Machu Picchu by car hike 2 days tour
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$185USD
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Duration
2 days
Difficulty
Easy
Daily departures
365 days a year
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Group or private
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Machu Picchu by car hike 2 days tour
La forma más aventurera de llegar a Machu Picchu desde Cusco por la ruta alternativa vía Hidroeléctrica.
Recorre paisajes andinos y de selva alta, camina junto a la vía férrea y descubre Machu Picchu en un viaje de 2 días.
Group Tour
- Best price
- Independent traveler
- Fixed departures
Private Tour
- Flexible schedule
- Personalized service
- Private vehicle
Tour Overview Machu Picchu by car hike 2 days tour
Your Experience at a Glance:
Day 1
Machu Picchu via the Amazon Route
Day 2
Machu Picchu via the Amazon Route
Total Hotel Nights
Cusco
1 Night
Expert Travel Tips
Who Is the 2 Day Machu Picchu Amazon Route from Cusco Ideal For?
It is an excellent option for travelers who want to experience Machu Picchu in a more adventurous way and enjoy the journey rather than limiting the experience to the Inca citadel itself.
Along the route, you’ll discover Andean landscapes, cloud forest, and small towns before reaching Aguas Calientes.
What Makes the 2 Day Machu Picchu Amazon Route from Cusco Special?
What makes this experience special is the variety of landscapes you’ll encounter throughout the journey.
You’ll travel from the mountains of Abra Málaga into the lush vegetation of the cloud forest, passing through Santa María and Santa Teresa before continuing toward Machu Picchu.
Is the 2 Day Machu Picchu Amazon Route from Cusco Worth It?
Yes. It is an attractive alternative for travelers who want to combine Machu Picchu with adventure, hiking, and diverse landscapes in the Cusco region.
By traveling over two days, you’ll have more time to enjoy the journey and experience a completely different route from the traditional train option.
Day 1: Machu Picchu via the Amazon Route
Your Experience at a Glance:
6:00 AM
Hotel pickup in Cusco
8:30 AM
Abra Málaga (4,316 m.a.s.l.)
9:00 AM
Descent into the cloud forest
12:00 PM
À la carte lunch
2:00 PM
Hike from Hydroelectric
to Aguas Calientes
5:30 PM
Arrival in Aguas Calientes
6:30 PM
Briefing with your guide and free time
- Transportation
- 12 km
- Guide
- Tickets
- 11 Hours
6:00 a.m. - Hotel Pickup in Cusco
We begin our Machu Picchu Amazon Route Tour at 6:00 AM with pickup from your hotel in Cusco.
From there, we’ll head toward the Sacred Valley of the Incas to begin the adventure.
8:30 a.m. - Abra Málaga (4,316 m.a.s.l.)
After a couple of hours on the road, we’ll reach Abra Málaga, the highest point of our route.
From here, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks and mountains surrounding the area.
9:00 a.m. - Descent into the Cloud Forest
We’ll continue our journey by descending into the cloud forest, where the landscape gradually changes, revealing more abundant vegetation and a warmer climate.
Along the way, we’ll pass through small towns, including Santa María and Santa Teresa, where we’ll make brief stops so you can purchase fruit, drinks, or snacks if you wish (not included).
12:00 p.m. -Arrival at Hydroelectric & Lunch
After approximately 6 hours of travel by van from Cusco, we’ll arrive at Hydroelectric.
Before beginning the hike, you’ll have time to recharge at a local restaurant, where you can choose from a selection of dishes on the menu.
2:00 p.m. - Hike from Hydroelectric to Aguas Calientes 12 km
From Hydroelectric, we’ll begin the 12 km (7.5 mi) hike to Aguas Calientes, following a scenic route surrounded by lush vegetation and mountains.
You can complete this section independently or travel accompanied by a guide from Cusco, depending on the option you choose. (Pricing details are provided below.)
5:30 p.m. - Arrival in Aguas Calientes
After approximately 3.5 hours of hiking, we’ll arrive in Aguas Calientes, where you’ll check into your hotel with a private bathroom and hot water.
