Machu Picchu 2 Days by Car
PRICE FROM
$160.00 USD
price per person in group service
Cusco | Hidroelectrica I Aguas Calientes I Machu Picchu I Cusco
Duration of the trip:
2 Days
Physical Level:
Easy
Altitude:
2430 m.a.s.l
Group Size:
10 people
Type of Tour:
Classic
| Overview - Machu Picchu 2 Days / 1 Night by Car
The Machu Picchu 2 Days by Car is an excellent option for travelers seeking an affordable and adventurous way to reach Machu Picchu while experiencing some of Peru’s most diverse landscapes. This journey takes you through the stunning Andes, crossing high mountain passes before descending into the lush cloud forest and jungle, offering breathtaking views throughout the route.
Instead of taking the traditional train, you will travel by vehicle to Hidroelectrica, where the adventure continues with a scenic walk along the railway to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu. Along the way, you’ll be surrounded by tropical vegetation, rivers, and dramatic mountain scenery.
This experience combines adventure, nature, and culture, allowing you to explore Machu Picchu with a professional guide while enjoying a more budget-friendly alternative. The tour includes accommodation in Aguas Calientes, meals, guided visit to Machu Picchu, and round-trip transportation, ensuring a complete and memorable journey.
Detailed Itinerary – Machu Picchu 2 Days by Car
Day 1: Scenic Drive to Hidroelectrica & Trek to Aguas Calientes
The Machu Picchu by Car 2 Days / 1 Night tour begins early in the morning with meeting at our travel agency in Cusco between 6:00 and 6:30 a.m. After check-in and group coordination, we depart the city by private transport toward the jungle route to Machu Picchu.
Scenic Drive from Cusco to Hidroelectrica
The journey takes approximately 5 to 6 hours, traveling along a scenic route that crosses high Andean landscapes and gradually descends into warmer, tropical areas. Along the way, you will experience changing climates and enjoy panoramic views of mountains, valleys, and jungle scenery.
Lunch in Hidroelectrica
Upon arrival at Hidroelectrica, we stop for a local lunch, included in the tour. This break allows time to rest and recharge before starting the walk to Aguas Calientes.
Trek from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes
After lunch, we begin the walk from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes, following the railway line through lush jungle surroundings. The trail is mostly flat and easy to walk, making it accessible for most travelers.
Walking distance: approximately 11 km
Walking time: 2.5 to 3 hours
Terrain: flat
Climate: warm, tropical, and sometimes windy
This section of the journey offers beautiful natural scenery and a relaxed walking pace.
Arrival in Aguas Calientes
Once we arrive in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), we transfer you to your hotel where you can freshen up and relax. In the evening, enjoy a included dinner at a local restaurant and free time to explore the town or visit the hot springs (optional).
Day 2: Machu Picchu – Hidroelectrica – Cusco
On Day 2 of our Machu Picchu by Car 2-Day Tour, transportation by bus to and from Machu Picchu is included in the tour. The bus ride takes approximately 25 minutes each way, allowing you to reach the citadel comfortably without the need to hike.
Breakfast will be served early in the morning. Afterward, you will take the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, arriving at the main entrance by 6:00 AM, where you will meet your guide.
The guided tour of Machu Picchu will last approximately 2 hours, during which your guide will explain the history, culture, and importance of the Inca citadel. After the guided visit, you will have free time to explore the site on your own, take photos, and enjoy the views at your own pace.
For travelers who do not wish to use the bus service, the cost of the bus can be discounted from the total tour price.
At around 10:00 AM, you will begin the return journey toward Hidroelectrica, hiking down and following the route back. The walk takes approximately 3.5 hours.
⚠️ Important: All passengers must be at Hidroelectrica between 2:00 PM and 2:30 PM sharp in order to board the vehicle for the return to Cusco.
From Hidroelectrica, we will travel by car back to Cusco. The drive takes approximately 6 hours, arriving in Cusco in the evening and concluding your 2-day Machu Picchu by Car tour.
What Is Included?
- Pick-up from the agency in Cusco
- Round-trip transportation by car (Cusco – Hidroelectrica – Cusco)
- Professional English/Spanish-speaking guide
- Bus ticket up and down to Machu Picchu
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- 1 night in a hotel (Machu Picchu Town)
- Lunch (Day 1)
- Dinner (Day 1)
- Breakfast (Day 2)
What Is Not Included?
- Breakfast (Day 1) and Lunch (Day 2)
- Drinks and snacks
- Entrance to hot springs in Aguas Calientes (optional)
- Personal expenses
- Tips (optional)
Machu Picchu 2 Days by Car (Prices for 2025 and 2026)
Pricing & Booking Information
Group service · Daily departures
From USD $ 160.00 per person (cash price)
Guided tour in Machu Picchu
Hotel pick-up & transfers
1 night hotel in Aguas Calientes (with breakfast)
Professional English/Spanish guide
💳 Online card payment available.
