Category Archives: travel cusco

SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU

DAY 1: CUSCO – KM 104 – MACHU PICCHU.

At 06:00 am. We will pick you up at your hotel to go to the train station in Ollantaytambo; then we get the train to take us to the km 104; this will be the starting point of the short version of the Inca trail to the citadel of Machu Picchu. We start the walk uphill for an average of four hours to reach the archaeological complex of Wiñaywayna, where we enjoy our box lunch (lunch on the way); we will have some free time to relax and enjoy the wonderful scenery. After a well-deserved rest, we will continue with the walk, we head to the site called Inti Punku or Puerta del Sol, where we will enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World. We’ll finish the adventure of the first day by following the path towards the exit door of the citadel, where we take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, located at the foot of the citadel. We have dinner and spend the night at a hotel in town.

DAY 3: MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

After an early breakfast at the hotel, we will take the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, upon arrival at the Citadel we can appreciate the enigmatic beauty and the incomparable example of architectural perfection and hydraulics of one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World, we will have a guided tour of about 2 hours, where we can appreciate the Main Plaza, the Circular Tower, Intihuatana, The Royal Quarters, the Temple of the Three Windows and the Cemetery, you are then given free time to stroll around the citadel . You will have all morning in Machu Picchu to take pictures, maybe to climb the Wayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, enjoy this mystical place. Then we´ll descend by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch and then calmly return by train to Ollantaytambo where our tourist transport to the city of Cusco will be expecting us, and will later transfer you to your hotel.
OTHER ACTIVITIES:
 Climb up Huayna Picchu and appreciate the beauty and magnificence of Machu Picchu from there (We recommend that you book in advance) Not Included
 Climb Machu Picchu Mountain and appreciate the beauty and magnificence of Machu Picchu from there (We recommend that you book in advance) Not Included
 Visit the new local museum or the hot springs in Aguas Calientes later in the day. Not Included
– Meals: Breakfast
– Tour: Two-hour tour with our guide in Machu Picchu

Choquequirao, basic information – CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK TO MACHU PICCHU

What does Choquequirao mean?
Choquequirao is a Quechua word that means ‘Cradle of Gold’. The name comes from the nomination of a hill near the archaeological site.

Where it is located?
Choquequirao is located in one of the fringes of the snowy Salkantay, north of the Apurímac River. It is currently located in the Santa Teresa district, La Convencion province, Cusco department, Peru.

How high is it?

Choquequirao is located 3,033 meters above sea level (m.s.n.m.). Due to its location, it is presumed that this Inca site served as a checkpoint between the main Inca sites such as Pisac, Cusco and Machu Picchu.

What’s in Choquequirao?
Choquequirao has only been excavated by 30%. Despite this, it already has several very important Inca buildings:

Main square – The main square or Huaqaypata divided the enclosure into two. It is a two-story stone construction. Along with this, there are other buildings connected to each other.
Colcas – Typical constructions of the main Inca centers. In Choquequirao, these platforms have internal subdivisions. The purpose of these warehouses was to store products for food, clothing and others.
Platforms – Choquequirao has a significant number of platforms for cultivation. In the western sector there are 22 engravings in the form of a flame arranged on 15 platforms. These figures are known as the ‘Flames of the Sun’.
Housing – In the highest part of Choquequirao, there are up to 5 buildings whose purpose was probably housing for the priests of the compound. This Inca site is believed to have been an important ceremonial center.
Inca Cemetery – Also known as the ‘Triumphal Wall’. There were found 17 funeral bundles and a water trough called “The House of the Fall of Water”.
Kallankas – These rectangular buildings had multiple functions such as workshop, administrative center, meeting space, etc. In Choquequirao there are 2 Kallankas on whose walls there were gutters that supplied water.
Ushnu – This oval platform construction sits on top of a hill. Due to the wall that surrounds it and the privileged view of the snow-capped mountains, the river and the entire enclosure; it is believed to have had a religious purpose.

CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 7 DAYS

Day 1: CUSCO – CACHORA – COCAMASANA – PLAYA ROSALINA.