6:30 p.m. - Briefing with Your Guide & Free Time
Once you’re settled in, our Machu Picchu based guide will contact you to provide important instructions and explain the plan for your visit to Machu Picchu the following day.
Afterward, you’ll have free time to enjoy dinner, explore Aguas Calientes, or relax in the town’s hot springs if you prefer (admission is optional).
Included
- Transportation from Cusco to Hydroelectric.
- Professional Spanish/English-speaking guide (additional fee applies for guide accompaniment; pricing details are provided below).
- Lunch in Santa Teresa.
- Accommodation in Aguas Calientes (details provided below).
Not Included
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary.
Optional Add Ons
One night hotel stay in Aguas Calientes (pricing details are provided below).
*Check in: 12:00 PM
Area Information
Maximum Altitude
4,316 m.a.s.l. / 14,160 ft
Minimum Altitude
1,800 m.a.s.l. / 5,905 ft
Maximum Temperature
28°C / 82°F
Minimum Temperature
0°C / 32°F
Expert Travel Tips
Is It Worth Visiting Machu Picchu via the Amazon Route?
Yes. Traveling to Machu Picchu via the Amazon Route is an excellent alternative for travelers who want to make the journey itself part of the adventure.
The route combines mountain and cloud forest landscapes with the hike from Hydroelectric to Aguas Calientes, offering a different experience before visiting the Inca citadel.
What Makes the Amazon Route to Machu Picchu Special?
The Amazon Route to Machu Picchu stands out for combining road travel, nature, and hiking in a single journey.
As you descend from the Andes into the cloud forest, you’ll experience noticeable changes in climate, vegetation, and scenery, making the journey to Machu Picchu an important part of the overall experience.
Is the Amazon Route to Machu Picchu Recommended if I Don’t Like Hiking?
No. It is not the most suitable option if you want to reach Machu Picchu with as little physical effort as possible.
The Amazon Route to Machu Picchu includes a hike between Hydroelectric and Aguas Calientes, making it better suited for travelers who enjoy walking, being surrounded by nature, and experiencing a more adventurous journey.
Day 2: Machu Picchu via the Amazon Route
Choose the Schedule That Works Best for You
Option 1
4:00 AM – Hike to Machu Picchu
Option 2
5:30 AM – Bus Ride to Machu Picchu
Return to Cusco: Option 1
Hike via Hydroelectric
Return to Cusco: Option 2
Tourist Train
- Transportation
- 15 km
- Guide
- Tickets
- 16 Hours
Option 1: Hike to Machu Picchu – 4:00 a.m.
If you prefer a more adventurous experience, you can wake up at around 4:00 AM and begin the hike from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
Our program includes the bus ride up to and down from Machu Picchu. If you choose to hike both ways instead, USD 24.00 can be deducted from the tour price. To request this change, contact one of our travel advisors using the green WhatsApp button.
Option 2: Bus Ride to Machu Picchu – 5:30 a.m.
If you prefer a more comfortable option, you can take the first bus departing at 5:30 AM for Machu Picchu.
Our program includes both the bus ride up to Machu Picchu and the return journey to Aguas Calientes. If you prefer to hike both ways, USD 24.00 can be deducted from the tour price.
Contact one of our travel advisors using the green WhatsApp button to arrange this option.
Guided Tour of Machu Picchu Approximately 3 Hours
Once inside Machu Picchu, you’ll enjoy a private guided tour through the temples, plazas, and panoramic viewpoints of the Inca citadel. The exact places visited will depend on the Machu Picchu circuit assigned to your entrance ticket.
The earlier you book this itinerary with us, the better the chance of securing one of the most complete circuits available. Contact your travel advisor through the WhatsApp button for more information.
Time at Machu Picchu
With us, you’ll enter Machu Picchu with your guide and complete the visit accompanied by the same guide.
Our team will be there to answer your questions, explain the history of the site, and help you take memorable photos so you can make the most of your visit to this world famous Inca wonder.
