4-Day Machu Picchu Biking and Hiking Tour from Cuzco

Day 1: Andes to Jungle: Epic Bike Descent

1. Ollantaytambo
   8h
   Andes to Jungle: Epic Bike Descent
   Early Morning Departure from Cusco (6:30am)
   
   Begin your adventure bright and early, as you’re picked up right from your accommodation. Settle in for a scenic drive out of Cusco as dawn breaks over the Andes.
   
   Breakfast in Ollantaytambo
   
   After 1.5 hours on winding mountain roads, pause in the charming town of Ollantaytambo. Grab a quick breakfast, explore, and gather some last-minute snacks for the journey ahead.
   
   Ascend to the Majestic Malaga High Pass (4,350m)
   
   Continue your ascent for another 1.5 hours until you reach the breathtaking Malaga High Pass. Here, at one of the highest and most dramatic points of your trip, your guide will arm you with bikes, gear, and a comprehensive safety briefing.
2. Santa Maria
   10h
   Exhilarating Mountain Biking Descent (Approx. 2.5 hours)
   
   Feel the adrenaline as you drop from the chilly heights into the warm, humid jungle below. Witness the transition from Andes to Amazon—cycle past the mysterious Huamanmarca Archaeological ruins, coast through lush fruit plantations, and splash across crystalline rivers.
   
   Arrival in Santa Maria Village (2:00–2:30pm, 1,400m)
   
   Roll into the vibrant, tropical hamlet of Santa Maria. The afternoon is yours—unwind, wander the lively streets, or opt into an optional whitewater rafting adventure for an extra rush!
   
   Overnight in a Rustic Guesthouse
   
   End your action-packed day soaking up local flavors and camaraderie, spending the night in a simple, authentic guesthouse for a true taste of village life.

Day 2: Rainforest Trails & Mountain Village Arrival

1. Machu Picchu
   10h
   Dawn at Machu Picchu, Homeward Bound
   Early Morning Ascent
   
   Rise before dawn and board one of the first buses to Machu Picchu. The scenic 25-minute ride brings you to the ancient citadel as morning mist lifts, revealing a breathtaking view of the Lost City in the soft dawn light.
   
   Guided Tour of Machu Picchu
   
   Join your guide for a captivating two-hour walking tour through Machu Picchu. Marvel as fascinating stories and history bring this UNESCO World Heritage Site to life amid the stunning mountain backdrop.
   
   Independent Exploration & Optional Hike
   
   After the tour, the mysterious ruins beckon—wander at your own pace or, if you're adventurous, tackle the strenuous Huayna Picchu Peak hike (extra cost, advance booking required) for astonishing bird’s-eye views.
   
   Return & Local Experience
   
   Take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes. If time permits, dive into the vibrant local market near the train station, browsing handcrafted souvenirs until it’s time to board your train.
2. Ollantaytambo
   4h
   Journey Back to Cusco
   
   Relax and reminisce as you travel by train to Ollantaytambo, then catch a bus back to historic Cusco. Arrive at Plaza San Francisco around 8:00 pm, where your day’s unforgettable adventure concludes.

Day 3: Hiking Rail Trails to Machu Picchu Town

1. Santa Teresa
   12h
   Hiking Rail Trails to Machu Picchu Town
   Trekking Along the Tracks
   
   After breakfast, set out on an easy, picturesque 3-hour walk from Santa Teresa to the Hydroelectric Station. Listen to the distant rumble of the river and enjoy jungle views as you follow the rails, soaking in Peru’s rugged beauty.
   
   Lunch at Hydroelectric Station
   
   Recharge with a hearty lunch surrounded by fellow trekkers and the sound of rushing water nearby—the perfect fuel for the next leg of your journey.
2. Aguas Calientes
   12h
   Onward to Aguas Calientes
   
   Continue your adventure, trekking another 3 hours along the tracks toward Aguas Calientes. Feel free to take it slow or, if you’re weary, opt for the quick train ride from the Hydroelectric Station straight to town.
   
   Arrival & Aguas Calientes Exploration
   
   Arrive in the lively gateway village of Aguas Calientes. Celebrate your accomplishment in local cafes—play a board game, unwind with friends, or browse souvenir shops. With WiFi and relaxing spaces, it’s a perfect place to recharge.
   
