Machu Picchu by Car 2-Day Tour from Cusco

Machu Picchu by Car 2-Day Tour

The Machu Picchu by Car 2-Day Tour is the most affordable and adventurous way to reach the Wonder of the World. This alternative combines stunning landscapes, adrenaline, and a deep connection with nature. During the journey from Cusco to Hydroelectric, you will cross majestic valleys in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, enjoying panoramic views of snow-capped mountains and high-Andean jungle.

After a delicious lunch in Santa Teresa, you will continue to Hydroelectric, where you will start a 3-hour hike along the railway track, walking beside the Urubamba River and through lush green vegetation until you reach the town of Aguas Calientes.

The next day brings the big moment: visiting Machu Picchu, the most important Inca sanctuary in Peru. There, you will explore its history, architecture, and mysteries accompanied by a professional guide. After the visit, you will walk back to Hydroelectric and return to Cusco by car, completing an unforgettable experience surrounded by mountains, history, and adventure.

Top 5 Highlights of the Machu Picchu by Car Tour

  • Scenic Andean Route & Adventure: Travel through mountain roads with landscapes that go from the Andes to the Amazon jungle.
  • Train Route Hike: Enjoy a peaceful walk between mountains and jungle, perfect for nature lovers.
  • Guided Visit to Machu Picchu: Discover the secrets of the Inca Citadel with a local expert guide.
  • Budget-Friendly & Accessible Option: Perfect for travelers who want to reach Machu Picchu without paying for the train.
  • Unforgettable Sunrise & Sunset: Experience the magic of sunrise over Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes.
  • Detailed Itinerary
  • Included & Not Included
  • Prices & Availability
  • Packing List
  • Reservation Policy

Itinerary – Machu Picchu by Car Tour (2 Days)

Day 1: Cusco – Hydroelectric – Hike to Aguas Calientes

Your adventure to Machu Picchu begins early in the morning. We will meet at the meeting point in Cusco at 6:30 a.m., where we will start a panoramic 6-hour journey towards the high jungle. Along the way, you will enjoy spectacular views of the Andes, passing through fertile valleys, snow-capped mountains, and picturesque towns such as Ollantaytambo and Santa María.

Upon arrival at Hydroelectric, we will stop to enjoy a traditional Andean lunch and then continue with a relaxed 3-hour hike (11 km) towards the town of Aguas Calientes, following the railway tracks and the Urubamba River. This section is flat and surrounded by tropical vegetation—perfect for those looking for a natural and authentic experience.

Once in Aguas Calientes, we will take you to your hotel. In the evening, you will enjoy an included dinner in a local restaurant and have free time to rest or explore this charming town before the big day.

  • Departure: 6:30 a.m. from Cusco
  • Travel time by car: 5–6 hours
  • Hike: 11 km / approx. 3 hours (flat terrain)
  • Weather: Warm and humid, tropical environment
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
  • Meals included: Lunch in Hydroelectric and dinner in Aguas Calientes

Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco

At sunrise, the most anticipated part of the journey begins. After breakfast at the hotel, you can choose to walk up to the entrance of Machu Picchu (approx. 1h30) or take the bus (ticket not included).

At 6:00 a.m., our guide will meet you at the main gate of the sanctuary to begin a guided tour of approximately 2 hours, where you will discover the history, temples, agricultural terraces, and mysteries of the Inca city. After the tour, you will have free time to explore on your own and take unforgettable photos of one of the modern wonders of the world.

After the visit, we will walk back to Hydroelectric (approx. 3.5 hours), where we will board the transportation back to Cusco. The ride lasts around 6 hours, arriving in the city between 8:30 and 9:00 p.m., marking the end of a unique experience full of landscapes, culture, and adventure.

  • Main activity: Guided visit to Machu Picchu
  • Hiking distance: 4 km uphill / 11 km return to Hydroelectric
  • Recommended time to start the hike: 4:30 a.m.
  • Weather: Warm and humid
  • Meals included: Breakfast at the hotel
  • Return: Departure from Hydroelectric at 2:30 p.m. / arrival in Cusco at 8:30–9:00 p.m.

Included – Machu Picchu by Car 2-Day Tour

  • Round-trip transportation between Cusco and Hydroelectric
  • 1 lunch, 1 dinner, and 1 breakfast
  • 1-night accommodation in a hotel in Aguas Calientes
  • Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
  • Professional bilingual guide for the Machu Picchu tour

This 2-day tour includes everything you need for a comfortable and complete experience, combining spectacular landscapes, traditional meals, and a guided visit to the Inca citadel.

Not Included

  • Train ticket between Hydroelectric and Aguas Calientes
  • Bus ticket between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu
  • Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional)
  • Additional meals and personal expenses
  • Travel insurance and tips

Important Note:

The hike between Hydroelectric and Aguas Calientes, as well as the ascent from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, does not include a guide. However, you will receive detailed instructions and directions from the hotel. These routes are safe, well-marked, and widely used by travelers as a budget-friendly alternative to reach Machu Picchu.

Price – Machu Picchu by Car 2-Day Tour

The general price for the tour is USD 150 per person, and it includes round-trip transportation from Cusco, accommodation, meals, entrance ticket to Machu Picchu, and a professional guide.

It is an excellent option for travelers looking for an affordable and complete experience to reach the Wonder of the World.

Additional Costs (Not Included)

  • Bus Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu (one way): USD 12
  • Bus Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu (round trip): USD 24
  • Train ticket Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes (optional): USD 35 – 40
  • Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional): USD 20 – 25
  • Lunch on the second day: USD 8 – 12
  • Travel insurance (recommended): from USD 15
  • Tips and personal expenses

Packing List – Machu Picchu by Car 2-Day Tour

Traveling to Machu Picchu by car combines road travel, hiking, and tropical weather, so it’s important to pack light and practical. Here is the essential gear to enjoy your adventure without worries:

Documents & Money

  • Original ID or passport (required for entry to Machu Picchu)
  • Machu Picchu entrance ticket and bus ticket (if applicable)
  • Cash in soles for personal purchases or additional services

Clothing & Accessories

  • Small or lightweight backpack (20–30 liters)
  • Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
  • Comfortable and breathable hiking pants
  • Lightweight t-shirts
  • Warm clothing for nighttime (it gets cooler in Aguas Calientes)
  • Hat or cap for the sun
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Trekking shoes or sturdy sneakers

Hygiene & Health

  • Reusable water bottle
  • Insect repellent
  • Toilet paper and wet wipes
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Personal medication and basic first-aid kit
  • Face mask and hand sanitizer

Recommended Extras

  • Camera or phone with good battery
  • Portable charger (power bank)
  • Swimsuit (optional, if you plan to visit the hot springs in Aguas Calientes)
  • Snacks or fruit for the hike

Tour Policies – Machu Picchu by Car 2-Day Tour

  • The reservation is confirmed with a 50% deposit, and the remaining balance must be paid before the start of the tour.
  • The reservation must be made once the availability of the Machu Picchu entrance ticket is confirmed. We recommend booking at least 3 months in advance.
  • Cancellations made more than 72 hours in advance receive a partial refund; last-minute cancellations are non-refundable.
  • Machu Picchu entrance tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable.
  • Date changes are not allowed for this tour.
  • The agency may adjust the itinerary due to weather or safety conditions, always prioritizing the traveler’s experience.
  • The Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes section is done without a guide, but detailed instructions are provided.
  • Passengers must carry their original ID, wear comfortable clothing, and bring cash for personal expenses.
  • We recommend booking in advance to ensure availability of the Machu Picchu entrance ticket and guarantee a smooth and hassle-free experience.

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