How to Book Machu Picchu By Car And Train 2 Days
Reserving the Machu Picchu By Car And Train 2 Days tour is a straightforward, secure process. Since this package pulls together several moving pieces — transport to Hidroeléctrica, a hotel stay in Aguas Calientes, entrance tickets, shuttle buses, professional guiding, and the return train to Ollantaytambo — availability can shift from one service to another. Booking well ahead, particularly during high season, is strongly advised.
Step 1: Check Open Dates
Hit the BOOK NOW button to browse our live availability calendar and pick your preferred start date. Because this tour depends on multiple coordinated services — entrance tickets, hotel rooms, shuttle buses, guides, return train seats, and Cusco-to-Hidroeléctrica transport — a date shown as open is still subject to final confirmation once our team locks in every component.
Step 2: Choose Traveler Categories
Indicate how many people are traveling and select the right category for each — adult, qualifying student, or child. Student discounts require meeting eligibility rules and submitting a clear photo of both sides of a valid university ID. From there, you can either pay a USD 180 non-refundable deposit per person or settle the full amount upfront. This deposit primarily locks in non-refundable items like the Machu Picchu ticket and return train seat.
Step 3: Provide Traveler Details
Fill out the booking form thoroughly for each person. You’ll typically need: full name as it appears on the passport, passport number, nationality, birth date, email, WhatsApp number with country code, Cusco accommodation info, dietary preferences, and any medical notes or special requests. Getting this right matters, since official tickets and transport are issued using exactly what’s submitted.
Step 4: Add Optional Extras
If you’d like to customize your trip, options may include Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets, an upgraded hotel category in Aguas Calientes, a different train class, private transport, or other add-ons — all subject to availability and additional cost.
Step 5: Finalize Payment
Once you’ve reviewed everything, move to our secure payment portal. You can pay by credit/debit card, bank transfer (if arranged beforehand), or in person at our Cusco office. Card payments online carry a 3.99% processing fee. After payment goes through, you’ll get transaction confirmation, and our team will verify all services before issuing your final booking confirmation — which will include meeting details in Cusco, your Machu Picchu entry time and route, hotel information, return train schedule, guide meeting instructions, transport details, any remaining balance, and helpful travel tips.
Booking In Person
Prefer to book face-to-face? Visit us at Machu Picchu Team, Portal Nuevo 270, Plaza Regocijo, Cusco — one block from the Plaza de Armas. Our team can walk you through availability, circuit options, itinerary details, add-ons, and payment.
Terms and Conditions
Deposit & Confirmation
A non-refundable USD 180 deposit per traveler is required to start your booking. This secures essential components — namely the Machu Picchu entrance ticket and return train ticket — which are typically non-refundable once issued. Your spot is fully confirmed only after payment clears, all services are verified, and Machu Picchu Team sends written confirmation.
Cancellations & Refunds
The USD 180 per-person deposit becomes non-refundable once it’s applied to securing services. If you’ve paid beyond the deposit and later cancel, any refund owed will factor in non-recoverable costs like tickets, hotel fees, supplier charges, and processing fees. What’s refundable ultimately depends on what we can recoup from our suppliers.
Date Changes
Shifting your travel date depends on ticket, train, hotel, guide, and transport availability. Since certain tickets can’t be transferred to a new date, changes may mean purchasing new services along with another USD 180 deposit and any price adjustment. Double-check your dates before booking to avoid this.
Passenger & Passport Info
Names on file must match the ID used for booking. If passport information changes after reservation, reach out right away so we can assess your options based on supplier rules. Generally, once tickets are issued, they can’t be reassigned to a different traveler.
Remaining Balance
If you’ve only paid the deposit, the rest is due at least 24 hours before departure unless stated otherwise. Payment options include online, in-office, or cash/card (with fees) at our Cusco location. Late payment can jeopardize services not yet confirmed.
Optional Add-Ons
Extras like mountain tickets, hotel upgrades, private transport, or train class changes are availability-dependent and typically become non-refundable and non-transferable once confirmed.