We will pick you up at your hotel in a private bus. We start from Cusco, then we go to the town of Cachora (3100 masl), here we find the carriers and support staff, in Cachora we’ll start our walk, after 2 hours of walking we reach Capuliyoc (2915 m) from there we’ll have a beautiful view of the snowy peaks Padrayoc, Wayna Cachora and the Apurimac valley. Then we’ll descend toward Coca Masana (2330m) where the climate becomes warmer and the flora and fauna begin to change. Finally we reach the Rosalina beach (1550m) located on the bank of the Apurimac River where we will have dinner and spend the night.

– Meals: Lunch, Dinner
– Acomodación: Camp, Playa Rosalina 1550 msnm
– Climate : warm and sunny
– Distance Travelled: Approximately 12km
– Hiking time : 6 hour

Day 2: PLAYA ROSALINA – CHOQUEQUIRAO.

This day is the hardest of the five days, we will get up very early. After breakfast, we begin our trek by a steep road for about 5 hours until we reach Raqaypata where we will have lunch. Throughout the walk we will observe many orchids and wild flowers, many birds. From Raqaypata we’ll walk for about two hours to the archaeological site of Choquequirao and there we will observe the sunset and the flight of the condor. Our campsite will be installed outside the ruins.

– Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
– Acomodación: Camp, Choquekiraw 3100 msnm
– Climate : warm and cold at night
– Distance Travelled: Approximately 14km
– Hiking time : 7 hour

Day 3: CHOQUEQUIRAO – PINCHINUYOC

After breakfast. We dedicate this mornig to explore the ruins of Choquequirao, and have a little rest before lunch. In the afternoon we begin our trek by a steep road for about 2 hours until we reach Pinchinuyoc where we will camp for the night. This is definitely the easiest day of the trip

– Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
– Acomodación: Camp, Pinchinuyoc 2100msnm.
– Climate : warm, windy and cold at night
– Distance Travelled: Approximately 12km
– Hiking time : 8 hour

Day 4: PINCHINUYOC – RIO BLANCO – MAIZAL.

After breakfast, we will hike down hill for 2 hours and arrive at the canyon of the Rio Blanco (1990 m / 6527 feet), where you can dip your feet in the cool waters. where we have a rest before starting a difficult climb to our campsite of Maizal (2100 m / 6889 f.) The climb is 3- 4 hours long. Este es probablemente el día más difícil del viaje, pero si se ha preparado bien y está decidido, tendrá éxito. Y la cerveza fría a su llegada sabrá aún mejor.

– Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
– Climate : warm and hummed
– Acomodación: Camp, Maizal 2100 msnm.
– Distance Travelled: Approximately 17km
– Hiking time : 8 hour

Day 5: MAIZAL – YANAMA – DRIVE TO LUCMABAMBA

After our breakfast, we will begin our trek of about 3 hours approximately until we reach the old Victoria mine, then we will walk uphill until we reach Victoria pass (4130mt / 13,546 ft). There are spectacular views from the pass as we descend to the charming village of Yanama (about 2 hours walk) following a section with some well constructed inca trail.
here we take the local transport all the way to Lucmabamba. Along the way, we get to enjoy the gorgeous views of snow-capped mountains and wáterfalls.

– Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
– Climate : cold and windy
– Acomodación: Camp, Lucmabamba 1900msnm.
– Distance Travelled: Approximately 20 km
– Hiking time : 9 hour

Day 6: LUCMABAMBA – LLACTAPATA – AGUAS CALIENTES

Your final day of hiking: On this day we well hike for 3 hours by a Inca trail spectacular up through lush coffee and tropical fruit plantations, into pristine cloud forest, until reaching the Inca remains of Llactapata (2,700 m / 8,907 ft). The view across of Machu Picchu is magnificent. Few tourists have ever seen it from this side.
Then we hike downhill for 2 hours to the hydroelectric plant where we have lunch. From here you have two choice. Either wait for the short but spectacular train ride (no included), or hike two to three hours along the rail track to the tourist town of Machu Picchu Pueblo and your hostel for the night.

– Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
– Climate : cold
– Acomodación: Hostel, Aguas Calientes 1650msnm.
– Distance Travelled: Approximately 9 km
– Hiking time : 4 hour

Day 7: MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

After an early breakfast at the hotel, we walk uphill to Machu Picchu at 5:00 am. or take the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (Optional bus $16 each way), upon arrival at the Citadel we can appreciate the enigmatic beauty and the incomparable example of architectural perfection and hydraulics of one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World, we will have a guided tour of about 2 hours, where we can appreciate the Main Plaza, the Circular Tower, Intihuatana, The Royal Quarters, the Temple of the Three Windows and the Cemetery, you are then given free time to stroll around the citadel . You will have all morning in Machu Picchu to take pictures, maybe to climb the Wayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, enjoy this mystical place. Then we´ll descend by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch and then calmly return by train to Ollantaytambo where our tourist transport to the city of Cusco will be expecting us, and will later transfer you to your hotel.
OTHER ACTIVITIES:
Climb up Huayna Picchu and appreciate the beauty and magnificence of Machu Picchu from there (We recommend that you book in advance) Not Included
Climb Machu Picchu Mountain and appreciate the beauty and magnificence of Machu Picchu from there (We recommend that you book in advance) Not Included
Visit the new local museum or the hot springs in Aguas Calientes later in the day. Not Included

– Meals: Breakfast
– Tour: 2 hour guided tour of Machu Picchu

CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 8 DAYS

Day 1: CUSCO – CACHORA – COCAMASANA – PLAYA ROSALINA.

We will pick you up at your hotel in a private bus. We start from Cusco, then we go to the town of Cachora (3100 masl), here we find the carriers and support staff, in Cachora we’ll start our walk, after 2 hours of walking we reach Capuliyoc (2915 m) from there we’ll have a beautiful view of the snowy peaks Padrayoc, Wayna Cachora and the Apurimac valley. Then we’ll descend toward Coca Masana (2330m) where the climate becomes warmer and the flora and fauna begin to change. Finally we reach the Rosalina beach (1550m) located on the bank of the Apurimac River where we will have dinner and spend the night.

– Meals: Lunch, Dinner
– Acomodación: Camp, Playa Rosalina 1550 msnm
– Climate : warm and sunny
– Distance Travelled: Approximately 12km
– Hiking time : 6 hour

Day 2: PLAYA ROSALINA – CHOQUEQUIRAO.

This day is the hardest of the five days, we will get up very early. After breakfast, we begin our trek by a steep road for about 5 hours until we reach Raqaypata where we will have lunch. Throughout the walk we will observe many orchids and wild flowers, many birds. From Raqaypata we’ll walk for about two hours to the archaeological site of Choquequirao and there we will observe the sunset and the flight of the condor. Our campsite will be installed outside the ruins.

– Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
– Acomodación: Camp, Choquekiraw 3100 msnm
– Climate : warm and cold at night
– Distance Travelled: Approximately 14km
– Hiking time : 7 hour

Day 3: CHOQUEQUIRAO – MAIZAL

After breakfast. We dedicate this mornig to explore the Choquequirao, and then start our trek passing for Choquequirao Ruins, uphill through cloud forest, Mountains and valleys to reach the Choquequirao pass. There will observe different species of birds, different varieties of orchids, and local coca plantations. then we will continue our trek until we reach the Blanco river where we will have lunch and you can dip your feet in the cool waters, we have a rest before starting a difficult climb to our campsite of Maizal (3000 m / 9842 f.) The climb is 3- 4 hours long.

– Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
– Acomodación: Camp, Maizal 3000msnm.
– Climate : warm, windy and cold at night
– Distance Travelled: Approximately 18km
– Hiking time : 8 hour

Day 4: MAIZAL – YANAMA.

Due to the ecosystem’s constant changes, this day is both the most ardous and the most spectacular one. After breakfast, we will begin our walk where you can enjoy the view of the beautiful landscape. Since the Inca trail in this region is not in good conditions during the rainy season, we ask you to watch your steps carefully. In San Juan (4170m/13681f) we will enjoy the beautiful view of the valleys, the mountains and the glaciers, from which some of the latter peak more than 5000m/16404f. Our camping place will be in the little village of Yanama (3530m/11581f).

– Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
– Climate : warm and hummed
– Acomodación: Camp, Yanama 3530 msnm.
– Distance Travelled: Approximately 17km
– Hiking time : 8 hour

Day 5: YANAMA – TOTORA

Early in the morning, we will head for the highest pass of this trip – Yanama (4670m). If we are lucky we will even see a condor flying. During the day, we will enjoy frequently the view of snow capped mountains such as Salkantay (6264m) and Pintuyu (5450m). Our camping place will be in the valley of Totora pampa (3100m).

– Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
– Climate : cold and windy
– Acomodación: Camp, Totora 3100 msnm.
– Distance Travelled: Approximately 20 km
– Hiking time : 9 hour

Day 6: TOTORA – PLAYA – SANTA TERESA

At Totora pampa we will get the chance to meet Quechua-speaking Andean people who live from agriculture and cattle breeding. The vegetation on our way gets more and more bizarre and reveals its diversity of orchids, bromelains and other plants. We will also see some plantations for coffee, papaya, passion fruit and avocado. Our camping site will be in La Playa (2100m/6890f) or in Santa Teres (1600m/5249f). Note: According to the group’s whishes, it is possible to change the itinerary a bit and visit the hot springs in Santa Teresa this day.

– Meals: Breakfast,
– Climate : warm
– Acomodación: Camp, Santa Teresa 1600msnm.
– Distance Travelled: Approximately 18 km
– Hiking time : 10 hour

Day 7: SANTA TERESA – AGUAS CALIENTES

The last breakfast with our crew, after drive to hydroelectric 40 min where is the start point for hike to Aguas Calientes 3 hours, on the trail is clear to appreciate a lot type of orchid and birds, the big scenery is the view to Machu Picchu city is situated dense a bizarre vegetation and offers an exceptional view of the mountain Machu Picchu, for sick or tired kickers optional train service (US $ 18.00) there we will spend the night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes.

– Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
– Climate : warm
– Acomodación: Hostel, Aguas Calientes 2050msnm.
– Distance Travelled: Approximately 9 km
– Hiking time : 4 hour

Day 8: MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

After an early breakfast at the hotel, we walk uphill to Machu Picchu at 5:00 am. or take the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (Optional bus $16 each way), upon arrival at the Citadel we can appreciate the enigmatic beauty and the incomparable example of architectural perfection and hydraulics of one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World, we will have a guided tour of about 2 hours, where we can appreciate the Main Plaza, the Circular Tower, Intihuatana, The Royal Quarters, the Temple of the Three Windows and the Cemetery, you are then given free time to stroll around the citadel . You will have all morning in Machu Picchu to take pictures, maybe to climb the Wayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, enjoy this mystical place. Then we´ll descend by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch and then calmly return by train to Ollantaytambo where our tourist transport to the city of Cusco will be expecting us, and will later transfer you to your hotel.
OTHER ACTIVITIES:
Climb up Huayna Picchu and appreciate the beauty and magnificence of Machu Picchu from there (We recommend that you book in advance) Not Included
Climb Machu Picchu Mountain and appreciate the beauty and magnificence of Machu Picchu from there (We recommend that you book in advance) Not Included
Visit the new local museum or the hot springs in Aguas Calientes later in the day. Not Included

– Meals: Breakfast
– Tour: 2 hour guided tour of Machu Picchu

 

Hike to Inti Punku and Cachiccata Quarries – to Machu Picchu

Since the Spanish arrived in the land of the Incas, the question of how the native peoples of the Andes managed to cut and transport the megalithic rocks that made up the Inca cities was a mystery and a source of incredible stories. The Cachicata Cusco walk takes you to the source of one of the ancient Inca quarries; a place where you will find the answers to those questions. Join us on this fabulous hike to Cantera Cachicata Ollantaytambo

Offering a fascinating look at the ingenuity of the Inca civilization, Inti Punku Cachicata is where the Incas formed rocks for some of their ambitious construction projects miles away, such as the Cantera Cachicata Ollantaytambo fortress. This exhilarating and scenic hike lasts 3-4 hours, crosses the Urubamba River on an ascending trail that offers panoramic views of the Ollantaytambo Valley, the Vilcanota mountain range, and Mount Veronica (18,745 ft) along the way. We will have lunch surrounded by magnificent views before returning to the Sacred Valley or Cusco.

