MACHU PICCHU BY CAR
Discover the wonder of the world
Tour a Machu Picchu por Carro: La Alternativa Económica al Tren Book
MACHUPICCHU BY CAR 🚐🏔️
An affordable 💸 and adventurous 🚐 alternative to reach Machu Picchu 🏔️. This tour combines road transportation with an exciting hike 🚶♂️ through the jungle edge 🌿, offering spectacular landscapes 🌄 and an unforgettable experience at the Inca citadel 🏛️. Discover the magic of the Andes as you travel comfortably, admire the transition of scenery from Cusco to the subtropical region of Machu Picchu, and get ready for an adventure that blends nature, history, and culture 🌎✨.
How to Get to Machu Picchu by Car (Hydroelectric Route)
Planning to drive to Machu Picchu? We'll explain the route via Hidroeléctrica, the costs, and everything you need to know. The cheapest way to get there.
Alternative Route to Machu Picchu: From Cusco to the Hydroelectric Plant by Car
This map details the scenic vehicle route from Cusco to the hydroelectric station, the starting point for the final hike to Aguas Calientes. Discover key towns along the way, such as Ollantaytambo, Santa María, and Santa Teresa, and the stunning landscapes of the Sacred Valley and the jungle. The perfect visual guide for your budget-friendly adventure to Machu Picchu, avoiding the train and exploring the heart of the region.
Machu Picchu by Car – 2 Days / 1 Night
GENERAL INFORMATION
Tour duration: 2 days / 1 night
Start time: 07:00 – 07:30 a.m.
Maximum altitude: 4,316 m a.s.l. (Abra Málaga)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Guide language: Spanish
Description Adventure and nature
The Machu Picchu by Car – 2 days / 1 night tour is an economical, adventurous, and scenic alternative to reach one of the most visited wonders of the world: Machu Picchu. Unlike the traditional train trip, this experience allows you to enjoy every stretch of the journey, crossing snowy mountains, humid forests, and the lush Cusco jungle edge.
First, we depart from Cusco in the morning, traveling through the majestic Sacred Valley of the Incas. Then, we cross the impressive mountain pass Abra Málaga, located at 4,316 m a.s.l., where you can take spectacular photos of the snowy Andes. Next, we begin the descent to the warm and humid high jungle area, until we reach Santa Teresa, where we will enjoy a local lunch and you will have the option to relax in the famous Cocalmayo hot springs.
After lunch, we head to Hidroeléctrica, from where we start a walk of approximately 2 and a half hours along a natural route parallel to the train, surrounded by rivers, vegetation, and mountains. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, we check in at the hotel and have dinner at a local restaurant.
The next day, early in the morning, we take the bus to the entrance of Machu Picchu, where you will have a unique experience with a 2-hour guided tour of its main sectors: temples, squares, terraces, and viewpoints. Then, you will have free time to continue exploring and capture the best photos of this incredible archaeological site.
Later, we return to Aguas Calientes, where you can have lunch on your own, and begin the walk back to Hidroeléctrica. Finally, we board the tourist transport back to Cusco, concluding this unforgettable journey.
The Machu Picchu by Car tour is ideal for travelers seeking adventure, connection with nature, and a different, authentic, and accessible way to reach Machu Picchu.
Tour Highlights Places we will visit
Key points of the trip
- 🔹
Abra Málaga: High mountain pass with spectacular views of the Andes.
- 🔹
Jungle Edge: Transition region between the highlands and the jungle, rich in biodiversity.
- 🔹
Santa Teresa: Welcoming town known for its hot springs and proximity to Machu Picchu.
- 🔹
Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes: Walkable stretch surrounded by vegetation, rivers, and unique landscapes.
- 🔹
Machu Picchu: Guided visit to Peru’s most famous archaeological site, a World Cultural Heritage Site.
Why choose this experience? Reasons to choose us
- ✨It is the most economical way to visit Machu Picchu, ideal for travelers who want to save without losing the essence of the trip.
- ✨You will enjoy diverse landscapes, from snowy mountains to tropical jungles.
