Machu Picchu by Car 2 Days

If you dream of visiting Machu Picchu but are looking for a more economical option than the famous train, the Machu Picchu By Car 2-Day Tour is an excellent alternative. This route combines breathtaking landscapes, adventure, and culture in a different journey, ideal for those who want to step off the conventional path without missing the experience of reaching one of the wonders of the world. This tour not only helps you save money but also connects you more deeply with Peru’s natural and cultural environment. However, since it is a less traditional route, it’s important to know all the details before deciding. Below, we explain clearly and simply everything you need to know: schedules, hikes, accommodations, recommended ages, advantages, and disadvantages of the route.

Tour Schedule: How is each day organized?

The tour starts very early on the first day. Between 6:00 and 6:30 a.m., travelers are picked up from their accommodations in Cusco. At 7:00 a.m., the minivan departs towards the Hidroeléctrica area on a 6- to 7-hour trip crossing mountain landscapes, valleys, and high jungle. There is a technical stop in Ollantaytambo around 9:00 a.m. for rest before continuing to Hidroeléctrica, where arrival is near 1:00 p.m. for lunch. After lunch, the hike to Aguas Calientes begins. It lasts approximately 3 hours following the train tracks, surrounded by vegetation, rivers, and mountains. For those who do not wish to walk, there is the option to take the train from Hidroeléctrica (with an additional cost). Once in Aguas Calientes, travelers check in at the hotel and have free time to explore the town, visit the hot springs, or simply rest. In the evening, there is a briefing with the guide to receive instructions for the Machu Picchu visit. The second day starts between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m. with breakfast at the hotel. Then, travelers can either hike up to Machu Picchu (about 1 to 1.5 hours uphill) or take the tourist bus (optional, additional cost). Entrance to the citadel is usually scheduled between 6:00 and 8:00 a.m., followed by a 2-hour guided tour through the main sectors of the archaeological complex. Afterward, travelers return on foot to Aguas Calientes, have lunch, and walk again to Hidroeléctrica. From there, the minivan returns to Cusco, arriving around 10:00 p.m.

Hikes: How much do you actually walk?

During this tour, you walk between 22 and 26 km, divided over two days. On the first day, you walk 11 km from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes. On the second day, if you choose to hike up to Machu Picchu and return on foot, you can add between 4 and 6 km more. Then, another 11 km are covered when returning to Hidroeléctrica. In total, you may walk between 5 and 7 hours during the tour. Although the terrain is mostly flat or with moderate inclines, the duration and weather conditions can make the hike demanding. Good physical condition is recommended.

Accommodation: Where do you sleep?

The tour includes one night of accommodation in a tourist hotel in Aguas Calientes. These are simple but comfortable lodgings: private rooms with bathrooms, hot water, towels, WiFi, and breakfast included. If you prefer more comfort, you can request an upgrade to a higher-category hotel at an additional cost.

Recommended Age: Who can take this tour?

This tour is ideal for people between 12 and 60 years old who are in good health and physical condition. It is not a professional trek but does involve several hours of walking. Therefore, it is not recommended for:

• Small children
• Elderly people with mobility problems
• People with respiratory, heart conditions, or recent injuries

If traveling with people in these conditions, the train route is a better option.

Advantages of the Machu Picchu By Car Tour

• Significant savings: The most economical way to reach Machu Picchu.
• Close contact with nature: Walk surrounded by mountains, jungle, and rivers.
• Authentic adventure: Perfect for those who enjoy hiking and alternative tourism.
• Flexibility: You can adapt the tour with trains, buses, or hotel upgrades.
• Fewer tourists: A less crowded route compared to the train.

Disadvantages of the Machu Picchu By Car Tour

• Long hours on the road: The round trip by minivan takes 6–7 hours each way, on winding and sometimes partially paved roads.
• Extended hikes: Not suitable for people with little stamina or health issues.
• More physical effort: Unlike the train route, here you need to walk for several hours over two days.
• Less comfort: Transport and accommodations are basic, though functional.
• Weather dependency: Heavy rain can make some parts of the trail uncomfortable or slippery.