Hike Back to Aguas Calientes Approximately 1.5 Hours
After your guided visit, you can choose to descend on foot to Aguas Calientes. This approximately 2 km (1.2 mi) downhill hike takes around 1.5 hours.
Our program already includes the bus ride up and down. If you decide to hike both sections instead, USD 24.00 can be deducted from the program price. Contact one of our travel advisors through the green WhatsApp button to request this change.
Return to Cusco – Option 1: Hike via Hydroelectric
The essence of the Machu Picchu Amazon Route is combining your visit to the Inca citadel with a hiking adventure.
From Aguas Calientes, you can hike back to Hydroelectric, where our driver will be waiting to begin the return journey to Cusco.
Arrival is scheduled for approximately 10:00 PM at Plaza Regocijo, located one block from Cusco’s Plaza de Armas.
Return to Cusco – Option 2: Tourist Train
If you prefer a faster and more comfortable return journey, you can choose the The Voyager or Expedition tourist train when making your reservation.
This option allows you to combine the hiking experience of the Amazon Route with a scenic train journey, arriving back in Cusco at approximately 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM, depending on availability and how far in advance you book.
Included
- Transportation from Hydroelectric to Cusco (Option 1: Hiking Route).
- The Voyager or Expedition tourist train (Option 2: Train).
- Professional private Spanish/English-speaking guide inside Machu Picchu.
Not Included
- Meals in general.
Area Information
Maximum Altitude
4,316 m.a.s.l. / 14,160 ft
Minimum Altitude
1,800 m.a.s.l. / 5,905 ft
Maximum Temperature
28°C / 82°F
Minimum Temperature
16°C / 60°F
Distance
15 km / 9.3 mi
Climate
Usually humid and warm
Expert Travel Tips
What Makes the Second Day of the Machu Picchu Amazon Route Special?
The second day is the most anticipated part of the journey, as you’ll finally visit Machu Picchu after completing the Amazon Route.
Starting early allows you to make the most of the morning and enjoy your experience inside the Inca citadel at a more comfortable pace.
Is It Better to Hike or Take the Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu?
Both options are good and depend on your travel style. Hiking adds more adventure and allows you to experience the natural surroundings, while taking the bus helps you save energy for exploring Machu Picchu.
If you want to make the most of your guided visit, the bus is usually the more comfortable option.
Should I Hike Up to Machu Picchu if I’m Not in Good Physical Condition?
No. It is not the most recommended option. The hike from Aguas Calientes includes many stairs and a considerable elevation gain, which can be physically demanding before entering Machu Picchu.
If you prefer to save your energy for exploring the sanctuary, taking the bus is the more convenient choice during your Machu Picchu Amazon Route experience.
¿Porqué este tour es diferente?
- Recojo y traslado a tu hotel en Cusco incluido
- Almuerzo a la carta
- Opciones de movilidad y caminata
- Soporte 24/7 WhatsApp dedicado
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- Más de 6 años creando experiencias
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- Salidas garantizadas
LATAM SKY JETSMART DELTA COPA
Lima – Cuzco
Desde
82.00 USD
Miami – Lima
Desde
520.00 USD
Precios ida y vuelta para viajar en determinados meses, cotiza otros destinos.
© Aplican terminos y condiciones
Included
- 24/7 support and assistance after your booking.
- Transportation from Cusco to Hydroelectric.
- Professional Spanish/English-speaking guide at Machu Picchu.
- Lunch in Santa Teresa.
- Accommodation in Aguas Calientes (details provided below).
- Transportation from Hydroelectric to Cusco (Option 1: Hiking Route).
- The Voyager or Expedition tourist train (Option 2: Train).
- Professional private Spanish/English-speaking guide inside Machu Picchu.
Not Included
- Tips for the guides.
- Dinner on the first day.
- Lunch on the second day.
- Dinner on the second day.
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Travel insurance (Peruvian regulations recommend entering Peru with travel insurance purchased in your country of origin).
