The Adventurer’s #1 Inca Trail Alternative
Is it possible to find a one-size-fits-all solution to the problem of balancing time and budget limits with a thirst for adventure? This is especially tough in places like Cusco, which are already expensive without additional add-ons. But the Extreme Inca Tour is an Inca Trail alternative that might solve the problem for thrill-seekers.
You can get in your adventure activities (hiking, whitewater rafting, mountain biking, and ziplining) and still visit Machu Picchu. And the cost is around average for a good tour service to Machu Picchu.
Why The Extreme Inca Tour?
I discovered Cachi Life while searching for podcasts on visiting Peru. Their Peru Travel Podcast is a great resource for anyone visiting Cusco or Machu Picchu.
Cachi Life emphasizes working directly with local people for tourism services. This is important to me, since some tour providers ignore local communities and their needs (even while taking advantage of the natural and cultural richness of those communities!).
Cachi gives the traveler a fuller experience since locals are at the forefront of the company. Plus, the company pays fair wages (which is not always the case in Peru, sadly). They also work directly with local Quechua villages in implementing community projects.
The 4 Days Broken Down
Like the original Inca Trail, this tour is 4 days and 3 nights. However the Extreme Inca Tour goes the “back way” to Machu Picchu via Santa Theresa. On the way you’ll mountain bike, whitewater raft, hike, and zipline.
What’s Included
- English-speaking guide
- Ticket for Machu Picchu
- Mountain Bike + Safety Gear
- Lodging (hotels)
- Meals
- Wifi
- Transportation to and from hotels
- Return train ticket
What’s Not Included
For these you have to pay more:
- Tips for the guide, porters and cooks
- Huaynu Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain
- Zipline option
- Whitewater Rafting option
- Hot Springs in Santa Theresa
Day 1: Bike & Raft to the Jungle
On Day 1 the tour includes mountain biking and whitewater rafting. Cachi picks you up at the hotel, from which it’s 3-4 hours to the Abra Malaga Pass. Then you’ll descend over 3,000 feet (900 meters) in an adrenaline-packed distance of only 60km (37 miles). You’ll end at Santa Maria.
After lunch you have the option of taking a 2-hour whitewater rafting trip. The rapids are class III-IV. Since the biking won’t involve much pedaling, this is your chance to really get the blood flowing in warm, tropical Santa Maria.
Day 2: Hike with Monkeys & Soak in Springs
Of course, any route to Machu Picchu has to include hiking! Trek through jungle where you can spot monkeys, parrots, and try local coca and chocolate. The distance is 15km (9.3 miles). In Santa Theresa you can soak off in the hot springs to finish the day (always recommended :) ).
Day 3: Zipline!!!!
This starts with 6 ziplines up to 150 meters (492 feet!) in the air! Then you’ll hike 2.5 hours to Hydroelectrica for lunch. From there it’s a 2 hour hike next to the train tracks to Aguas Calientes.
Day 4: Machu Picchu
You have to option to get up early for Machu Picchu. I really recommend this, because you can witness sunrise at the Sun Gate. This is described as a peak, even spiritual, moment for many visitors. The Extreme Inca Tour includes a 2-3 hour guided tour of Machu Picchu. Definitely consider purchasing a ticket for Huaynu Picchu, but make sure you have enough time to catch the train to Cusco.
Things I Don’t Like
There are a couple of things I don’t like about this tour, though. Every night you are in a hotel. Although that can be nice, it’s hard to say you did an “extreme” alternative to the Inca Trail and didn’t sleep under the stars for one night!
Maybe it’s the secret hippie in me, but I like the idea of not needing a hot shower or a bed for a few days. Especially if the story ends at Machu Picchu.
Of course, the views and towns you see on this experience are still amazing and beautiful. The Andes are always fascinating no matter where you sleep.
Also, the whitewater rafting and zipline are optional. So you’ll have to pay more to do these. But, the price is still within normal range for a quality Inca Trail tour, even with these additional costs.
Next Steps
So if you’re looking for some adventure in Peru, consider the Extreme Inca Tour. You’ll have an unforgettable experience and visit the world wonder of Machu Picchu. The price is good too, considering the multiple activities and tickets involved (Machu Picchu and the train back to Cusco).
Plus, most alternatives to the Inca Trail don’t include a ticket to Machu Picchu. However, this one will have you at the Sun Gate on the sunrise of Day 4. That is an enviable option!
This is also a great choice if you want to do the Inca Trail but aren’t crazy about camping outside for 4 days straight. Finally, Cachi has an excellent reputation, and you’ll be going with a company that prioritizes ethical tourism.
If you’re looking to get dirty and camp under the stars on the way to Machu Picchu, consider another Inca Trail alternative. In fact, Cachi has a regular Inca Trail tour, plus other options like Salkantay and Choquequirao. But if you want a good deal for a multi adventure experience, culminating at Machu Picchu, you can’t beat this tour in price and quality.
Still interested? Here’s a link to read more or make a reservation on the Extreme Inca Tour:
Let me know if you ended up reserving the Extreme Inca tour or something else in the comment section below!
