Sky Camp at night in Salkantay Trek

Inca jungle, Machu Picchu, Peru

Inca Jungle Tour Luxury to Machu Picchu 7 Days

Duration 7 Days / 6 Nights
Tour Type Specific Tour
Difficulty Moderate
Group Size Up to 10 people
Languages Spanish, English

Inca Jungle Tour Luxury to Machu Picchu

Inca Jungle Imperial to Machu Picchu, Enjoy an adventure-filled journey to Machu Picchu, biking, rafting, hiking and ziplining along the way, during this 4-day, 3-night trek. This action-packed trip is a twist on the traditional hiking paths to Machu Picchu, allowing you to enjoy a variety of fun outdoor activities.

Do some whitewater rafting on Class III and IV rapids, zoom down a mountain trail by bike, and fly through the sky on a zipline ride. You’ll also travel past amazing Inca ruins and admire incredible scenery, ranging from alpine peaks to lush jungle.

Embark on a thrilling, action-filled 'trek' to the famed Inca citadel, mountain biking, whitewater rafting and zipping along the way, Hike among coffee plantations, fruit trees, and high mountain forest while savoring stunning Andean views, Enjoy an alternative to the traditional multi-day Machu Picchu trek and Watch the sunrise over the UNESCO-listed 'Lost City of the Incas' before both a guided tour and ample free time to explore. Bed in comfy lodgings, including a night at a local homestay.

Overview

Inca Jungle Tour Luxury to Machu Picchu 7D / 6N, The best combination of tourism: City Tour, Sacred Valley, Rainbow Mountain, and Inca Jungle Trail

Cusco, the “Archaeological Capital of the Americas,” considered as the oldest continuously habited city, is a beautiful city with contrasts between the indigenous styles and the modern western world. All these contrasts have given Cusco a rare beauty around the world.

The valley area between Pisac and Ollantaytambo is known as the Sacred Valley of the Incas. On this tour, we will go through the mountains until "Sacred Valley of the Incas," which held great significance during the Inca Culture. The Valley has milder weather than Cusco City. During the tour, we will see a succession of picturesque villages, agricultural terraces, and many archaeological sites.

This tour is the "Traditional" or Classic tour that is designed to see all about the Sacred Valley in a full day package!! If you have more time, we recommend an overnight stay in the Sacred Valley (Ollantaytambo or Urubamba) and being able to enjoy some of the relaxed atmospheres.

The Rainbow Mountain in Peru, also known as Vinicunca, it's a stunning place that can be seen on the spectacular Ausangate Trek. Ausangate Mountain is considered as a Holy mountain (or mountain spirit) by local Peruvians and is the deity of Cusco. Since pre-Inca times the mountain has been a place of worship and offerings, this tradition keeps continue till today.

Join us to enjoy a filled adventure journey to Machu Picchu by biking, rafting, hiking, and zip-lining in a trek for four days and 3 nights. This fantastic trip is a twist on the traditional hiking paths to Machu Picchu, allowing you to enjoy a variety of fun outdoor activities. Doing some rafting on level III and IV, going down a mountain trail by bike, and fly through the sky on a zip-line ride. You also will travel by amazing Inca ruins and will admire incredible scenery, ranging from alpine peaks to lush jungle.

Activities

City Tour,Sacred Valley, Rainbow Mountain, Biking, Rafting, Zipline, HotSpring, Trekking Adventure

Difficulty Levels

3 of 5

Maximum Altitude

5200 masl. / 17060 ft.

Accommodation

1 Day Lodge, 2 Days Hostel

Included Activities

Biking, Rafting, Zipline, HotSpring, Machupicchu

Starts

Pick up at your accommodation in Cusco around 6:00 AM

Ends

Drop-off at your accommodation in Cusco around 9:45 PM

Day by Day Itinerary

  • Day 1 Transfer Airport – Cusco Hotel – City Tour Half Day (Afternoon).

    Upon arrival in Cusco, you will have a half day tour of the city as you acclimatize, wewill visit the cathedral, holding important, and interesting paintings from colonial times. Afterwards we will see the sun temple, built by the Incas when they arrived in Cusco; inside the temple, smaller temples were built dedicated to the sun, moon, lightning, etc. Then we will take a bus heading up to the four nearby Inca remains, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Pucapucara, and Tambomachay.

    • Transfer

      Airport – Cusco Hotel.

    • Duration Tour

      5 Hours.

    • Places we will Visit

      Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Pucapucara, and Tambomachay.

    • Climate

      Cusco is relatively cool although very changeable.

    • Meals

      Does not include.

    • Maximum Altitude

      3700 masl. / 12139 ft.

    • Acomodation

      Does not include Hotel.

