Machu Picchu – By Car (2 Days)

Machu Picchu – By Car (2 Days) — A Practical and Authentic Experience from Cusco

Traveling to Machu Picchu is usually associated with train rides and crowded tour buses, but this two-day bus journey offers a different, more adventurous route. Starting in Cusco, this tour takes you through the Sacred Valley, across diverse landscapes, and into the heart of Peru’s natural beauty. For $199 per person, you get a taste of the high Andes, cloud forests, thermal springs, and the iconic Inca citadel — all with the chance to see stunning scenery up close.

What we love about this tour is its focus on landscape diversity — from snowy peaks to lush coffee plantations, it’s a visual feast. Plus, the chance to hike along scenic routes rather than just ride in a train makes for a more physical and immersive experience. The included guided tour of Machu Picchu provides insightful context, and the overnight stay in Aguas Calientes allows for catching the sunrise at the ruins, a moment many travelers cherish.

However, one potential drawback is the long travel and walking times, which may not suit travelers looking for a more relaxed pace or those with mobility limitations. Also, some reviews highlight inconsistent experiences, especially regarding pickup times and organization. This tour is best suited for those eager for adventure, landscapes, and a less conventional route to Machu Picchu, but who are also prepared for the physical activity involved.

Key Points

• Scenic Landscapes: Experience Peru’s geographical diversity, from high Andean puna to cloud forests.
• Authentic Scenery: Travel through lush coffee and coca-growing regions, with opportunities to see local life.
• Two-Day Adventure: Includes an overnight in Aguas Calientes, allowing for an early start at Machu Picchu.
• Guided Exploration: A knowledgeable guide provides insights into the Inca site during a comprehensive tour.
• Active Approach: Includes a significant hike from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes, perfect for those who enjoy walking.
• Potential issues: Some travelers report issues with pickup times and organization, so clarity and patience are advised.

An In-Depth Look at the 2-Day Machu Picchu Bus Tour

The Journey Begins in Cusco

Starting early around 7:30-8:00 am, this tour involves picking you up from your hotel or a designated meeting point. From there, the adventure begins with a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley, a favorite for travelers because of its stunning vistas and colorful markets. The route takes you across varying climates and terrains, providing a visual narrative of the Andes and tropical zones.

What makes this route engaging is the chance to see towns, farms, and natural landscapes that tell stories of everyday life in the region. Expect to see beautiful canyons and thermal springs — a reminder of the area’s volcanic and geological activity.

Day 1: From Cusco to Machu Picchu via Hike and Hotel Stay

The first day is a mix of bus rides and walking. After a buffet lunch in Huanu Marca, you’ll continue towards Hidroelectrica, the train station where the more common train journey to Aguas Calientes begins. Instead of taking the train, you’ll hike about 2.5 hours along the railway track, mostly through lush scenery and alongside rushing waters.

This hike is one of the most distinctive features of this tour. It allows travelers to experience the landscape up close and adds a physical element that many train travelers might miss. While the scenery is undeniably beautiful, some guests find this part of the trip a bit tiring, especially in the heat or if they’re not used to walking.

Once you reach Aguas Calientes, you’ll check into a hotel, giving you the evening free to explore the town or rest up for an early start the next day.

Day 2: Sunrise at Machu Picchu

The highlight of the tour is an early morning hike at 4:00 AM (or a 12 USD bus ride, if preferred) to Machu Picchu. Arriving early allows you to beat some of the crowds and see the site shrouded in mist, with the first light illuminating the ruins — a truly iconic experience.

Your guide, a licensed expert, will give a two-hour guided tour explaining the key areas of the citadel. This includes important spots like the Intihuatana, the Temple of the Sun, and the main plazas. After the guided part, you’re free to explore further, take photos, or hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain if you have the additional tickets — a must-do for many.

By mid-morning, you’ll head back down to Aguas Calientes, either by foot or bus, and then return to Cusco by bus and train. The entire experience is packed with stunning views, cultural insights, and physical activity.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers meals, accommodations, entrance fees, and transport from Cusco to Hidroelectrica and back, plus the hotel stay in Aguas Calientes. These inclusions make it a good value, especially considering the guided tour of Machu Picchu. However, meals on the second day aren’t included — a detail to plan for if you’re hungry after the early hike.

Some reviewers note that optional extras like buses and trains are not included, meaning you might spend extra if you prefer avoiding long walks or want a more comfortable ride. The group size is limited to 15 travelers, which helps with organization but also means you need to be aware of potential logistical hiccups, like pickup timings.

The Experience: Authentic, Scenic, and Active

One of the strengths of this tour is the chance to see diverse landscapes. From snow-capped peaks to dense cloud forests, the route showcases the geography of Peru in a way that a train ride might not. We loved the way you get immersed in the environment, not just pass through it.

In terms of authenticity, the tour offers a peek into local life with visits to towns where crops like tea, coffee, and coca are cultivated. It gives a more grounded sense of Peru’s natural and agricultural richness, rather than just ticking the box of visiting Machu Picchu.

Possible Challenges

The main concern — echoed by a review stating, “Dreadful experience avoid at all costs” — relates to organization and timing issues. Some travelers have expressed frustration with pickup times not being clear or punctual, which can cause stress or missed opportunities. The long hikes, while rewarding, might be tiring for some, especially if you’re not used to brisk walking or are traveling with young children or mobility issues.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy physical activity and want to see Machu Picchu as part of a broader journey through Peru’s spectacular landscapes. It’s ideal if you’re interested in seeing the countryside up close and are open to a more active, less conventional route.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more relaxed, hassle-free experience, or are concerned about timing and organization, you might want to consider other options that include train rides or guided bus tours.

Final Thoughts

This two-day bus journey to Machu Picchu offers more than just a visit to the famous ruins — it’s an exploration of Peru’s varied landscapes and local culture. It’s a good choice for those who want to combine physical activity with sightseeing and aren’t afraid of some early mornings or long walks.

The stunning views along the route, the chance to experience the landscape in a more intimate way, and the guided tour of the citadel make it a worthwhile adventure for the right traveler. Just keep in mind the organizational quirks and the physical demands involved.

If you’re seeking a less touristy, more scenic way to reach Machu Picchu and enjoy the natural beauty of the region, this tour could be a memorable pick. For travelers craving comfort and punctuality, it might be worth considering other options.

FAQ

Is transportation included from Cusco to Hidroelectrica?
Yes, the tour includes transport from Cusco to Hidroelectrica and back, covered in the price.

Can I hike from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes?
Absolutely. The main activity involves a 2.5-hour hike along the railway track from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes, offering scenic views and a chance to stretch your legs.

Are meals included?
Breakfast and dinner are included on the first day, and lunch is provided. However, lunch and dinner on the second day are not included, so you might want to plan accordingly.

Is early morning at Machu Picchu included?
Yes, you’ll start at 4:00 AM with a hike or bus ride to get into Machu Picchu early, giving you a chance to see the site just as the sun rises.

What type of hotel accommodations are provided?
The tour includes one night’s accommodation in Aguas Calientes, offering a place to rest after the hike and before the early morning visit.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
It requires a moderate level of physical fitness due to the walking involved, especially the hike from Hidroelectrica and the early morning ascent.

In the end, this tour offers a unique, active way to experience Machu Picchu and the surrounding landscapes, perfect for those who want more than just a quick visit. With some careful planning and a love of adventure, it can deliver a memorable journey through Peru’s natural beauty.