3-days Special Offer Inca Jungle tour to Machu Picchu

A 3-Day Adventure to Machu Picchu with a Twist

Travelers looking to reach Machu Picchu in a way that blends adventure with culture will find this 3-day Inca Jungle tour a compelling option. Starting in Cusco, the journey includes a mix of mountain biking, trekking, and optional activities like white-water rafting and ziplining. For a total price of just over $280 per person, it offers a lively, active alternative to the standard train and bus route, appealing especially to those craving a more authentic, hands-on experience.

What we loved most about this tour is the small group size—limited to 15 travelers, which ensures a more personalized experience—and the opportunity to be among the first inside Machu Picchu on the morning of your visit. The route through rural villages and lush landscapes keeps the scenery fresh and captivating. A second highlight is the chance to try mountain biking downhill through scenic Andean valleys, a thrill that adds a real sense of adventure to the trip.

The one consideration to keep in mind is the physical demands; this tour requires moderate fitness levels to comfortably handle biking, trekking, and optional water activities. It’s not a laid-back tour, but for those who enjoy being active and engaged, it’s a rewarding journey.

This experience is perfect for active travelers who want more than just a quick sightseeing trip and are eager for a mix of physical activity, culture, and stunning views. If you value guides who are knowledgeable—like Edwin, who’s praised for his professionalism—and appreciate an itinerary that moves from scenic villages to ancient ruins, then this tour is worth considering.

Key Points

• Active adventure: Combines biking, trekking, and optional rafting and ziplining.
• Small group size: Limited to 15 travelers for a more intimate experience.
• All-inclusive: Meals, transfers, accommodation, and Machu Picchu entry are included.
• Early access: Visit Machu Picchu at dawn, avoiding crowds.
• Authentic scenery: Travel through rural villages, lush landscapes, and high mountain passes.
• Value: Competitive pricing for a full 3-day adventure, especially considering the included sites and activities.

In-Depth Review of the 3-Day Inca Jungle Tour to Machu Picchu

Starting Point and First Day: From Cusco to Santa María

The tour kicks off early in Cusco, with a briefing the night before, which gives us a good chance to ask questions and prepare. We then depart around 6:30 am, heading through picturesque villages and rural landscapes that highlight the diverse agricultural scenes of the Peruvian highlands. The highlight of the first day is reaching Abra Málaga, at 4,350 meters above sea level, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.

The bike ride begins here—a three-hour downhill tour of full suspension bikes, helmets, and gloves provided—giving us a genuine sense of freedom as we coast through scenic orchards, rivers, and streams. This section is physically engaging but exhilarating, especially for those who enjoy cycling. The descent into Huamanmarca offers potential for quick water and snack stops, allowing a brief taste of local life.

Arriving in Santa María, at about 1,200 meters altitude, we settle into a simple hotel for the night. This small town marks a step into the rural heart of Peru, away from tourist-heavy spots, which we love for its authenticity.

Optional activity alert: In the afternoon, you can opt for white-water rafting on the Vilcanota River (costs about US$35). Many reviews praise the quality of the experience—our guide, for instance, was noted for his enthusiasm and professionalism. Expect category III and III+ rapids, suitable for those with at least moderate physical fitness and a thirst for adrenaline.

Day Two: Trekking to Aguas Calientes

The second day begins early with a drive to Aguas Calientes, passing through lush fields and native forests. This stretch offers a glimpse into local agricultural practices, with plenty of native fruits visible along the way.

The highlight here is the optional zipline or canopy tour. For those choosing to add this on, you’re looking at an extra cost (around $30), but it’s praised for the fun and adrenaline. The tour continues with a hearty lunch at Hydroelectric Station, where the scenery still impresses with its natural beauty.

Post-lunch, the group hikes for about three hours along the railway tracks, arriving in Aguas Calientes—the gateway to Machu Picchu. The town itself is modest but charming, built for travelers eager to visit the ruins early the next morning.

Day Three: Machu Picchu—Sunrise and Exploration

The final day is a true highlight. We wake around 4:00 am, tackling the ascending path to Machu Picchu to catch the sunrise—a moment that many travelers find unforgettable. Walking through the misty jungle at dawn, we are among the first to enter the site, avoiding the crowds that arrive later in the day.

Our guide, praised for knowledgeable commentary, takes us on a two-hour guided tour, highlighting key structures and explaining their significance. Afterward, you’re free to roam, take photos, or simply soak in the atmosphere. The early entry, combined with the small group size, makes this very special.

Descending back to Aguas Calientes, the group boards the train or private transport back to Cusco, completing a full and rewarding adventure.

Practical Details and Value

This tour offers exceptional value for active travelers. The price of approximately $282 includes most essentials: transfers, meals (including vegetarian options), guided tours, and the Machu Picchu entrance ticket. The accommodation—one night in a basic local house and one night in a hostel with private bathrooms—keeps costs reasonable without sacrificing comfort.

Additional costs are mostly for optional activities like rafting (around $35), ziplining (about $30), and the train ticket back from Aguas Calientes (~$80). The $24 bus fee to Machu Picchu is extra but manageable, especially considering the early access benefit.

The tour’s small group size (max 15) ensures a more personalized experience, and guides like Edwin are credited for their professionalism and friendliness. The moderate physical requirements mean it’s suitable for those comfortable with biking and hiking, making it accessible without being overly strenuous.

What Travelers Should Know

• Timing is tight but well organized to maximize the experience.
• Weather can affect activities; the tour is weather-dependent, and cancellations are handled fairly.
• The early start can be demanding, but the reward of seeing Machu Picchu at sunrise is worth it.
• The small group size fosters a more intimate atmosphere but requires booking well in advance—most travelers book about 55 days ahead.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for active travelers who want a more authentic, hands-on experience of the Peruvian landscape and culture. If you’re someone who enjoys mountain biking, trekking, or just engaging with nature, you’ll find this trip invigorating. It’s also well-suited for those who value early access to Machu Picchu, avoiding the crowds and capturing that perfect sunrise shot.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace, or have mobility concerns, this might be more challenging. The optional rafting and ziplining add an extra layer of excitement, but they are not necessary to enjoy the core experience.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day Inca Jungle tour to Machu Picchu manages to pack a lot of adventure into a relatively short period. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want to see spectacular scenery, challenge themselves physically, and visit Machu Picchu early in the morning. The small group setting and knowledgeable guides help make it more personal and engaging.

If you’re looking for a trip that combines adventure, culture, and efficiency, and are okay with a bit of physical effort, this tour delivers excellent value. You’ll leave with memories of breathtaking views, a sense of achievement, and a fresh appreciation for Peru’s natural beauty.

FAQs

Is transportation from Cusco included?
Yes, transportation from Cusco to Abra Málaga is included, along with transfers from Hydroelectric back to Cusco.

Are meals included in the tour?
Most meals are included—2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners, with vegetarian options available at no extra cost.

Can I do the optional activities?
Yes, rafting and ziplining are available as optional activities, costing around $35 and $30 respectively.

How early do we start on the final day?
The group departs around 4:00 am to climb to Machu Picchu for sunrise, so be prepared for an early start.

What kind of bikes are provided?
Full suspension bikes designed for downhill riding, with helmets and gloves included.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
It requires moderate physical fitness, so it’s best for active adults comfortable with biking and trekking.

What is the group size limit?
Limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Are accommodations comfortable?
Accommodation includes a night in a basic local house and a night in a hostel with private bathrooms and hot water.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Activities are weather-dependent; if cancelled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This tour offers a well-rounded, active approach to experiencing Machu Picchu, perfect for travelers who want to turn their journey into a memorable adventure.