- ✨Perfectly combines adventure, culture, and nature in a complete tour.
- ✨Allows you to reach Machu Picchu after an unforgettable walk surrounded by nature, instead of the traditional train trip.
- ✨It is an excellent option for those looking for a more active and different experience.
Why travel with us? Our Quality Guarantee
We are committed to providing you with exceptional service and an unforgettable experience.
-
We are tour operators in the city of Cusco
-
We work professionally
-
We offer 100% tourist vehicles
-
We care about the safety of our visitors
-
We make your trip the best experience
-
We are 100% responsible
-
We care for the environment
-
We are committed to service quality
● ITINERARY
-
📅 Day 1: Cusco – Santa Teresa – Aguas Calientes
-
🚐
Pick up from your hotel in Cusco (07:00 – 07:30 a.m.)
We begin this experience to Machu Picchu with pick up from your accommodation in Cusco. We start our journey by road, ideal for those looking for an alternative and economical route.
-
🚗
Crossing the Sacred Valley and arrival at Abra Málaga
We travel through the beautiful Sacred Valley of the Incas until we reach Abra Málaga (4,316 m a.s.l.), an impressive Andean pass where you can see snow-capped mountains. This stop is perfect for panoramic photos.
-
🌿
Descent to the Cloud Forest
Afterwards, we descend to the cloud forest, where the climate becomes warmer and more humid. As we go, the landscape transforms into tropical vegetation and crystal-clear rivers.
-
🍽️
Lunch in Santa Teresa
Around 2:00 p.m., we arrive in Santa Teresa to enjoy a local lunch. This area is famous for its pleasant climate and for being the connection point to Machu Picchu.
-
🚌
Bus transfer to Hydroelectric and walk to Aguas Calientes
We continue by bus to Hydroelectric, from where we start a walk of approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes to Aguas Calientes. This walk, parallel to the train tracks, is a unique experience surrounded by nature.
-
🏨
Arrival in Aguas Calientes and accommodation
Upon arrival in Machu Picchu town, our guide will accompany you to the hotel for check-in and rest.
-
🍽️
Dinner at a local restaurant
We end the day with an included dinner at a restaurant in Aguas Calientes. Then, rest to prepare for the visit to the citadel.
-
📅 Day 2: Machu Picchu – Hydroelectric – Cusco
-
☕
Early breakfast at the accommodation (06:30 a.m.)
We start the second day with an energetic breakfast to prepare for the big moment.
-
🚌
Bus ride to Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary
We head by bus to the main entrance of Machu Picchu, one of the wonders of the modern world.
-
🏛️
Guided tour of Machu Picchu
For approximately 2 hours, you will tour with a professional guide the main sectors of the archaeological site: temples, squares, fountains, terraces, and viewpoints with impressive views.
-
📷
Free time and return to Aguas Calientes
After the tour, you will have time to explore on your own and take photos. Afterwards, you will descend by bus to Aguas Calientes.
-
🍴
Free lunch
You will have time for lunch (not included) at one of the town’s restaurants before continuing the return.
-
🚶
Walk back to Hydroelectric
Following the same natural path, we walk back to Hydroelectric.
-
🚐
Return to Cusco by tourist transport
From Hydroelectric, we take the transport that will take us back to Cusco. Approximate arrival at night. End of service.
Included
- Hotel pickup in Cusco: We pick you up directly from your accommodation in Cusco for greater comfort and safety, ensuring a smooth start.
- Tourist transportation (round trip): Travel in a comfortable tourist vehicle from Cusco to Hidroelectrica and back, with strategic stops to enjoy the scenery and rest.
- Accommodation in Aguas Calientes: 1 night in a selected lodging for comfort and cleanliness, allowing a good rest before visiting Machu Picchu.
- 1 lunch, 1 breakfast, and 1 dinner: We include the main meals of the first day and breakfast on the second day, so you can enjoy the experience without worrying about food.
- Entrance to Machu Picchu: Official ticket to enter the historic sanctuary, guaranteeing access to the main sectors and the guided tour.
