Tour details
DAY 1: CUSCO – AMAZON PONA LODGE
We leave Cusco very early in the morning in our private car adapted for the route with mountains and jungle, during the trip we will pass through many places of tourist attraction such as: Ninamarca, which is a pre-Inca construction of the Lupaca culture, then we will be passing through the valley and town of Paucartambo known as the folkloric capital of Peru, and continuing further we will arrive at the Ajanaco pass which is the beginning of the Manu National Park, from this point we will descend to the Amazon jungle; through a beautiful cloud forest.
In this area we will make stops and short walks to observe exotic birds of the cloud forest, especially the national bird of Peru, the Andean cock-of-the-rock, toucans, tanagers, and mammals such as monkeys and coatis, hopefully sloths and spectacled bear, and a variety of flowers and orchids, arriving at our lodge at sunset. L.D.
Night at Amazon Pona Lodge
DAY 2: AMAZON PONA LODGE – (BONANZA) PAPAYA LODGE
After breakfast at the Lodge, we continue our trip in our vehicle to the river port of Atalaya, along the way we will make stops at the hummingbird garden, coca plantation, and Atalaya viewpoint. Upon arriving at Atalaya, from there we begin our trip in a motorized boat across the Madre de Dios River to the natural hot springs and then to the next lodge, the trip will be 4 to 5 hours by boat, along the way we will be able to see many species of birds such as herons, macaws, toucans, kingfishers, etc.
Also posible to see animals such as the Capybara, (the largest rodent in the world), capuchin monkeys and squirrel monkeys, herons, etc. and along the river you will enjoy the boat trip seeing the beautiful Amazon landscape.
At the lodge we will have a brief rest break, then in the afternoon we will walk along the trails in search of insects, birds, mammals and monkeys. At dusk we will look for nocturnal wildlife such as: spiders, tarantulas, frogs, snakes, Caimans, night monkeys and many insects. then we return to the lodge for dinner and spend the night at the lodge. D.A.C.
Night at Papaya Lodge
DAY 3: BONANZA ECOLOGICAL RESERVE (JUNGLE EXPLORING)
This day after breakfast we start our walk to a beautiful primary forest with our small backpack carrying mineral water, snacks, and our travel equipment such as camera, binoculars, telescope and machete; and we go to the depths of the jungle to explore the real jungle passing streams, ravines and swamps to really have an experience and learn about what the Amazon jungle is looks inside, in the furthest from civilization in a pristine place.
were you will be able to see and enjoy birds such as: macaws, toucans, woodpeckers, eagles, hummingbirds, tanagers, etc. Also We can also find up to 8 species of monkeys in this area. And of course you can also find tree frogs, snakes, caimans, etc. and a wide variety of medicinal plants and giant trees.
The guide explains everything about the functions of the wild flora and fauna. In the afternoon we will go to spend the night in the camouflaged house that is located next to a beautiful mammal clay lick to see the animals that come to eat the mineral. such as: the tapir, porcupine, deer, birds and other nocturnal rodents. With good luck we can see cats like the Jaguar, puma or ocelot that sometimes come to hunt to this place and enjoy the sound of the jungle at night. B.L.D.
Night at Camuflage House
DAY 4: MAMMAL CLAY LICK – PAPAYA LODGE – CUSCO
This day after our breakfast we return looking for more animals to the lodge for breakfast to the lodge; Then we get ready to come back along the Madre de Dios River upstream to Atalaya from there we return in our private car to Cusco, arriving in Cusco at approximately 6pm. End of the trip. B.L
What’s Included in Your Inca Trail Experience
- Professional guide service, All of our guides expertly trained and licensed in tourism at Cusco National University. They all grew up on the andean regions and have a true passion to teach others about their heritage. They are fluent english, spanish and quechua and they will ensure you are safe and happy.
- Inka trail Permits As soon as we receive your personal details and a deposit, we will purchase your permits (pending availability, check our Inca Trail Availability, These permits are for a specific date and in your name. They can’t be changed, once confirmed. Only your passport number is allowed to be updated. The permit includes an entrance to Machu Picchu.
- Safety BriefingThe 1 or 2 nights before your trek, we will go to your hotel for your briefing. You will receive your duffel bag that will stay with your porters, while you hike. This bag should not exceed 7kg/14 lbs and does need to include your sleeping bag and air mattress.
- Super Porters
We include a personal porter, who is responsible for carrying your duffel bag. Up to 7kg or 14 lbs, There is not additional fee for this. You will not have access to your duffel bag until your evening campsite. - Transportation All your transportation is included in this trek. You will be picked up directly from your hotel around 4 a.m. (unless you are staying in Ollantaytambo) and brought to KM 82, to begin your trek. The train back from Aguas Calientes is included. This is Expedition class but can be upgraded to the Vistadome train for $75 per person. Once you arrive at the train station, you will be brought back to your hotel in Cusco. Your bus down ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu is also included.