- We work with selected clinics and can help you arrange medical assistance if needed. The clinics can process the travel insurance you purchased beforehand; however, they do not provide travel insurance themselves.
- Additional entrance tickets or optional activities.
What to bring!
- Personal medications.
- A clear photo of your passport.
- Small daypack (preferably with a rain cover).
- Water (we recommend bringing 1 liter per day).
- Rain poncho or waterproof jacket.
- Extra snacks.
- Hiking shoes and pants.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Lip balm.
- Mosquito repellent.
- Warm clothing (jacket, sweater, long-sleeved shirts, etc.).
- Cash in Peruvian soles (PEN).
Payment
AVOID SCAMS!
GET IN PERU only requires a 50% deposit to reserve your seats and tickets.
The remaining balance must be paid 3 days before your departure.
Contact your travel advisor for more information or visit our Terms of Service Agreement.
Travel Your Way




Price per person
Rates that include a hotel night in the lower town are calculated based on a minimum of two people, in a double, matrimonial, or triple room. If you are traveling alone, the price will vary—please contact us and we’ll plan the perfect trip together.
- Cheaper ⓘ
- 185.00 USD
- Return on train ⓘ
- 275.00 USD
- Best Experience ⓘ
- 423.00 USD
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Additionals to your trip
1 night Hotel 2*
+18.00 USD ⓘ
1 night Hotel 3*
+33.00 USD ⓘ
Tour guide from Cusco
+148.00 USD ⓘ
Belong to CAN?
-25.00 USD ⓘ
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Everything You Need to Know
Before You Travel
What Is the Machu Picchu Amazon Route?
The Machu Picchu Amazon Route is an alternative way to reach Machu Picchu from Cusco, combining overland transportation and hiking. The route crosses Abra Málaga, descends into the cloud forest, and continues to Hydroelectric, where you’ll begin the hike to Aguas Calientes before visiting Machu Picchu the following day.
💡 Get In Peru Tip: It’s an excellent alternative for travelers looking to combine Machu Picchu with adventure, hiking, and landscapes that transition from the Andes to the cloud forest.
📍 Did You Know? During the journey, you’ll travel from Abra Málaga at 4,316 m (14,160 ft) above sea level into areas with a much warmer climate and more tropical vegetation.
What Is the 2 Day Machu Picchu Amazon Route Tour from Cusco Like?
The 2 Day Machu Picchu Amazon Route Tour from Cusco begins at approximately 6:00 AM with pickup from your hotel. On the first day, you’ll cross Abra Málaga, descend into the cloud forest, and, after lunch, continue to Hydroelectric before hiking to Aguas Calientes.
The second day is dedicated to visiting Machu Picchu, with the option to begin the hike from Aguas Calientes at 4:00 AM or take the bus at approximately 5:30 AM.
💡 Get In Peru Tip: Get a good night’s rest in Aguas Calientes, as the second day starts very early.
📍 Did You Know? The Amazon Route allows you to experience high-Andean landscapes, cloud forest, and lush tropical vegetation all in the same journey.
How Far Do You Hike on the Machu Picchu Amazon Route?
One of the main hiking sections of the Machu Picchu Amazon Route is the trail between Hydroelectric and Aguas Calientes. On similar routes via Hydroelectric, this section is approximately 10 to 11 kilometers (6.2 to 6.8 miles) and usually takes around 2 to 3 hours, depending on your walking pace.
💡 Get In Peru Tip: Wear comfortable shoes with good traction, carry enough water, and use a lightweight backpack to make the hike more enjoyable.
📍 Did You Know? Much of the route to Aguas Calientes follows relatively flat terrain surrounded by lush vegetation.
Is the Hike from Hydroelectric to Aguas Calientes Difficult?
The hike from Hydroelectric to Aguas Calientes is generally considered easy to moderate, as much of the route has little elevation gain. However, the distance and weather conditions can make it more challenging for travelers who are not used to walking for several hours.
💡 Get In Peru Tip: Maintain a steady pace and avoid carrying unnecessary luggage. A small, lightweight backpack will make the hike much more comfortable.