  • Day 2 Sacred Valley Tour Full Day.

    During your Sacred Valley Tour, you will have the opportunity to visit some of the most beautiful and historic towns of the Sacred Valley. We will begin the day by picking you up from your hotel in Cusco and heading towards the town of Pisac. Before reaching Pisac, we will stop at both the Qorao and Taray Lookouts so you can admire the beauty of the Sacred Valley. Once in Pisac, we will visit both Pisac´s archaeological site and the famous market. For lunch, we will head to Urubamba town, where you will get enjoy a delicious buffet lunch. After lunch, we will head to Ollantaytambo town, where we will also visit the town´s archaeological site. Finishing off, we will visit Chinchero town where you will meet some of the town´s women during their textile-making presentation. After your tour, you will be brought back to Cusco and dropped off at your hotel.

    • Highlight

      Pisac Ruins and market, Inka Fortress in Ollantaytambo.

    • Duration Tour

      Full Day.

    • Places we will Visit:

      Sacred Valley, (Pisac, Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, Chincheros).

    • Climate

      Cusco is relatively cool although very changeable.

    • Accommodation

      Does not Include Hotel.

    • Meals

      Lunch (Buffet).

    • Maximum Altitude

      3,762 masl. / 12342 ft.

  • Day 3 Cusco – Vinicunca – Rainbow Mountain Full Day.

    We will be picked up in our accommodation in Cusco, and after two hours of travelling by car, we will take a break in Pitumarca for breakfast. Afterwards, we will continue our journey to Chiripampa to buy the access ticket for the Rainbow Mountain (10 soles). This unique mountain is located deep in the heart of the longest mountain range on the planet.

    We will have to walk for roughly two hours until we reach this spectacular mountain, also known as the mountain of seven colors or Vinicunca. Once we arrive here, we will have time to enjoy the fascinating patterns of Vinicunca and take a good look around of the great panorama view we have from here. We will also have ample time to take photos. After fully appreciating this natural masterpiece, we will begin our descent back to Pitumarca.

    Back in Pitumarca, we will stop to have lunch. After this break we will start our return to the center of Cusco, where we will arrive around 6:30 pm.

    • Shuttle to Pitumarca

      3 ½ Hours

    • Hiking distance

      5 km / 3.1 mile

    • Hiking Time

      1 ½ Hours.

    • Places we will Visit

      Pitumarca, (Rainbow Mountain).

    • Climate

      Relatively cool although very changeable.

    • Accommodation

      Does not Include Hotel.

    • Meals

      Breakfast, Lunch (Buffet).

    • Maximum Altitude

      5,200 masl. / 17060 ft.

  • Day 4 Cusco – Abra Malaga – Huamanmarca – Santa Maria (Biking, Rafting)

    After a hotel pickup between 6:00am and 6:30am, you will head on a 1 ½ hour ride to Ollantaytambo. Here you can have a quick breakfast and buy snacks. Then, you'll continue for 1.5-hour more towards the Malaga High Pass (4,350 meters) where your adventure begins. After a safety briefing, you will enjoy a thrilling 2 ½ hour bike ride down into the lush and humid jungle. You will see Huamanmarka Archaeological site along the way, before arriving to Santa Maria village around 1:30pm. You will spend the night at a basic, Eco Lodge.

    Activity in Santa Maria: Rafting. Go on a scenic 2 ½ hour rafting adventure and go down class III & IV rapids on the Urubamba River (also known as Vilcanota River). If you choose not to participate in the rafting activity, you can explore the town on your own.

    • Shuttle to Abra Malaga

      3 ½ hours by bus from Cusco.

    • Biking distance

      65kms. / 40miles.

    • Biking time

      3 ½ to 4 hours approximately.

    • Climate

      Cold at the beginning of the biking and very hot in the night.

    • Accommodation

      Lodge: Eco Terra Lodge.

    • Meals

      Lunch, Dinner.

    • Maximum Altitude

      4350 masl. / 14271 ft.

  • Day 5 Santa Maria – Quellomayo – Santa Teresa – Cocalmayo Hot Spring (Hiking, Hot Spring)

    We walk along the riverbanks and start climbing. On our way we'll see small coffee plantations, fruit trees, etc. In this area it is possible to see many types of plants, orchids and birds. We will observe the beauties of the high forest which is a paradise of biodiversity in the Inca jungle route. After arriving to the top of the mountain we will see the whole valley of Urubamba. The group will descend to arrive at the village Qellomayo. After the break we will trek for 3hrs. going through farms, rivers, waterfalls until arriving at the hot water springs in Santa Teresa. We will continue to walk until reaching the town Santa Teresa.

