Machu Picchu by Car – 2 Days

Machu Picchu by Car – 2 Days
Machu Picchu by Car – 2 Days
Machu Picchu by Car – 2 Days
Machu Picchu by Car – 2 Days

From

US$ 129.00

per person

4.9 +120 reseñas
See prices

Tour Description

An affordable and adventurous alternative to reach Machu Picchu. This tour combines road transportation with an exciting hike through the cloud forest, offering spectacular landscapes and an unforgettable experience at the Inca citadel. Discover the magic of the Andes as you travel comfortably, admire the changing scenery from Cusco to the subtropical region of Machu Picchu, and get ready for an adventure that blends nature, history, and culture.

How to Get to Machu Picchu by Car (Hydroelectric Route)

How to Get to Machu Picchu by Car (Hydroelectric Route)

Planning to drive to Machu Picchu? We'll explain the route via Hidroeléctrica, the costs, and everything you need to know. The cheapest way to get there.

Quick view

Tour Description

9 key points

Review the tour format, effort level and the key details that help you decide faster.

  • Tipo / Modalidad Full Day ? Adventure and Nature
  • Duración Approximately 8 hours
  • Nivel de dificultad Moderate ? Adventure with Class III rapids
  • Altitud máxima 3,300 m a.s.l.
  • Machu Picchu by Car – 2 Days / 1 Night

    Duration: 2 days / 1 night Tour start: 07:00 – 07:30 a.m. Guide language: Spanish Difficulty level: Moderate Maximum altitude: 4,316 m.a.s.l. (Abra Málaga)

  • Description
  • Adventure and nature

    The Machu Picchu by Car – 2 days / 1 night tour is an economical, adventurous and scenic alternative to reach one of the most visited wonders of the world: Machu Picchu. Unlike the traditional train journey, this experience allows you to enjoy every section of the route, crossing snowcapped mountains, humid forests and the lush cloud forest of Cusco.
    First, we depart from Cusco in the morning, traveling through the majestic Sacred Valley of the Incas. Then, we cross the imposing Abra Málaga mountain pass, located at 4,316 m.a.s.l., from where you can take spectacular photographs of the snowcapped Andes. Next, we begin the descent towards the warm and humid area of the high jungle, until reaching Santa Teresa, where we will taste a local lunch and you will have the option to relax in the famous Cocalmayo hot springs.
    After lunch, we head to Hidroeléctrica, the point from which we begin a walk of approximately 2 and a half hours along a natural route parallel to the train, surrounded by rivers, vegetation and mountains. Upon arriving at Aguas Calientes, we check in at the hotel and have dinner at a local restaurant.
    The next day, early in the morning, we take the bus up to the Machu Picchu entrance, where you will live a unique experience with a 2-hour guided tour through its main sectors: temples, plazas, terraces and viewpoints. Then, you will have free time to continue exploring and capture the best photos of this incredible archaeological site.
    Later, we return to Aguas Calientes, where you can have lunch on your own, and we undertake the walk back to Hidroeléctrica. Finally, we board the tourist transportation back to Cusco, concluding this unforgettable journey.
    The Machu Picchu by Car tour is ideal for travelers seeking adventure, connection with nature and a different, authentic and accessible way to reach Machu Picchu.

  • Highlighted sites of the tour
  • Places we will visit

    Abra Málaga: High mountain pass with spectacular views of the Andes. Cloud Forest: Transition region between the mountains and the jungle, rich in biodiversity. Santa Teresa: Welcoming town known for its hot springs and proximity to Machu Picchu. Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes: Walkable section surrounded by vegetation, rivers and unique landscapes. Machu Picchu: Guided visit to Peru's most famous archaeological site, Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Things you should know about this tour

Alternative Route to Machu Picchu: From Cusco to the Hydroelectric Plant by Car

This map details the scenic vehicle route from Cusco to the hydroelectric station, the starting point for the final hike to Aguas Calientes. Discover key towns along the way, such as Ollantaytambo, Santa María, and Santa Teresa, and the stunning landscapes of the Sacred Valley and the jungle. The perfect visual guide for your budget-friendly adventure to Machu Picchu, avoiding the train and exploring the heart of the region.
Alternative Route to Machu Picchu: From Cusco to the Hydroelectric Plant by Car

Comfortable Clothing

Light layered clothing. Machu Picchu weather is subtropical (15-22°C) with possible rain. Bring waterproof jacket or rain poncho.

Footwear

Comfortable walking shoes. Sneakers or light trekking shoes with non-slip soles for walking through the citadel.

Sun Protection

SPF 50+ sunscreen, UV protection sunglasses, hat or cap. Solar radiation is intense in Machu Picchu.

Cash

Bring soles for lunch in Aguas Calientes (approx. S/30-50), bathroom entrance at citadel (S/2), handicraft purchases, voluntary tips and snacks.

Hydration

Reusable water bottle. Stay hydrated during the tour. Water refill points available in Aguas Calientes.

