The Machu Picchu by Car 2 Days 1 Night Tour is one of the most affordable and adventurous routes to visit the world-famous Machu Picchu. This journey combines ground transportation, hiking, and spectacular landscapes through the Andes and the Cusco cloud forest, allowing you to enjoy a different experience on your way to the Inca citadel.
During the journey, we will cross the impressive Málaga Pass, located at 4,400 m / 14,436 ft, the highest point of the route. From there, we will descend toward Santa María, Santa Teresa, and Hidroelectrica, where we will begin the hike to Aguas Calientes, surrounded by lush vegetation and beautiful natural landscapes.
This 2-day, 1-night adventure is ideal for travelers looking for an authentic experience, with a moderate difficulty level, combining nature, culture, and history in one of Peru’s most important destinations.
Important: Machu Picchu entrance times and train schedules may vary depending on availability.
Itinerary
CUSCO – HIDROELECTRICA – MACHU PICCHU TOWN
07:00 hrs. We will pick you up in our private vehicle and then travel through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo. After a brief stop in this town, we will continue our journey uphill to the Málaga Pass at 4,400 meters above sea level, where we will make a short stop to admire the snow-capped peaks of Veronica and Salkantay. From here, we will descend through the high jungle to Santa María and then continue along the Urubamba River Valley until we reach Santa Teresa.
In Santa Teresa, we will stop for lunch and to stock up on water. We will then continue by car to Hidroelectrica, where we will begin our hike along a flat trail to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town). This hike takes approximately 3 hours.
18:30 hrs. Arrival in Machu Picchu town and overnight stay at a hostel.
Places to visit
Day details
MACHU PICCHU TOWN – HIDROELECTRICA – CUSCO
04:30 hrs. We will leave our hotel at this time to begin the hike along a trail that forms part of the Inca Trail. This hike takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes of continuous uphill walking; those who wish to take the bus from the town to the Machu Picchu site should inform the guide in charge.
Today we will visit the seventh wonder of the world, “Machu Picchu”. The guided tour will cover the most important areas, including the urban sector, religious sector, agricultural sector, and other significant sites. This guided tour will last approximately 2 hours. Later, we recommend starting the hike back to Hidroelectrica at 11:00 a.m.; please check with your guide.
We will return to Hidroelectrica in the same way as we came. Please be at Hidroelectrica by 2:30 p.m. Our vehicle will be waiting for you at Hidroelectrica to take you back to the city of Cusco.
21:30 hrs. Arrival in the city of Cusco and drop-off near San Francisco Square.
Places to visit
Day details
Note: The hike from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu Sanctuary takes approximately 2 hours. There is no guide during this hike; a bus option is available for USD 24 per person.
Inclusions
INCLUDES:
- Transportation from Cusco to Hidroelectrica and back to Cusco.
- 1 breakfast snack.
- 1 lunch.
- 1 dinner.
- 1-night stay at a hostel in Aguas Calientes.
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket.
- Professional guide for the visit to Machu Picchu.
NOT INCLUDED:
- Bus ticket from Machu Picchu town to the archaeological complex and back (USD 15 for Peruvian visitors and USD 24 for foreign visitors).
- Guide or companion during the round-trip hike between Hidroelectrica and Aguas Calientes.
- Services not mentioned.
Before Traveling
WE RECOMMEND BRINGING:
- Original ID or passport.
- A small backpack.
- Trekking shoes.
- Waterproof clothing.
- Extra money for personal expenses.
Important
- Prices are per person.
- If you would like the 3-day, 2-night option, please consult your sales advisor.
- Bring your ID or passport.
- Bring a face mask and face shield.
- We recommend reading the detailed itinerary.
- The service is provided on a shared basis, which means you will take this tour with other travelers.
- Dress warmly for the tour and bring rain gear from December to April.
Packing List
Essential
Passport
Medications
Extra money
Water bottle
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Personal hygiene
Sleeping bagClothing
Thermal jacket
Trekking pants
Rain poncho
Hiking boots
Wool hat
Shorts
Long sleeve shirts
Thermal pants
Sun hat
Rain jacket
Gloves
Scarf
Light shoes
UV sunglasses
Hiking socksEquipment
Day backpack
Trekking poles
Sleeping bagRecommended
Snacks / energy bars
Power bank
Flashlight
Towel
Swimsuit
Camera