Entrance Time & Circuit
Tickets are issued based on what’s available, with Circuit 2 prioritized when possible. If unavailable, an alternate circuit will be assigned to keep the tour on track.
Return Train Timing
Expect departure around 2:30 PM (Inca Rail) or 2:50 PM (PeruRail), depending on what’s available — alternate times may be assigned as needed.
Hotel Stay
One night in Aguas Calientes is included, with the specific hotel assigned by availability (a comparable option may substitute if necessary). Check-in/out times vary by property.
Transport Adjustments
Cusco-Hidroeléctrica transport and the Ollantaytambo-Cusco return are both included, though schedules may shift due to weather, road issues, strikes, or other operational needs to keep the tour running smoothly.
The Hidroeléctrica-to-Aguas Calientes Walk
This roughly 11 km stretch is completed without a guide. Travelers get pre-departure instructions and are responsible for their own gear and safe navigation of the route.
Missed Services / Late Arrival
Arriving late or missing the meeting point can result in forfeiting that service with no refund; rebooking may involve extra cost if space allows.
Travel Insurance
Not included — we strongly recommend securing your own coverage for medical issues, cancellations, accidents, and other unplanned events.
Need Help?
Reach us at machupicchureservations@gmail.com or WhatsApp +51 974 217 700, available daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Please submit important requests in writing.
Agreement to Terms
By booking the Machu Picchu By Car And Train 2 Days tour, you confirm you’ve reviewed and accepted the full itinerary, inclusions, exclusions, payment terms, cancellation policy, and all applicable conditions.
Machu Picchu By Car And Train 2 Days — Complete Travel Guide
If you’re searching for a budget-friendly way to reach the legendary Inca citadel without sacrificing comfort, the Machu Picchu By Car And Train 2 Days tour from Cusco is an excellent choice. This itinerary blends an overland adventure through breathtaking Andean scenery with a relaxing train ride on the way back, giving you the best of both worlds.
The package includes private tourist transport from Cusco to Hidroeléctrica, followed by an approximately 11-kilometer trek along a scenic trail leading to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). Once there, you’ll spend the night in a cozy hotel before setting off the next day to explore the citadel with an expert local guide, entrance ticket included. To wrap up the experience, you’ll board a panoramic train that carries you back through the Sacred Valley.
What sets the Machu Picchu By Car And Train 2 Days route apart from the classic train-only tour is the chance to soak in incredible views along the way — passing through the Sacred Valley, Abra Málaga, Santa Teresa, and Hidroeléctrica — before continuing on foot alongside the rail line through lush, subtropical mountain terrain until reaching Machu Picchu Pueblo.
On day two, after touring the ancient sanctuary with your guide, you’ll head back down to Aguas Calientes to catch your train to Ollantaytambo. From that point, a private vehicle will take you the rest of the way back to Cusco, completing the loop.
Table of Contents
- Day 1 Itinerary
- Day 2 Itinerary
- What’s Included
- What’s Not Included
- Prices (2026 & 2027)
- What to Pack
- How to Book
- Terms and Conditions
- FAQs
Day 1 Itinerary
6:30 AM – Meeting at the Office
Your Machu Picchu By Car And Train 2 Days journey kicks off around 6:30 in the morning at our office in the heart of Cusco. Located at Portal Nuevo 270, Plaza Regocijo — just a block from the main square — this is where our team will check the passenger roster, go over the key points of the itinerary, and share last-minute tips before hitting the road. Arriving a little early with a small daypack packed for the two-day excursion is highly recommended.
Road Trip: Cusco to Hidroeléctrica
With everyone gathered, the group sets off on a picturesque overland route toward Hidroeléctrica. Expect the drive to last roughly 5 to 6 hours, though this can shift depending on traffic, weather conditions, or other logistical factors. The scenery transforms continuously as the road drops from the high Andean plateau into warmer terrain — passing farmland, mountain vistas, cloud forest, and eventually subtropical landscapes. The typical path winds through Ollantaytambo, Abra Málaga, Santa María, and Santa Teresa before arriving at Hidroeléctrica. Brief stops for rest or photos may happen along the way, schedule permitting.
