6:30 AM: Meeting at the Machu Picchu Team Office
The Machu Picchu Tour By Car 2 Days from Cusco begins at approximately 6:30 AM at the Machu Picchu Team office in central Cusco. Before departure, our staff will confirm the passenger list, review the day’s schedule, and provide the final travel instructions. The office is located at Portal Nuevo 270, Plaza Regocijo, one block from the Plaza de Armas. Travelers should arrive on time with a small backpack containing the essentials needed for the two-day journey.
Scenic Drive from Cusco to Hidroelectrica
Once the group is ready, we will begin the overland journey from Cusco to Hidroelectrica. The drive takes approximately 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic, road conditions, weather, and the pace of the group.
Along the route, you will travel through changing Andean landscapes, mountain valleys, cloud forest, agricultural areas, and tropical zones. The journey generally passes through the Ollantaytambo area before continuing toward the Abra Málaga route and the lower valleys near Santa María and Santa Teresa. Short stops may be made during the journey for restrooms, refreshments, or scenic views, depending on operational conditions.
Lunch in Hidroelectrica
Upon arrival in Hidroelectrica, you will enjoy an included lunch at a local restaurant. This is the main meal before beginning the walk to Machu Picchu Pueblo. After lunch, the guide or tour representative will explain the walking route, meeting arrangements, safety recommendations, and approximate arrival time in Aguas Calientes.
Hike from Hidroelectrica to Machu Picchu Pueblo
The adventure continues with an approximately 11-kilometer walk from Hidroeléctrica to Machu Picchu Pueblo, also known as Aguas Calientes. The route takes approximately 3 to 3.5 hours and follows mostly flat terrain beside the railway line, passing through lush tropical scenery. Along the way, you’ll walk alongside the Vilcanota River, pass through forested areas, and enjoy views of the mountains surrounding Machu Picchu.
This section of the trek is not guided, meaning you’ll walk independently along a marked trail that runs beside the railway track. This is a well-established route used daily by travelers making the same journey, so you’ll be walking alongside many other hikers along the way. Although the route is not technically difficult, travelers should wear comfortable walking shoes, carry sufficient water, and be prepared for warm, humid, windy, or rainy conditions.
Arrival in Machu Picchu Pueblo
Upon arriving in Aguas Calientes, head to the main square, where a hotel representative or member of our team will be waiting to greet you. Aguas Calientes is a very small town, so everything is close together and easy to find. Alternatively, if you prefer, you can go directly to your hotel — we’ll provide you with the exact address once your reservation is confirmed. Once settled in, you’ll have time to check in, shower, relax, and get ready for your visit to Machu Picchu the following day.
Dinner and Evening Briefing
Dinner at a local restaurant in Machu Picchu Pueblo is included. Before or after dinner, your guide will provide a briefing for Day 2. The meeting will include the Machu Picchu entrance time, bus or walking options, assigned circuit, meeting point, required documents, and return instructions. After the briefing, you will have the rest of the evening free to relax or explore the town.
Day 1 Summary
- Meeting time: Approximately 6:30 AM
- Meeting point: Machu Picchu Team office in Cusco
- Driving time: Approximately 5 to 6 hours
- Route: Cusco → Ollantaytambo area → Hidroelectrica
- Walking distance: Approximately 11 km
- Walking time: Approximately 3 to 3.5 hours
- Terrain: Mostly flat route beside the railway
- Weather: Warm, humid, windy, and occasionally rainy
- Accommodation: One night in a hotel in Machu Picchu Pueblo
- Meals included: Lunch in Hidroelectrica and dinner in Aguas Calientes
All times are approximate and may change because of traffic, weather, road conditions, walking pace, and operational circumstances.
