Machu Picchu Tour by car for 2 days

Discover Machu Picchu in a different and affordable way!
With our 2-Day Machu Picchu Tour by Car, we take you on a journey full of breathtaking landscapes, from the Andean mountain range to the Cusco jungle. The car ride takes you to the Hydroelectric station, from where you will hike for 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 is an ideal option for those looking for a more economical and adventurous experience, without missing out on comfort and the charm of the journey. Live two days full of nature, culture, and the unique energy of Machu Picchu!

Highlights

Car trip from Cusco to Hydroelectric with stops in Ollantaytambo, Abra Málaga, and Santa Teresa.
2 to 2.5-hour hike from Hydroelectric to Aguas Calientes (optional train for $25 USD).
Overnight in Aguas Calientes with free time to rest or visit the hot springs.
Ascent to Machu Picchu at sunrise (hike or optional bus for $19 USD round trip).
2-hour guided tour of the most important sites of Machu Picchu.
Return by train to Hydroelectric and car transfer back to Cusco.
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.

We depart from Cusco towards the Sacred Valley of the Incas, surrounded by mountains. After a short rest in Ollantaytambo, we continue to Abra Malaga, at 4,300 meters of altitude, where we enjoy panoramic views. We descend into the jungle, passing through several microclimates until reaching Santa María. Afterwards, we continue to Santa Teresa for lunch. We end our car journey at the station near the Hydroelectric, from where we hike 2.5 hours along the railway tracks to Aguas Calientes. There is an option to take the train from Hydroelectric for an extra US $25.00.

Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco (B)

At dawn, we are 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 exploring from the Intihuatana to the Temple of the Condor and the agricultural terraces. After the tour, we leave Machu Picchu and take the train back to Hydroelectric. A vehicle will be waiting to take us to Santa Teresa, where we rest before returning to Cusco. We return home with unforgettable memories of Machu Picchu.

Includes

Car and driver to Hydroelectric (train station).
Car and driver back to Cusco.
Professional Tour 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 ticket to Machu Picchu.

Not included

Train Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes (US$ 25.00)
Bus Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes (optional, can be walked)
Lunch and dinner on the last day
Entrance to the Hot Springs of Aguas Calientes (S/10.00 or US$ 4.00)
Extra snacks for the trip

Recommendations

Only a small backpack is required (luggage limit 10kg, established by PeruRail)
Bring your original passport
Bring a canteen or refillable water bottle
Camera, extra chargers
Rain jacket / poncho
Change of clothes
Basic toiletries
Sunscreen / sunblock, sun hat
Insect repellent
Trekking shoes
ISIC student card if applicable

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the hike from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes and is it difficult?

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.

Can I take the train instead of walking from Hidroelectrica?

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.

Is the entrance fee to Machu Picchu included in the tour?

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.

If you are looking for an economical tour to Cusco and Machu Picchu, this is another 3-day train option is perfect, as it combines comfort, culture and history at an affordable price.

What type of accommodation is included in Aguas Calientes?

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.