4-Day Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu

 Embrace the Adventure – From Mountain Peaks to River Rapids

Morning Pickup and Scenic Drive

Your epic journey begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel at 7:00 am. Relax and enjoy a picturesque one-hour drive to Cruzpata, where your adventure truly takes off.

Mountain Biking Through the Heart of the Andes

Mount your bike and set off on an exhilarating ride through rolling potato and wheat fields, all set against the backdrop of the majestic Andes Mountains. Feel the crisp mountain air as you pedal towards the traditional village of Maras. Here, you'll explore the fascinating Salineras, ancient salt mines that cascade down the mountainside—a photographer's dream!

Descent into the Sacred Valley

Continue your journey descending into the enchanting Sacred Valley, where every turn offers a new breathtaking vista. This 3.5 to 4-hour biking adventure blends thrill and natural beauty, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Arrival in Santa Maria and Riverside Lunch

After your biking escapade, unwind during a scenic 2-hour drive to the quaint village of Santa Maria. Indulge in a well-deserved, hearty lunch featuring local delicacies that will energize you for the afternoon's excitement.

Adrenaline-Pumping Rafting on the Urubamba River

Post-lunch, gear up for a thrilling 1.5-hour white-water rafting adventure on the legendary Urubamba River. Following a comprehensive safety briefing from our expert professional guides—seasoned navigators of these waters—you'll conquer exhilarating class III to IV rapids. Feel the rush of the river and the spray of the rapids as you navigate through stunning canyons and lush rainforest scenery.

Evening Hike to Your Rustic Retreat

As the sun begins to set, enjoy a tranquil 30-minute hike to your evening's accommodation. This gentle walk offers the perfect opportunity to soak in the serene surroundings and reflect on the day's adventures.

Dinner and Overnight in a Rustic Lodge

Arrive at your cozy rustic lodge, where a delicious dinner awaits, showcasing authentic flavors of the region. Share stories with fellow travelers or simply relax under the starlit sky before settling into your comfortable accommodations.

Quick Facts:

• Biking Time: 3.5 to 4 hours
• Rafting Time: 1.5 hours
• Meals Included: Lunch and Dinner
• Accommodation: Rustic Lodge in Santa Maria

Awaken to the Symphony of the Jungle

Rise to the melodic sounds of tropical birds serenading you as the Peruvian jungle comes alive with the dawn. Enjoy a hearty breakfast featuring freshly brewed, homemade coffee—straight from the local plantations you'll explore today.

Discover Local Plantations and Traditions

Begin your day with an immersive exploration of lush coffee, coca leaf, banana, and pineapple plantations. Engage with local farmers, learn about their traditional cultivation methods, and perhaps even sample some of the freshest produce you've ever tasted.

Hike the Hidden Inca Trail

Embark on a captivating hike along a stunning, lesser-known original Inca Trail that once connected Machu Picchu with Vilcabamba, the last Inca capital. This is a path less traveled, offering you an exclusive glimpse into the ancient world. As you trek, you'll pass through verdant plantations of avocado, manioc, oranges, mangoes, cacao, and coca shrubs, each contributing to the rich tapestry of the jungle landscape.

Lunch in Quellomayu: A Culinary Oasis

After approximately four hours of hiking, arrive at the quaint village of Quellomayu. Rest and refuel at a local restaurant where you'll indulge in authentic Peruvian dishes that capture the essence of the region's flavors.

Scenic Trek Along the Urubamba River

With renewed energy, continue your journey hiking upstream along the picturesque Urubamba River. This four-hour trek offers breathtaking views and the soothing sounds of flowing water, enveloping you in the serenity of nature.

Rejuvenate in the Hot Springs of Cocalmayu

Reward your day's efforts with a blissful soak in the hot springs of Cocalmayu. These volcanic waters are believed to have medicinal properties—soothing muscles, alleviating stress, and refreshing the spirit. Let the warm, healing waters wash over you as you relax amidst the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Evening Retreat to Santa Teresa

After your rejuvenating dip, a comfortable bus ride brings you to the charming town of Santa Teresa. Settle into your cozy hotel, equipped with hot showers and Wi-Fi, providing the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort.

Dinner and Overnight Stay

Conclude your adventurous day with a delightful dinner, savoring local cuisine that reflects the rich cultural heritage of Peru. Share stories with fellow travelers and relish the sense of accomplishment before retiring for a restful night's sleep.

