Machu Picchu by Car 2 Day Scenic Adventure

5.0
(1 reviews)
Cusco, Peru

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2 days (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English and 1 more

Discover the wonders of Machu Picchu on a unique 2-day adventure that offers an affordable and scenic alternative to the traditional train route. Travel from Cusco through stunning Andean landscapes to Hidroeléctrica, avoiding crowded tourist paths. Enjoy a peaceful 2–3 hour hike along the Vilcanota River and train tracks to the charming town of Aguas Calientes, where you’ll spend the night in comfortable local lodging. On the second day, explore the majestic Machu Picchu with a private guide who will bring the Inca citadel’s history and mysteries to life. This tour features a less-traveled route, moderate trekking accessible to most fitness levels, personalized attention, and meals included on Day 1. A budget-friendly, authentic Peruvian experience, perfect for travelers seeking culture, nature, and value—book now and experience Machu Picchu like never before!

What's Included

2 hour guided tour of Machu Picchu with a certified and expert guide.
Evening briefing with your guide to prepare for the visit to Machu Picchu.
One night in Aguas Calientes in private room with hot water and bathroom.
Personal assistance
Lunch on the first day at Hidroeléctrica.
Professional bilingual guide
Round-trip car or van service from Cusco to Hidroeléctrica and back.
Official entrance ticket to Machu Picchu.
Breakfast and dinner
Train tickets (Optional).
Train from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes not included; tickets sold separately onsite.
Personal expenses
Optional activities (e.g., hot springs, Huayna Picchu)
Tips and Gratuities (Gratuities are optional and at your discretion)
Additional Transfers: Not included are airport transfers and any other transportation not mentioned

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

Hotel pick-up is available for travelers in Cusco’s historic center. Be ready in your lobby 10 minutes before departure. If staying outside the center, we’ll contact you to arrange a meeting point or possible pick-up. Provide accurate contact info.

OR
Meeting point

Hotel pick-up is available for travelers in Cusco’s historic center. Be ready in your lobby 10 minutes before departure. If staying outside the center, we’ll contact you to arrange a meeting point or possible pick-up. Provide accurate contact info.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 2 days (approximately)
    Day 1

    Cusco - Hidroeléctrica - Aguas Calientes

    3 stops
  • 1
    Cusco

    Start your journey early with a convenient hotel pickup in Cusco, the gateway to the Andes and the ancient Inca Empire. Embark on an unforgettable Machu Picchu by car tour, covering 200 km through some of Peru’s most spectacular Andean landscapes. Relax in a comfortable vehicle as you traverse stunning mountain valleys, snow-capped peaks, and timeless traditional villages that showcase authentic Andean culture. During this approximately 6-hour scenic drive, you’ll descend from Cusco’s high elevation of 3,400 meters down to the lush jungle environment of Hidroeléctrica at 2,040 meters. Here, the crisp mountain air and the soothing flow of the Vilcanota River welcome you to an immersive natural setting, perfect for continuing your adventure to Machu Picchu.

    6 hours • Admission ticket free
  • 2

    Upon arrival at Hidroeléctrica, recharge with a satisfying local lunch before embarking on a picturesque 2 to 3-hour hike to Aguas Calientes. This 10 km trek follows the train tracks alongside the serene Vilcanota River, offering an immersive nature experience. As you walk through dense subtropical forests, you’ll be surrounded by majestic mountains and the calming sounds of flowing water. The mostly flat and moderate trail makes this journey accessible and enjoyable, perfect for appreciating the stunning Amazonian cloud forest without strenuous effort.

    3 hours • Admission ticket included
  • 3
    Aguas Calientes

    Once you arrive in Aguas Calientes, a local representative will welcome you and escort you to your comfortable hotel, featuring private bathrooms and hot water for your convenience. After settling in, enjoy free time to explore this vibrant mountain town. Stroll through the bustling artisan market, where handmade textiles and authentic souvenirs reflect the rich local culture. Alternatively, relax and rejuvenate at the nearby natural hot springs (entrance not included). In the evening, your expert guide will meet with you to review the plans and provide essential information for your upcoming Machu Picchu visit, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience the next day.

    10 hours • Admission ticket free
    • Day 2

    Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Hidro Eléctrica - Cusco

    4 stops
  • 4

    Day two starts early with the highlight of your adventure: exploring the majestic Machu Picchu. At 6:00 AM, board the first shuttle bus to the ancient Inca citadel, enjoying a scenic 25-minute ascent to 2,430 meters above sea level. As dawn breaks, the rising sun casts a golden glow over the iconic ruins, creating a truly magical atmosphere. Your expert guide will lead a comprehensive 2-hour tour, unveiling the secrets of key landmarks such as the Sun Temple, Main Plaza, and Inca House, while sharing captivating insights into the rich history and culture of the Inca civilization.

    4 hours • Admission ticket included
  • 5

    After your guided tour, enjoy free time to explore Machu Picchu at your leisure. For panoramic views, embark on the moderate 1-hour round-trip hike to the Sun Gate, where breathtaking vistas of the entire citadel await. Alternatively, relax and absorb the mystical ambiance among the ancient ruins. For thrill-seekers, the Huayna Picchu hike (entry not included, advance reservation required) offers spectacular views from above, providing a rewarding challenge for adventurous travelers.

    1 hour • Admission ticket included
  • 6

    By midday, you’ll take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes, where you can enjoy lunch at a variety of local restaurants featuring both authentic Peruvian and international cuisine (lunch not included). In the afternoon, begin your scenic return hike along the Vilcanota River trail, retracing the 10 km route back to Hidroeléctrica. This relaxing walk through lush subtropical forests offers a peaceful end to your time in the Machu Picchu are

    3 hours • Admission ticket included
  • 7
    Cusco

    Upon reaching Hidroeléctrica, a private vehicle will be waiting to drive you back on the 200 km journey through the breathtaking Andes to Cusco. Enjoy the changing landscapes as you ascend from the jungle back to the highlands. You’ll arrive at your hotel or Plaza Regocijo, near Cusco’s historic Main Square, around 9:00 PM, concluding your unforgettable two-day Machu Picchu by car adventure.

    6 hours • Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Supplied by Xplor Machu Picchu

Tags

Hiking Tours
Overnight Tours
Multi-day Tours
Bus Tours
Historical Tours
Adventure Tours
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Cancellation Policy

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

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Rating

5.0 Based on 1 1 review
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