Day 1 | Inca Jungle Trail Biking – Cusco to Abra Málaga to Santa Maria
First, we begin early from Cusco at 6:00 AM, driving 2.5 hours through the Sacred Valley and Ollantaytambo toward the high Andes.
The Experience
After reaching Abra Málaga Pass at 4,300 m, the highest point of the trip, the adventure begins with a downhill mountain biking experience. Therefore, we do safety briefing, helmets, gloves and bikes included.
Moreover, the route descends 55 km from cold Andean landscapes at 4,300m into warmer valleys at 1,200m, offering a dramatic shift in scenery within hours. For example, you go from snow and puna grass to cloud forest and jungle. As you ride for 3 to 4 hours, the environment transforms from high mountain terrain into lush jungle vegetation with coffee and fruit trees.
The Arrival
Finally, we reach Santa Maria at 1,200m, where the climate is noticeably warmer at 25C and the landscape fully transitions into the jungle. After that, check into lodge, lunch included, and then free time to explore town
- Activity: Mountain biking 55 km, 3 to 4 hours downhill
- Altitude: 4,300m to 1,200m
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate – mostly downhill, no pedaling needed
- Accommodation: Lodge / Guesthouse in Santa Maria
Day 2 | Inca Jungle Trek – Jungle Trekking & Coffee Experience
Today focuses on trekking through the high jungle on the Inca Jungle Trail – the most cultural day.
The Experience
First, we follow trails that combine original Inca paths with rural routes, passing through coffee plantations, avocado, mango and coca farms, and small local communities.
Next, along the way, you will learn about local agriculture and daily life in this transitional region between Andes and Amazon. For instance, we stop at a local family coffee farm to see the process from bean to cup and taste fresh organic coffee, plus coca and fruit.
Therefore, this is one of the most immersive days, not because of altitude, but because of connection to the environment and people. In fact, you walk with farmers, not just guides.
Optional Adventure
In addition, depending on the program, you may have the option to include rafting on the Urubamba River Level 3+ for 2 hours in the morning, or ziplining with 4 cables and a suspension bridge in Santa Maria – $40 each, can be added.
The Recovery
Finally, in the afternoon, we arrive in Santa Teresa at 1,550m, where you can visit nearby Cocalmayo Hot Springs. For example, these are natural thermal pools at 38C set in the jungle mountains, a perfect recovery after the trek. However, entrance not included, $10.
- Accommodation: Lodge in Santa Teresa
- Distance: Approx. 12 to 15 km / 6 hours trekking
- Difficulty: Moderate – warm, humid, ups and downs
Day 3 | Santa Teresa – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes
Today the Inca Jungle Trail connects the jungle route with the final approach to Machu Picchu.
The Experience
First, we begin with a short 30-minute transfer to Lucmabamba, then continue trekking toward Hidroeléctrica at 1,800m, the gateway to Machu Picchu from the jungle side. Along the way, you will see plantations of coffee and granadilla and views of Machu Picchu mountain.
Next, from here, we follow a scenic 10 to 12 km trail along the railway, surrounded by dense vegetation, waterfalls and river views of the Urubamba River. Moreover, look up for Machu Picchu ruins on the mountain above.
Therefore, this section is relatively flat, 2.5 to 3 hours walking, allowing you to enjoy the landscape and reflect on the journey.
The Arrival
Finally, we reach Aguas Calientes at 2,040m at 4:00 PM, where you will have time to relax, visit the artisan market and rest before the final day. After that, hotel check-in with hot shower.
- Distance: Approx. 10 to 12 km / 3 hours flat
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Day 4 | Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
The final day begins early with the ascent to Machu Picchu at 2,430m.
The Experience
First, as the first light hits the mountains, we take the first bus at 5:30 AM up to Machu Picchu. Then, the Inca citadel reveals itself, one of the most iconic destinations in the world, built in the 15th century as part of the Inca civilization.
Next, enjoy a 2-hour private guided exploration, discovering the terraces, temples, and ceremonial spaces that define this UNESCO World Heritage Site. For example, Temple of the Sun, Main Plaza, Room of Three Windows.
After the tour, you will have time to explore independently, take photos or simply take in the atmosphere.
The Return
Finally, in the afternoon, bus down to Aguas Calientes, then Expedition Train at 4:22 PM back to Ollantaytambo and private transport to Cusco. As a result, arrival around 7:30 PM.
- Guided Tour: Approx. 2 hours private – Circuit 2 included
- Return: Evening arrival in Cusco
