How to Plan Your 4-Day Machu Picchu Tour with Biking, Inca Trail, Rafting, and Ziplining from Cusco

If you’re looking for an action-packed adventure that includes incredible outdoor activities and a visit to the world-renowned Machu Picchu, then look no further. This 4-day tour from Cusco packs in biking, hiking, rafting, ziplining, and more, all while taking you through the stunning landscapes of the Sacred Valley and beyond.

Here’s how to plan your 4-day Machu Picchu tour with biking, Inca Trail, rafting, and ziplining from Cusco:

Day 1 – Cusco to Santa Maria (Biking, Rafting)

Your tour starts early in the morning, as you’re picked up from your hotel in Cusco and transferred by bus to the scenic and historic town of Abra Malaga. Here, you’ll be given a briefing on the day’s activities before being fitted for mountain bikes, helmets, and gloves.

From here, you’ll set off on an exhilarating downhill bike ride through the Andes, taking in stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The ride takes around three hours and covers approximately 50km, with the last stretch taking you through a lush, jungle-like landscape.

At the end of the bike ride, you’ll arrive in Santa Maria, where you’ll enjoy a well-deserved lunch before heading to the nearby Urubamba River for an afternoon of thrilling rafting. The rafting trip covers around 10km of Class III and IV rapids, with expert guides leading the way and ensuring your safety throughout.

After a busy day, you’ll return to Santa Maria for dinner and a good night’s rest.

Day 2 – Santa Maria to Santa Teresa (Hiking)

Today’s adventure takes you on a stunning hike through the rugged terrain of the Andes, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The hike covers approximately 16km and takes around six hours to complete, with plenty of stops along the way to rest and take in the scenery.

The hike takes you through lush forests, past cascading waterfalls, and along steep, rocky cliffs. Along the way, you’ll learn about the history and culture of the area from your guide, who will also point out interesting flora and fauna.

At the end of the hike, you’ll arrive in the charming town of Santa Teresa, where you’ll enjoy a well-deserved lunch before heading to a nearby hot spring for a relaxing soak. Afterward, you’ll be transferred to your accommodation for dinner and a good night’s rest.

Day 3 – Santa Teresa to Aguas Calientes (Ziplining, Machu Picchu)

Today starts with a thrilling zipline adventure through the lush canopy of the Peruvian jungle. You’ll soar through the air on a series of ziplines, taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle.

After your zipline adventure, you’ll be transferred to the start of the Inca Trail, where you’ll begin your hike to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. The hike takes around four hours and covers approximately 11km, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Once you arrive in Aguas Calientes, you’ll check into your accommodation and have some free time to explore the town at your leisure. In the evening, your guide will give you a briefing on your visit to Machu Picchu the following day before you enjoy a well-deserved dinner.

Day 4 – Machu Picchu and Return to Cusco

The final day of your tour takes you to the highlight of your trip, Machu Picchu. You’ll start early in the morning, taking a bus to the entrance of the site before entering and exploring the ruins with your expert guide.

You’ll have plenty of time to explore the site, taking in the breathtaking views and learning about the history and culture of this incredible wonder of the world.

After your visit to Machu Picchu, you’ll return to Aguas Calientes for lunch before taking the train and bus back to Cusco. The tour ends with drop-off at your hotel in Cusco.

Conclusion

This 4-day Machu Picchu tour with biking, Inca Trail, rafting, and ziplining from Cusco offers an incredible adventure for the adventurous traveler. With expert guides, top-quality equipment, worry-free meals, and accommodations, you can rest assured that every aspect of your adventure is taken care of.

To book your 4-day Machu Picchu tour with biking, Inca Trail, rafting, and ziplining from Cusco, book the tour here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cusco

Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, is one of the most popular destinations in Peru. Known for its stunning archaeological sites, cultural festivals, and colorful streets, tourists from all over the world visit this city every year. However, before you start planning your trip, you might have some questions about Cusco. To help you out, we have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about Cusco.

1. What is the best time of year to visit Cusco?

The best time to visit Cusco is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During these months, you can expect sunny days with little or no rain. The wet season, which runs from October to April, is characterized by heavy rain and landslides, which can make it difficult to explore the city. Keep in mind that Cusco is at an altitude of over 11,000 feet, so temperatures can be quite cold year-round, especially at night.

2. What should I pack for my trip to Cusco?

When packing for your trip to Cusco, it’s important to remember that the weather can be variable, so pack clothing for both warm and cold weather. You’ll also want to bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city and ruins. If you plan on hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, make sure you pack warm clothing, a rain jacket, and sturdy hiking boots. Other essential items include a hat to protect you from the sun, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a water bottle.

3. How do I get to Cusco?

The easiest way to get to Cusco is by air. The Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport is located just outside of the city and receives flights from major cities in Peru as well as some international destinations. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Lima or other cities in Peru, but be prepared for a long journey.

4. Is it safe to travel to Cusco?

Cusco is generally safe for tourists. However, like any city, there are areas that are more dangerous than others, so it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, keep your valuables out of sight, and be careful in crowded areas such as markets and festivals.

5. What are some must-visit attractions in Cusco?

There are many must-visit attractions in Cusco, including:

– The Plaza de Armas: The main square of Cusco and home to impressive colonial architecture.

– Sacsayhuaman: A massive Inca fortress located on the outskirts of the city.

– Machu Picchu: This ancient Inca citadel is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world.

– Qorikancha: An Inca temple that was later converted into a colonial church after the Spanish conquest.

– San Pedro Market: A bustling market where you can buy souvenirs, fresh produce, and local crafts.

6. How long should I spend in Cusco?

To fully explore Cusco and its surrounding areas, we recommend spending at least 3-4 days in the city. This will give you enough time to visit all the major attractions and go on a few day trips to nearby ruins and towns. If you plan on hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, you’ll want to allow at least 4-5 days.

7. What is the local currency in Cusco?

The local currency in Cusco is the Peruvian Sol. ATMs are widely available in the city center, and most hotels and restaurants accept credit cards. It’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases and to tip tour guides and waitstaff.

8. What is the food like in Cusco?

The food in Cusco is a fusion of Andean and Spanish flavors. Some of the local dishes you should try include ceviche (marinated raw fish), lomo saltado (stir-fried beef with onions and tomatoes), and cuy (roasted guinea pig). Vegetarians and vegans will find plenty of options as well, including quinoa soup, roasted vegetables, and fresh fruit juices.

Conclusion

Planning a trip to Cusco can be a bit overwhelming, but we hope this article has answered some of your most pressing questions. Remember to pack for variable weather, take necessary safety precautions, and allow yourself enough time to explore this incredible city and all it has to offer. By doing so, you’re sure to have a memorable and enjoyable trip to Cusco!