Small Backpack

Light backpack (maximum 25 liters or 5 kg allowed in Machu Picchu) with water, camera, documents, snacks, rain poncho and sunscreen.

Camera or Phone

ESSENTIAL to capture iconic Machu Picchu views. Bring extra battery or powerbank. Tripods and selfie sticks not allowed in the citadel.

Documents

ID or original Passport MANDATORY (same used for tour reservation) for Machu Picchu entry and train boarding.

Weather

Humid subtropical climate (15-22°C). Rainy season (November-March) requires poncho. Dry season (April-October) has sunny days but cold mornings.

Schedule

Early departure from Cusco. Full day approximately 14-16 hours. Return to Cusco at night (approx. 8:00-9:00 p.m.).

Machu Picchu Rules

Follow established circuit, do not touch walls, no food entry, no smoking, no drones. Respect sanctuary norms.

Lunch

Not included. Multiple restaurant options in Aguas Calientes with menus from S/30-50. Book in advance during high season.

Luggage

Bring only essentials. Large backpacks must be left in storage in Aguas Calientes (additional service approx. S/5-10).

Hot Springs

Optional in Aguas Calientes (entrance approx. S/20). Bring swimsuit if planning to visit after the tour.

Do I need to be in good physical shape?

A moderate physical condition is recommended. The hike includes ascents and is carried out at high altitude.

What does the tour include?

It generally includes transportation, a professional guide, and lunch. Please check the details when booking.

Total duration

Full Day (14-16 hours approximately).

Departure

Early morning with pick-up from your hotel in Cusco.

Altitude

Machu Picchu is at 2,438 m.a.s.l. (lower altitude than Cusco). Warmer subtropical climate.

Difficulty level

Easy – Intermediate (walk through the citadel on terrain with stairs and stone paths).

Documentation

MANDATORY to carry ID or original Passport (same document used for reservation). Without this document, entry is not permitted.

Acclimatization

Recommended to be at least 1 day in Cusco before the tour, although Machu Picchu is at lower altitude.

Guide language

Spanish and English subject to availability.

Service type

Group with tourist transportation, train and bus.

Entrance fees

Machu Picchu entrance ticket INCLUDED in the tour.

Restrictions

Tour accessible for most travelers. The citadel has many stairs and irregular terrain. Not recommended for people with very limited mobility.

Weather

Humid subtropical (15-22°C). Possible rain any time. Rainy season (November-March), dry season (April-October).

Clothing

Light layered clothing, comfortable non-slip shoes, hat, sunscreen and rain poncho.

Luggage

Only small backpack allowed in Machu Picchu (maximum 25 liters or 5 kg). Leave large backpacks in storage.

Lunch

Not included. Restaurant options in Aguas Calientes (approx. S/30-50).

Experience

Cultural and historical tour. Ideal to visit one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, perfectly organized to optimize your time.

End

Return to your hotel in Cusco approximately between 8:00-9:00 p.m.

Machu Picchu Rules

Mandatory circuit, do not touch structures, no food entry, follow guide instructions.

Planning to drive to Machu Picchu? We'll explain the route via Hidroeléctrica, the costs, and everything you need to know. The cheapest way to get there.

How to Get to Machu Picchu by Car (Hydroelectric Route)

Tour rates and options

extreme adventure

This tour is offered in shared and private service depending on the size of your group.

"Check 24 hours before to confirm availability and avoid setbacks".

Shared Service Price per traveler
$129.00 USD
Private service
Price Book
Group of 2 - 3 people Price per traveler
$165.00 USD
Group of 4 - 7 people Price per traveler
$150.00 USD
Group of 8+ people Price per traveler
$140.00 USD

Schedule office appointment

Urb. Dolorespata, Jr. Paititi F 3ª 270, Santiago-Cusco

+51 950 738 710 | +51 964 328 857

info@atvrainbowmountain.com
WhatsApp

Frequently asked questions

Is previous experience or good physical condition necessary?
No, it is not necessary. The Machu Picchu tour has an easy to intermediate difficulty level, with walking through the citadel on stone paths and stairs. Accessible for most travelers including families. Recommended to be acclimatized to Cusco altitude, although Machu Picchu is at lower altitude (2,438 m.a.s.l.).
What does this tour include?
Includes tourist transportation Cusco-Ollantaytambo-Cusco, round-trip train (Ollantaytambo-Aguas Calientes-Ollantaytambo), bilingual professional guide (Spanish/English), Machu Picchu entrance ticket, bus tickets Aguas Calientes-Machu Picchu-Aguas Calientes, first aid kit, and permanent assistance throughout the tour.
What services are NOT included?
Not included: meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), drinks and snacks, entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain (requires separate ticket and advance reservation), entrance to Machu Picchu Mountain (requires separate ticket), and voluntary tips.
How long does the tour last and what is the altitude?
The tour lasts Full Day (14-16 hours approximately), from early morning until return to Cusco around 8:00-9:00 p.m. Machu Picchu is at 2,438 m.a.s.l., lower altitude than Cusco, with warmer subtropical climate (15-22°C).
How many days do I need to be in Cusco before the tour?
Recommended to be at least 1 day in Cusco before the tour. Although Machu Picchu is at lower altitude than Cusco, minimal acclimatization helps. This tour is ideal for early days in Cusco.
What places will we visit during the tour?
You will visit: Sacred Valley (impressive Andean landscapes on the way), Ollantaytambo (Inca fortress and living town with original stone streets), Machu Picchu (iconic Inca citadel, World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World with sacred temples and ceremonial plazas), and Aguas Calientes (picturesque tourist town at Machu Picchu base with artisan market and optional hot springs). Experience combining archaeology, Inca history and unique landscapes.

