Machu Picchu By Car - 2-Day Tour Itinerary
Machu Picchu By Car – 2-Day Tour Itinerary
An Affordable and Adventurous Journey to the Iconic Inca Citadel
Embark on a memorable 2-day tour to Machu Picchu by car, designed for travelers seeking an affordable and adventurous experience. This unique journey combines scenic drives, a picturesque hike, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu, offering an alternative way to visit Peru’s most famous landmark.
Tour Details
Price (as of 2026):
- 1 traveler: US$180 (private tour guide in Machu Picchu)
- 2 or more travelers: US$150 per person (private tour guide in Machu Picchu)
Availability:
- Daily departures starting at 6:00 AM.
Meeting Point:
- Pickup Location: Your accommodation in Cusco.
- Pickup Time: Between 6:00 AM and 6:15 AM.
What’s Included?
- Round-Trip Transportation: From Cusco to the Hydroelectric train station in a 21-seat van.
- Meals:
- Lunch at the Hydroelectric train station (Day 1).
- Dinner in Aguas Calientes town (Day 1).
- Breakfast in Aguas Calientes (Day 2).
- Accommodation: Hostel stay in Aguas Calientes town.
- Machu Picchu Ticket: Entry to the iconic Inca citadel.
- Private Guided Tour: A 2.5-hour guided exploration of Machu Picchu with an authorized guide.
What’s Not Included?
- Breakfast on Day 1: Available for purchase in Ollantaytambo.
- Optional Shuttle Bus: US$12 (one-way) from Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu entrance.
- Lunch on Day 2: Available for purchase at Hydroelectric or in Cusco.
What to Bring?
- Documents: Original passport (required for entry) and student card (if applicable).
- Clothing: Comfortable, light clothing for the hike, as well as warm layers for cooler mornings and evenings.
- Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, and a hat.
- Snacks & Drinks: Light snacks and bottled water.
- Footwear: Sturdy hiking shoes for uneven terrain.
- Waterproof Gear: Especially during the rainy season (October to mid-April).
- Personal Items: Toiletries and other hygiene essentials.
Payment Information:
- US$80 Advance Payment: Required to secure your Machu Picchu ticket (via Western Union or bank account).
- Remaining Balance: Paid in cash on the day of departure.
Booking and Cancellation Policies:
To ensure the best experience at Machu Picchu, we highly recommend booking your trip 3–9 months in advance. This allows ample time to secure your entry tickets and select the best itinerary, as access to the site is limited and tickets often sell out quickly.
Booking Deadline: Reservations are accepted until 10:00 PM the day before departure.
Free Cancellation Policy: Please note that no-shows will result in the loss of your prepayment.
Machu Picchu By Car – 2-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes
6:30 AM: Depart from Cusco in a comfortable van, passing through the breathtaking Sacred Valley.
8:30 AM: Stop in Ollantaytambo for breakfast and enjoy the charm of this historic Inca town.
9:00 AM: Continue the scenic 4-hour drive to Hydroelectric, passing through mountain ranges, lush valleys, and dense cloud forests.
1:00 PM: Arrive at the Hydroelectric train station and enjoy a local lunch before beginning the hike.
2:30 PM: Start your 3-hour trek along the railway tracks to Aguas Calientes, surrounded by jungle scenery, rivers, and the sounds of nature.
5:30 PM: Arrive in Aguas Calientes, check into your accommodations, and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Rest early in preparation for the next day’s adventure.
Day 2: Machu Picchu – Hydroelectric – Cusco
4:00 AM: Wake up early and prepare for your ascent to Machu Picchu.
4:30 AM: Begin the 1-hour trek uphill to the Machu Picchu entrance or opt for a shuttle bus (US$12, one way).
6:00 AM: Enter Machu Picchu for a guided 2.5-hour tour, where you’ll explore iconic landmarks such as:
- Temple of the Sun
- Intihuatana (Sun Dial)
- Agricultural Terraces
9:30 AM: After your tour, descend back to Aguas Calientes and begin the 3-hour walk back to the Hydroelectric train station.
1:45–3:00 PM: Board your van at Hydroelectric for the return drive to Cusco.
8:00–9:00 PM: Arrive in Cusco, concluding your unforgettable journey to Machu Picchu.
Why Choose the Machu Picchu by Car Tour?
- Affordable Adventure: A budget-friendly alternative to the train.
- Scenic Journey: Enjoy stunning views of the Andes, lush valleys, and jungle landscapes.
- Adventurous Experience: A unique combination of driving, hiking, and exploring the legendary Inca citadel.
- Convenient and Inclusive: Transport, meals, and accommodation are included for a hassle-free experience.
Book Your Machu Picchu Adventure Today!
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the magic of Machu Picchu with this affordable and adventurous 2-day tour by car. Perfect for travelers seeking a blend of exploration, hiking, and breathtaking views, this journey promises an unforgettable experience. Reserve your spot now and make your dream of visiting Machu Picchu a reality!