- Equipment
We have the best equipment. We use Eureka Timberline 4 person tents that are shared by only two people and You will have a spacious dining tent to enjoy your meals in. - Food
Our chefs cooks three wholesome breakfasts, three satisfying lunches and three delighful dinners to keep you energized thrughout the adventure. We honor all food restrictions. Be sure to remind your tour guide of any food restrictions at the beginning of your trek. Food is typically served family-style. - Drinks at dinner
wine, champagne, pisco sour - Water. Beginning from your first lunch until your last breakfast, We will supply all the water needed. This water will be boiled, filtered and then cooled, before distributing.
- You must supply your own water bottles or camel back. We recommend carrying about 3L worth. We will refill our waters at each meal.
- First Aid Your guide has received training in first aid from a physician. Your guide will always have essential emergency supplies, including a comprehensive first aid kid, oxigen for high altitude situations and emergency radios for communicatios.
What’s Not Included in Your salkantay tour with Inca Trail Experience
- International flights and airport taxes.
- Domestic flights (available for booking upon request).
- Hotel accommodations and tours not mentioned in the itinerary (can be
arranged for you upon request). - Additional transportation required along the trek due to unforeseen
circumstances. - Tours (we can arrange for you)
- Meals not specified in the package.
- Personal expenses such as souvenirs, snacks, additional drinks etc.
- Travel insurance (highly recommended).
- Tips for guides and staff are not included and are at your discretion.
These items are not included, but we can assist with bookings to ensure a seamless experience.
GROUP SERVICE
- $785 USD per person
Frequently Asked Questions
Day 1: Cusco - Santa Maria
The Inca Jungle Trail to Machu Picchu 4 days: begins with a hotel pickup at 6:00 am, followed by a scenic three-hour drive through the breathtaking Sacred Valley of the Incas. As we reach Abra Malaga, the highest point of the trip at 4,316m, we will gear up and receive a briefing from our experienced guide.
We’ll then embark on a thrilling 3-hour downhill biking journey through the Andes, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and tropical forests. A support vehicle will be available for those who need a break. We’ll end the day at Eco Terra Lodge Santa Maria for a delicious lunch, optional river rafting, dinner, and restful sleep.
The adrenaline-packed biking adventure takes us from Abra Malaga to Huamanmarka, covering a distance of less than 55km and descending from 4,316m to 2,130m. The scenic route offers breathtaking views of the changing landscape, from snowy peaks to lush tropical forests.
At Eco Terra Lodge Santa Maria, we’ll enjoy a tasty lunch and have the opportunity to go river rafting on the Vilcanota River, offering a thrilling level III and IV experience. Afterward, we’ll return to the lodge for a delicious dinner and a well-deserved rest, preparing us for the exciting activities that await us the next day.
- Transportation from Cusco – Abra Malaga: 3.5 hours by private bus.
- Bicycle: – 2h – 3 h.
- Bicycle ride: 55 km – 34 m.
- Rafting: 2 hours
- Meals: Lunch and Dinner.
- Lodging: Lodge
- Difficulty: medium
- Guaranteed Adventure
- Maximum altitude: 4316 m – 14160 ft.
- Minimum altitude: – 1200 m – 3937 ft
Day 2: Santa Maria - Hot spring - Santa Teresa.
2 Embark on a 7-hour trek through the vibrant rainforest, starting with a 45-minute hike along the car route before joining the well-preserved Inca trail. This trail, the only one in good condition among the various Inca trails, once connected Machu Picchu with the final Inca capital, Vilcabamba.
Immerse yourself in the lush surroundings, encountering exotic fruits, diverse birdlife, and orchids, while enjoying breathtaking views of the Urubamba valley from the mountain’s summit. Descend for 2.5 hours to Qellomayo village for a satisfying lunch break.
Afterward, take a break in hammocks, then continue the trek for another 3 hours, passing through farms, waterfalls, and rivers (including a cable car crossing). By late afternoon, arrive at the Santa Teresa hot water springs, known as Cocalmayo, offering crystal-clear pools with different temperatures.
Relax in this idyllic setting surrounded by the river and starry skies. Following the hot springs experience, a 40-minute walk (or optional bus ride) leads to Santa Teresa town, where a comfortable hotel awaits. Enjoy dinner and socialize with fellow group members at one of the downtown bars.
- Walking: 7 hours
- Hiking distance: (15 km / 9.3 mi)
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch / Dinner
- Lodging: Lodge (2, maximum 3 people per room)
- Adventure Guaranteed
- Starting altitude: – 1200 m / 3,937 ft
- Campsite altitude: – 1500 m – 4921 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate
