jacket is required during the first hours of the Inca Jungle trek to Machu Picchu tour, as remember that it starts biking at 4,200 m / 13,779 ft ASL.
- Hiking shoes: Proper shoes are an essential hiking item while hiking along the Ingle Trek tour’s paths. Better to remember that they should have grip technology, breathability, waterproofing, and cushioning.
Choose your clothes right and complete de route safe and sound
Can tourists do the Inca Jungle without a guide?
Yes, it is possible to do the Inca Jungle on your own, as long as we are talking about the trekking activity. However, sports activities such as cycling, rafting, and zip-lining require professional equipment that only travel agencies like Waman Adventures offer. To do them safely, they must be supervised by an experienced professional.
Where is the highest point of the Inca Jungle Trek?
The highest point you will reach along the Inca Jungle Trek tour is located at Abra Málaga, which is 4,316 m.a.s.l. It is a very important place since it is the starting spot for descending down by biking the paved road, the descent by bicycle through incredible views of the mountains and lush forest.
Can I suffer from altitude sickness on the Inca Jungle Trek?
Honestly, it is doubtful to suffer from the symptoms of the famous altitude sickness because, as mentioned, this adventure takes place at an average altitude of 2,000 m.a.s.l., which is quite low considering that Cusco is at 3,400 m.a.s.l. In case of experience any symptoms, stay calm while the group or leader helps you to recover.
Aboid the height of the Andes hiking the Inca Jungle tour
So, How to Avoid Altitude Sickness
The main recommendation is to stay in Cusco for 2 to 3 days, doing activities like city tours, taking other short tours or resting, which will help your body adapt faster and better to the Andes’ altitude. By following these advices, you can minimize completely the possibility of experiencing altitude sickness.
Different resting stops along the hiking trail.
Itinerary of the Classic Inca Jungle Trek 4 days and 3 nights
Day 1: Cusco – Abra Málaga – Santa Maria
You will start with a journey of approximately 2 hours towards Abra Málaga, where you will get ready to start biking down along the road, ending at Santa Maria where you can enjoy a nutritious lunch. In the afternoon, you will go rafting in the waters of the Vilcanota River, and at nightfall, we will head to the reserved hostel to enjoy a delicious dinner and rest comfortably.
Day 2: Santa María – Santa Teresa – Hot Springs of Cocalmayo
After a delicious breakfast, we will start hiking around 7:00 am towards Santa Teresa. During the first stretch, we can observe the rich flora and fauna typical of this area, appreciating the crops up close and, if you wish, tasting tropical fruits while resting. In the afternoon, upon arriving in Santa Teresa, you can relax in your previously reserved hotel before heading to the hot springs of Cocalmayo, where we will have a good time until nightfall and then return to the urban area for dinner and rest.
Day 3: Santa Teresa – Zip Line – Hydroelectric Plant – Aguas Calientes
In the morning, after breakfast, you will be taken to a special spot to do the zip line, then continue with about 2 hours and 30 minutes of trekking along the Urubamba River, observing waterfalls and plantations (coca, coffee, banana, orange, mango, and avocado) until finally reaching the Hydroelectric Plant for a delicious lunch. In the afternoon, we will continue walking along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes, where you can dine and rest.
Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
After a good breakfast at the hotel, you will start the ascent to the Machu Picchu Archaeological Complex, which will take about 30 minutes by bus or approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes on foot. At the entrance, you will meet your guide before taking the guided tour that will last 2 to 3 hours, discovering the most important places of this famous Wonder of the World.
After the tour, you will return to Aguas Calientes for lunch and then board the train to Ollantaytambo. Depending on your booked tour, private transportation will take you to your hotel in Cusco from Ollantaytambo, marking the end of the tour.
Take a picture of yours in Aguas Calientes or Machu Picchu town.
