Inca Jungle Trail: 3-Day Mountain Biking, Rafting & Zipline to Machu Picchu
Three days of downhill biking, whitewater, zip lines and a jungle walk culminate at the Inca citadel. Expect early mornings, varied terrain from high mountain passes to humid rail tracks, and guided logistics that shuttle you between wild rivers and Machu Picchu.
The Experience
Before You Go
Acclimate in Cusco first
Spend at least one night in Cusco (3,400 m) before starting to reduce altitude symptoms during high pass travel.
Bring waterproof gear
Rain is common on the eastern slopes—pack a rain jacket and dry sacks for electronics and documents.
Hydrate and salt
Long activity days and altitude mean sip water constantly and use salt or electrolyte tablets to avoid headaches.
Carry cash for extras
Vendors sell photos, snacks, and the Aguas Calientes–Machu Picchu bus tickets for roughly $12; small bills avoid change issues.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Hot springs at Santa Teresa for a post‑day soak
- •Hydroeléctrica waterfalls and the less‑crowded railside flora en route to Aguas Calientes
Wildlife
- •Andean cock‑of‑the‑rock (vivid male displays)
- •Spectacled bear (rare but present in higher cloud‑forest zones)
Conservation Note
Machu Picchu tickets and guided access limit visitor impact; stick to trails, pack out waste and avoid single‑use plastics to protect cloud‑forest biodiversity.
The route traces secondary Inca access routes and jungle‑edge fortifications used for control between highland Cusco and the Amazonian foothills.
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking shoes (approach or trail runners)Essential
Grip and comfort for wet, rooty jungle trails and the steps at Machu Picchu.
Light waterproof jacket and dry sacksEssential
Keeps you dry during cloud‑forest rain and protects electronics on river sections.
Hydration reservoir (2–3 L)Essential
Continuous access to water is crucial across long bike descents and jungle walks.
Gloves and padded cycling shorts
Improves comfort for the multi‑hour mountain bike descent; some operators provide helmets and basic protection.
Common Questions
Do I need prior mountain biking experience?
Basic off‑road biking skills are recommended; guides adapt pace to groups but expect steep and sometimes loose descents.
Can I avoid the early morning hike to Machu Picchu?
Yes — buses run from Aguas Calientes to the citadel (approx. $12), saving the 1,200‑step jungle climb and getting you there for sunrise.
Is rafting on the Urubamba suitable for beginners?
The included rapids are typically class II–III and run with professional guides and safety gear; prior experience helps but is not required.
Are entrance tickets to Machu Picchu included?
This tour includes Machu Picchu tickets, but it’s wise to confirm your assigned entry time in advance since slots are limited.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3 days
Location
Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), Cusco Region
Difficulty
challenging
Fitness Level
Moderate to fit — expect sustained pedaling, multi‑hour hikes, stair climbs up to 1,200 steps and brief whitewater exertion
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