07 Day: Inca Jungle Adventure With Mountain Bike, Rafting, Zipline & Trek

The Inca Jungle Adventure promises an exhilarating exploration of Peru’s natural wonders, blending outdoor thrills with cultural discovery. From biking down the Andes to rafting the Urubamba River, this 7-day journey immerses travelers in the region’s breathtaking landscapes. But the adventure doesn’t end there. Trekkers will uncover the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage site that has captivated visitors for centuries. With opportunities to zip line, hike, and witness the Andes’ magnificent scenery, this tour offers a truly unique perspective on the heart of the Inca Empire.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Hiking And Trekking Tours In Cusco.

Key Points

• This 7-day adventure from Cusco, Peru, offers a diverse range of activities, including mountain biking, rafting, ziplining, and trekking.
• The tour has a 100% traveler recommendation rate and includes 3 nights in 3-star hotels with all breakfasts.
• Day 2 features visits to the Moray terraces and Maras salt mines, allowing for cultural and historical immersion.
• The biking and rafting adventure on Day 3 provides thrilling experiences in the Andean landscapes.
• The tour culminates with a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu, offering an in-depth exploration of the ancient Inca citadel.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The Inca Jungle Adventure is a 7-day tour from Cusco, Peru that offers an exhilarating blend of outdoor activities and cultural experiences.

It includes mountain biking, rafting, ziplining, and trekking through the Andes. With a 100% traveler recommendation, the tour provides 3 nights in 3-star hotels, all breakfasts, and entrance fees.

While travel insurance and flights aren’t included, the price starts from $999.00, making it an accessible adventure. The tour is suitable for moderately fit travelers, though it’s not recommended for those with serious medical conditions or pregnant individuals.

Itinerary Breakdown

The Inca Jungle Adventure kicks off with the arrival in Cusco on Day 1.

Travelers will be picked up from the airport and acclimate to the high altitude of 3,400 meters.

In the evening, the expedition group will meet at 5:00 PM.

On Day 2, the group will visit the Moray terraces and Maras salt mines, after a scenic drive through the Andes.

The adventure begins on Day 3 with a bike descent from Malaga Pass at 4,316 meters, followed by a 2-hour rafting excursion.

Days 4 and 5 feature a trek to Santa Teresa and ziplining, respectively, before the grand finale at Machu Picchu on Day 6.

Arrival and Acclimatization in Cusco

Travelers arriving in Cusco will be promptly picked up from the airport, commencing their Inca Jungle Adventure.

Upon arrival, they’ll have time to acclimatize to the high altitude of 3,400 meters (11,000 feet).

At 5:00 PM, the group will gather to meet their expedition team and fellow adventurers.

This initial meeting sets the stage for the exciting journey ahead, as participants learn about the itinerary and safety protocols.

With the logistical details handled, the group can focus on seeing the cultural and natural wonders that await them on the Inca Jungle trail.

Chinchero, Moray, and Maras Salt Mines

After acclimatizing to Cusco’s high altitude, the group embarks on a scenic drive through the Andes to explore the region’s fascinating cultural and natural wonders. The first stop is the village of Chinchero, known for its traditional weaving. Next, they visit the Moray terraces, an Inca agricultural experiment site with concentric circular depressions. The final destination is the Maras salt mines, a stunning network of thousands of salt-harvesting ponds.

Destination	Significance
Chinchero	Traditional weaving center
Moray	Inca agricultural experiment site
Maras	Vast network of salt-harvesting ponds

The day provides a captivating introduction to the region’s rich history and diverse landscapes before the Inca Jungle Adventure truly begins.

Biking and Rafting Adventure

On the third day of the adventure, the group departs Cusco early in the morning for the start of the Inca Jungle Adventure.

They’ll bike down from Malaga Pass, an impressive descent from 14,160 feet. After lunch in Santa Maria, the group embarks on a 2-hour rafting excursion down the Urubamba River.

The combination of biking and rafting provides an exhilarating blend of activities, with scenic Andean landscapes and rushing waters.

Travelers will experience the thrill of navigating the river’s rapids and the freedom of coasting downhill on their bikes, all while immersed in the region’s natural beauty.

Trekking From Santa Maria to Santa Teresa

The morning trek from Santa Maria to Santa Teresa takes the group along the riverbanks, through coffee plantations, and amid lush flora.

Hikers are treated to stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The path winds through diverse ecosystems, allowing participants to observe the region’s rich biodiversity.

During the trek, the group stops for a refreshing lunch at Qellomayo. After refueling, they continue their hike, crossing bridges and traversing well-worn trails.

The steady pace and moderate difficulty of this segment ensure that travelers of various fitness levels can comfortably complete the journey.

Throughout the trek, the guide provides insightful commentary on the local environment and culture.

Ziplining and Aguas Calientes

On the fifth day, travelers embark on a thrilling zipline adventure in the scenic town of Santa Teresa.

After a morning of traversing the lush, verdant landscapes, they arrive at the zipline launching point, eager to soar through the air above the stunning surroundings.

Under the guidance of experienced operators, they gear up and take turns zipping across the ziplines, enjoying breathtaking views of the rugged terrain below.

Following the exhilarating activity, the group heads to the hydroelectric area for a well-deserved lunch before boarding a train to the charming town of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to the iconic Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu Exploration

Early on the sixth day, travelers set out for the much-anticipated visit to the famed Machu Picchu.

They started their exploration of the ancient Inca citadel before the crowds arrived, allowing them to fully enjoy the grandeur of the site. A knowledgeable guide led the group through the remarkably well-preserved ruins, sharing fascinating insights into the history, architecture, and spiritual significance of this wonder of the world.

Visitors marveled at the precise stonework, terraced gardens, and iconic structures like the Temple of the Sun. After the guided tour, they’d time to wander the site independently, capturing breathtaking photos and soaking in the serene atmosphere.

In the evening, they returned to Cusco by train, reflecting on the incredible day spent at Machu Picchu.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour’s group size is not explicitly mentioned in the provided information. However, the description notes that it includes an "expedition group," suggesting a small to medium-sized group, typically ranging from 4 to 12 travelers.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Activities?

There are no age restrictions for the activities, though the tour operator recommends a moderate physical fitness level. Children are welcome, but the activities may not be suitable for very young travelers.

Can I Bring My Own Bike for the Biking Portion?

The tour company doesn’t allow participants to bring their own bikes for the biking portion. They provide high-quality mountain bikes that are well-suited for the terrain and activities. Bringing your own bike is not an option.

Is It Possible to Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, the tour operator generally allows travelers to customize the itinerary to their preferences. They’re flexible and willing to accommodate special requests, such as adding or substituting activities, within the overall 7-day framework of the Inca Jungle Adventure.

What Documentation Is Required for This Tour?

For this Inca Jungle Adventure tour, travelers will need a valid passport. No additional documentation is required. The tour operator can provide specifics on any visa requirements based on the traveler’s nationality.

Recap

The 7-Day Inca Jungle Adventure offers an exhilarating blend of outdoor activities that showcase Peru’s natural beauty and rich history. Travelers will acclimatize to high altitudes, explore cultural sites, and embark on thrilling adventures like mountain biking, rafting, and ziplining. The tour culminates with an unforgettable visit to the iconic Machu Picchu, leaving participants with lasting memories of their Andean expedition.