2 day Machu Picchu tour by car
Discover Machu Picchu in a different and accessible way!
With our Machu Picchu by car 2-day tour, we take you on a journey full of breathtaking landscapes, from the Andean mountain range to the Cusco jungle. The car route takes you to the Hydroelectric station, from where you’ll do a hike of approximately 2 hours to the town of Aguas Calientes. There you can relax and prepare for your visit to the Machu Picchu citadel the next day.
It’s an ideal option for those seeking a more economical and adventurous experience, without leaving aside the comfort and charm of the journey. Experience two days full of nature, culture and the unique energy of Machu Picchu!
Highlights
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Car journey from Cusco to Hydroelectric with stops in Ollantaytambo, Abra Málaga and Santa Teresa.
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2 to 2.5-hour hike from Hydroelectric to Aguas Calientes (optional train for $25 USD).
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Night in Aguas Calientes with free time to rest or visit the hot springs.
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Sunrise ascent to Machu Picchu (hike or optional bus for $19 USD round trip).
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2-hour guided tour of the most important points of Machu Picchu.
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Return by train to Hydroelectric and car transfer back to Cusco.
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Includes lunch and dinner on the first day, breakfast on the second day.
Travel Itinerary
Our journey to the mythical Machu Picchu begins with a trip full of emotions and discoveries.
Day 1: Cusco - Ollantaytambo - Abra Malaga - Santa Teresa - Aguas Calientes (L,D)
We depart from Cusco towards the Sacred Valley of the Incas, surrounded by mountains. After a brief rest in Ollantaytambo, we continue to Abra Málaga, at 4,300 meters altitude, where we enjoy panoramic views. We descend towards the jungle, passing through various microclimates until reaching Santa María. Then, we continue to Santa Teresa for lunch. We finish our car journey at the station near the Hydroelectric, from where we walk 2.5 hours along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes. There's a train option from the Hydroelectric for an extra US $25.00.
Day 2: Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Cusco (B)
At sunrise, we're ready for our visit to Machu Picchu. We have two options to go up: a 2-hour hike or a bus for US $19.00 (additional cost) round trip. Upon arrival, we enjoy a 2-hour guided tour that explores from the Intiwatana to the Temple of the Condor and the agricultural terraces.
After the visit, we leave Machu Picchu and take the train to the Hydroelectric. A vehicle awaits us to take us to Santa Teresa, where we rest before returning to Cusco. We return home with unforgettable memories of Machu Picchu.
What's included?
Includes
- Car and driver to Hydroelectric (train station).
- Car and driver to Cusco
- Professional Tourism Guide in Machu Picchu.
- 1 night accommodation in Aguas Calientes.
- Train Aguas Calientes – Hydroelectric
- Meals according to itinerary.
- (B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner).
- Entrance to Machu Picchu.
Not included
- Train Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes (US$ 25.00)
- Bus Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes (optional, you can walk):
- Lunch and dinner on the last day.
- Entrance to Aguas Calientes Hot Springs (s/10.00, or US$ 4.00).
- Extra snacks for the trip.
Recomendamos Llevar
- A small backpack (luggage limit 10kg, as per Perurail).
- Original passport.
- 1.5 liters of drinking water.
- Camera.
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho.
- Change of clothes.
- Basic hygiene items.
- Sunscreen and sun hat.
- Insect repellent.
- Comfortable shoes or hiking boots.
- ISIC student card if applicable.
Frequently asked questions
The hike lasts between 2 to 2.5 hours, following the railroad tracks on a relatively flat trail. It does not require previous experience, but it does require a basic physical condition. It is advisable to bring comfortable shoes and water.
Yes, there is the option of taking the train from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes for an additional $25 USD (subject to availability). This option is ideal for those who wish to avoid the hike.
Yes, the tour includes the entrance to Machu Picchu and a guided tour of approximately 2 hours with a professional guide who will explain the most important points of the archaeological site.
One night in a basic tourist hostel with private bathroom, hot water and WiFi is included. If you want a higher category accommodation, you can request an upgrade at an additional cost.