A Meal Before the Trek
Arrival at Hidroeléctrica comes with a welcome break: an included lunch at a nearby restaurant, giving you the chance to refuel before the hiking portion begins. Your guide will use this time to walk you through what’s ahead — the route, estimated duration, safety pointers, and how things will unfold once you reach Aguas Calientes.
Trekking from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes
Once lunch wraps up, the roughly 11-kilometer walk toward Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes) begins, typically taking between 3 and 3.5 hours depending on pace and trail conditions. The path traces the train tracks through a green, mountain-flanked valley, running alongside the Vilcanota River and through pockets of forest, with stunning views of the area surrounding the Machu Picchu Sanctuary the whole way.
This stretch is walked independently, without a guide leading the group step by step, though the trail is clearly marked and heavily traveled by other visitors heading the same direction. While the terrain is gentle and not technically challenging, comfortable footwear, plenty of water, and preparation for shifting weather — heat, humidity, wind, or the occasional shower — are all worth planning for.
Reaching Machu Picchu Pueblo
Upon arrival in town, head to the designated meeting spot or straight to your hotel, per the instructions given earlier. Aguas Calientes is small and walkable, with hotels, dining, shops, and the plaza all clustered close together. Once checked in, you’ll have time to freshen up, unwind, and get ready for the following day’s visit to the citadel.
Evening: Dinner and Trip Briefing
Dinner is included at a local restaurant in town that evening. Around this time, your Machu Picchu guide will hold a briefing covering everything needed for Day 2 — your confirmed entry time, assigned circuit, meeting location, transport logistics, necessary documents, and the return plan. Once the briefing concludes, the rest of the night is yours to explore Aguas Calientes or simply relax ahead of the big day.
Day 1 Summary
| Detail | Information |
|---|
| Meeting Time | Approx. 6:30 AM |
| Meeting Point | Machu Picchu Team office, central Cusco |
| Route | Cusco → Ollantaytambo → Abra Málaga → Santa María → Santa Teresa → Hidroeléctrica → Machu Picchu Pueblo |
| Driving Time | Approx. 5–6 hours |
| Walking Distance | Approx. 11 km |
| Walking Time | Approx. 3–3.5 hours |
| Trail Type | Mostly flat/gradual, following the rail corridor |
| Climate | Cool at altitude, warmer and more humid near Hidroeléctrica and Aguas Calientes |
| Accommodation | 1 night, hotel in Machu Picchu Pueblo |
| Meals Included | Lunch and dinner |
All schedules are approximate and subject to change due to weather, road conditions, traffic, individual walking pace, or other operational factors.
Day 2 Itinerary
A Very Early Wake-Up Call
Day two of your Machu Picchu By Car And Train 2 Days adventure starts well before sunrise so you can make the most of your time at the citadel. Depending on your assigned entry slot, expect to be up around 4:45 AM, with breakfast served at the hotel by roughly 5:00 AM. After checking out, you’ll gear up for the trip to the archaeological site. Travelers with early entry times aim to arrive right as the gates open, when crowds are thinner and the morning light bathes the surrounding peaks in a truly memorable glow.
Heading to the Bus Station
Around 5:30 AM, you’ll link up with your guide and make your way on foot to the official bus terminal in Aguas Calientes. From here, a shuttle carries you up the winding mountain road — about a 25-minute ride — straight to the Machu Picchu entrance. Keep in mind departure times can shift slightly based on your ticketed entry window and how many other travelers are boarding at the same time.
Getting Into the Citadel
On arrival, your guide takes care of the entry formalities and document checks, making sure everything matches the date, time, circuit, and route printed on your ticket. Once through the gate, you’ll step into a world of ancient stonework, terraced hillsides, and sweeping mountain views.
Guided Exploration of the Ruins
For roughly 2 to 2.5 hours, your professional guide leads you along the authorized circuit, with exact timing depending on your assigned route, crowd levels, and current site regulations. Along the way, you’ll learn about the citadel’s origins, building methods, layout, sacred spaces, and farming terraces, along with its broader significance in Inca civilization. There will be designated spots for photos and taking in the views, though note that Machu Picchu operates on one-way paths — backtracking to earlier sections generally isn’t permitted.
