Inca Jungle to Machu Picchu (4 Days)

We start the day with an early pickup from your hotel in Cusco. We travel by private bus to the highest point of the route: Abra Málaga Pass ($4,350$ m / $14,271$ ft a.s.l.).Here, we prepare our equipment, receive safety instructions, and begin the Mountain Biking portion. The exciting $3$ to $4$ hour bike descent is predominantly downhill, through picturesque valleys, dramatically changing the landscape from the puna (high grassland) to the dense eyebrow of the jungle.We conclude the day in the town of Santa María ($1,500$ m / $4,921$ ft a.s.l.), where we have dinner and spend the first night in a local lodge.Optional Activity: Rafting on the Urubamba River (seasonal).

After a traditional breakfast, we begin the hike (trekking) that takes us through an authentic section of the ancient Inca Trail. This part of the route is spectacular, allowing us to appreciate the local flora and fauna, including coca, coffee, and tropical fruit plantations. Our guide teaches us about local traditions and the history of the trail. The highlight of the day is the walk along cliff-side sections, crossing the river, and finally, reaching the famous Cocalmayo Hot Springs near Santa Teresa. After enjoying a well-deserved relaxing soak, we have dinner and sleep in a lodge in Santa Teresa.

The third day begins with the possibility of choosing a high-octane adventure. In the morning, those who wish can experience the Zip Line (canopy tour) over the valley. Afterward, we head to the Hydroelectrica area, where we have lunch. From Hydroelectrica, we begin the flat and scenic hike of approximately 3 hours, following the train tracks, bordering the Vilcanota River, until we reach the picturesque town of Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town). Upon arrival, we check in at the lodge and have a final group dinner, receiving the last instructions for the Machu Picchu visit.

We wake up very early to take the bus or ascend on foot to Machu Picchu. Our goal is to arrive at dawn and be among the first to enter to witness the magical sunrise over the citadel (weather permitting).Your guide offers a $2$ to $3$ hour guided tour, covering the main areas, the Central Plaza, the temples, and the agricultural and urban sectors.After the tour, you have free time to explore on your own.In the afternoon, you descend to Aguas Calientes, where you board the return train to Ollantaytambo or Poroy, and from there, a bus takes you back to Cusco.