    Cocalmayo offers several relaxing crystal clear hot springs, each with its own temperature. The sound of the river and the stars at night time make it a perfect scenery. After the hot springs(cocalmayo) the group will continue to walk for about 40 min. (or take a bus of you´d prefer) until reaching the town of Santa Teresa where you will check in to a nice comfortable Hotel. After the dinner you all are invited to visit one of the bars to hang out with the other members of the group.

    • Hiking distance

      22 Kms. / 13.6 miles.

    • Hiking time

      6 ½ to 7 hours approximately.

    • Climate

      hot in the day and warm in the night.

    • Accommodation

      Super Jungle Domes.

    • Accommodation

      Lodge: Eco Terra Lodge.

    • Meals

      Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

    • Maximum Altitude

      1900 masl / 6233 ft.

  • Day 6 Santa Teresa – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes (Hiking, Zipline)

    We continue to explore the roads less traveled and start from the town Santa Teresa. The passengers that reserved in advance will enjoy the zipline, the rest of the group will continue until reaching the hydroelectric too, where the whole group will rejoin. After a short break, the journey will continue along the great Inca jungle, going through waterfalls, coca and coffee farms until arriving at the town Aguas Calientes. The group will be taken to the hostel around 4 pm. At night we all get together in a restaurant to have a great dinner and have a briefing about the trek to Machu Picchu.

    • Hiking distance

      19 Kms. / 12.3 miles

    • Hiking time

      6 hours approximately.

    • Climate

      Hot in the day and warm in the night.

    • Accommodation

      Hostel: Aguas Calientes.

    • Meals

      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

    • Maximum Altitude

      2050 masl / 6725 ft.

  • Day 7Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

    Finally on last day of our Inca jungle tour we get up around 4:00AM. After which we´ll get ready to head to Machu Picchu, our trek will follow an ascending path through the high forest, after registering in the control entrance around 6:00AM. we will have a private guide leading us within the Inca citadel for about 1 ½ hours.

    For Machu Picchu Montaña, it´ll last you about 2hrs to go up, and it´s not as steep as Huayna Picchu, and even higher! Please note that you have to go before a certain time, so don´t forget to ask your guide which time you have been issued.

    You will have until 5PM time to explore Machu Picchu on your own, because then the guards will ask you to leave. In the afternoon, according to the departure of the train ticket, you will descend walking on your own to the town of Aguas Calientes to get the train back to Ollantaytambo where the group will be picked up and transferred to Cusco city.

    • Distance Travelled

      8 Kms. / 4.9 miles.

    • Hiking time

      2 hours approximately.

    • Shuttle to Machu Picchu

      25 minutes from Aguas Calientes.

    • Machu Picchu guided tour

      2 ½ Hours.

    • Climate

      Tropical warm.

    • Shuttle to Cusco

      3 hours by train and bus from Aguas Calientes to Cusco.

    • Meals

      Breakfast.

    • Maximum Altitude

      2429 masl / 7972 ft.

Trip Info & Details

How is the weather in the inca jungle tour?

Weather in the Inca jungle trail change a lot special the first day. however the weather is very warm in Santa Maria, Santa Tereza and Aguas Calientes. all this towns are located lower then Cusco and they are not higher then 2400 meter about the see level. Temperature during all year is between 10°C and 25 °C. Only in the biking portion you will need warm jacket and rain jacket.

when is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?

Best time to visit Machu Picchu by inca jungle trail is between march and December.

How hard is the biking tour ?

It is not that difficult and not that challenge however we recommend passenger have some king of experience with the bike. then with our tour guide recommendation you will have a great time with our tour.

Do I need experience for the tour?

Actually you don't need that expert experience on biking, rafting, or zipline. In any moment you fell these activities is to much for you. You can decide to not continue with this activities and take and optional way.

When should I book inca jungle trek?

Never is to early to book you tour with us, It is because you will have enough time to book in advance updates like Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Montaña. This tickets are sold out very fast and you need to book approximately 2 months before departure.

How much is to enjoy hotspings?

In Santa Tereza - Cocalmayo, You will find the best hotspings in the area, it only cost 10 soles or 3.5 USD dollars.

How hard is the hike on the second day?

It is not that hard. It is a medium exercise hike, However we recommend bring just belongs you will really need in the hike. Lite back pack is more confortable for hike this area.

How much money do I have to take in the tour?

We recommend 200 soles or 70 USD dollars. This is because sometimes you can need money for water, snacks, extra drinks, any kind of emergency.

How hard is hike from Aguas Calientes o Machu Picchu?

It is 1:30 hours hike . The first part is 30 minutes flat and then 1 hour steps up to Machu Picchu.

When Machu Picchu open and close?