Optional Add-On: Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain
Travelers who’ve pre-booked a mountain hike — either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain — will head out on that route according to their ticketed time. These climbs demand more stamina and typically add 3 to 4 hours to the day, depending on which peak you choose and your own pace. Because spots are limited, these tickets must be secured well ahead of time and generally cannot be purchased on-site the day of your visit.
Returning to Town
Once your visit wraps up, exit the site and catch the shuttle bus back down to Aguas Calientes — another roughly 25-minute ride. Back in town, you’re free to wander, shop for souvenirs, or grab lunch on your own before your train departs. Note that lunch on Day 2 isn’t included unless your specific package states otherwise.
Grabbing Your Bags Before Departure
Swing by your hotel to pick up any luggage left in storage after checkout, and plan to reach the train station with enough buffer time for check-in and boarding.
Train Ride to Ollantaytambo
In the afternoon, board your train bound for Ollantaytambo, typically departing around 2:30 or 2:55 PM depending on availability and your confirmed ticket. The ride lasts about 1.5 hours, winding through dramatic scenery between Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley.
Final Leg: Ollantaytambo to Cusco
Your driver will be waiting at the Ollantaytambo station for the last stretch of the journey, a roughly 2-hour drive back to Cusco, with arrival typically around 7:00 PM depending on train timing, traffic, and road conditions. If you’d rather end your trip in the Sacred Valley, drop-offs in Ollantaytambo, Urubamba, Calca, or Pisac can be arranged in advance.
Note on Mountain Tickets: Travelers with a Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain ticket should expect a longer day than those visiting the main site alone. While the standard guided tour wraps up by late morning, mountain climbers need to budget an extra 3–4 hours before heading back to Aguas Calientes — which may mean booking a later return train depending on entry time and hike duration.
Day 2 Summary
| Detail | Information |
|---|
| Wake-Up | ~4:45 AM |
| Breakfast | ~5:00 AM |
| Bus to Machu Picchu | ~25 minutes |
| Site Entry | Per confirmed ticket time |
| Guided Tour | ~2–2.5 hours |
| Optional Mountain Hike | +3–4 hours |
| Bus Back to Aguas Calientes | ~25 minutes |
| Return Train | ~2:30 PM or 2:55 PM (subject to availability) |
| Train Duration | ~1.5 hours |
| Ollantaytambo–Cusco Transfer | ~2 hours |
| Estimated Cusco Arrival | ~7:00 PM |
Day 2 Included Services
- Hotel breakfast
- Guide support in Aguas Calientes
- Official bus, Aguas Calientes ↔ Machu Picchu (round trip)
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket per confirmed route
- ~2–2.5 hour professional guided tour
- Afternoon train, Aguas Calientes → Ollantaytambo
- Transfer, Ollantaytambo → Cusco (or an agreed Sacred Valley location)
All times are estimates and may vary based on entrance scheduling, train availability, weather, visitor volume, transport conditions, and other operational factors.
What’s Included
Overland Transport: Cusco to Hidroeléctrica Tourist transportation from Cusco to Hidroeléctrica on Day 1, taking you along one of the most visually stunning overland routes toward the citadel. Plan on roughly 6 to 7 hours on the road, through dramatic Andean valleys, high-altitude mountain passes, cloud forest, and progressively warmer subtropical terrain.
Three Meals Provided
- Lunch at Hidroeléctrica (Day 1)
- Dinner in Aguas Calientes (Day 1)
- Breakfast at your hotel (Day 2)
Vegetarian, vegan, or other dietary needs can be accommodated with advance notice.
One Night’s Stay in Aguas Calientes A hotel night in Machu Picchu Pueblo, typically featuring a private bathroom, hot water, Wi-Fi, towels, and breakfast the next morning. The specific hotel and room setup depends on availability and group size.
Round-Trip Bus to Machu Picchu Official shuttle transport between Aguas Calientes and the archaeological site, about 25 minutes each direction. Seats aren’t pre-assigned.
