Machu Picchu By Car 2 Days (All Inclusive)

A Road Less Traveled: Exploring Machu Picchu by Car Over Two Days

Imagine trading the familiar train ride for a more immersive journey through the Andean highlands. For $275 per person, this all-inclusive 2-day tour takes you from Cusco through lush landscapes, ancient Inca sites, and the bustling town of Aguas Calientes, culminating at Machu Picchu. Led by friendly guides with a knack for storytelling, you’ll experience the region’s natural beauty and cultural richness at a relaxed pace.

What we love about this tour is the chance to truly connect with the scenery—driving along the Sacred Valley, passing by farmers, and catching stunning mountain vistas. Plus, the overnight stay in Aguas Calientes offers a more authentic feel than rushing in and out on a day trip.

One thing to keep in mind is that the trip involves around 14 hours of travel each way, mostly on the road, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with long drives and moderate physical activity. This experience suits travelers who value a deeper, less touristy experience of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, especially if you enjoy scenic journeys and local encounters.

Key Points

• Unique Road Trip: Travel from Cusco to Machu Picchu by car, avoiding the train, for a more intimate view of rural Peru.
• Authentic Encounters: Experience local markets, Incan terraces, and cloud forests en route.
• Comprehensive Experience: Includes guided tours, accommodation, and all transportation, making it hassle-free.
• Long but Rewarding: Expect around 14 hours of travel each way, with plenty of scenic stops.
• Full Immersion: Spend a night in Aguas Calientes, allowing more time at Machu Picchu and local exploration.
• Highly Rated: Consistently praised for organization, guides, and overall value by travelers.

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

Starting Point: Cusco’s Historic Center

The adventure begins early, with pickup from your hotel or Plaza Regocijo, giving you a head start around 6:50-7:00 am. From here, you’re immediately moving into a different world—leaving behind the cobbled streets of Cusco for the sweeping landscapes of the Sacred Valley. This initial transition is crucial because it sets the tone for the entire journey: a balance between comfort and authentic exploration.

Scenic Drive through the Sacred Valley and Beyond

The first leg, approximately 7 hours, is the heart of this trip. Instead of a train, you’ll be cruising through a series of landscapes that change from urban to rural, mountain to valley. This drive is a highlight in itself. You’ll witness farmers working terraces, children playing near hamlets, and the towering Andes as a backdrop.

You’ll pass by Ollantaytambo, an Incan stronghold still alive with archaeological significance and agricultural activity. Here, you can appreciate why the Incas chose this location for its strategic and spiritual importance. The mention of the cloud forest suggests a lush, misty environment, adding a mystical quality to your journey.

The Enchanting Stop at Hidroeléctrica

After a hearty lunch, the tour continues towards Hidroeléctrica, a key checkpoint and a favorite among travelers for its picturesque scenery. This 3-hour walk alongside the railway tracks is where nature and history collide. The trail is flanked by dense greenery, calls of exotic birds, and the distant hum of trains—an unusual but charming contrast.

Many reviews highlight the beauty of this stretch, with travelers appreciating the chance to walk along the tracks in the midst of a verdant cloud forest. It’s a quiet, contemplative moment that prepares you for the arrival in Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

Arrival in Aguas Calientes

The town itself is a lively hub with cozy accommodations, local markets, and thermal springs. Spending the night here is a major advantage, giving you ample time to rest and prepare for an early visit to Machu Picchu. The town’s atmosphere is lively but relaxed, with many travelers noting the friendly vibe and picturesque setting.

Day 2: The Iconic Machu Picchu

The early morning bus ride (about 25 minutes) to the entrance of Machu Picchu is a highlight. As you ascend, the view of the citadel rising from the lush greenery is breathtaking, especially if you catch the sunrise. Your guide will then take you on a two-hour tour, walking you through the main sites within the citadel, sharing stories of Inca ingenuity and spiritual significance.

Reviews frequently mention how well this guided tour allows you to understand the site beyond just snapping photos. Travelers like “Jairo,” praised for his excellent guidance, bring the stones to life, making the visit more meaningful.

Exploring Machu Picchu

After the guided tour, you have time to explore on your own, soak in the views, and perhaps get a few more photos. The authentic experience of wandering through the ruins—feeling the stonework, hearing the wind—cannot be replaced by a rush through on a day trip.

