Machu Picchu Tour by Car
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Machu Picchu Tour by Car
from $ USD 100.00
The car route to Machu Picchu was established as an alternative to the train journey to Aguas Calientes, offering travelers a different perspective and unique experiences. Opting for a car transfer allows you to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the majestic mountains and snow-capped peaks that define the Andes, including notable landmarks such as Chicon, Salkantay, and Verónica. These awe-inspiring sights will accompany you throughout the journey on well-maintained paved roads.
Moreover, traveling by car presents an opportunity to contribute to the development and well-being of various communities along the route. As you pass through different towns and villages, you’ll witness the local way of life and the efforts being made to foster sustainable tourism. Your support helps these communities thrive and preserves their cultural heritage for future generations.
By choosing the car route, you not only embark on a memorable adventure but also make a positive impact on the region’s socio-economic growth, ensuring that the splendor of the Andes and the vibrant communities that call it home continue to enchant travelers for years to come.
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Overview
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Itinerary
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Inclusions
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Travel Guide
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Trip Details
- Tour type: 2 day excursion via car.
- Start/End time: Pickup between 07:00 AM – 07:30 AM rom your hotel lobby, return around 09:30 PM (the following day)
- Reminder: bring comfortable walking shoes
- Highlights: Guided tour of Machu Picchu (second day)
- Important:
- Remember there is a student discount available for entrance tickets to Machu Picchu (ask us about this option)
Cusco – Hidroeléctrica - (Machu Picchu Town)
The tour kicks off with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Cusco, scheduled between 07:00 AM and 7:30 AM. Our reliable private transport will be awaiting you, ready to embark on an exciting journey through the picturesque Sacred Valley (Urubamba) en route to Ollantaytambo. After a brief stop in this charming town, we will begin our ascent towards the Malaga Pass, situated at an impressive altitude of 4400 meters above sea level. This vantage point offers breathtaking vistas of the magnificent Verónica and Salkantay snow-capped peaks, treating you to a truly awe-inspiring sight.
As we descend from the Malaga Pass, we enter the realm of the high jungle, where the towering Andes Mountains converge with the lush Amazon rainforest. Our route continues through the captivating Urubamba river valley, guiding us towards Santa Maria. From there, we make our way to Santa Teresa, and finally arrive at the Hidroeléctrica. At this point, you’ll embark on a pleasant and level 2-hour walk, covering a distance of 12 kilometers alongside the railway tracks, leading you directly to the enchanting town of Aguas Calientes.
Please note that for the morning pickup, it is advisable to book a hotel in the historical city center of Cusco. This ensures ease of access as most AirBnBs lack identifiable names or addresses, often being located far from the city center. However, if you have made alternative arrangements, we are more than happy to arrange a specific meeting point to facilitate your smooth transition into the tour.
Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Hidroeléctrica - Cusco
There are two options to reach Machu Picchu: the first is a 1-hour and 30-minute uphill hike, offering a shortcut up the mountain. The second option is the touristic bus service, which provides a convenient 30-minute drive.
For those who choose the uphill hike, it’s recommended to start the ascent at 4:30 am to reach Machu Picchu by 6:00 am, allowing you to witness the breathtaking sunrise. If you opt for the bus, make sure to catch the first departure at 5:30 am.
Upon arrival at Machu Picchu, your knowledgeable guide will lead you on a comprehensive 2-hour guided tour, providing insights into the main sites such as Intihuatana, The Sacred Plaza, The Temple of the Sun, and The Temple of the Condor. This is an opportunity to delve into the rich history and marvel at the architectural wonder of the Inca citadel. After the guided tour, you will have free time to explore Machu Picchu at your own pace and soak in its unique atmosphere.
To return, we will head back to the hidroeléctrica and aim to arrive there by 2:30 pm. Alternatively, you can take a 1:00 pm train from Aguas Calientes to the hidroeléctrica for an additional fee. Our transportation will be waiting at the hidroeléctrica to take us back to Cusco, with an estimated arrival time of around 9:30 pm.
Note: If you prefer, there is also the option to return to Cusco via train. Feel free to inquire about this alternative for your convenience.
Included
- Round trip transportation between Cusco – Hdroeléctrica
- Hostel in Aguas Calientes
- Entry ticket to Machu Picchu
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu (approx. 2 hours)
- 1 Breakfast
- 1 Lunch
- 1 Dinner
No Included
- Optional bus ticket between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu ($12 each way)
- Entrance ticket to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (additional $20)
- Train from Aguas Calientes – Hidroeléctrica.
- Water and Snacks
- Tips
What to Bring
- Original passport
- Students: student ID if you wish to obtain the discounted entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- Light backpack
- Sun glasses
- Sun block
- Insect repellent
- A rain jacket is important, especially in the rainy season (you can also buy a rain poncho)
- Hat for the sun
- Walking shoes
- Camera
- Extra cash
Optional Services
Pricing List
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