Official Entrance Ticket An official Machu Picchu entry ticket, prioritizing Circuit 2 (Classic Circuit) / Route 2-A whenever tickets allow, subject to real-time availability.
Expert-Led Tour of the Citadel A professional English-speaking guide accompanies you throughout your visit, generally running 2 to 2.5 hours.
Train Back to Ollantaytambo A return train ticket, generally departing either 2:30 PM (Inca Rail) or 2:50 PM (PeruRail), taking 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes.
Transfer: Ollantaytambo to Cusco A driver waiting at Ollantaytambo station for the final ride back to Cusco, usually 1.5 to 2 hours.
Drop-Off at Your Cusco Hotel Included at tour’s end, within our standard coverage zone.
Complimentary Luggage Storage Free storage of your main bags at the Machu Picchu Team office (Portal Nuevo 270, Plaza Regocijo, Cusco) before setting off.
What’s Not Included
- Extra meals: Anything beyond the meals explicitly listed — extra breakfasts, lunches, dinners, snacks, bottled drinks, alcohol, or food purchased during free time.
- Travel insurance: Not included. Strongly recommended coverage for medical emergencies, accidents, interrupted trips, transport delays, and lost items.
- Guide for the Hidroeléctrica walk: The 11 km trek to Aguas Calientes is completed independently, though clear directions are provided beforehand.
- Personal and extra expenses: Souvenirs, local crafts, extra snacks/drinks, add-on activities, additional transport, or shopping.
- Tips and gratuities: Entirely voluntary, with no fixed or mandatory amount.
Prices (2026 & 2027)
Rates for the Machu Picchu By Car And Train 2 Days tour differ depending on traveler type — adult, qualifying student, or child. Any discounted fare requires proper documentation submitted at booking and carried during the tour.
Student Discount: +info
Eligible students can access a reduced rate by uploading a clear photo of both sides of a valid university ID during booking, then bringing the physical card plus passport on the day of the tour. Without valid proof, the standard adult rate may apply.
Group Sizes The overland leg from Cusco to Hidroeléctrica typically runs with groups of 16 to 18 people sharing the same departure date. The guided portion inside Machu Picchu splits into smaller groups, usually capped at 10 travelers per guide.
Departures Available Daily This tour runs consistently throughout the year, contingent on ticket, hotel, shuttle, guide, and transport availability. Solo travelers, couples, families, and groups can book any open date without coordinating their own group. Booking ahead is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
What to Pack
Clothing Recommendations
Because the route crosses multiple elevations and climates, dress in layers that adapt to cool mountain air, warmer tropical stretches, intense sun, humidity, and possible rain:
- Breathable, quick-dry shirts
- Flexible trekking or travel pants
- A lightweight long-sleeve layer for sun and bug protection
- A fleece, light jacket, or thin insulating layer for chilly mornings and nights
- A rain shell or compact poncho
- Broken-in hiking shoes or sturdy walking shoes with good grip
- Moisture-wicking socks, plus a spare pair for day two
- A cap or sun hat
- UV-blocking sunglasses
Skip flip-flops, sandals, tight-fitting clothes, heavy jeans, or untested shoes.
Daypack Essentials
- Passport (original) — required for identification and Machu Picchu entry
- Student ID (original) — if booked under the student discount
- Reservation details — hotel info, tickets, and confirmations
- Water — enough for the hike, ideally reusable bottle
- Snacks — trail mix, fruit, energy bars, crackers
- Peruvian soles in cash — for meals, drinks, souvenirs
- Sunscreen (high SPF)
- Bug spray — especially for Hidroeléctrica and Aguas Calientes
- Personal medications
- Phone/camera plus power bank or charging cable
- Rain gear — poncho or waterproof jacket, plus a dry bag for electronics
- Basic toiletries
- A fresh outfit for Day 2 — extra shirt, underwear, and socks
Keep your passport, cash, phone, camera, and other valuables on you at all times, and shield documents and electronics from moisture.
