What is the Inca Jungle Trek?

The Inca Jungle Trek is an alternative route to Machu Picchu that combines adventure activities with the trek to the famous Inca citadel. Unlike the traditional Inca Trail and Salkantay, the Inca Jungle Trek offers a variety of exciting activities in addition to hiking, such as mountain biking, rafting, zip-lining and hot springs.

What is included in the Inca Jungle Trek

Mountain Biking

The route to Machu Picchu begins with an exciting downhill bike ride from the high mountains of Abra Malaga to the village of Santa Maria. The ride is approximately 55 km downhill enjoying breathtaking views of the Abra Malaga mountain range and then into the cloud forest jungle of the convention valley passing through picturesque villages and tea leaf plantations. Also very close to the town of Santa Maria you can find different accommodations and the Eco Terra Lodge, a comfortable and cozy place that offers lodging and food service with typical dishes of the area prepared with organic products.

Rafting

It is also possible to do one of the most exciting activities which is river rafting, an experience in the crystalline waters of the Urubamba River. Totally recommended because in the valley of the convention the temperature could reach up to 38 degrees, a good place to enjoy the cool waters of the river.

Hiking

After cycling and rafting, you continue with a hike along the Urubamba River, exploring varied landscapes and fields of coffee crops, fruit trees and coca leaf plantations (ancestral plant used for medicinal purposes by the Quechua culture), on the way you will have the opportunity to walk along one of the famous networks of the Inca Trail that connected the great city of Machu Picchu.

Cocalmayo Hot Springs

At the end of the second day hike you will arrive at the famous hot springs with crystal clear waters, where you can relax and enjoy different hot springs with different temperatures.

Ziplining

Another activity that will fill you with adrenaline is ziplining. An activity that consists of suspending and sliding with high security equipment on the steel cables that cross over the Urubamba River.

Trek to Machu Picchu

The trek continues until you reach Aguas Calientes, the base town of Machu Picchu.

Visit to Machu Picchu

Finally, the experience culminates with a visit to the impressive Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

It is important to note that the Inca Jungle Trek requires a good physical condition, as it involves several physical activities. In addition, it is advisable to book in advance through authorized tour operators. Each tour operator may offer variations in the activities included, so it is advisable to check the specific details of the package you choose.