From the Hidroelectrica station, travelers must walk to the town of Aguas Calientes. This physical activity covers approximately 11 kilometers over flat terrain and takes about 3 hours. Walking along the train tracks allows a direct physical connection with the Andean environment.

During the visit to the archaeological remains, our guides guarantee a highly informative experience. They are expert people in the subject of directing travelers from all over the world in multiple languages. They explain the historical context of the Inca constructions with absolute clarity.

The meals provided on this route are of natural origin and prepared with local organic ingredients. This supports the agriculture of the local communities. You can also opt for international gastronomy dishes during your time in Aguas Calientes. This option may lead to additional costs depending on the restaurant you select, and you can consult our reservation team for more details.

This 3 day format gives you a completely free afternoon on the second day and a second night in the town. This allows you to rest your body perfectly after exploring the Inca constructions. You avoid the physical exhaustion of returning to the city on the exact same day.

For the return trip on the third day, the standard plan uses our own private transportation from Hidroelectrica to Cusco. However, travelers have the flexibility to return by train from Aguas Calientes. If you choose this upgrade, you can select between 2 companies: PeruRail offers a higher number of daily departure schedules, while IncaRail provides slightly different panoramic windows for observing the landscape. A representative from MACHU PICCHU TEAM will be aware of your itinerary at all times to ensure flawless logistics.

Trip details

• Duration: 3 days and 2 nights of travel and historical exploration.
• Starting Point: Cusco or Ollantaytambo, Peru.
• Ending Point: Cusco, Peru.
• Group Size: Up to 16 participants for the shared collective service.
• Difficulty Level: Regular, requiring physical endurance to walk approximately 11 kilometers on flat ground.
• Languages Available: English, Spanish, and additional languages upon request.
• Transportation Type: Our own private transportation with highly trained drivers.
• Guide Expertise: Expert guides in the subject of directing travelers from all over the world in multiple languages.

Trip Summary

Day 1: Cusco to Aguas Calientes

• 06:30 a.m. in the morning: The Tour starts with pickup at the MACHU PICCHU TEAM office in Cusco.
• 08:00 a.m. in the morning to 08:30 a.m. in the morning: Alternative pickup in Ollantaytambo.
• 01:30 p.m. in the afternoon: Arrive at Hidroelectrica and eat lunch.
• 02:30 p.m. in the afternoon: Begin the walk to Aguas Calientes.
• 05:30 p.m. in the afternoon: Reach Aguas Calientes and check into the hotel.
• 07:00 p.m. in the evening: Eat dinner and meet with the guide.

Day 2: Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes

• 04:00 a.m. in the morning: Start the physical walk up the mountain for hikers.
• 06:00 a.m. in the morning: Meet at the Machu Picchu main entrance and start the guided tour.
• 08:30 a.m. in the morning: Have independent time to explore the archaeological remains.
• 01:00 p.m. in the afternoon: Return to Aguas Calientes for a completely free afternoon.

Day 3: Aguas Calientes to Cusco

• 09:30 a.m. in the morning: Start the return walk to Hidroelectrica.
• 12:30 p.m. at noon: Arrive at Hidroelectrica.
• 02:00 p.m. in the afternoon: Board our own private transportation.
• 09:00 p.m. in the evening to 10:00 p.m. in the evening: Reach Cusco at Plaza Regocijo.

Included

Not Included

• Group Service Adult: 140 USD per person. This applies for combined shared groups with other participants.
• Group Service Student: 120 USD per person. This requires a valid physical student card.
• Extra Mountains: Huayna Picchu Mountain costs an additional 60 USD. Machu Picchu Mountain costs an additional 60 USD.
• Alternative Return Choices: Returning by our own private transportation is included in the standard price. Returning by train costs 100 USD. You can choose PeruRail for regular schedules or IncaRail for slightly different panoramic views.

Climate in the Cusco Area

The dry phase from May to October features clear conditions with daytime temperatures around 20 degrees Celsius. The nights drop to approximately 5 degrees Celsius. The wet season from November to April includes heavy afternoon precipitation. The humidity increases significantly in the lower valleys near Hidroelectrica. You must use multiple clothing layers. Always carry a plastic rain poncho, as the weather shifts unexpectedly in the mountains.

Local People and Culture

Folks in Cusco and along the paths are very approachable. Many work in agriculture or tourism services. They communicate in Spanish and Quechua. Simple manners like asking for permission before taking pictures foster positive interactions. The local groups cherish their customs, so calm conduct at historical locations aligns perfectly with their values.

Typical Food

The local foods highlight quinoa, large potatoes, and corn from nearby fields. The food is of natural origin and with local organic ingredients. You can find simple eateries offering mild chicken stews or fresh river trout. The portions are large and provide excellent energy for the long walks.

Free Places to Visit

The central area of Cusco permits viewing historic buildings without paying fees. You can walk around the main squares freely. The perimeter of certain Inca zones allows you to look at the massive stone walls without full access tickets.

Affordable Eating Spots

Markets in Cusco deliver complete dishes for below 5 USD, such as thick broths or grilled proteins. The small places in Aguas Calientes have midday menu options near 10 USD. Bypass the upscale restaurants on the main streets; the locals suggest basic ones hidden in the alleys.

Clothing Throughout the Year

Opt for airy materials across all seasons to handle the temperature fluctuations. The months of December to February fit light tops combined with wet weather gear. The months of June to August require warm bottoms and insulating layers. Your shoes need good traction for the dirt trails. You should remove the extra layers as the daytime warmth builds up.

Physical Effort and Health Needs

The walks total approximately 11 kilometers each way on flat terrain, plus the exploration inside the Inca City. The elevations reach up to 2400 meters above sea level near the archaeological remains. Consistent stamina assists greatly. Cardiac or respiratory matters warrant medical advice before the trip. Adapt early in the city; consuming fluids and keeping a light food intake will help perfectly. There are no extreme climbing efforts on the flat route, but firm steps are necessary.

FAQs

• Rain Gear: A plastic rain poncho is strictly necessary to stay dry during sudden weather shifts common in the lower valleys.
• Warm Clothing: A warm jacket is essential for the cool morning departure from Cusco and the early hours of the second day.
• Sun Protection: Sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher is required, as sun exposure intensifies at high elevation.
• Headwear: A wide brimmed hat or a cap to cover your head from direct solar rays.
• Sunglasses: Dark lenses with UV protection to guard your eyes against the intense glare.
• Walking Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or sturdy sneakers suited for the 11 kilometer dirt trail and the stone steps at the Inca sites.
• Reusable Water Bottle: A container of at least 2 liters to carry and refill, ensuring constant access to fluids.
• Insect Repellent: A strong bug spray to apply on your skin in the humid and tropical sections near Hidroelectrica.
• Electronic Devices: A camera or smartphone with a portable battery bank for documenting the areas visited without losing power.
• Original Passport: Your original physical passport is absolutely essential for verifications at the hotel and the main entry gate.
• Student Card: Your original physical student card is needed to confirm your qualification when paying the remaining balance.
• Light Backpack: A small day bag to hold your daily necessities without carrying a heavy burden.
• Personal Hygiene Items: Wet wipes, toilet paper, and hand sanitizer for freshness on the go in rural areas.
• Energy Snacks: Mixed nuts, chocolates, or energy bars to consume during the 3 hour walks.
• Personal Medications: Any drugs specific to your needs, including pills for altitude effects or muscle pain.
• Local Currency: Cash in Peruvian Soles for small transactions, as electronic payment is not available in many spots along the trail.
• Light Shirts: Breathable t shirts to stay comfortable during the warm afternoons in the tropical valley.