Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu 9 Days

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco

Welcome to Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire. You can arrive at any time during the day, and our team will meet you at the airport and transfer you comfortably to your hotel.

If time allows, we can take a short walk around the historic center to help you start discovering the culture, architecture, and charm of this fascinating Andean city.

Overnight: Hotel in Cusco (3★)

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Day 2: Sacred Valley Tour – Overnight in Ollantaytambo

Your tour begins at 8:00 am with pickup from your hotel in Cusco. We travel through beautiful Andean landscapes toward the famous Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Our first stop is Chinchero, a traditional Andean village known for its colorful textiles and impressive Inca terraces. We then continue to Moray, a fascinating archaeological site believed to have been an Inca agricultural laboratory.

Next, we visit the spectacular Maras Salt Mines, where thousands of salt pools have been used since Inca times.

At midday, we enjoy lunch at the renowned Casa Grande Restaurant in Urubamba. In the afternoon, we visit the impressive Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site, one of the most important Inca towns and fortresses in the Sacred Valley.

Unlike many tours, tonight you will stay in Ollantaytambo, allowing you to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this historic Inca town.

Overnight: Hotel in Ollantaytambo

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Day 3: Ollantaytambo – Malaga Pass – Santa Maria (Biking Adventure)

After an early breakfast, we depart around 6:00 am toward Abra Malaga Pass, located at 4,316 meters (14,160 ft).

Here begins one of the most exciting parts of the Inca Jungle Trek: an incredible downhill mountain biking adventure. We ride through spectacular landscapes as we descend from the high Andes into the lush cloud forest.

Along the route you will see dramatic changes in climate and vegetation as we approach the tropical region of the La Convención Valley.

After several hours of biking, we reach the town of Santa Maria, where we will relax and enjoy the warm jungle atmosphere.

Overnight: Hostel in Santa Maria

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Day 4: Santa Maria – Santa Teresa (Hiking Day)

After breakfast, we begin a beautiful hike through the tropical landscapes of the region. Part of today’s route follows sections of the original Inca Trail, where traders once connected Machu Picchu with the Amazon region.

During the hike, you will see coffee plantations, coca plants, tropical fruits, and local communities that preserve traditional lifestyles.

Along the way, you will also enjoy incredible views of waterfalls, valleys, and dense vegetation.

In the afternoon, we arrive at Santa Teresa, where you can relax in the famous Santa Teresa Hot Springs, known for their therapeutic waters.

Overnight: Hostel in Santa Teresa

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Day 5: Zip Line Adventure – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes

After breakfast, we begin the day with an exciting Zip Line Adventure in Santa Teresa. This thrilling activity allows you to fly above the lush jungle landscape while enjoying spectacular views of the mountains and valleys.

After the zip line experience, we travel by vehicle to Hidroelectrica, where we stop for lunch.

In the afternoon, we begin a scenic 3-hour walk along the railway tracks from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes, the town located at the base of Machu Picchu. This peaceful walk passes through beautiful jungle scenery and offers your first glimpses of the surrounding mountains of Machu Picchu.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, we check into our hotel and prepare for the highlight of the journey the next day.

Overnight: Hotel in Aguas Calientes

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Day 6: Guided Tour of Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco

We wake up early at 4:30 am to begin our hike toward the legendary Machu Picchu Citadel. The ascent takes about 1.5 hours, giving us the chance to arrive early and enjoy the magical sunrise.

Once inside the archaeological site, your professional guide will lead a 2-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu, explaining the history, architecture, and mysteries of this incredible Inca city.

After the guided visit, you will have free time to explore Machu Picchu on your own, take photos, or climb Huayna Picchu Mountain if you reserved this option in advance.

Later, we return to Aguas Calientes to take the tourist train to Ollantaytambo, followed by private transportation back to Cusco.

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Day 7: Humantay Lake Tour

We depart from Cusco at 5:00 am and travel toward the town of Mollepata, located at the base of the impressive Salkantay Mountain.

From the trailhead, we hike for about 1.5 hours to reach the beautiful Humantay Lake, famous for its turquoise waters and stunning glacier views.

After enjoying the scenery and taking photos, we descend for lunch before returning to Cusco.

Overnight: Hotel in Cusco (3★)

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Day 8: Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)

Today we visit the spectacular Rainbow Mountain, one of the most famous natural attractions in Peru.

We leave Cusco early in the morning and drive for about 3 hours to the trailhead. From here, we hike for approximately 2 hours to reach the summit.

Along the trail you will see llamas, alpacas, and traditional Andean communities that preserve their ancient culture.

At the top, you will enjoy breathtaking views of the colorful mountain landscapes before returning to Cusco in the afternoon.

Overnight: Hotel in Cusco (3★)

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Day 9: Cusco – Transfer to the Airport

At the scheduled time, we will transfer you to Cusco Airport for your next destination.

End of our services.

Our Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu 9 Days package has been carefully designed to provide a complete and worry-free travel experience. From the moment you arrive in Cusco until the end of your adventure, our professional team will take care of every detail so you can fully enjoy your journey through the Andes and the cloud forest.