📍 Did You Know? This hike has become one of the best-known alternative ways to reach Aguas Calientes without completing the entire journey by train.
Is the Machu Picchu Amazon Route an Alternative to the Traditional Train Journey?
Yes. The Machu Picchu Amazon Route is an alternative to the traditional journey made primarily by train. Instead of traveling directly to Aguas Calientes by rail, this route combines overland transportation from Cusco to Hydroelectric with a hike to Machu Picchu Pueblo.
💡 Get In Peru Tip: Choose this route if you value adventure and hiking. If your priority is reducing physical effort and travel time, the train may be a more convenient option.
📍 Did You Know? The road journey crosses Abra Málaga before descending into the cloud forest, creating one of the most striking landscape contrasts along the route.
Where Do You Stay Overnight During the 2 Day Machu Picchu Amazon Route Tour?
The overnight stay is in Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo. According to the itinerary, after hiking from Hydroelectric, you’ll arrive at approximately 5:30 PM, followed by a briefing with your guide at around 6:30 PM before enjoying some free time.
💡 Get In Peru Tip: Prepare everything you’ll need for Machu Picchu the night before. This will help you get ready quickly for the early start the following morning.
📍 Did You Know? Staying overnight in Aguas Calientes allows you to begin the journey up to Machu Picchu very early the next morning.
Can You Hike to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes?
Yes. On our Machu Picchu Amazon Route itinerary, you can choose to begin the hike to Machu Picchu at approximately 4:00 AM. Alternatively, you can take the bus, with departures beginning at approximately 5:30 AM.
💡 Get In Peru Tip: If you plan to hike up, go to bed early and carry only the essentials to make the ascent easier and more comfortable.
📍 Did You Know? Hiking from Aguas Calientes up to Machu Picchu requires considerably more physical effort than the previous day’s hike between Hydroelectric and Aguas Calientes.
How Do You Return to Cusco After Visiting Machu Picchu via the Amazon Route?
After visiting Machu Picchu, the itinerary offers two options for returning to Cusco: hike back via the Hydroelectric Route or choose the tourist train return option.
This flexibility allows you to customize the second day according to your budget, available time, and preferred level of physical effort.
💡 Get In Peru Tip: If you prefer a less physically demanding journey after visiting Machu Picchu, consider returning by train.
📍 Did You Know? Your choice of return transportation can significantly change the experience of the second day, so it’s best to decide which option you prefer before your trip.
What Should I Bring for the Machu Picchu Amazon Route?
For the Machu Picchu Amazon Route, we recommend bringing comfortable walking shoes, lightweight layered clothing, a waterproof jacket or rain poncho, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat or cap, water, snacks, personal documents, and a small backpack.
Due to the significant change in altitude between Abra Málaga and the cloud forest, you may experience very different weather conditions within the same day. For the route via Hydroelectric, we also recommend sun protection, rain gear, water, and footwear with good traction.
💡 Get In Peru Tip: Avoid carrying a heavy backpack. During the hike to Aguas Calientes, you’ll appreciate traveling with only the essentials.
📍 Did You Know? In just a few hours, this route descends from 4,316 m (14,160 ft) above sea level at Abra Málaga into the warmer, lush environment of the cloud forest.
Is the 2 Day Machu Picchu Amazon Route Worth It?
Yes, especially for travelers who want to experience Machu Picchu from Cusco via a more adventurous route, combining road travel, Andean landscapes, cloud forest, and hiking via Hydroelectric.
Unlike an experience focused primarily on train travel, the 2 Day Machu Picchu Amazon Route makes the journey to the Inca citadel an important part of the adventure. Similar routes via Hydroelectric are known for combining nature, hiking, and less reliance on train transportation.
💡 Get In Peru Tip: If you enjoy hiking and want the journey to Machu Picchu to be part of the experience itself, this route can be an excellent choice.
📍 Did You Know? This route allows you to reach Aguas Calientes via Hydroelectric and visit Machu Picchu on the morning of the second day.
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