Explore Machu Picchu in 2 Days with Hiking Included

Experience the Marvel of Machu Picchu in Two Days with Hiking Included

If you’re seeking a more adventurous way to see Machu Picchu, this 2-day tour from Cusco packs in a lot — starting with a scenic bus ride to Hidroeléctrica, followed by a rewarding three-hour hike, and culminating in a guided exploration of the iconic Inca citadel. With a price around $156 per person, it offers a combination of outdoor activity, cultural insights, and authentic local experiences.

What we find especially appealing about this tour is the chance to walk part of the Inca Trail without the need for a multi-day trek or expensive permits — and the opportunity to stay overnight in Aguas Calientes, giving you a chance to soak in the atmosphere before visiting Machu Picchu itself. Plus, the inclusion of a bilingual guide ensures you’ll get a well-informed tour with plenty of stories behind the stones.

A potential consideration? The hike from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes can be physically demanding, especially if you’re not used to hiking. Also, since the tour does not include the Consettur bus tickets (which you’ll need to reach Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes), you’ll want to plan for that additional expense. This tour suits active travelers eager for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path approach to Machu Picchu, especially those keen on walking and exploring at a relaxed pace.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who love outdoor activities, want to avoid the crowds, and are looking for a unique way to reach Machu Picchu. It’s also ideal if you’re comfortable with a bit of physical activity and enjoy exploring in a more independent manner, but still value guided insights about the site’s history and biodiversity.

• Active adventure: Combines bus travel with a scenic 3-hour hike, adding a sense of journey and discovery.
• Authentic experience: Walk part of the route that many travelers miss, offering a more personal connection to the landscape.
• Guided insights: A bilingual guide helps you understand the significance of Machu Picchu’s archaeological and natural features.
• Overnight stay: Spending the night in Aguas Calientes allows for a more relaxed visit to Machu Picchu and avoids early morning rush.
• Flexible options: You can choose to hike or take the bus from Aguas Calientes to the site, depending on your preference and stamina.
• Affordable value: For just over $150, including accommodation, transportation, and guided tour, it’s a cost-effective way to see one of the world’s most famous wonders.

Day 1: From Cusco to Hidroeléctrica and the Scenic Hike to Aguas Calientes

Your journey begins early with a pickup from your Cusco hotel, usually between 6:00 and 6:30 am. The ride to Hidroeléctrica is a full day’s adventure in itself, offering scenic mountain views and a chance to see parts of rural Peru that are seldom on the tourist trail. The bus ride is comfortable and offers a break from city sightseeing, setting the stage for the trek ahead.

Once you arrive at Hidroeléctrica — a small train station and village — the adventure really kicks in. Here, you’ll find the opportunity to enjoy a hearty lunch, fueling up for the next phase of your trip. The highlight? The 3-hour hike along the railway tracks and through lush landscapes, leading you to Aguas Calientes.

This walk isn’t just about reaching your destination; it’s about soaking in the natural beauty and feeling connected to the route the Incas once traveled. We loved the way this segment offers a different perspective, away from the crowds, with plenty of photo stops and opportunities to marvel at the region’s biodiversity. One traveler mentioned, “The hike was challenging but so worth it — the views of the mountains and the jungle made it unforgettable.”

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, you’ll check into your hostel, a simple but comfortable place in the town’s main square. From here, you can explore at your leisure, maybe visiting local markets or relaxing in thermal baths if you have time.

Day 2: Sunrise at Machu Picchu and Guided Tour of the Lost City

An early morning start is recommended to beat the crowds and catch the sunrise over the sacred ruins. You’ll head to the entrance of Machu Picchu, either on foot or by bus if you prefer a less strenuous approach. Note that your ticket includes a guided tour of approximately 2 to 3 hours, during which your guide will unravel the stories behind the stones, explain the site’s purpose, and point out intriguing details like the Intihuatana stone and the Temple of the Sun.

What’s especially valuable about this guided part? It turns a visit into an educational experience, helping you understand why Machu Picchu remains so captivating. Many reviews highlight the guide’s knowledge and ability to share fascinating insights. One quote from a recent traveler said, “Our guide was fantastic — full of stories and details I would never have known on my own.”

After the tour, you have some free time to explore more, grab lunch in town, or take in the views from nearby viewpoints. You might also consider buying a bus ticket (not included in the tour price) back down to Aguas Calientes, especially if you’re tired from the hike or want more time exploring.

Late in the afternoon, you’ll walk back to Hidroeléctrica, where transportation awaits to return you to Cusco. The return trip typically concludes around 2:00 pm, ending your adventure near the Plaza de Armas.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour offers good value with hotel pick-up, transportation, overnight accommodation, breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a professional guide. The entrance fee to Machu Picchu is also included, which is a significant saving.

However, it’s essential to note that Consettur bus tickets aren’t included — you’ll need to purchase those separately if you prefer to take the bus up from Aguas Calientes. This adds a bit of extra planning, but many travelers find the hike more rewarding and enjoy the experience of walking part of the route.

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The Experience and Its Unique Qualities

What makes this tour stand out? For one, the combination of self-guided hiking and guided exploration strikes a nice balance. The hike from Hidroeléctrica offers a more authentic sense of adventure compared to the typical tourist bus, and the overnight stay in Aguas Calientes lets you visit Machu Picchu without the early morning rush.

Travelers consistently praise the knowledge and enthusiasm of guides, which makes a difference when trying to connect with the site’s history and significance. “Our guide was very good at explaining the history and making the experience engaging,” one reviewer said.

The tour also manages to keep the price accessible, especially considering it includes accommodations and transportation. Although the hike may not be suitable for everyone, those in good shape and eager for an active trip will find it highly rewarding.

This 2-day Machu Picchu tour offers a distinctive way to visit the iconic site — combining a scenic, active journey with a meaningful guided tour. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who value physical activity, enjoy a more personal connection to the landscape, and want to avoid the typical crowds. The overnight stay in Aguas Calientes adds flexibility and relaxation, making it a well-rounded experience.

While it requires some effort, the payoff is a more intimate, rewarding encounter with one of the world’s most remarkable archaeological sites. If you’re looking for a genuine adventure that blends nature, culture, and history, this tour hits many of the right notes.

Does the tour include transportation from Cusco to Hidroeléctrica?
Yes, the tour includes transportation from Cusco to Hidroeléctrica, ensuring a smooth start to your adventure.

Are meals provided during the first day?
Yes, lunch and dinner are included on the first day. A hearty lunch at Hidroeléctrica helps you prepare for the hike ahead.

Is the overnight accommodation comfortable?
The accommodation is a simple hostel in Aguas Calientes located in the main square. It provides a basic, clean place to rest and refresh before exploring Machu Picchu.

Can I hike or take a bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu?
Yes, you can choose to walk or buy a bus ticket (not included) to reach the entrance. The tour includes the guided exploration of Machu Picchu itself.

What should I bring for the hike from Hidroeléctrica?
Bring comfortable hiking shoes, water, sun protection, and a light backpack. The hike is manageable for those in good physical shape but can be challenging if you’re not accustomed to walking.

Is the tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour involves hiking, the level of difficulty depends on individual stamina. It’s best suited for active travelers and older children comfortable with walking.

How much does the Consettur bus from Aguas Calientes cost?
The bus ticket is not included in the tour price and must be purchased separately if you want to take the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.

Can I cancel or reschedule this tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your plans change.