Where to sleep along the Inca Jungle Trek
Unlike other trekking routes like the Inca Trail, Lares Trek, Salkantay Trek, etc., which provide a camping experience in tents, the Inca Jungle Trek offers a more traditional experience with nights in homestays or two-star hotels, providing more comfortable nights during your adventure.
During your Inca Jungle Trek tour, you will spend one night in the following places (according to your itinerary):
- In Santa Maria: A hostel or lodge. (Inca Jungle 4D/3N).
- In Santa Teresa: A basic hotel. (Inca Jungle 4D/3N & Inca Jungle 3D/2N).
- In Aguas Calientes: A 3-star hotel. (Inca Jungle 4D/3N & Inca Jungle 3D/2N).
Enjoy the delicious cuisine of the area.
Attractions and Points of Interest of the Inca Jungle Trek
Abra Málaga
The highest spot that splits the Andes with the Amazon area in Cusco. This place is a kind of natural barrier. It is ideal for travelers who want to observe high-Andean birds and is the starting point for the bike descent in the Inca Jungle tour.
The first activity of adventure alogn the Inca Jungle joruney
Crop fields
It’s common to find fruits and local products that are edible along the route, so that you can eat. All these goods are growing along the journey, but specially between Santa Maria and Santa Teresa, and they are harvested by the local farmers dwelling in the area.
Come across with the biodiversity along the route.
Machu Picchu
The Citadel of Machu Picchu is the highlight of this tour. Reach and explore it on the last day of the journey.
Biking
The first sports activity stands out for starting high in the Andes and gradually descending into the Cusco jungle, allowing you to enjoy beautiful and unique landscapes while the wind caresses your face.
Recommendation: The first thing is to hire an experienced legal agency because only they have the proper equipment such as bikes, helmets, vests, knee pads, and professional support. Remember that you must have all the gear to ensure your maximum protection, and if for any reason the agency you hired does not provide this equipment, we suggest missing the activity.
Rafting
The second activity is ideal for extreme sports lovers, where you will navigate a large part of the famous Vilcanota River and its class 2 and 3 waters, which allow you to do this activity even if you are not an expert.
Recommendation: Before the activity, the professional in charge will give you the necessary recommendations and the professional equipment (helmet, life jacket and paddles). Be sure to follow the instructions correctly to enjoy a pleasant and safe experience.
Zip-lining
The last sports activity will take you through the dense vegetation, where you can take panoramic photos while crossing between two mountain slopes.
Recommendation: Before starting rafting, a professional leader will give you a little talk about what to do and not to do once on the rafts. We highly recommend paying attention to them and wearing all the equipment they will give you.
Slide to the other slope of the mountain with the zip – line activity
Hot Springs
Do not miss the opportunity to relax and soak in the natural and medicinal waters of Cocalmayo, which has two big pools, each with different temperatures if you want it.
Relax and enjoy the thermal bath of Cocalmayo
Practical Tips and Safety
Do I need special insurance to do the 4-day Inca Jungle Tour?
While travel insurance is optional in Peru, we highly recommend having one especially for this trip. Whether you are doing the Inca Jungle Trek or another adventure activity, travel insurance gives immediate support in case of an emergency during the journey, and the cost will be covered by your travel insurance.
Here are some recommended travel insurance websites:
Conclusions and Final Thought
Is the Inca Jungle Trek worth it?
Undoubtedly, the Inca Jungle trail is an experience you definitely should not miss. It is a relatively challenging and adrenaline-filled trail, making it the most adventurous trek throughout all of Cusco. No hesitation and dare to explore this path full of nature and unique moments as you head to the impressive Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
We have immersed ourselves in the grandeur of nature, challenged our limits, and connected with a history that transcends time. With every single kilometer, we felt the presence of the ancient Incas and witnessed the untamed beauty of the Amazon jungle.
But this adventure does not end here. We leave with the certainty that each step we take in nature brings us closer to understanding our place in the world and reminds us of the importance of preserving and protecting these sacred places for future generations.
