The Inca Jungle trek to Machu Picchu is by far the most adventurous trekking option in the Cusco region. It is also the most varied in terms of activities. The ‘trek’ includes a massive downhill mountain biking experience, followed by possible river rafting on Grade III and IV rapids, jungle trekking, and optional zip-lining. It culminates with a visit to Machu Picchu. Most trekking companies offer the Inca Jungle trek on a 4D/3N itinerary, although it is possible to complete the trek on a 3D/2N itinerary (more on this below). Accommodation on the trek is in hostel or home-stays, with a night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes. The trek naturally appears to adventurous types who like thrilling adrenaline-filled experiences. If you are looking for a pure Andean trekking experience, hate mountain biking and enjoying camping, then this trek is not for you. Rather check out these alternative treks to Machu Picchu or indeed, the Classic Inca Trail. Below we have provided detailed information on the Inca Jungle trail itinerary and its route map. We have also provided guidance on the best time for this trek, acclimatisation and altitude sickness, best tour operators, and equipment packing lists. Day 1: Cusco – Abra Malaga Pass – Santa Maria The Inca Jungle trek starts with a 3-4 hour drive to the top of the impressive Abra Malaga Pass (4,316m). Most tour operators will either pick you up at your hotel in Cusco, or you will be asked to meet at the offices of the tour agent for collection. Departure times vary but you will usually be on the road by 07:00. The drive heads north out of Cusco (3,400m), and passes through the town of Chinchero before dropping into the Sacred Valley where you will get your first glimpses of the Cordillera Urubamba (prepared to be impressed). You will cross the Urabamba River into the town of the same name and continue onwards to Ollantaytambo (2,792m). Some tour operators might stop here for breakfast before continuing onwards and upwards along a very impressive and winding road to the top of the Abra Malaga Pass. This is the highest point on the trek (4,316m) and provides incredible vistas down into the highlands (see pics below). Mount Veronica (5680m / 18635ft). Veronica is the highest peak in the Cordillera Urubamba range. Its Quechua name is Wakay Willca, which means “Sacred Tears”. This image was taken from the other side of the Sacred Valley, near Abra Malaga Pass You will disembark at the top of the Pass and start gearing up for one of the most exciting cycles of your life. The route from the top of Malaga Pass to the final destination is all downhill – 4,316m to 1,196m descent – and just under 60km in distance. Most people take 4-5 hours to cycle this section. The ride is not very strenuous, in fact you can free-wheel most of the way and will use the brakes more than the pedals; however, the route is very windy which can make it a little dangerous, particularly because there are many blind corners and the cars on the route (which are few and far between) drive like maniacs! Make sure your tour company provide high visibility vests, reliable mountain bikes and protective gear like a full cover helmet and potentially body-gear (this might be over-kill for some people). A back up vehicle usually drives in front of you and if you get tired or wish to stop, you can jump in the car (this offer is not the available with all tour companies). You will stop to have lunch en route and arrive at Santa Maria (1,196m) mid-to-late afternoon. If there is time and the season is right (typically October-April) you can go river rafting. This is an optional extra offered by some tour operators, and is sometimes charged separately. The cost is around US$50 per person. Note: visibility is sometime very poor on the Abra Malaga Pass. If there is heavy fog your tour company will likely cancel the cycling excursion and instead drive you direct to Santa Maria. Day 2: Santa Maria – Santa Theresa After an overnight stay in Santa Maria, which is usually organised with a local hostel (set your expectations low with most hostels), is followed with an early breakfast. Today is a relatively big trekking day in terms of distance (~15km), but all at low altitude. The trek begins with a steep and strenuous climb that gradually flattens, before continuing through a number of undulating trails, one of which is an authentic Inca trail. The scenery is vegetatively lush as you are in fact in the Jungle region of the Cusco region. Remember to wear insect repellent, and look out for nasty little sand flies that leave bites that can last for weeks.