Cusco to Machu Picchu By Car 2 Days

Uncovering the wonders of Cusco and Machu Picchu in just two days is an exhilarating prospect. This small-group tour offers a seamless journey, taking travelers on a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley before embarking on a captivating hike to the charming town of Aguas Calientes. From there, the path opens to the iconic Inca citadel, inviting explorers to uncover its rich history and breathtaking views. Whether you choose to hike or take the bus, the options promise an unforgettable experience that blends adventure and culture. But the journey has only just begun…

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Key Points

This 2-day activity from Cusco to Machu Picchu includes round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, meals, and accommodation for a personalized small-group experience.
The first day features a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley with lunch, followed by a 2.5-hour hike to Aguas Calientes for an overnight stay.
On the second day, guests can choose to hike or take a bus to the Machu Picchu entrance, with optional treks to Huayna Picchu or the Sun Gate.
The package includes entrance to Machu Picchu, while additional expenses such as the bus from Aguas Calientes, hot springs, and extra treks are excluded.
Essential items like a passport, sun hat, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, and certain restrictions apply for safety and preservation of the site.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

This 2-day Cusco to Machu Picchu by Car activity offers an affordable way to explore the Sacred Valley and visit the iconic Inca citadel.

Priced from Kč 4,724 per person, it includes round-trip transport, a bilingual guide, meals, and accommodation.

An affordable Cusco to Machu Picchu experience, including round-trip transport, a bilingual guide, meals, and accommodation, priced from Kč 4,724 per person.

Travelers can conveniently cancel up to 24 hours prior for a full refund, and they don’t need to pay upfront.

The small-group experience (limited to 9 participants) ensures a personalized journey through the region’s stunning landscapes before arriving at the legendary Machu Picchu for a guided tour.

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Itinerary and Highlights

On the first day, travelers embark on a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley, enjoying a lunch along the way.

They then hike for 2.5 hours to reach the town of Aguas Calientes, where they’ll spend the night. Travelers are free to explore the local shops and relax in the town’s hot springs.

The second day begins with a hike or bus ride to the entrance of Machu Picchu, followed by a 2-hour guided tour of the iconic Inca citadel.

For those seeking more adventure, optional treks to Huayna Picchu or the Sun Gate offer stunning panoramic views of Machu Picchu.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes round-trip transportation from Cusco to Hidro Electrica, a bilingual guide (English and Spanish), one lunch, one dinner, and one breakfast, as well as one night’s accommodation in Aguas Calientes and entrance to Machu Picchu. However, the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (USD 12 each way), entrance to the hot springs (5 Soles), train tickets from Hidro Electrica to Aguas Calientes, and additional trek tickets are not included. Personal expenses, tips, and travel insurance are also excluded.

| Inclusions | Exclusions |

| — | — |

| Round-trip transport, Cusco to Hidro Electrica | Bus, Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu |

| Bilingual guide (English and Spanish) | Hot springs entrance (5 Soles) |

| 1 lunch, 1 dinner, 1 breakfast | Train tickets, Hidro Electrica to Aguas Calientes |

| 1 night accommodation, Aguas Calientes | Additional trek tickets |

| Entrance to Machu Picchu | Personal expenses, tips, travel insurance |

Transportation and Group Size

Pickup is included from hotels in Cusco’s Historic Center or the main square for those staying elsewhere.

This small group tour is limited to 9 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience. You’ll travel in a comfortable vehicle with a bilingual guide who can provide insights throughout the journey.

The group size is kept small to allow for a more intimate and immersive exploration of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.

With pickup provided, you can focus on enjoying the scenic drive and highlights of the tour without the hassle of transportation logistics.

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Important Information and Recommendations

When packing for the Cusco to Machu Picchu by Car tour, be sure to bring your passport, a sun hat, sunscreen, biodegradable insect repellent, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Selfie sticks aren’t allowed, and littering is prohibited. Unaccompanied minors can’t participate.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or individuals over 95 years old.

Enjoy your hike to Machu Picchu, but don’t feed the animals.

Follow your guide’s instructions to have a safe and memorable experience exploring this iconic Incan citadel.

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Exploring Aguas Calientes

After the scenic drive through the Sacred Valley, travelers will spend the night in the charming town of Aguas Calientes.

This lively town is the gateway to Machu Picchu and offers plenty to explore. Visitors can stroll the local markets, browse artisan shops, and relax in the town’s natural hot springs.

Aguas Calientes, the lively gateway to Machu Picchu, invites visitors to explore local markets, artisan shops, and natural hot springs.

The natural setting, with the Urubamba River flowing nearby, creates a peaceful ambiance. Travelers can fuel up on local cuisine before embarking on the hike to Machu Picchu the following day.

Aguas Calientes provides a convenient and enjoyable stopover en route to the iconic ancient ruins.

Hiking Options at Machu Picchu

Once travelers reach Aguas Calientes, they’ve several hiking options to explore Machu Picchu.

The most popular are:

Hike to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku): This 1-2 hour trek offers stunning panoramic views of Machu Picchu.
Climb Huayna Picchu: This challenging 2-3 hour hike provides a bird’s-eye perspective of the iconic Inca citadel.
Visit the Inca Bridge: This 30-minute roundtrip walk leads to an impressive Inca engineering marvel.
Explore the Inca Trail: For the more adventurous, this multi-day trek is the classic way to reach Machu Picchu.

Preparing for Your Journey

Preparing for your journey to Machu Picchu by car requires a bit of planning and preparation. Be sure to pack the essentials: a sturdy pair of hiking boots, layers of clothing, sun protection, and a reusable water bottle. Plus, you’ll need to obtain the necessary permits and entrance tickets well in advance. To make the most of your experience, familiarize yourself with the site’s rules and regulations, such as the restrictions on bringing certain items. Use the table below to ensure you have everything you need for a smooth and memorable trip.

| What to Bring | What to Avoid | Other Tips |

| — | — | — |

| Hiking boots | Selfie sticks | Obtain permits early |

| Layered clothing | Littering | Familiarize with rules |

| Sun protection | Unaccompanied minors | Arrive with plenty of time |

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to Machu Picchu?

Visitors can bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic drinks to Machu Picchu, but they’re not allowed to bring hot meals, alcohol, or large coolers. Food and drinks should be packed responsibly to avoid littering or disturbing the site.

Is There Wi-Fi or Cellular Coverage at Machu Picchu?

There’s limited cellular coverage and no public WiFi at Machu Picchu. However, most hotels in Aguas Calientes offer WiFi. Visitors should plan ahead and download necessary information before their visit, as connectivity can be spotty at the ancient site.

Are There Any COVID-19 Protocols or Restrictions in Place?

Covid-19 protocols require visitors to Machu Picchu to present valid proof of vaccination or a negative Covid-19 test taken within 72 hours. Face masks must be worn at all times. Travelers should check the latest requirements before their visit.

Can I Leave My Luggage at the Hotel in Cusco?

Yes, you can leave your luggage at the hotel in Cusco during the trip. The tour includes round-trip transportation, so you won’t need to carry your bags while exploring Machu Picchu and the surrounding area.

Is It Possible to Book This Tour in a Different Language?

Yes, you can book this tour in different languages. The tour includes a bilingual guide who speaks English and Spanish. However, availability of other language options may vary, so it’s best to check with the tour provider.

The Sum Up

This captivating 2-day journey from Cusco to Machu Picchu by car offers an unforgettable experience. Travelers can expect a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley, a hike to Aguas Calientes, and the opportunity to explore Machu Picchu in various ways. With round-trip transport, a bilingual guide, meals, and accommodation included, it’s a perfect blend of adventure and culture at an affordable price.