Machu Picchu By Car – Bus from Cusco to Machu Picchu

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  • Group SizeUpto 9 People
  • Maximum Altitude4,316m/14,160ft
  • DifficultyModerately Challenging

Machu Picchu By Car Tour Detail

Embark on an extraordinary 2-Day Tour to Machu Picchu by Car with Inca Jungle Trek Peru, where we will experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Peruvian Andes and the legendary Inca citadel. This tour provides a convenient and affordable option for reaching Machu Picchu, offering a direct transfer from Cusco to Hidroeléctrica, bypassing the need for multiple connections.

Our adventure will begin in the historic city of Cusco, where we will depart early in the morning. We will journey through the Sacred Valley, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and ancient Inca terraces. The drive, covering approximately 210 kilometers (130 miles), will take us through picturesque Andean villages and lush valleys, as we make our way towards Hidroeléctrica.

A scenic hike to Machu Picchu Town:

Upon reaching Hidroeléctrica, we will set out on a scenic walk along the railway tracks, leading us to the town of Machu Picchu Pueblo, commonly known as Aguas Calientes. The walk, which spans about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles), will be an immersive experience, allowing us to connect with the natural beauty and tranquility of the region. We will be surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing sounds of the Urubamba River.

Once in the town of Aguas Calientes, we will settle into our accommodation and rest, preparing for the highlight of our journey—the visit to Machu Picchu. Early the next morning, we will take the bus up to the entrance of the Machu Picchu archaeological site. Here, we will embark on a guided tour of the iconic Inca citadel, exploring its mysteries, marveling at its intricate stonework, and taking in the stunning views of Machu Picchu Mountain.

After our guided exploration, we will have time to further discover the site on our own. We will then return to Hidroeléctrica, where we will board a car back to Cusco, completing our incredible journey.

This 2-Day Tour to Machu Picchu by Car with Inca Jungle Trek Peru offers a unique and cost-effective way to experience one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites. We will not only explore the majestic ruins of Machu Picchu but also create unforgettable memories of our time in the heart of the Peruvian Andes.

Machu Picchu By Car Includes
  • Transportation: Comfortable bus transportation from Cusco to Hidroeléctrica and return, with scenic stops along the way.
  • Guided Tour: A professional, English-speaking guide will lead a detailed tour of Machu Picchu, offering insights into the history and significance of the Inca citadel.
  • Accommodation: One night’s stay in a hotel or hostel in Aguas Calientes, allowing us to rest before the early morning visit to Machu Picchu.
  • Entrance Tickets: Entrance tickets to the Machu Picchu archaeological site.
  • Meals: Some packages include meals, such as breakfast and/or lunch during the tour.
  • Hiking: A scenic walk from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes along the railway tracks, providing a more immersive experience of the surrounding jungle.
Machu Picchu By Car Excludes
  • Meals such as dinner and lunches on the second day are not provided and will be at our own expense.
  • Optional Activities: Any additional activities or excursions, such as hiking Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, are not be included and would require extra tickets.
  • Personal Expenses: Any personal expenses such as snacks, beverages, souvenirs, or tips for guides and drivers are not covered.
  • Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be arranged independently.
  • Train Tickets from Cusco: If you choose to return by train, the tickets from Cusco to Ollantaytambo or Aguas Calientes and back will have to be purchased separately, depending on the package.

What to Expect on Machu Picchu By Car Tour?

On the Machu Picchu by Car Tour, we can expect a scenic and adventurous journey through the diverse landscapes of the Peruvian Andes, from the high mountains to the lush jungle. We will travel by bus from Cusco to Hidroeléctrica, passing through the Sacred Valley and witnessing breathtaking views along the way. After a rewarding hike along the railway tracks, we will arrive in Aguas Calientes, where we will rest before our early morning visit to the iconic Machu Picchu. The tour will culminate with an in-depth exploration of the ancient Inca citadel, offering both guided insights and time for personal discovery.

  • Scenic drive through the Sacred Valley and the dramatic landscapes of the Peruvian Andes.
  • Rewarding hike along the railway tracks from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes, surrounded by lush jungle.
  • Guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu, exploring the ancient Inca citadel and its breathtaking views.
  • Cost-effective alternative to the traditional train route, providing a more immersive and adventurous experience.

Machu Picchu By Car Tour Itinerary

Day 1 - Cusco - Hidroeléctrica - Aguas Calientes

We will start our journey early in the morning from Cusco, departing at around 7:00 AM. As we leave the city behind, we will head towards the Sacred Valley, passing through the charming towns of Chinchero, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo. The road will take us through winding mountain passes and offer breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks of the Peruvian Andes. The highest point of our journey will be at Abra Malaga, where we will reach an altitude of 4,316 meters (14,160 feet). 