Machu Picchu Open at 6:00 am and Close at 5:00 pm.

How long people usually take in machu picchu?

Usually people stay in Machu Picchu for 5 hours then they prefer to go to Aguas Calientes for lunch or spend sometime in the town.

Do you serve vegetarian food in machu picchu jungle tour?

Yes we do . Please when you book this tours don't forget to tell us if yu are vegetarian or you have any kind of allergy.

Huayna Picchu VS Machu Picchu Montaña

Many people ask about Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Montaña and few people know the difference about this 2 climbing hike mountains in Machu Picchu. Huayna picchu: It is located at the northeast area and it is famous because since the summit you can enjoy a beautiful landscape and Machu Picchu. huaynapicchu have a steep road and people arrive to the summit in approximately 45 minutes hike up. In the summit you can enjoy and take picture for not longer then 20 minutes. This is because huaynaPicchu pick do not have a big space and not to of people can login there. if you plan hike up to Huayna Picchu You need to book in advance . it cost 25 American dollars per person. Huayna Picchu altitude: 2789 masl. Montaña Machu Picchu: It is the taller Mountain. You need at list 3:30 hours to enjoy the hike up to this Montaña. This mountain ofer different altitudes view of Machu Picchu and also a amazing panoramic view of all machu picchu, Aguas calientes, hidroelectrica and others areas around. In the summit you can spend longer time. this is because not lot of people go to this mountain yet because the new accest it is. if you plan hike up to Montaña, You need to book in advance . it cost 25 American dollars per person. Montaña altitude: 3240 masl.

Essential

  • Original Passport
  • For students: ISIC card
  • Insurance card/certificate
  • Walking stick ( Highly Recomemded )

Clothing

  • Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
  • Warm jacket
  • 2-4 t-shirts
  • 2 pairs of pants (1 for hiking, 1 for camp)
  • Long underwear for sleeping
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Comfortable trousers
  • Sun hat or cap

Equipment

  • Sleeping bag (-15°C)
  • Trekking poles
  • Medium trekking backpack (15 - 25 liter)

Reccommend

  • Camera and charger
  • Personal medication
  • Flashlight or headlamp
  • Extra money for tips/snacks/beer.

Sky Camp

Our incredible Sky Camp is located in front of the impressive mountains Humantay and Salkantay. This campsite allows for the perfect union of sky and earth. It allows you to sleep calmly under a deep, blue sky starred with an exceptional view of the constellations. At the same time, you can enjoy all the comforts of a first-class vacation home.

  • location Soraypampa
  • Altitude 3,900 m / 12,795 ft
  • Igloos: 26
  • Capacity: 2 people per Igloo
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Mountain Sky View

Our campsite Mountain Sky View is a warm mountain accommodation and our novelty this year, and it’s with great pleasure that we prepared this place for all those looking for a glamping experience surrounded by nature. Each one of its individual Andean Sky Huts counts with a private bath besides spectacular tropical mountain views. You’ll find peace under the shining stars listening to the voices of wildlife and the whispers of the river in the valley.

  • location: Collpapampa
  • Altitude: 2,950 m / 9,678 ft
  • Cabins: 10
  • Capacity: 2 people per Sky Hut
  • Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Customer Reviews

An experience of a lifetime!

We had an amazing time on the Salkantay Trek and can’t say enough good things about Salkantay Trekking and our guide, Edgar. The company was very communicative throughout our booking process and throughout the trip. They answered all of our questions and the information that they provided was super helpful with our planning process.

Ashley H

Published at 24th Sepetember 2024 on Tripadvisor

Great experience 4 days trekking salkantay

We did the 4 days Salkantay trekking and had an amazing time ! Chachy was our guide and took great care of us. He told us many interesting facts about inca & quechua culture. The hike was really fun, great view. The accomodations were fantastic and the food was definitely above our expectations, we ate really well. We definitely recommend this hike for anyone who is looking for an experience a little more remote 😊

Caroline V

Published at 24th September 2024 on Tripadvisor

Really get a feel for Peru

It was an excellent trip, very difficult but rewarding, thanks to the help of our excellent guide Juvenal, the cook Rolando and his assistant Juan Carlos who delivered typical Peruvian dishes and the "aiguero" Edson who carried our luggage during the first few days.

Luiz José L

Published at 23th September 2024 on Tripadvisor

SALKANTAY 4 day trek

I was amazed by all of the stunning landscapes, the organization, and the people. Our tour guide, Carlos Rimachi was amazing! The trek would not be the same without him. I would recommend him to anyone as a tour guide for this trek. He was motivating, kind, knowledgeable and funny. He taught us a lot about the local customs, culture, plants and more.

Christine Y

Published at 23th September 2024 on Tripadvisor