Machu Picchu by Car from Cusco | Private Road Trip Tour

Duration
2 Días / 1 Noche
Service
Group
Pickup
Hotel
Cancel
Non-refund
Guide
Difficulty
Easy

About this experience

For travelers seeking a budget-friendly and adventurous alternative to the traditional train route, the Cusco to Machu Picchu by Car tour offers the perfect mix of comfort, scenic beauty, and cultural discovery. Known as the “Amazon Route,” this journey lets you reach the legendary Inca citadel while crossing breathtaking landscapes of the Sacred Valley, snow-capped Andean peaks, and lush cloud forests. Unlike the classic train route, this option combines a scenic road trip through the Andes with a gentle trek along the railway, offering a closer connection with nature and local communities. It’s a more affordable, flexible, and adventurous way to experience Machu Picchu and the beauty of Peru.

Detailed itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Sacred Valley – Santa Teresa – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes

We will start the Cusco to Machu Picchu by Car Tour early in the morning. Pickup from the hotel in Cusco will be between 7:00 and 7:30 AM. We will travel through the scenic Sacred Valley of the Incas, surrounded by fertile fields and Andean villages. The road offers spectacular views of snow-capped peaks like Veronica 5,682 meters above sea level and Salkantay 6,271 meters above sea level. 

As we descend, the air becomes warmer and the scenery transforms into lush valleys and tropical forests. Around midday, we will stop for a delicious lunch in Santa Teresa 1,550 meters above sea level, a quiet valley known for its pleasant climate. After a short rest, we will continue our drive for 45 minutes until we reach Hidroelectrica, the final point accessible by car.

Here, our adventure becomes more immersive. We will begin a 3-hour trek (about 11 along the railway) leading to Aguas Calientes. The walk passes waterfalls, orchids, banana trees, and the lush Mandor Gardens, with the Urubamba River flowing beside us. Travelers who prefer not to walk may take a short local train instead.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes (2,040 meters above sea level), we will check into our hotel and rest. Dinner will be served at a local restaurant. In the evening, our professional guide will give a detailed briefing about the next day’s Machu Picchu Guided Tour. Overnight stay in Aguas Calientes.

Day 2: Day 2: Machu Picchu Guided Tour – Aguas Calientes – Hidroeléctrica – Cusco

We will start early with breakfast at our hotel. Then, we will either hike for 1.5 hours (8 km) uphill or take a 30-minute bus ride to the entrance of Machu Picchu (2,430 meters above sea level). Once at the gate, our guide will assist us with the check-in and ticket verification.

Inside the sanctuary, we will enjoy a 2-hour guided tour exploring the most iconic areas of Machu Picchu, including the Temple of the Sun, Sacred Plaza, Intihuatana, and agricultural terraces. The guide will explain the citadel’s architecture, religious symbolism, and incredible engineering. We will have free time afterward to take photos or climb to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for panoramic views of the Andes and the Vilcanota River below.

By late morning, we will descend to Aguas Calientes for a short rest. Then, we will return to Hidroelectrica, either walking again through the lush jungle trail (approx. 3 hours) or taking the local train. Our private transportation will be waiting at Hidroelectrica for the return trip to Cusco.

We will travel through the Sacred Valley once more, passing vibrant Andean landscapes until we reach Cusco around 9:00 PM. The Cusco to Machu Picchu by Car 2-Day Tour will end with memories of incredible mountain views, peaceful jungle walks, and the awe of visiting one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. 

Note: itineraries are subject to change.

Inclusions & Exclusions

What's included

  • Pickup from your hotel in Cusco (historic center)
  • Tourist transportation from Cusco to Hidroelectrica and back
  • 1 night of accommodation in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo)
  • Professional bilingual tour guide (Spanish/English)
  • Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu (subject to availability)
  • 1 breakfast, 1 lunch, and 1 dinner (vegetarian options available)
  • Guided tour inside Machu Picchu (approx. 2 hours)
  • First aid kit and oxygen supply

What's not included

  • Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and return (optional, approx. USD 24)
  • Train tickets (optional upgrade: Peru Rail or Inca Rail)
  • Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional, approx. USD 75)
  • Meals not mentioned in the itinerary (last day lunch/dinner)
  • Personal expenses (snacks, souvenirs, etc.)
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips for guides, drivers, or local staff (voluntary)

Frequently asked questions

We answer your questions about this tour

1 When is the best time to take the Cusco to Machu Picchu by Car Tour?

The best time is during the dry season, from April to September, when skies are clear and roads are in better condition. The rainy season, from December to March, offers greener landscapes but may include light rain and fog.

2 What is the total travel distance from Cusco to Machu Picchu by car?

The total route covers approximately 430 kilometers round trip, including a 3-hour trek (11 km) between Hidroeléctrica and Aguas Calientes.

3 Is the Cusco to Machu Picchu by Car Tour safe?

Yes. The route is safe and popular among travelers who prefer an alternative to the train. Our drivers are experienced and the vehicles meet all safety standards.

4 How long can we stay inside Machu Picchu?

Visitors may stay around 3 hours inside the archaeological sanctuary, following the official circuit on the entrance ticket.

5 Is the trek from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes difficult?

The hike is moderate and mostly flat, taking about 3 hours. It’s suitable for travelers with average physical condition.

6 What should we bring for the tour?

Bring comfortable walking shoes, rain jacket, hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, water, snacks, and Peruvian soles in cash for local expenses.

7 Can children or older adults join this tour?

Yes. The Cusco to Machu Picchu by Car Tour is family-friendly. However, older adults may prefer taking the short train instead of walking from Hidroeléctrica.

8 What is the cancellation policy?

Cancellations made 30 days or less before departure lose 100% of the payment. Cancellations made 31 days or more before the trip may vary depending on departure date and route. Please consult our travel agent for specific details.

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$145
per person
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Traveler Experiences

What our travelers say about our Machu Picchu tours

Our reputation is built on the experiences of real travelers. With more than 1,200 verified reviews across TripAdvisor and Google, we are consistently rated 4.9 out of 5 — one of the top-rated Machu Picchu tour operators in Cusco.

4.9
out of 5 based on
PS
MR
DK
AC
SE
+1k
+1,200 reviews
See all on TripAdvisor
Tripadvisor

"Punctuality, very attentive guide and perfect organization. From the hotel exit, transit by train, lunch schedule and guided tours."

AS

Andrey S.

October 14, 2025

Google

"Machu Picchu Peru Tours full day Sacred Valley was an amazing highlight of our trip to Peru. Do not miss it! Our driver Julio Cesar took us on time and safely to all amazing places and experiences beating the crowds. The guide, Erik, was the most passionated guide I've met. An incredible story teller, knowledgeable and giving us a superb experience. It was a real perfect day and an amazing almost private tour feeling like a super engaging history class. Don't think twice."

PN

Patricia N.

A year ago

Tripadvisor

"A very enriching experience, a lot of history, although it rained that day, was a good for nothing our tour. Our guide was very attentive and professional."

MR

Maria R.

October 12, 2025

Google

"We had a amazing tour with Machu pichu Peru tours to the vinicunca mountain, or the rainbow mountain. Tour was well organised and your tour guide took really good care of us. Also the breakfast and lunch was quite good. We can totally recommend this tour organisation."

DK

Daniel K.

2 years ago

Tripadvisor

"The tour starts very early type 3-4 am, how good you can sleep on the way, we breakfast in a very good buffet and then depart for the mountain. Here the height is the problem, you can walk up but it requires a lot of condition, the good thing is that there are horses that you can pay and for 90 suns they leave you 15-20 minutes from the top. Wear layered clothes as you can warm up when climbing. We already walk down and the road is much easier. On horseback you go up in 40 minutes, you are on the mountain an hour to take pictures and the return is about 1 hour or so. In the end we still had lunch in the same very rich buffet!"

AC

Alejandra C.

October 12, 2025

Google

"I highly recommend Machu Picchu Peru Tour. Their service is incredible. I highly recommend their guides, especially Rocio and Jhordi. They are very professional and super friendly. My recommendation is because they have everything arranged and structured so we can fully enjoy the experience: transportation, lodging, food, and tourist attractions. I hope you can take advantage of traveling with them and enjoy it as much as we did."

CG

Cesar G.

8 months ago

Tripadvisor

"I liked the Service and attention I received, plus the quality of the guide who touched us to know the sacred valley on the way to Machu Picchu was first class, with extensive knowledge of the Inca culture and with very good explanation, I highly recommend them."

SM

Salvador M.

September 19, 2025

Google

"It was a wonderful experience. Getting to know one of the wonders of the world and learning its history in detail was very rewarding. We had an excellent guide who answered every one of our questions and her support was unconditional. The guide, Veronica Quispe, and the drivers who supported us were incredible. Thank you so much. They made the trip wonderful."

PN

Patty N.

10 months ago

Tripadvisor

"They were exceptional! Everything very organized, took care of all the details, we hired all the tours, lodging and transfer, we do not regret!"

SE

Sarah E.

October 12, 2025

Google

"The quality and friendliness of the staff were impressive. Wendy served us and was always very attentive to everything, responding quickly. They offer good options without breaking your budget. A short but substantial excursion. The guide Jaime knew everything in detail and provided excellent explanations. I recommend him, especially if you're traveling with children or older adults, as he really has everything under control."

AS

Ara S.

3 years ago

Tripadvisor

"Recommended! What a beautiful place!!! Most of us went up there on mules. Important to clarify if the person weighs more than 110 kg he will not be able to carry it and will have to walk up. It is still very expensive, to have proper footwear."

VL

Veronica L.

October 12, 2025

Google

"I had the wonderful experience of coordinating a group trip with Carolina from this agency, and it was very positive. They were always willing to help and facilitate the trip. On the tours, we had the opportunity to meet Alex on the Sacred Valley tour. He is an excellent guide, very friendly and knowledgeable about all the sites, making the tour very entertaining. In Machu Picchu, we were guided by Edmar, an excellent, knowledgeable, and friendly guide."

KD

Kevin D.

2 years ago

Google

"I loved that the travel agency made everything easy for me in Cusco. All I had to worry about was being on time for pickup and choosing what to eat at the buffet. The agency itself took care of everything. If I could highlight anything, it's the fact that I had a different guide on each tour, and they were all very kind and polite. They did their jobs well and knew how to explain the history of each place."

EG

Enrique G.

10 months ago

Google

"The excursion to the Sacred Valley of the Incas was a great one. Our guide, Veronica, accompanied us the entire time and did her best to make the experience as informative as possible."

AG

Agustin G.

A year ago