So, we invite you to join this adventure. Whether you are planning your own trip to the Inca Jungle Trek or exploring new adventure possibilities in your corner of the world, we encourage you to take the first step. Embrace nature, challenge your limits, and let the adventure take you to places you never imagined.
The happiness after or before attempting the adventure activities.
Common Questions about the Inca Jungle Trek
Are the departure dates for the Inca Jungle Trek guaranteed? / Is there a minimum group size reservation requirement?
Once the travel agency confirms the departure date, there should be no internal issues to modify or cancel your trip. However, external events like natural disasters, strikes, social or political situations that can endanger your safety may affect your travel dates.
Regarding the minimum number of travelers required, most agencies work with a minimum of 2 travelers to cover the cost of services. If you are a solo traveler, you may have to cover the cost for 2 people. Always check the costs and prices with your travel agent.
What backpack is necessary for the Inca Jungle?
For the Inca Jungle trek, we recommend a trekking backpack with a capacity between 30 to 40 liters, which should have enough space for the necessary clothing and accessories for the 4-day tour (classic).
Where can I store my unnecessary luggage for the Inca Jungle Tour?
If you have extra luggage that you don’t need to take on the Inca Jungle Tour to Machu Picchu, you can store it at your hotel in Cusco (almost all hotels offer this service for free). If your hotel does not offer this service, we recommend checking with your travel agency, as they usually keep it without any extra cost.
Is advanced biking experience necessary?
No, as the biking route of the Inca Jungle Tour lasts 3 hours and goes downwards the paved way, only basic to intermediate cycling experience is required. You have to be carefull and fall off the road.
Are meal options available for vegetarians, vegans, and other special dietary restrictions?
Today, almost all travel agencies offer food for everyone. Most main meals are buffet-style, allowing you to avoid anything undesirable.
If you have severe allergies to certain ingredients, we suggest informing your sales agent in advance so the agency can take appropriate measures to provide a good culinary experience.
How many days should I stay in Cusco before doing the Inca Jungle?
For the Inca Jungle or any hike, it is recommended that all clients arrive in Cusco at least 48 hours before the hike. This helps you acclimate to the altitude and reduce symptoms before starting the adventure.
Note: Along these days, you can also arrange a prior briefing with your guide, who will provide relevant information and answer any questions you have about the Inca Jungle trek to Machu Picchu.
Are there toilets along the Inca Jungle Trek route?
Currently, the Inca Jungle route has some limitations regarding restrooms and other types of services which are useful for tourism. However, this should not worry you as you will have a chance to charge your batteries every night at any hotels or restaurants. Also, in many spots along the journey you can find basic restroom services, which cost 2 to 3 soles.
Is there electricity during the Inca Jungle Trek?
Yes, this is one of the advantages of the Inca Jungle Trail. All establishments have electricity and outlets to charge your cameras or cell phones. Nonetheless, we recommend bringing a power bank.
Is there internet during the 4-day Inca Jungle Tour?
Regarding phone reception and internet data, in several areas along the journey of the Inca Jungle Trek, you can get a good or soemtimes low phone reception only if you have purchased a Peruvian SIM card. Additionally, you can access Wi-Fi in the accommodations of Santa María, Santa Teresa, and Aguas Calientes.
What is the best time to do the Inca Jungle Trek Peru?
The best time to do the Inca Jungle Tour to Machu Picchu, considering the weather, the number of travelers, and a calm and firm trail, is during the dry season (April – October).
Where does the Inca Jungle Trek start and end?
If you are attempting the Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu as a tour, remember that the service of most agencies starts by picking you up from Cusco and dropping you off at your hotel or downtown area. As for the activities, they begin riding a bike down to Huamanmarca and end up visiting the Machu Picchu Archaeological Complex.
If you liked this article and the information you found, give us 5 stars!
(Ninguna valoración todavía)
Loading...