   Overnight in Comfort
   
   Tonight, check into a hotel for a luxurious hot shower and a restful night’s sleep—you’ve earned it!

Day 4: Dawn at Machu Picchu, Homeward Bound

1. Machu Picchu
   8h
   Dawn at Machu Picchu, Homeward Bound
   Early Morning Ascent
   
   Rise before dawn and board one of the first buses to Machu Picchu. The scenic 25-minute ride brings you to the ancient citadel as morning mist lifts, revealing a breathtaking view of the Lost City in the soft dawn light.
   
   Guided Tour of Machu Picchu
   
   Join your guide for a captivating two-hour walking tour through Machu Picchu. Marvel as fascinating stories and history bring this UNESCO World Heritage Site to life amid the stunning mountain backdrop.
   
   Independent Exploration & Optional Hike
   
   After the tour, the mysterious ruins beckon—wander at your own pace or, if you're adventurous, tackle the strenuous Huayna Picchu Peak hike (extra cost, advance booking required) for astonishing bird’s-eye views.
2. Aguas Calientes
   4h
   Return & Local Experience
   
   Take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes. If time permits, dive into the vibrant local market near the train station, browsing handcrafted souvenirs until it’s time to board your train.
   
   Journey Back to Cusco
   
   Relax and reminisce as you travel by train to Ollantaytambo, then catch a bus back to historic Cusco. Arrive at Plaza San Francisco around 8:00 pm, where your day’s unforgettable adventure concludes.

Pickup details

Please get in touch with us at least 1 week before your departure so we can arrange pick-up from your accommodation.

IMPORTANT: Briefing will be at 6pm in your hotel the day before your trek starts.

Emergency contact: +51 981 488 464

• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• Minimum age is 7 years
• SUGGESTED PACKING LIST: Bring or Rent in Cuzco: hiking poles, rain pants, rain poncho, trekking boots, sandals, warm socks, sweater, thermals, hat, gloves, sun hat, sun block, sun glasses, flashlight/torch, camera, extra batteries and memory card (there is limited to no electricity available during the trek), waterproof bags for your camera, hand sanitizer, personal first aid kit, water bottle. Bring extra cash for snacks, water, gatorade which doubles or triples in price along the trail. Bathing suit for hot springs in Santa Teresa Village (this activity is available at an additional price).
• All travellers are required to visit the Cuzco office one day prior to departure for a mandatory briefing on your trek. At this meeting you will receive detailed information on the route, a list of what to bring, confirm your accommodation pick-up for the morning of the trek and be able to ask questions.
• PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: This is a moderately difficult hike, with a few long hiking days combined with multi-sport activities such as mountain biking, river rafting, and/or zip lining. We recommend you to be physically fit for the trip.
• ACCOMMODATION: Single travelers will share a room with another traveler & Couples will have a private room.
• Note: Accommodation options are very limited along the trekking route for the first 2 nights in Santa Maria & Santa Teresa villages. Most places have very basic, rustic facilities, rooms often share a bathroom and sometimes do not have hot water. However, we always choose the best available option
• Important: You must provide the following information upon booking: Full name (exactly as it appears on the passport), Date of Birth, Nationality, Passport Number, Date of Passport Expiry - Must be valid for at least 6 months past the date of travel. Without this information, the local tour operator will be unable to make the booking. Please be aware that your complete and correct passport information must be provided. Absolutely no modifications can be made once your booking has been confirmed. Any changes or discrepancies in the information provided will result in a complete loss of permits and entrance tickets, for which you will be held responsible and will need to pay for again
• You will have a guide during the trek and on the Machu Picchu tour. However, during your bus and train transfers you will not be accompanied by a guide.
• If desired, an extra night in Aguas Calientes town can be arranged. (Please let us know whether you would like to stay an extra night when booking your tour.)
• DON'T FORGET THE ESSENTIALS: Original passport, visa (if applicable), insurance card, personal medications.
• Travellers who booked their trip using one passport, then renewed or replaced it afterward, must carry the old passport they used to make the booking or a photocopy with them on the trip.