Day 1: Cusco – Sacred Valley – Abra Málaga – Downhill Biking – Huamanmarca – Santa María
Your Inca Jungle Trail 4 Days to Machu Picchu begins with an early hotel pick-up in Cusco around 6:00 a.m. From there, we will start a scenic journey through the impressive Sacred Valley of the Incas, surrounded by Andean villages, agricultural fields, and breathtaking mountain views.
Along the way, you will enjoy beautiful landscapes of the Vilcabamba and Vilcanota mountain ranges, as well as charming towns that show the traditional side of the Sacred Valley.
Breakfast Stop in Ollantaytambo
After approximately 2 hours by car, we will arrive in the ancient Inca town of Ollantaytambo, where you will enjoy an included breakfast.
This is also a good moment to stretch your legs, use the restroom, and enjoy the atmosphere of one of the most important living Inca towns in Peru.
Abra Málaga Pass | 4,350 m / 14,271 ft
After breakfast, we continue the drive toward Abra Málaga Pass, located at 4,350 m / 14,271 ft above sea level.
This high mountain pass marks the starting point of your downhill biking adventure. Before beginning, your guide will provide the necessary biking equipment and a safety briefing so you feel confident and prepared for the ride.
Downhill Biking to Santa María
From Abra Málaga, we begin an exciting downhill biking route toward the warmer jungle town of Santa María, located at 1,430 m / 4,691 ft.
The biking route covers approximately 65 km and takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on the pace of the group. Along the way, you will enjoy dramatic changes in scenery as the route descends from the high Andes into the cloud forest.
You will also have incredible views of the snow-capped Veronica Mountain, waterfalls, valleys, and lush green landscapes.
A support vehicle will accompany the group during the activity for safety and assistance.
Huamanmarca Inca Site and Lunch
During the route, we will stop at Huamanmarca, a small but fascinating Inca archaeological site.
Here, your guide will explain the importance of the ruins, and you will have time to explore before enjoying a well-deserved lunch.
This stop adds a cultural touch to the day, connecting the adventure route with the region’s Inca history.
Whitewater Rafting in Santa María
After visiting Huamanmarca, we will continue by car to Santa María, where an exciting whitewater rafting adventure awaits in the afternoon.
The rafting activity lasts approximately 1 to 1.5 hours and takes place in a beautiful natural setting surrounded by tropical landscapes, rivers, and mountains.
Professional rafting instructors will provide safety equipment and instructions before entering the river, making this one of the most thrilling moments of the Inca Jungle Trail.
Overnight in Santa María
After rafting, you will check into your hotel in Santa María, where you can take a shower, relax, and recover after an active day.
In the evening, the group will gather at a local restaurant for dinner. This is a great time to enjoy a delicious meal, share stories from the day, and prepare for the next stage of the adventure.
Day 1 Tour Summary
Route: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Abra Málaga – Huamanmarca – Santa María
Main activities: Scenic drive, downhill biking, Inca site visit, whitewater rafting
Biking distance: Approx. 65 km
Biking time: Approx. 3 to 4 hours
Rafting time: Approx. 1 to 1.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate, adventure-filled day
Accommodation: Hotel in Santa María
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Climate: Warm and windy during the day, warm nights