Quick Facts:

• Distance Covered: 15 km / 9.3 miles
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel in Santa Teresa with Hot Showers and Wi-Fi

Morning Departure to Lucmabamba

After a nourishing breakfast in Santa Teresa, prepare yourself for what many consider the most breathtaking day of your TreXperience! We'll set off on a scenic 1-hour drive to Lucmabamba (2,000m/6,600ft), the gateway to a hidden gem of the Inca civilization.

Hike the Rediscovered Inca Trail

Begin your ascent on an original Inca Trail built in the 15th century—a path lost to time along with Machu Picchu and only recently rediscovered. This is a rare opportunity to tread where few have walked in centuries. The 3-hour hike up to Llactapata is a journey through lush cloud forests and ancient pathways, each step bringing you closer to the past.

Explore Llactapata: A Hidden Inca Treasure

Arrive at the mysterious ruins of Llactapata, an impressive Inca site perched directly across from Machu Picchu. Here, you'll catch your first awe-inspiring glimpse of the legendary citadel, framed by the towering peaks of the Andes. Take your time to explore the ruins, soak in the panoramic views, and capture photos that will be the envy of all your friends.

Descend to Hydroelectric Station

After immersing yourself in history, begin a relatively easy 2-hour downhill trek to the hydroelectric station. The trail offers stunning vistas and the chance to spot exotic wildlife. Upon arrival, reward yourself with a well-deserved lunch, savoring local flavors that fuel you for the final stretch.

Final Trek to Aguas Calientes via Mandor Gardens

Post-lunch, embark on the last leg of today's journey as you hike along the train tracks leading to Aguas Calientes. This historic route is rich with stories and natural beauty. You'll pass through the enchanting Mandor Gardens, a place that captivated Hiram Bingham III during his 1911 expedition. The lush gardens are a sanctuary of diverse flora and fauna, including vibrant orchids and playful hummingbirds.

Arrival in Aguas Calientes

Reach the charming town of Aguas Calientes around 5:00 pm. Your guide will escort you to your comfortable hotel, where you can rest and rejuvenate. In the evening, gather for a delightful dinner with your trekking companions. Reflect on the incredible journey so far and discuss the exciting plans for visiting Machu Picchu the next day. Enjoy a restful night's sleep, with the anticipation of exploring the iconic ruins at dawn.

Quick Facts:

• Distance Covered: 14 km / 8.6 miles
• Total Duration: Approximately 9 hours
• Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel in Aguas Calientes

Early Morning Ascent to the Lost City

Today is the pinnacle of your TreXperience! Wake up before dawn, filled with excitement for the day ahead. After a nourishing breakfast at your hotel, you'll catch one of the first buses to Machu Picchu, ensuring you arrive just as the sky begins to brighten. Witnessing the sunrise over the ancient citadel is a moment that will leave you speechless—a true once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Explore the Mysteries of Machu Picchu

Upon arrival, embark on a comprehensive guided tour of Machu Picchu. Your expert guide will lead you through the labyrinth of stone pathways, unveiling the secrets of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the most significant sites, including the Temple of the Sun, Royal Tomb, Sacred Plaza, and the enigmatic Intihuatana Stone. Learn about the ingenious engineering and astronomical precision that the Incas infused into this sacred city.

Optional Treks for the Adventurous

After your guided exploration, enjoy free time to wander at your own pace. For the adventure enthusiasts, seize the opportunity to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (please note that these require separate tickets not included in the standard entry). These hikes offer a challenging ascent but reward you with breathtaking panoramic views of the citadel and the surrounding Andean peaks.

Return to Aguas Calientes and Scenic Journey Back to Cusco

Once you've soaked in Machu Picchu's majestic beauty, descend via bus back to Aguas Calientes. Here, you can indulge in a delightful lunch at one of the local eateries (lunch not included), perhaps trying the famous Peruvian dish ceviche or a refreshing Pisco Sour.

In the afternoon, board the Vistadome train back to Ollantaytambo. This isn't just any train ride—enjoy great views through the panoramic windows as you glide through the Sacred Valley, with live traditional music and dance performances on board.

Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, our private transportation will be waiting to take you back to Cusco. Relax in comfort as you reflect on your incredible journey, with drop-off at your hotel around 7:30 pm.

Quick Facts:

• Tour Duration at Machu Picchu: Approximately 3 hours (guided tour)
• Meals Included: Breakfast at your hotel
• Difficulty Level: Easy (Optional hikes are moderate to challenging)
• Optional Activities: Climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for unparalleled views (additional tickets required)
• Return Time to Cusco: Around 7:30 pm