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Embark on a Unique Journey: Bus Tour to the Enigmatic Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu
For a limited time
4.9/5 (2,250+ reviews) 
The Machu Picchu by Bus via Hidroeléctrica Tour is the best alternative for those who want to visit one of the New Seven Wonders of the World while spending much less than a train journey. This route combines tourist transportation, a pleasant hike surrounded by nature, and the opportunity to live a much more adventurous experience before reaching the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
The journey crosses spectacular Andean landscapes, the Malaga Pass (Abra Málaga), the high jungle brow, and finally the route between Hidroeléctrica and Aguas Calientes, following the train tracks amidst mountains, rivers, and lush vegetation.
07:00 AM – Hotel pickup in Cusco
We will begin the tour with pickup from your hotel or lodging in Cusco. Our team will pick up the passengers to start the journey towards Hidroeléctrica, one of the most popular and economical alternative routes to reach Machu Picchu.
07:45 AM – Journey from Cusco to Hidroeléctrica
We will depart in a tourist minivan along the Cusco, Ollantaytambo, Malaga Pass, Santa María, and Santa Teresa route. The trip takes approximately 6 hours and will allow us to enjoy Andean landscapes, mountains, valleys, and high jungle areas. During the journey, we will make a brief stop for restrooms and a rest.
02:00 PM – Arrival and lunch in Hidroeléctrica
We will arrive at the Hidroeléctrica sector, where we will enjoy an included lunch before beginning the hike towards the town of Aguas Calientes. This will be the ideal time to rest, hydrate, and prepare for the walking route.
03:00 PM – Hike from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes
We will begin an approximate 2-hour and 30-minute walk to the town of Aguas Calientes. The route is mostly flat and runs alongside the train tracks, surrounded by vegetation, mountains, and landscapes characteristic of the Cusco high jungle.
05:30 PM – Arrival in Aguas Calientes and lodging
Upon arriving in the town of Aguas Calientes, the lodging staff will be waiting for the group to accompany us to the assigned basic hostel. You will have time to rest and settle in before dinner.
08:00 PM – Dinner and briefing for Machu Picchu
In the evening, we will enjoy a dinner with the group. Additionally, the guide will provide the necessary briefing for the following day’s visit to Machu Picchu, including schedules, meeting points, recommendations, and important details of the tour.
Accommodation: Basic hostel in Aguas Calientes.
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INCLUDES:
NOT INCLUDED:
WHAT TO BRING?
Small backpack.
Waterproof or windbreaker jacket.
Comfortable clothing and an extra change of clothes.
Sunscreen.
Water, snacks, and fruit.
Camera or cellphone with sufficient battery.MODERATE DIFFICULTY
Approximate hike of 12 km between Hidroeléctrica and Aguas Calientes (round trip), in addition to the walking tour within the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
No. The hike is considered of moderate difficulty and lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. The path is practically flat, following the train tracks, so it can be done by most people with a normal physical condition.
The main difference is the price and the experience.
Yes. The tour includes the entry ticket to the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu and a guided visit with a professional bilingual guide.
| Aspect | Machu Picchu by Bus | Machu Picchu by Train |
|---|---|---|
| Price | More economical | Higher cost |
| Trip Duration | 2 days / 1 night | Full Day or 2 days |
| Adventure Level | High | Moderate |
| Hike | Approx. 2 h 30 min | Very short or non-existent |
| Landscapes | Malaga Pass, high jungle, and railway tracks | Sacred Valley and Urubamba River |
| Ideal for | Backpackers and adventurous travelers | Families and those seeking greater comfort |
4.9
I loved the experience! The tour agency in Cusco was excellent.
Pamela Perez Saez
My family and I had a great experience.
Victor Jesus T
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