How to Plan Your Visit to Machu Picchu by Car (2 Days / 1 Night)

If you’re planning on visiting Machu Picchu, but don’t want to take the train, then the 2-day tour by car is an excellent option. It allows you to have a more intimate connection with the natural beauty surrounding the area while getting to the destination in a convenient way. In this post, we’ll provide you with a detailed plan for your tour and everything you need to know before embarking on this journey.

Overview

The 2-day car tour to Machu Picchu is an exclusive experience where you get to discover one of the world’s most famous attractions, in addition to the welcoming village of Aguas Calientes. The package includes admission tickets to Machu Picchu, a knowledgeable guide who’ll provide context about the Inca civilization and the tour itself, plus one night’s accommodation.

The best part of this tour is that there’s no need to worry about driving, which means you can relax and absorb the picturesque nature as you travel towards your destination.

What’s Included

The following are the items included in the tour package:

• Lunch
• Breakfast
• Dinner
• Bus to Machu Picchu (USD $12 each way)
• Hot springs in Aguas Calientes (10 PEN)
• Extra activities (i.e., Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain)

Meeting and Pickup

The car tour will start at 7:00 AM, and your guide will meet you at your accommodation. The pickup points are only from well-known accommodations that have easy access for the transport team. However, the company may arrange a meeting point if you can’t be picked up near your location.

Day 1

On the first day, the driver will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco, and your journey towards Machu Picchu will begin. The tour starts with a scenic drive passing through the stunning Andes Mountains, giving you an opportunity to capture some breathtaking photos.

You will be stopping at Ollantaytambo, a quaint town nestled at the foothills of Inca ruins. Your guide will provide you with a brief history of the town and its importance during the Inca period.

Afterwards, the tour will proceed to Hidroelectrica station, which will mark the end of the drive. You will then take a 2.5-hour hike along the edge of the Urubamba River until you reach Aguas Calientes.

Once you arrive at Aguas Calientes, you can take a dip in the hot springs to relax your muscles from the hike, or walk around the village and explore its local markets. Afterward, you will have dinner at a local restaurant while relaxing and getting ready for the big day ahead.

Day 2

The adventure commences at sunrise, where you will take a bus ride to Machu Picchu. After arriving, your guide will take you to the best vantage points to see one of the world’s most treasured icons while dispelling all the mysteries around the ruins.

You will discover the Inca’s ancient architecture and its impressive structures, such as the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana, and the Palace of the Princess. If you are interested, you can use the extra time to hike Huayna Picchu, an hour-long trek, to see breathtaking views of the ancient city.

After exploring, roving, and admiring the wonder of the world, you will take a bus ride back to Aguas Calientes. Before leaving, grab some souvenirs, such as hats or keychains, as a memento to this unforgettable trip.

Once you reach Hidroelectrica Station, the driver will drive you back to Cusco, and you’ll arrive at roughly 10:00 PM.

Conclusion

Visiting Machu Picchu by car is a fantastic way to experience the Peruvian countryside in comfort while exploring one of the world’s most popular destinations. Viator offers the exclusive 2-day tour package, which makes the trip more relaxed, informative, and much easier since you do not have to bus a taxi or walk to different destinations.

If you would like to book the tour, follow this link to book the tour here.

Insider’s Guide to Cusco, Peru: Uncovering Hidden Marvels

Cusco, nestled high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, is a city steeped in history, culture, and tradition. While most tourists flock to Machu Picchu, there are many other hidden gems in this beautiful city that only locals know about. Here is an insider’s guide to some of the lesser-known wonders of Cusco that are worth exploring.

Local Attractions: Discovering Cusco’s Hidden Gems

While Machu Picchu is undoubtedly Cusco’s biggest draw, there are many lesser-known attractions that are worth visiting. For instance, the San Pedro Market is a bustling open-air market where locals shop for fresh produce, herbs, and spices. Exploring the Sacred Valley, ATV tours, or visiting the Q’eswachaka bridge, an Inca rope bridge that is reconstructed every year, are other hidden gems that offer a unique experience.

Dining Spots: Savoring Cusco’s Diverse Cuisine

Cusco’s local cuisine is diverse, rich, and bursting with flavor. A must-try dish is cuy, roasted guinea pig, or alpaca steaks, which are a delicacy among the locals. However, there are many other delightful dishes, such as ceviche, a cold seafood salad, and rocoto relleno, stuffed hot peppers, that are worth trying. Locals love La Cicciolina and Chicha for a taste of authentic Peruvian flavors.

Cultural Experiences: Embracing Cusco’s Traditions and Customs

Cusco’s rich cultural heritage is reflected in its festivities, arts, and music. One of the city’s most prominent festivals is Inti Raymi, a celebration of the winter solstice. The colorful costumes, ritual dances, and music are a must-see. Another captivating experience is visiting the Center for Traditional Textiles of Cusco to learn about Andean weaving traditions, a tradition that is still sustained today.

Local History: Uncovering Cusco’s Fascinating Past

Cusco was once the capital of the Incan Empire and is steeped in history. There are many places where visitors can learn about the city’s past, such as the Inca Museum and the Qorikancha temple. Another fascinating historical spot is Sacsayhuaman, an imposing fortress that was once used as a defensive stronghold and a site of religious worship.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unlocking Rare Experiences

To make the most of your stay in Cusco, consider going off the beaten path. For a truly unique experience, visit the Salt Mines of Maras. Here, salt has been harvested using ancient techniques for centuries. Take a dip in the nearby hot springs for a relaxing and soothing experience. Alternatively, mountain biking or hiking to the Rainbow Mountain, Vinicunca, is surreal. The stunning panoramic views along the way and of the mountain itself are breathtaking.

In conclusion, Cusco is a unique destination that offers a myriad of experiences beyond Machu Picchu. By exploring these hidden gems, yours will be an unforgettable trip.