INCA QUARRY TREK 3 DAYS

DAY 1: CUSCO – PACHAR – SOQMA – CHARCAHUAYLLA

We will come to pick you up at 5:00 a.m. from your hotel in Cusco City, and we will drive along a road to the Pachar Valley close to Ollantaytambo. You will arrive at the starting point of your trek, Soqma village, after about 2 hours, where we will stop to have breakfast and meet our horseman. We will start our hike up a lush valley of scattered farmhouses and crop terraces. After 40 minutes of walking, we will see a tall waterfall where we can pause to refresh ourselves amidst the cool spray of the waterfall. After a picnic lunch, we will continue hiking for another hour and visit the little-known Inca ruin of Qorimarca, perched at mid-altitude on a shelf high above the SoQma valley. Qorimarca was probably built by the Incas to control the agricultural production of the surrounding valley. From here we will hike uphill for 3 hours until we reach our first campsite, in Charcahuaylla.

DAY 2: CHARCAHUAYLLA – INTI PUNKU – CHOQUETACARPO – INCA QUARRY OF CACHICATA – OLLANTAYTAMBO – AGUAS CALIENTES

After breakfast, we will continue with our trek for 1.5 hours across the high plateau to reach the to Yana Orco, where we will have spectacular views of the valley. We will encounter a stunning view of Ollantaytambo and the Sacred Valley as we reach the imposing gateway of Intipunku, an Inca temple thought to be dedicated to worshiping the snowcapped Verónica Mountain. Then, we will arrive to Choquetacarpo (3600m/11880ft) and continue the descent to the Inca quarry of Cachicata (3420m/11286ft). Here, you can see the work of the Incas as this was used by the Incas for the construction of Ollantaytambo. You will see several large buildings, quarried stones left half finished and abandoned throughout the site.We will have lunch facing a breathtaking mountain and valley panorama. We will continue our hike for 3 and a half hours downhill to Ollantaytambo, where you will have some time to rest and explore the historic town. In Ollantaytambo, we will catch the train to the town of Aguas Calientes. Once there, you will have a dinner at a restaurant in the town and discuss with your guide what time you wish to wake up in the morning. Your hostel in Aguas Calientes can be upgraded to a hotel if you prefer.

DAY 3: MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

After an early breakfast at the hotel, we walk uphill to Machu Picchu at 5:00 am. or take the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (Optional bus $16 each way), upon arrival at the Citadel we can appreciate the enigmatic beauty and the incomparable example of architectural perfection and hydraulics of one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World, we will have a guided tour of about 2 hours, where we can appreciate the Main Plaza, the Circular Tower, Intihuatana, The Royal Quarters, the Temple of the Three Windows and the Cemetery, you are then given free time to stroll around the citadel . You will have all morning in Machu Picchu to take pictures, maybe to climb the Wayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, enjoy this mystical place. Then we´ll descend by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch and then calmly return by train to Ollantaytambo where our tourist transport to the city of Cusco will be expecting us, and will later transfer you to your hotel.
OTHER ACTIVITIES:
Climb up Huayna Picchu and appreciate the beauty and magnificence of Machu Picchu from there (We recommend that you book in advance) Not Included
Climb Machu Picchu Mountain and appreciate the beauty and magnificence of Machu Picchu from there (We recommend that you book in advance) Not Included
Visit the new local museum or the hot springs in Aguas Calientes later in the day. Not Included