A small processing fee applies to card payments.
Student Discount:
USD $20 OFF with a valid student ID (ISIC or official university ID)
Private Service
From USD $300 per person (price varies by group size)
Flexible departure time
Private transportation
Personalized guiding
Ideal for couples, families, and friends
Request your private Machu Picchu tour quote via WhatsApp
Payment Options
To secure your booking, we offer flexible payment options:
✔ 50% deposit online to confirm your reservation
✔ Remaining balance paid in Cusco (cash recommended)
✔ Full payment by card available upon request
Once we receive your booking details, we will send you a secure payment link via WhatsApp or email.
Required Information for Booking
To confirm your reservation, please send us the following information:
Full name
Nationality
Hotel name in Cusco
WhatsApp number (including country code) or Peruvian mobile number
(Essential for coordinating your hotel pick-up)
Once we receive your details, we will send you a secure payment link via WhatsApp or email (+ 5%).
Cancellation & Refund Policy – Machu Picchu 2 Days 1 Night by Car
Due to the advance purchase of Machu Picchu entrance tickets and train tickets, cancellations are subject to the following conditions:
Machu Picchu entrance tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable once purchased.
Cancellation Policy
More than 7 days before departure:
Partial refund available, excluding Machu Picchu entrance ticket costs.
7 days or less before departure:
No refund. All services are considered confirmed and non-refundable.
Please note: Once Machu Picchu entrance tickets are issued under your name and passport number, they cannot be modified or refunded.
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover unexpected cancellations.
Packing List for Machu Picchu 2 Days by Car
Essentials
Original passport (mandatory for Machu Picchu entry)
Printed or digital travel documents (tickets & reservations)
Cash in Peruvian soles for personal expenses
Reusable water bottle
Clothing
Comfortable walking shoes or light hiking shoes
Light jacket or fleece (weather can change during the day)
Rain jacket or poncho (especially during the rainy season)
Hat or cap for sun protection
Sunglasses
Personal Items
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Personal medication
Hand sanitizer / wet wipes
Optional Items
Camera or smartphone for photos
Small backpack (recommended size for Machu Picchu)
Snacks or energy bars
Swimsuit and towel (optional, for hot springs in Aguas Calientes)
Extra money for souvenirs or meals
Important Notes
Large backpacks are not allowed inside Machu Picchu (maximum size permitted: 40 x 35 x 20 cm).
Trekking poles are only allowed if they have rubber tips.
Professional camera equipment (tripods, drones) is not permitted
Contact us by email to check availability, request detailed information, and receive your secure payment link. Our team will reply within a short time to assist you with your booking.
Booking
Machu Picchu 2 Days by Car
Starting from
$ 160.00 USD
per person
Group & private options available
Contact us on WhatsApp to check availability, private options, and confirm your booking.
BRIEF CONDITIONS
• 50% deposit required
• Secure payment link provided (+5%)
• Balance paid in Cusco
Why Choose This Machu Picchu 2 Days by Car Tour?
🚐 Affordable alternative route to Machu Picchu without sacrificing the experience
🏔️ Scenic journey through the Andes, Abra Málaga, and the jungle
🥾 Adventure route combining road travel and trekking
🍽️ Meals included (lunch, dinner, and breakfast)
🏨 Hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes included
🚌 Bus up and down to Machu Picchu included (25 minutes each way)
👨🏫 Professional guided tour of Machu Picchu
⏰ Early entry to Machu Picchu (meeting at 6:00 AM)
💰 Option to discount the bus cost if passengers prefer not to use it
🧭 Perfect for travelers looking for a budget-friendly and adventurous experience
FAQs - Machu Picchu 2 Days by Car
Below you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about the Machu Picchu by Car 2 Days / 1 Night Tour, including transportation by car and trekking route, hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes, guided visit to Machu Picchu, entrance tickets, bus service to the citadel, altitude considerations, and important travel recommendations to help you plan a smooth and unforgettable experience.
What time does the pick-up start in Cusco?
Pick-up starts between 6:00 and 6:30 AM from our agency in Cusco, with departure around 6:30 AM.
Is the bus to Machu Picchu included?
Yes. The tour includes the bus up and down to Machu Picchu, with a travel time of approximately 25 minutes each way.
If you prefer not to use the bus, the cost can be discounted from the tour price.
Do we have to walk up to Machu Picchu?
No. Walking is not required, as the bus is included. Walking is optional only for those who wish to do so.
What meals are included?
Day 1: Lunch in Hidroelectrica and dinner in Aguas Calientes
Day 2: Breakfast at the hotel
Where do we stay overnight?
You will stay at a hotel in Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu.
Is this tour suitable for everyone?
This tour involves long driving hours and walking sections, so it is recommended for travelers in good physical condition. It is not ideal for those with serious mobility issues.
What should I bring?
Passport, comfortable walking shoes, light jacket or rain poncho, sunscreen, insect repellent, water, snacks, and cash in soles.
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