Professional Guides

• Experienced English-speaking professional tour guide

• Guided visits during all excursions and treks

• Guided tour inside Machu Picchu

Transportation

• Airport pickup and transfer upon arrival in Cusco

• All tourist transportation during the itinerary

• Transfer from Ollantaytambo to Cusco after the Machu Picchu visit

• Tourist train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo

Accommodation

• 3 nights in hotel in Cusco (3★)

• 1 night in hotel in Ollantaytambo

• 1 night in hostel in Santa Maria

• 1 night in hostel in Santa Teresa

• 1 night in hotel in Aguas Calientes

• 1 night in hotel in Cusco

Meals

• Meals as indicated in the itinerary

• Breakfasts in hotels

• Lunch during selected tours

Adventure Activities

• Mountain biking adventure from Abra Malaga

• Zip line experience in Santa Teresa

• Optional opportunity for rafting (depending on weather conditions)

Entrance Fees

• Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu Archaeological Site

• Entrance tickets for Sacred Valley sites:

  • Chinchero

  • Moray

  • Maras Salt Mines

• Entrance ticket to Humantay Lake

• Entrance ticket to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)

Additional Services

• Pre-tour briefing and orientation

• First aid kit and emergency assistance during tours

• Personalized assistance from our team during your entire journey

What to Bring – Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu

Preparing the right equipment will help you fully enjoy your Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu 9 Days adventure. Because this journey crosses different climates—from the high Andes to the warm cloud forest—it is important to pack light but smart.

Here is a recommended packing list for the trek.

Essential Documents

• Valid passport (required for entry to Machu Picchu)

• Travel insurance

• Cash in Peruvian soles for small purchases

• Student card (if applicable)

Clothing

Weather conditions change quickly in the Andes, so we recommend bringing layered clothing.

• Lightweight hiking pants

• Comfortable trekking shirts (preferably quick-dry)

• Warm jacket or fleece for cold mornings

• Waterproof jacket or rain poncho

• Hiking shorts

• Comfortable clothes for evenings

• Swimsuit (for Santa Teresa hot springs)

Footwear

• Comfortable hiking boots or trekking shoes

• Light shoes or sandals for the evening

• Several pairs of hiking socks

Trekking Gear

• Small backpack (20–30L) for daily hikes

• Reusable water bottle or hydration pack

• Sunscreen (high SPF recommended)

• Sunglasses with UV protection

• Hat or cap for sun protection

• Insect repellent

• Trekking poles (optional but recommended)

Personal Items

• Personal toiletries

• Small towel

• Wet wipes or hand sanitizer

• Personal medications

• Basic first aid items

Recommended Extras

• Camera or smartphone for photos

• Portable charger or power bank

• Snacks such as energy bars or nuts

• Rain cover for your backpack

Important Tip

Remember to pack light, as you will carry your personal daypack during some parts of the trek. A small and well-organized backpack will make your adventure much more comfortable.

Frequently Asked Questions – Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu 9 Days

Is the Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu difficult?

The Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu is considered a moderate adventure tour. The itinerary includes biking, hiking, and outdoor activities, but it does not require technical trekking experience. Travelers with a reasonable level of fitness can complete the trek comfortably.

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What is the best time of year to do the Inca Jungle Trek?

The best time to do the Inca Jungle Trek is during the dry season from April to October, when weather conditions are generally more stable and trails are easier to walk.

However, this tour operates year-round. During the rainy season (November to March), the landscapes are greener and less crowded.

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Do I need to be acclimatized to the altitude?

Yes, we strongly recommend spending at least one or two days in Cusco before starting the trek. This helps your body adjust to the altitude and makes the experience more comfortable.

Our itinerary includes visits to the Sacred Valley of the Incas before starting the adventure, which helps with gradual acclimatization.

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What kind of accommodation is included in the tour?

During the Inca Jungle Trek 9 Days, accommodations include a mix of comfortable hotels and local hostels in different destinations such as Cusco, Ollantaytambo, Santa Maria, Santa Teresa, and Aguas Calientes.

All accommodations are selected for comfort, cleanliness, and good location.

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How do we get to Machu Picchu at the end of the trek?

On Day 6, we wake up early and hike up to the entrance of Machu Picchu. Once inside, your guide will lead a guided tour of approximately two hours, explaining the history and significance of this incredible Inca city.

After the tour, you will have free time to explore and take photos before returning to Cusco by train and private transportation.

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Is the entrance ticket to Machu Picchu included?

Yes. The tour package includes the official entrance ticket to Machu Picchu as well as a professional guided tour inside the archaeological site.

Because daily visitor numbers are limited, we recommend booking your tour in advance to secure availability.

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Can I climb Huayna Picchu Mountain?

Yes, climbing Huayna Picchu is possible, but spaces are limited and require an additional permit.

If you wish to include this hike, please let us know at the time of booking so we can check availability.

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What activities are included in the Inca Jungle Trek?

This adventure tour includes several exciting activities such as:

• Mountain biking from Abra Malaga

• Zip line adventure in Santa Teresa

• Scenic hiking through the cloud forest

• Visits to the Sacred Valley

• Tours to Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain

These experiences make the Inca Jungle Trek one of the most diverse and exciting routes to Machu Picchu.

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How far in advance should I book this tour?

We recommend booking the Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu at least 2–3 months in advance, especially during the high tourist season (May–September), when entrance tickets to Machu Picchu can sell out quickly.

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What is the maximum group size?

To provide a better experience, our groups are small and personalized, usually between 6 and 12 travelers. This allows our guides to provide more attention and ensures a more enjoyable adventure.