Budget

Machu Picchu by Car 2 Days (via Hidroeléctrica)
the backpackers’ route

2 days / 1 night Moderate Max. 16 travelers 4.7 (63 reviews)

Budget route

Machu Picchu
by road.

The backpackers’ favorite: 6–7 hours by road over Abra Málaga and through the high jungle to Hidroeléctrica, then a walk of about 3 hours along the railway to Aguas Calientes. Next day, a guided tour of Machu Picchu.

START / ENDCusco, Peru

MAX. ALTITUDE2,430 m

BEST SEASONApr — Nov

DISTANCE22 km

Your route day by day

Itinerary

DAY 1

Cusco — Hidroeléctrica — Aguas Calientes

Departure 7:00 am in tourist transport via Abra Málaga and Santa Teresa. Lunch at Hidroeléctrica and a 3-hour walk to Aguas Calientes. Night in a hostel.

6–7 h drive · 11 km walk

Cusco — Hidroeléctrica — Aguas Calientes

DAY 2

Machu Picchu — Hidroeléctrica — Cusco

Guided tour of Machu Picchu, walk back to Hidroeléctrica and transport to Cusco (arrival approx. 10:00 pm).

3 h visit

Everything under control

What is included

Round-trip tourist transport1 hostel nightLunch day 1, dinner and breakfastMachu Picchu entranceOfficial guide

Not included

Consettur bus (optional)Lunch day 2

Before you go

Essential information

Documents

Original passport used to buy the entrance and train; students: valid university card.

What to bring

Max 20 L backpack, water, sunscreen, repellent, poncho and cash for toilets.

Rules

No drones, tripods, poles without rubber tips or food inside the citadel.

Frequently asked questions

Answers to travel with peace of mind.

01Is the road safe?

It is a mountain road with unpaved sections. We work with experienced drivers and inspected vehicles.

Still have questions?

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FromUS$ 260