Return Journey: From Machu Picchu Back to Cusco

At around 11:45 am, you’ll descend back to Aguas Calientes by bus. The return drive, about 7 hours, takes you back through the same scenic landscapes, giving you time to reflect on your experience. Many travelers note that this long drive is “serene” and offers a chance to process the incredible sights seen.

Arriving back in Cusco around 9:30-10 pm, you’ll find yourself filled with stories and beautiful images—from mountain peaks to Incan terraces—ready to share with friends or keep as personal memories.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This tour’s main appeal is the combination of scenic road travel and authentic stops that you won’t find on standard train-and-tour packages. The extra day in Aguas Calientes means you’re not just rushing through, but truly soaking in the environment, the culture, and the history. Many reviews praise the organization and guides, highlighting how well everything runs, from transportation to the guided tour.

Travelers also love the value for money, since the price includes most necessities—meals, accommodation, guides, and entrance fees. The reviews repeatedly mention how well-managed the trip is, with “excellent management and customer service” being common praises.

Considerations

The biggest challenge is the length of travel hours—around 14 hours each way—which can be tiring for some. If you’re not used to long bus rides, this might be a consideration. Also, the tour is non-refundable, so it’s important to be prepared for weather conditions and schedule commitments.

Who is it best for?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy road trips, landscapes, and a more personal experience of the Sacred Valley. It suits those comfortable with moderate physical activity and long travel days. Families, history buffs, and those craving a less touristy route will find this a memorable choice.

Final Thoughts: Why Choose This Tour?

If you’re seeking a more intimate, scenic, and local approach to Machu Picchu, this 2-day road trip from Cusco checks all those boxes. It offers a balance of adventure and comfort, plus the chance to stay overnight in Aguas Calientes to truly savor the site without the pressure of a quick day visit.

You’ll love the stunning views along the way, the chance to see everyday life in the Sacred Valley, and the guided insights that deepen your understanding of Inca history. It’s a well-organized tour that values authentic experiences and offers a solid return on your investment.

For travelers craving a more immersive journey that’s still easy to manage, this tour delivers a rewarding taste of Inca heritage in a way that few other options do.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, but travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level. The tour involves some walking during the guided tour at Machu Picchu and the hike along the railway track to Hidroeléctrica.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers all transportation from Cusco to Hidroeléctrica and back, guided tour of Machu Picchu, entrance tickets, accommodation in Aguas Calientes, and meals—dinner, breakfast, and lunch.

Are there any extras I need to pay for?
Yes, the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and back is not included ($15 USD each way). Entrance to hot springs is also optional at $2 USD.

What time does the trip start and end?
Pickup is between 6:50-7:00 am from Cusco. The trip concludes back at Plaza Regocijo around 9:30-10 pm two days later.

Can I cancel or change the booking?
This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed once confirmed. Good weather is essential; if canceled due to weather, a full refund or alternative date will be offered.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour is limited to 19 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Do I need to bring my own entrance tickets?
No, the tour includes all entrance fees and transportation tickets, simplifying your planning.

What is the best time to book?
On average, this tour is booked 45 days in advance, so early booking is recommended to secure a spot.

In The Sum Up

This Machu Picchu by Car tour offers a distinctive alternative to the usual train trips, emphasizing scenic drives, authentic stops, and more time at the site itself. It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy long drives with beautiful vistas, want to avoid the crowds during the day, and appreciate a guided, all-inclusive experience.

While the lengthy travel hours might seem daunting, many find that the journey itself becomes part of the adventure—highlighting the stunning landscapes and human stories of the Sacred Valley. The overnight stay in Aguas Calientes allows for a more relaxed visit, with plenty of time to explore the ruins and soak in the atmosphere.

If you’re looking for a meaningful, well-organized trip that balances scenic beauty, cultural insights, and comfort, this tour could be just what you need. It’s a chance to create memories that go beyond a quick snapshot, offering a richer understanding of Peru’s incredible heritage.

Note: Always check the weather forecast before your trip, as this experience relies heavily on good weather conditions. Remember, this tour is about the journey as much as the destination—embrace the long hours and enjoy the spectacular scenery along the way.