Machu Picchu By Car (Train Return) — 2 Days / 1 Night
About this experience
The most adventurous route to Machu Picchu: drive over Abra Málaga and through the cloud forest to Hidroeléctrica, then return by train from Aguas Calientes.
Detailed Itinerary
We pick you up from your accommodation at approximately 06:00–06:30 a.m. and travel around 1.5 hours to Ollantaytambo.
We begin ascending to the highest point, Abra Málaga (4800 masl), then descend into the cloud forest where we see fruit trees, mangoes, banana plants, etc.
We arrive at Santa María, then take a dirt road to Santa Teresa, and finally reach Hidroeléctrica at approximately 14:00 hrs. for a basic lunch.
We take the flat trail toward Aguas Calientes — approximately 2 to 3 hours of hiking. In the evening we have dinner and receive the briefing for the next day.
We begin our hike to the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu (approx. 2 hours). Optional bus +24 USD. Our guide leads a 2 to 3-hour guided tour of the most important sites.
Return to Aguas Calientes for lunch at your own expense. Train back to Ollantaytambo (approx. 2 hours). Arrival in Cusco approx. 20:00 hrs.
What's included
- Round-trip private hotel transfer
- Car transport to Hidroeléctrica
- Basic lunch at Hidroeléctrica
- Return train (Aguas Calientes → Ollantaytambo)
- One night at hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Official Machu Picchu entrance ticket
- Official guide
Not included
- Bus to Machu Picchu (optional, USD 24)
- Day 2 lunch
- Huayna Picchu entrance (USD 55 extra)
- Machu Picchu Mountain entrance (USD 55 extra)
- Tips and personal expenses
Important Notes
- Huayna Picchu: book at least 3 months in advance (+USD 55)
- Machu Picchu Mountain: book at least 1 month in advance (+USD 55)
- Bus to Machu Picchu: optional for USD 24 on site
What to Bring
- Hiking shoes (for 2–3 hr hike)
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Warm clothing and rain poncho
- Snacks and water bottles