Related tours

Discover more adrenaline experiences in Cusco and surroundings. All tours include safety equipment and specialized guide.

TOP

What our travelers say

Verified reviews from real travelers. Our reputation is backed by thousands of authentic experiences.

TripAdvisor
Google
Gabriel T
★★★★★
5/5

Excellent guide and unforgettable experience

Cristian Flores was an exceptional guide who shared extensive knowledge about the mountain and local culture. His professionalism and friendliness made the experience truly unforgettable. I highly recommend this tour for future visitors and will definitely book his services again on my next trip to Cusco.

Franklin V
★★★★★
5/5

Rainbow Mountain ATV Adventure

Everything was perfectly organized from the schedule to transportation. Our guide Jimy was excellent throughout the day. I highly recommend this amazing ATV experience - it was both thrilling and safe. The landscapes are simply breathtaking and worth every minute of the journey.

Rocio A
★★★★★
5/5

Spectacular tour with knowledgeable guide

The Rainbow Mountain tour was spectacular. José José, our guide, was extremely knowledgeable about the area and explained everything about the geology and local culture. The team was attentive at all times and transportation was comfortable. Thanks also to my group members who made the experience even more enjoyable.

Evelin G
★★★★★
5/5

Dreamlike nature worth every step

An unforgettable experience where the effort is totally worth it. The ascent can be challenging but our guide motivated and helped us at all times. The views are simply stunning and photos don't do it justice. I recommend bringing warm clothes and good shoes.

Jaume S
★★★★★
5/5

Unforgettable Quad adventure

The excursion to Vinikunka Mountain was spectacular. Excellent assistance and detailed explanations from guide José José and his assistant Wilfredo. The quads were in perfect condition and safety instructions were clear. We enjoyed every moment from sunrise to return.

Emi Roldán Membrives
★★★★★
5/5

SPECTACULAR - Exceeded expectations

Thanks to the quads I was able to enjoy the tour without problems. The guide was very attentive and knowledgeable about the area. What I appreciated most was the punctuality and organization of the tour. They provided all facilities and the team was attentive at all times.

Ariana L
★★★★★
5/5

Wonderful experience with the best guide

Guide Jose José proved to be a great person and exceptional professional. From the first moment he cared about our well-being and made us feel safe throughout the tour. His knowledge about local culture and geology greatly enriched the experience.

Yhonatan Yampier G
★★★★★
5/5

Beautiful experience with excellent service

Great experience from start to finish. Guide Jose Jose was very friendly and professional, explaining every detail of the tour. What I valued most was his patience when some of us needed to go slower due to altitude. The agency team was attentive at all times.

María González
★★★★★
5/5

Exceptional service

Excellent attention from booking to the end of the tour. The guide was very professional and knowledgeable. Highly recommended for everyone visiting Cusco.

Carlos Pérez
★★★★★
5/5

Amazing experience

One of the best tourist experiences I have had. Everything was perfectly organized and the team was very attentive at every moment.

Ana Torres
★★★★★
5/5

Highly recommended

The tour exceeded our expectations. Friendly and professional guides. We would return without hesitation. Transportation was comfortable and punctual.

Roberto Sánchez
★★★★★
5/5

Excellent organization

From the first contact to the end everything was perfect. The guide showed great knowledge and passion for his work. Very satisfied with the service.

Laura Martínez
★★★★★
5/5

Wonderful adventure

An unforgettable experience. The landscape is spectacular and the service is first class. Thank you for making our trip something special.

Diego Ramírez
★★★★★
5/5

Highly professional

The level of professionalism and attention to detail is exceptional. I recommend this agency to all my friends. Without a doubt the best tourist experience in Peru.

Andrea Llorente
★★★★★
5/5

Best guides in Cusco

I booked the ATV tour with just one day notice and everything went perfectly. The customer service was incredible, they answered my questions in minutes. The guides are locals and know the mountain like the back of their hand. The experience was exciting and completely safe. I will book with them again on my next trip.

Fernando Molina
★★★★★
5/5

A perfect 10 experience

We did the tour as a family with two teenagers and it was the best decision of our trip to Peru. Everyone, even the youngest, enjoyed it to the fullest. The guide adapted the pace to all group members and we never felt rushed. The photos they took of us are spectacular. Thank you for this very special day.