– Meals: Breakfast
– Tour: 2 hour guided tour of Machu Picchu 

INCA QUARRY TREK  CLASSIC 4 DAYS

DAY 1: CUSCO – SOQMA – RAYAN

We will come to pick you up at 5:00 a.m. from your hotel in Cusco City, and we will drive along a road to the Pachar Valley close to Ollantaytambo. You will arrive at the starting point of your trek, Soqma village, after about 2 hours, where we will stop to have breakfast and meet our horseman. where we will stop to have breakfast and meet our horseman. We will start our hike up a lush valley of scattered farmhouses and crop terraces. After 40 minutes of walking, we will see a tall waterfall where we can pause to refresh ourselves amidst the cool spray of the waterfall. After a refueling lunch, we will ascend 45 minutes until our camp at Rayan (3,700 meters/12,136 ft).

DAY 2: RAYAN – INTI PUNKU – CHOQUETACARPO

After breakfast, we ascend 3 hours to the first pass of the trek, known as Puccaqasa (4,370 m/ 14,333 ft). where we will have spectacular views of the valley. We will encounter a stunning view of Ollantaytambo and the Sacred Valley. We then head downhill for 25 minutes to our lunch location. After lunch, we hike 2 hours with alternating ascents and descents. The final 20 minutes of this segment will take us uphill to the highest pass of the trek, Kuychicassa (4,457 m/ 14,619 ft), From here we trek downhill for 2 hours to a site the Incas called Inti Punku, where there is a spectacular view of Mount Veronica (5,682 m/ 18,637 ft) and the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Our campsites is 30 minutes downhill from Inti Punku at Choquetacarpo (3,600m/ 11,808 ft).

DAY 3: CHOQUETACARPO – OLLANTAYTAMBO – AGUAS CALIENTES

After early breakfast and then we will walk one hour downhill to the Inca quarry of Cachicata (3420m/11286ft). Here, you can see the work of the Incas as this was used by the Incas for the construction of Ollantaytambo. You will see several large buildings, quarried stones left half finished and abandoned throughout the site.We will have lunch facing a breathtaking mountain and valley panorama. After We will continue our hike for 3 and a half hours downhill to Ollantaytambo, where you will have some time to rest and explore the historic town. In Ollantaytambo, we will catch the train to the town of Aguas Calientes. Once there, you will have a dinner at a restaurant in the town and discuss with your guide what time you wish to wake up in the morning. Your hostel in Aguas Calientes can be upgraded to a hotel if you prefer.

DAY 3: MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

After an early breakfast at the hotel, we walk uphill to Machu Picchu at 5:00 am. or take the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (Optional bus $16 each way), upon arrival at the Citadel we can appreciate the enigmatic beauty and the incomparable example of architectural perfection and hydraulics of one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World, we will have a guided tour of about 2 hours, where we can appreciate the Main Plaza, the Circular Tower, Intihuatana, The Royal Quarters, the Temple of the Three Windows and the Cemetery, you are then given free time to stroll around the citadel . You will have all morning in Machu Picchu to take pictures, maybe to climb the Wayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, enjoy this mystical place. Then we´ll descend by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch and then calmly return by train to Ollantaytambo where our tourist transport to the city of Cusco will be expecting us, and will later transfer you to your hotel.
OTHER ACTIVITIES:
Climb up Huayna Picchu and appreciate the beauty and magnificence of Machu Picchu from there (We recommend that you book in advance) Not Included
Climb Machu Picchu Mountain and appreciate the beauty and magnificence of Machu Picchu from there (We recommend that you book in advance) Not Included
Visit the new local museum or the hot springs in Aguas Calientes later in the day. Not Included

– Meals: Breakfast
– Tour: 2 hour guided tour of Machu Picchu

 

Inca Jungle: The Adventure tour to Machu Picchu

What is the Inca Jungle at Machu Picchu?
The Inca Jungle tour is a tour that departs from the City of Cusco and ends in Machu Picchu, after 4 days and 3 nights after performing a series of adventure sports such as: cycling, trekking, canoeing and zip line.
The Inca Jungle is one of the most popular tours in Peru.