From Abra Malaga, we will descend towards the jungle, experiencing a dramatic change in climate and scenery. The lush vegetation and warm air will signal our arrival into the high jungle region. We will continue our journey to the town of Santa Teresa, where we will have a brief stop for lunch and to stretch our legs.

After lunch, we will resume our trip to Hidroeléctrica, the starting point of our hike to Machu Picchu Pueblo, also known as Aguas Calientes. The drive to Hidroeléctrica will take us through narrow roads with stunning views of waterfalls and dense jungle. Upon arrival, we will begin our walk along the railway tracks. The walk will cover a distance of approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) and will take around 2 to 3 hours, depending on our pace. The path will be mostly flat and easy to navigate, allowing us to enjoy the surrounding nature.

As we approach Aguas Calientes, we will catch our first glimpses of the iconic Machu Picchu Mountain. We will arrive in the town in the late afternoon, where we will check into our accommodation and have some time to explore the local markets or relax. In the evening, we will enjoy a hearty dinner and rest, preparing for the next day’s adventure to Machu Picchu.

First Day Statistics:

  • Total distance covered: Approximately 210 kilometers (130 miles) by car and 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) on foot.
  • Highest altitude: 4,316 meters (14,160 feet) at Abra Malaga.
  • Lowest altitude: 1,800 meters (5,905 feet) at Aguas Calientes.
  • Level of difficulty: Moderate, with a mix of driving and a rela

Day 2 - Machu Picchu Tour

We will wake up early to catch one of the first buses from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu. The bus ride will take about 25 minutes as we ascend the winding road, climbing from 2,040 meters (6,693 feet) to 2,430 meters (7,972 feet) above sea level. Upon arrival, we will enter the iconic archaeological site as the morning mist begins to lift, revealing the grandeur of the Inca citadel.

We will start our guided tour of Machu Picchu, where our expert guide will take us through the ancient ruins. We will explore the main temples, terraces, and ceremonial sites, learning about the history, architecture, and significance of this sacred place. The tour will last approximately two hours, after which we will have some free time to wander the site on our own, taking in the breathtaking views of Machu Picchu Mountain and the surrounding landscape.

After we visit Machu Picchu, we will return to Aguas Calientes by bus. We will then have time for a leisurely lunch and a chance to explore the town before catching our train back to Ollantaytambo. The train ride will offer stunning views of the Urubamba River and the towering mountains that line the valley. Upon reaching Ollantaytambo, we will board a bus for the final leg of our journey back to Cusco.

We will be returning to Cusco in the evening, bringing our unforgettable two-day adventure to a close. The memories of Machu Picchu and the journey through the Peruvian Andes will stay with us long after we return.

Second Day Statistics:

  • Total distance covered: Approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) by bus and train.
  • Highest altitude: 2,430 meters (7,972 feet) at Machu Picchu.
  • Lowest altitude: 2,040 meters (6,693 feet) at Aguas Calientes.
  • Level of difficulty: Moderate, with a guided tour and some free time for exploration.

FAQ

How to get from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu?

To get from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, we will take a short bus ride that departs regularly from the town. The buses run every 10-15 minutes and will take us on a winding road up the mountain. The journey takes about 25 minutes, covering a distance of approximately 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) as we ascend from Aguas Calientes, located at 2,040 meters (6,693 feet) above sea level, to the entrance of Machu Picchu at 2,430 meters (7,972 feet) above sea level. Alternatively, we can choose to hike up to Machu Picchu, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on our pace.

Is there a train from Cusco to Machu Picchu?

Yes, there is a train from Cusco to Machu Picchu. The train journey typically starts from either the Poroy or San Pedro station in Cusco or from the nearby town of Ollantaytambo, which is about a 1.5-hour drive from Cusco. Trains from these stations travel to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu. The train ride offers stunning views of the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba River as we descend through the Andean highlands toward the jungle. Once in Aguas Calientes, we can take a short bus ride or hike up to the Machu Picchu archaeological site. Several train companies operate on this route, offering different levels of service and comfort, including PeruRail and Inca Rail.

Is the bus going up to Machu Picchu safe?

Yes, the bus ride up to Machu Picchu is generally considered safe. The buses are operated by experienced drivers who navigate the winding road with care. The road itself is well-maintained, though it is narrow and steep in some sections, which is typical for mountain roads in this region. The buses are designed for the terrain, and the operators prioritize safety, adhering to strict regulations. Passengers should remain seated and follow any instructions provided by the driver for a smooth and secure journey to the entrance of Machu Picchu.

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From$162
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