- Professional guide: Certified guide in Spanish or English, who will accompany you inside Machu Picchu providing detailed information and support during the tour.
Not Included
- Additional drinks: Drinks outside the scheduled meals are not included, allowing each traveler to choose according to their preferences.
- Lunch on the second day: Lunch on the second day is free, so you can explore the local cuisine in Aguas Calientes before returning.
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain: Access to these mountains is optional and requires an additional reservation, not included in the standard package.
- CONSETTUR bus (Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes): Bus transfer is optional; you can choose to walk up for a more adventurous experience.
- Train tickets: This tour does not include the train journey, as the itinerary is designed for travel by road and walking.
What to bring
-
🥗
Indicate if you are vegetarian/vegan or have dietary restrictions
If you follow a special diet, it is important to let us know. This way we can ensure there are suitable options for you during the tour.
-
🧥
Warm clothing
Temperatures can vary greatly at altitude. It is recommended to bring several layers of clothing to adapt to the weather during the day and night.
-
🕶️
Sunglasses
UV radiation is more intense at altitude. Good sunglasses will protect your eyes and make the trip more comfortable.
-
🧴
Sunscreen
The sun in the mountains is strong, even on cloudy days. Using sunscreen will prevent burns and protect your skin during the tour.
-
🧢
Wool hat
The cold can be intense, especially in the mornings and evenings. A wool hat will help you retain body heat.
-
🧤
Wool gloves
Hands get cold quickly at altitude. Wool gloves will give you the warmth you need for a comfortable trip.
-
👟
Suitable footwear
The terrain can be uneven and rocky. It is essential to wear comfortable shoes with good traction to avoid slipping and improve stability.
-
🍪
Snack
Physical effort at altitude requires extra energy. Bringing a snack will help you stay active and avoid fatigue during the tour.
-
💧
Water
It is essential to stay hydrated to avoid altitude sickness. It is recommended to bring a reusable bottle to refill along the way.
-
🪪
Personal documents
Some entrances require identification. Bringing your ID or passport will facilitate access and your registration in case of emergency.
-
🎒
Small backpack
Carrying a compact backpack will allow you to transport the essentials comfortably. Ideal for water, snacks, and personal items without excess weight.
-
💵
Cash (Soles)
Some places do not accept cards. Bringing cash in Soles will make it easier to buy souvenirs, snacks, or additional services.
-
📷
Camera
The landscapes are spectacular and worth capturing. A camera will allow you to take incredible memories and share your experience.
Tour a Machu Picchu por Carro: La Alternativa Económica al Tren
This tour is offered in shared and private service depending on your group size.
"Check availability 24 hours in advance to avoid inconvenience"
SHARED SERVICE
(price per person)
$129 USD
Group of 2 - 3 people
(Price per person)
$165 USD
Group of 4 - 7 people
(Price per person)
$150 USD
Groups of 8 people or more
(Price per person)
$140 USD
Payment summary:
Galería del sitio
What Our Travelers Say
We are ATV Rainbow Mountain, a passionate team of tourism professionals based in Cusco, Peru. We specialize in creating authentic experiences that showcase the best of our country, offering safe, personalized, and top-quality service.Strategic Location
Based in Cusco, the gateway to the Andes and breathtaking landscapes.
Personalized Attention
Our local team is available 24/7 to assist you before, during, and after your adventure.
Award-Winning Experience
Proud winners of the Travelers' Choice 2024 thanks to the amazing reviews from our travelers.
Excellent guide and unforgettable experience
Rainbow Mountain ATV Adventure
Spectacular tour with knowledgeable guide
Pago seguro y rápido
Realiza tu pago en línea y valida tu compra fácilmente.
Nacional: Pago por transferencia bancaria.
Extranjero: Pago con tarjeta o PayPal.
Caminatas y Trekking en Cusco Caminata
Mira este video sobre turismo en Perú:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7qgcXPjFz9I
Turismo en Perú - XTravel Peru
youtube.com
Publicado