What is the Inca Jungle route?
The Inca Jungle begins in the city of Cusco and ends in Machu Picchu.
During the journey you cross the Sacred Valley of the Incas, then enter the jungle eyebrow of Cusco to finally arrive at the Wonder of the World.
This is the route during the 4 days of the tour:

  • 1st. day: Cusco – Abra Málaga – Santa María Town.
  • 2nd. day: Santa María – Thermal baths – Santa Teresa town.
  • 3rd. day: Santa Teresa – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes town.
  • 4th. day: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco.

What is the height during the Inca Jungle?
The Inca Jungle runs through its highest point in the so-called ‘Abra Málaga’ (4,230 masl).
The lowest point is in the town of Aguas Calientes (2,000 m.a.s.l.), also known as Machu Picchu town.
Map of the Inca Jungle Machu Picchu
The Inca Jungle begins in the city of Cusco.
After doing various adventure sports, visit the Inca City of Machu Picchu.
The return to the city of Cusco is by train and bus.
What is the weather like during the Inca Jungle?
The climate during the Inca Jungle is varied.
The coldest point is in Abra Málaga (average temperature of 9ºC during the day). Then we descend to the tropical climate of the jungle eyebrow.
The warmest point is in the town of Santa Teresa (day temperature up to 26ºC).
What is the flora and fauna like during the Inca Jungle?
The Inca Jungle is characterized by the beautiful landscapes during the tour.
Along the way you can see vizcachas, llamas, spectacled bears, cock of the rocks and a wide variety of orchids.
In addition, plantations of bananas, mangoes, oranges and more are crossed.
Does 4 days seem too long for the Inca Jungle? There is another 3-day service, which accelerates the pace of the walks to reach Machu Picchu earlier. However, the most popular Inca Jungle tour is the one that lasts 4 days.

What sports does the Inca Jungle include?
The Inca Jungle includes the following adventure sports:
Cycling (included).
Hike (included).
Canoeing (not included).
Zipline (not included).
Who can do the Inca Jungle?
The Inca Jungle is available for tourists of all ages.
However, the tour is recommended for tourists in good physical shape.
Older adults should consult their doctor before the tour.
Minors must be accustomed to physical efforts and take the tour in the company of their parents.
Sports in the Inca Jungle
How is the tour of the Inca Jungle?
Tours to the Inca Jungle may vary according to the travel agency. However, in general, everyone follows this itinerary:
Day 1: Cusco – Santa María:

  • Pick up from the visitor’s hotel.
  • Travel by bus from Cusco to ‘Abra Málaga’ through the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
  • Bike descent from ‘Abra Málaga’ to the town of Santa María.
  • Lunch.
  • Canoeing adventure on the Vilcanota river (Optional).
  • Accommodation in Santa María.

Day 2: Santa María – Santa Teresa:

  • Breakfast.
  • Walk from Santa María to Santa Teresa through ancient Inca trails.
  • Lunch in the town of Kellomayo.
  • Relax in the thermal baths of Cocalmayo.
  • Dinner and lodging in the town of Santa Teresa.

Day 3: Santa Teresa – Aguas Calientes:

  • Breakfast.
  • Adventure in the Zip Line (optional).
  • Walk to the ‘Hydroelectric’ station.
  • Lunch.
  • ‘Hydroelectric’ walk to the town of Aguas Calientes.
  • Dinner and lodging in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town).

Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Cusco:

  • Breakfast.
  • Trekking up from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (optional take bus).
  • Tour with a tour guide through Machu Picchu.
  • Free visit to Machu Picchu.
  • Descent walk from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes (optional take bus).
  • Return by train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
  • Return by bus from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.

Cycling during the Inca Jungle

  • The first sport that is performed in the Inca Jungle is cycling. This tour begins at the highest point of the journey in the Abra Málaga (4,230 masl / 13,877 ft).
  • From there you descend in the company of an expert guide for 2 or 3 hours until you reach the town of Santa María.
  • Cycling is included in all tours to the Inca Jungle.

Canoeing during the Inca Jungle

  • Boating is an optional sport during the Inca Jungle.
  • It is carried out in the waters of the Vilcanota river in the company of an expert guide.
  • The difficulty of the adventure depends on the time of year.
  • Between April to October, the waters are suitable for exciting low-risk tours.
  • Between November to March, the river is only suitable for boating experts.

