Machu Picchu By Car

2-day budget tour to Machu Picchu via the Hidroeléctrica route (partly by van, partly on foot). Day 1: depart Cusco by van in the morning, driving through the Sacred Valley and over Abra Málaga pass into the jungle. Arrive at Hidroeléctrica (the end of the road) in the afternoon and hike ~3 hours (8 km) along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes (alternatively take a short train ride at extra cost). Spend the night in Aguas Calientes hostel. Day 2: early ascent to Machu Picchu (hike ~1 hour up or take bus) for a guided tour of the citadel at sunrise. After the tour, return by foot to Hidroeléctrica and board the van back to Cusco (late arrival ~9-10 PM). This is an adventurous, economical option but involves long travel and hiking.

Visits: Santa María, Santa Teresa (Hidroeléctrica), Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu

Meeting point: Hotel pickup · Altitude: 1550–4330 m