MachuPicchu by Car – 2 Days: Information Guide

MachuPicchu by Car What Is”?. This is the most affordable way to reach Machu Picchu without taking the train or doing a full multi-day hike. You travel by car from Cusco to Hidroeléctrica (Hydroelectric Station), then hike ~10 km (~6 miles) along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes, stay overnight, and visit Machu Picchu the next day.

Quick Facts

• Duration: 2 days / 1 night
• Total Travel Distance: ~7 hours drive + 3 hours hike
• Trek Difficulty: Easy to moderate (flat trail)
• Best Season: April to October (dry season)
• Ideal For: Budget travelers, last-minute visitors, and those avoiding the train fare

Day-by-Day Itinerary – MachuPicchu by Car.

Day 1: Cusco – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes

• Early morning departure from Cusco (~6:00 AM) by van or bus
• Scenic 6–7 hour drive through the Sacred Valley and jungle roads
• Lunch stop along the way (usually included)
• Arrive at Hidroeléctrica around 2:00 PM
• Hike ~3 hours along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes
• Check into a hostel or budget hotel
• Dinner and briefing for Machu Picchu visit

Day 2: Machu Picchu – Hidroeléctrica – Cusco

• Early morning hike or bus to Machu Picchu
• Guided tour of the citadel (~2 hours)
• Optional: Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (permit needed)
• Return hike to Hidroeléctrica
• Van back to Cusco, arriving ~9:00 PM (finish our MachuPicchu by Car Tour)

What’s Included (Typical Tour Package)

• Round-trip transportation (Cusco ↔ Hidroeléctrica)
• 1 night in a hostel or basic hotel in Aguas Calientes
• 1 breakfast, 1 lunch, 1 dinner
• Entrance to Machu Picchu
• Professional guide at the ruins

What to Bring for MachuPicchu by Car.

• Passport
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Rain jacket (weather is unpredictable)
• Snacks and water for the hike
• Sunscreen and insect repellent
• Flashlight/headlamp (for early hikes)
• Small backpack
• Cash for food, tips, and optional expenses

Pros & Cons (MachuPicchu by car)

✅ Pros:

• Cheapest way to visit Machu Picchu
• No need to book months in advance
• Great scenery and adventure
• Good for last-minute planners

❌ Cons:

• Long travel hours by road
• Basic accommodations
• Risk of landslides or delays in rainy season
• Must walk 10 km each way (or pay for train from Hidroeléctrica)