4-Day Inca Jungle Trek: Mountain Biking, Rafting & Zipline to Machu Picchu
A four-day, multi-activity route from Abra Malaga to Machu Picchu combining a 60km downhill bike, jungle hiking, optional whitewater rafting and the highest zip line in South America. Expect dramatic altitude change, humid cloud forest and a sunrise approach to the citadel.
The Experience
Before You Go
Acclimatize in Cusco first
Spend 48 hours in Cusco to reduce altitude sickness risk before starting the descent from Abra Malaga.
Bring a lightweight rain shell
The cloud forest is unpredictable—rain is common outside May–September and a packable shell keeps you comfortable.
Protect knees on the descent
Use lower gears and controlled braking on the 4,400m-to-1,200m bike descent to avoid overusing knees and brakes.
Carry cash for local extras
Small towns en route may only accept cash for snacks, beers and small transport fees like the motor to Hydroelectric.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Cocalmayo thermal pools—less crowded at dusk
- •Small coffee farms near Quellomayo where you can sample local processing methods
Wildlife
- •Spectacled bear (rarely sighted in higher valleys)
- •Andean cock-of-the-rock and various hummingbird species in the cloud forest
Conservation Note
The area bridges fragile Andean and Amazon ecosystems—stay on trails, pack out waste, and support local guides who practice low-impact tourism.
Parts of the trail follow original Inca routes connecting highland settlements to the Vilcabamba refuge; local communities still maintain traditional farming on terraces.
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking bootsEssential
Support and grip for muddy trails and the 1,700-step ascent at Aguas Calientes.
Lightweight rain jacketEssential
Packable protection against tropical downpours common in the cloud forest.
Hydration system (≥2L)Essential
Sustains energy through long bike descents and multi-hour hikes in warm sections.
Compact first-aid & blister kitEssential
Immediate care for abrasions, blisters or minor rafting/biking scrapes.
Common Questions
How hard is the bike descent from Abra Malaga?
The ride is long but mostly downhill across varied surfaces; basic bike handling and confidence with brakes is important—most of it can be free-wheeled but expect technical sections.
Do I need a Machu Picchu ticket included?
Entrance to Machu Picchu is included with this program as stated in inclusions, but confirm your ticket type and passport details before arrival.
Is rafting required and how difficult is it?
Rafting is optional and rated Class III–IV depending on river conditions; prior experience is helpful and operators provide safety gear and guides.
What about altitude sickness?
You start very high at Abra Malaga—acclimatize in Cusco for at least 48 hours, stay hydrated and ascend slowly; guides can advise and monitor symptoms.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 days
Location
Cusco, Cusco Region
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Should be comfortable with several hours of hiking per day, a long downhill bike ride and optional rafting or zipline—good cardio and leg strength recommended.
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