Trekking to Machu Picchu in the Inca Jungle

  • At various points of the Inca Jungle walks are made.
  • The trek from Santa María to Santa Teresa covers ancient Inca trails.
  • The section from Santa Teresa to Aguas Calientes, crosses one of the most incredible landscapes before reaching Machu Picchu.
  • The difficulty of the walks is not demanding.

Thermal baths during the Inca Jungle

  • The Cocalmayo thermal baths are an optional stop during the Inca Jungle.
  • The pools are outdoors and have a temperature of up to 44ºC.
  • This section is an opportunity to relax after several hours of walking.

Zip Line during the Inca Jungle

  • This extreme sport is one more option during the Inca Jungle.
  • It takes place in the town of Santa Teresa, at the beginning of the third day.
  • The experience is doubly incredible due to the beauty of the landscape.
  • Then, the visitors meet the group to continue the trip to Machu Picchu.

Tours to the Inca Jungle: everything you need to know
Is the Inca Jungle dangerous?

  • The Inca Jungle is a safe adventure.
  • The tour is carried out in the company of a professional tour guide trained in solving emergency situations.

What does the Inca Jungle tour include?

In general, an Inca Jungle tour includes the following:

  • Transportation to the ‘Abra Málaga’.
  • Professional guide throughout the tour.
  • Bicycle and safety implement.
  • 3 nights of lodging (in Santa María, Santa Teresa and Aguas Calientes).
  • Food during the tour (breakfast, lunch and dinner).
  • Entrance to Machu Picchu.
  • Transportation by train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
  • Transportation by bus from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.

Optional services in the Inca Jungle:

  • Entrance to the Cocalmayo Thermal Baths.
  • Boating service and its implements.
  • Zip line service and its implements.
  • Transportation by bus (from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and vice versa).

How to reserve the Inca Jungle?

  • Inca Jungle reservations are made at a tourism agency through the internet.
  • It is also possible to buy the tour directly from a tourism agency located in the Historic Center of Cusco.

Is the Inca Jungle difficult?

  • The Inca Jungle has a moderate difficulty. Adventure sports do not require significant physical effort.
  • In total, approximately 35 kilometers of trekking are traveled on easy routes of great scenic beauty.

How much does the Inca Jungle cost?

 

  • The Inca Jungle has an approximate cost of 300 U $ D. However, this price varies according to the tourism agency and the quality of the service they provide.

When is the best time to do the Inca Jungle?

  • The best time to do the Inca Jungle at Machu Picchu is in the dry season (from April to October).
  • During those months, the days are sunnier, the colder nights and the rains are unusual. Those days are ideal for outdoor excursions.

What to bring to the Inca Jungle?

It is recommended to take the following to the Inca Jungle tour:

  • Cap or hat.
  • Sunscreen.
  • Mosquito repellent.
  • Trekking shoes.
  • Canteen with water.
  • Cotton clothes for 4 days.
  • Rain poncho (in case of precipitation).
  • Bathing suit and towel (for the Cocalmayo thermal baths).
  • Trekking backpack.
  • Extra cash (in case you need it).
  • Photographic camera.

Tips during the Inca Jungle
The Inca Jungle at Machu Picchu is one of the most incredible experiences in Peru. To fully enjoy this adventure it is recommended to consider the following:

  • The Inca Jungle is recommended for young people of any nationality. However, there are cases of adults with advanced age who want to do this adventure.
  • The Inca Jungle does not travel places that can cause soroche (altitude sickness). However, it is recommended to acclimatize at least 1 day in the city of Cusco before starting the tour.
  • Not in good physical shape? The Inca Jungle is not difficult. It is recommended to prepare physically at least only 1 week before the tour.
  • Don’t feel ready for extreme sports? Many sports in the Inca Jungle are only optional.
  • Do you want to do the Inca Jungle with your group of friends or family? There are private tours. You only have to request it at the tourism agency of your choice.