Travelers eager to see Machu Picchu without breaking the bank often face a choice: splurge on a fancy train ride or opt for a more rugged, authentic experience. This 2-day tour from Cusco, offered at just $150 per person, strikes a balance between affordability and adventure. It involves a scenic drive to the Hidroeléctrica, a rewarding walk along train tracks, and an early morning hike into the famed archaeological site.

What truly makes this experience special are two key highlights: First, the walk along the train tracks offers a chance to enjoy extraordinary landscapes away from the usual tourist crowds. Second, the guided tour at Machu Picchu delivers insightful stories and details that deepen your appreciation of this iconic site.

A possible consideration? The walk from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes takes about three hours, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with some physical activity. If you’re someone who loves trekking and authentic experiences over luxury, this tour might be your perfect fit. It’s especially appealing to travelers on a budget, those seeking a more adventurous route, or anyone eager to connect more intimately with the Peruvian landscape.

Key Points

Cost-effective way to visit Machu Picchu without a train ticket
Scenic walk along train tracks with stunning landscape views
Guided tour offers meaningful insights into Machu Picchu’s history and mystery
Physical activity involved in the walk and hike, suitable for adventurous travelers
Small group size (limited to 15 participants) enhances personal attention
Includes accommodations, meals, and essential tickets for a smooth experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic, Budget-Friendly Path to Machu Picchu

This tour is designed for travelers eager for a different perspective of Machu Picchu — one that combines a taste of local life, outdoor adventure, and cultural discovery. It’s not the easiest way to see Machu Picchu if you’re looking for comfort or luxury, but it’s one of the most authentic and affordable options around.

Starting early from your Cusco hotel, you’ll join a small group for a full-day journey that begins with a pick-up around 6:00 to 6:30 a.m. We then travel by bus for a long, scenic drive to the Hidroeléctrica, the hydroelectric plant nestled along the train tracks. This journey takes roughly 8 to 9 hours, giving you a chance to soak in the Peruvian countryside and small towns along the way. The basic buffet lunch at Hidroeléctrica provides a quick energy boost before the walk begins.

While in Aguas Calientes, here are other experiences we've covered

The Scenic Walk and Landscape

Once you arrive at Hidroeléctrica, the walk along the train tracks toward Machu Picchu town (Aguas Calientes) lasts about three hours. This part of the journey is what many travelers love most — walking amidst lush greenery, passing waterfalls, and listening to the rhythmic clatter of passing trains. Several reviews mention how this walk offers views that are less crowded but just as beautiful as those seen from the train.

One reviewer notes, “The walk was more a journey through real Peru — locals, nature, and quiet moments I wouldn’t have experienced on a train.” Keep in mind, this leg is without a guide, so you’ll be relying on your own navigation or the service’s instructions. Still, the ambiance and scenery make it well worth the effort.

Arriving in Aguas Calientes

Upon reaching Aguas Calientes, a quick transfer takes you to your hostel for check-in. The evening includes dinner (included on the first day), giving you a chance to relax and prepare for the early start the next morning.

Day Two: The Climb and Guided Tour

The second day kicks off before dawn. An hour-long climb leads you to the main entrance of Machu Picchu. The early start means fewer crowds, and the brisk walk up the steep stairs is invigorating. Once at the gates, a guided tour lasting about two hours unfolds, led by knowledgeable guides who share insights into the site’s history, architecture, and mysteries.

A reviewer expressed appreciation for the guide, saying, “Our guide, Juan, made the ruins come alive with stories I’d never read in books. It’s worth the early wake-up to beat the crowds.” After exploring, you’ll have some free time for photos and personal exploration before descending back to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included).

More Great Tours Nearby

The Return Walk and Journey Back

In the afternoon, you walk back to Hidroeléctrica, where your transport awaits to ferry you back to Cusco. The return trip is faster, and you arrive near the Plaza de Armas in Cusco, wrapping up a memorable, active adventure.

While you're exploring Aguas Calientes, here are other experiences we've looked into

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are essential transfers, hotel pickup in Cusco, meals (dinner and breakfast), the entry ticket to Machu Picchu, and a professional guide for the tour. The basic hostel stay supplies a simple but adequate overnight accommodation.

Not included: the second-day lunch, Consettur round-trip buses, travel insurance, and any extra services outside the itinerary. Travelers should budget for lunch on the second day and consider their own insurance needs.

Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

The journey includes a bus ride to Hidroeléctrica, which takes about 8 to 9 hours, followed by the walk. The group size is limited to 15, allowing for a more personalized experience and better interaction with guides. Early start times vary depending on availability, so checking ahead is recommended.

The Value of This Approach

Compared to more luxurious options, this tour offers a deep connection with the landscape and local culture. The walk along the train tracks is a highlight that many travelers find enriching, especially those keen on outdoor activity. However, it does require a good level of fitness and a willingness to walk several hours with minimal guide support during the track walk.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

From the reviews, travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides who make history accessible and engaging. Many mention that the views along the trail are memorable, and the early access to Machu Picchu provides a serene experience absent from the midday crowds.

To make the most of this tour, pack essentials like hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and your passport or ID. Since the walk involves uphill steps, comfortable shoes are a must. Remember, the tour does not allow alcohol or drugs, and it is not suitable for pregnant women, people with heart problems, wheelchair users, or those with visual impairments.

The Sum Up

This Cusco to Machu Picchu 2-day tour by car and scenic walk offers a compelling mix of adventure, landscape, and history at a very reasonable price point. It’s perfect for travelers who love trekking, are eager for a more authentic experience, and don’t mind a physically active journey. The combination of stunning scenery, local interaction, and the thrill of reaching Machu Picchu early makes it a memorable choice.

While it’s not for those seeking luxury or a relaxed pace, it rewards those willing to embrace the outdoors and step off the beaten path. If you’re looking to connect more deeply with the Peruvian landscape and history, this tour is an excellent way to do so without a hefty price tag.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The walk from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes lasts about three hours and involves uphill sections. It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with some physical activity and hiking.

What should I bring for the trip?
Pack your passport or ID, hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes. A small backpack with water and snacks is recommended for the walk.

Does the tour include a guide during the walk?
No, the walk along the train tracks from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes is without a guide. The guided tour is only at Machu Picchu itself.

What meals are included?
Day 1 includes dinner and lunch at Hidroeléctrica. Day 2 includes breakfast, but lunch is on your own in Aguas Calientes.

Is this tour available year-round?
Availability depends on the schedule, so it’s best to check with the provider before booking. The tour requires early morning starts, so plan accordingly.

Are there any restrictions or exclusions I should know about?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with heart problems, wheelchair users, or visually impaired persons. Travel insurance is also not included.

What is the group size?
Limited to 15 participants, offering a more intimate experience and better opportunity for interaction with the guide.

This tour offers an authentic, active, and budget-friendly way to visit Machu Picchu, perfect for those craving a journey that’s both scenic and meaningful. It’s a chance to see Peru’s landscapes up close, walk along historic tracks, and discover the wonder of Machu Picchu with a knowledgeable guide — all without a hefty price tag.