How to Book
Booking the Machu Picchu By Car And Train 2 Days tour is straightforward and secure. Since this package pulls together multiple services — transport, hotel, tickets, shuttles, guiding, and the return train — availability can shift, so booking well ahead is strongly advised.
Step 1: Check Open Dates — Use the BOOK NOW button to browse the availability calendar. A date shown as open is subject to final confirmation once every service is locked in.
Step 2: Choose Traveler Categories — Select adult, student, or child for each passenger. Pay a USD 180 non-refundable deposit per person or the full amount upfront.
Step 3: Provide Traveler Details — Full name (as on passport), passport number, nationality, birth date, email, WhatsApp number, Cusco accommodation info, dietary preferences, and medical notes.
Step 4: Add Optional Extras — Huayna Picchu/Machu Picchu Mountain tickets, hotel upgrades, different train class, private transport, subject to availability and extra cost.
Step 5: Finalize Payment — Pay by credit/debit card (3.99% processing fee applies), bank transfer, or in person at our Cusco office. You’ll receive transaction confirmation, followed by final tour confirmation once all services are verified.
Booking In Person: Machu Picchu Team, Portal Nuevo 270, Plaza Regocijo, Cusco — one block from the Plaza de Armas.
Terms and Conditions
- Deposit & Confirmation: USD 180 non-refundable deposit per traveler required to start booking; secures the entrance ticket and return train ticket.
- Cancellations & Refunds: Deposit is non-refundable once applied. Refunds beyond the deposit factor in non-recoverable supplier costs.
- Date Changes: Subject to availability; may require a new deposit and price adjustment.
- Passenger & Passport Info: Names must match ID used for booking; reservations generally cannot be transferred once tickets are issued.
- Remaining Balance: Due at least 24 hours before departure unless otherwise specified.
- Optional Add-Ons: Availability-dependent; typically non-refundable and non-transferable once confirmed.
- Entrance Time & Circuit: Issued based on availability, with Circuit 2 prioritized when possible.
- Return Train Timing: ~2:30 PM (Inca Rail) or ~2:50 PM (PeruRail), subject to availability.
- Hotel Stay: One night in Aguas Calientes, assigned by availability.
- Transport Adjustments: Schedules may shift due to weather, road conditions, or strikes.
- The Hidroeléctrica Walk: Completed without a guide; travelers receive pre-departure instructions.
- Missed Services / Late Arrival: May result in forfeiting the service with no refund.
- Travel Insurance: Not included; strongly recommended.
- Customer Support: info@machupicchuteam.com or WhatsApp +51 974 217 700, daily 7:00 AM–10:00 PM.
By booking this tour, you confirm you’ve reviewed and accepted the full itinerary, inclusions, exclusions, payment terms, and cancellation policy.
FAQs
1. What exactly is the Machu Picchu By Car And Train 2 Days tour? Day 1 covers overland transport from Cusco to Hidroeléctrica, followed by an ~11 km scenic walk to Aguas Calientes, where you spend the night. Day 2 brings a guided Machu Picchu visit, then a train ride to Ollantaytambo and transport back to Cusco.
2. How far is the walk from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes? Roughly 11 kilometers, usually 3 to 3.5 hours, mostly flat terrain along the railway line, with no guide accompanying this stretch.
3. Do I need to walk back to Hidroeléctrica after Machu Picchu? No — the walk happens only once, on Day 1. The return trip uses the train and included transport, making it far more comfortable.
4. Does the tour include the Machu Picchu entrance ticket? Yes, with the circuit and time slot determined by availability, prioritizing Circuit 2 (Classic Circuit) whenever possible.
5. Is a hotel in Aguas Calientes included? Yes — one night’s stay with a private room and bathroom, hot water, Wi-Fi, towels, and breakfast.
6. How challenging is this tour? Easy to moderate. The main physical component is the ~11 km walk (3–3.5 hours) over mostly gentle terrain — no technical hiking skills required.
7. How early should I book? As early as possible, especially during peak season, since tickets, hotel rooms, shuttles, guides, and train seats can each sell out independently.
All times, schedules, and prices are approximate and may vary due to weather, road conditions, traffic, ticket availability, and other operational factors.
