Exploring the iconic Machu Picchu on a budget is possible with this 2-day tour from Cusco. Travelers can embark on an affordable journey, starting at just COP3,274 per person, and enjoy the stunning Sacred Valley landscape. With flexible options for trekking or taking the train, this tour provides a memorable experience complete with transportation, meals, and a bilingual guide. Whether you’re seeking an adventurous getaway or a more leisurely discovery, this budget-friendly tour offers a chance to uncover the wonders of one of the world’s most captivating ancient sites.
Key Points
- 2-day budget tour to Machu Picchu from Cusco, starting at COP3,274 per person with a non-refundable cancellation policy.
- Includes shared car/van transfers, meals, entrance ticket, and bilingual guide; optional train tickets and bus access available.
- Itinerary involves a 4-5 hour car ride from Cusco to the Hydroelectric station, followed by a 2.5 hour trek to Aguas Calientes.
- Tour not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to steep trekking and physically demanding activities.
- Mixed reviews regarding guide quality and transportation; set realistic expectations, and consider alternative accessible tour options if needed.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview and Pricing
- Itinerary Details
- Distances and Travel Times
- Inclusions and Add-ons
- Important Information
- Mobility and Accessibility
- What to Bring
- Customer Experiences
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Book This Tour for a Group of 10 People?
- Do I Need to Bring My Own Snacks and Water for the Tour?
- Is There an Option to Visit Other Sites in the Sacred Valley?
- Can the Tour Be Customized to Fit My Preferred Schedule?
- Are There Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Cusco
- More 2-Day Experiences in Cusco
- More Tours in Cusco
- More Tour Reviews in Cusco
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Cusco we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Overview and Pricing
The 2-day budget tour to Machu Picchu by car offers an affordable opportunity for travelers to explore the iconic Inca site.
The tour is priced from COP3,274 per person, though it has a non-refundable cancellation policy. A live tour guide is available in both English and Spanish, making it accessible to a wide range of visitors.
Pickup is provided from central Cusco hotels and hostels, with alternative arrangements for Airbnb guests.
This budget-friendly option provides a convenient way for travelers to experience the wonders of Machu Picchu without breaking the bank.
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Itinerary Details
On the first day, the tour departs at 7:00 AM from central Cusco, traveling through the Sacred Valley.
Travelers enjoy lunch in Santa Teresa, then arrive at the Hydroelectric station around 3:00 PM.
From there, they can choose to take the train or trek for 3 hours along the train tracks through the jungle to reach Aguas Calientes.
In the evening, they can relax at the hot springs or explore the town.
On the second day, the group starts at 4:30 AM to reach Machu Picchu.
They can either take a steep 1.5-hour hike or opt for the bus.
A 2-hour guided tour follows, allowing time for photos and independent exploration.
The return journey involves choosing between walking or taking the bus back to the Hydroelectric station, before the drive back to Cusco, arriving between 9:30-10:00 PM.
Distances and Travel Times
The journey from Cusco to the Hydroelectric station takes between 4 to 5 hours by car. From there, it’s a 2.5-hour trek to reach Aguas Calientes. The final stretch, from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, is a 1.5-hour steep walk or a 25-minute bus ride. The return trip follows the same route in reverse, taking 5 to 6 hours to get back to Cusco.
| Route | Distance | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Cusco to Hydroelectric | – | 4-5 hours |
| Hydroelectric to Aguas Calientes | – | 2.5 hours |
| Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu | – | 1.5 hours walk or 25 minutes by bus |
| Hydroelectric to Cusco | – | 5-6 hours |
Inclusions and Add-ons
This 2-day budget tour to Machu Picchu includes several key items.
Shared car/van transfers, lunch, dinner, breakfast, entrance ticket to Machu Picchu, and a bilingual guide are all part of the package.
Accommodation can also be included if selected.
Optional add-ons include train tickets to/from Hydroelectric and Aguas Calientes, bus to/from Machu Picchu, hot springs access, and extra hikes like Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
Customers should note that this tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
Proper planning and packing are essential, as large luggage and professional cameras aren’t allowed.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information
Customers should note that this 2-day budget tour to Machu Picchu isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
Travelers should bring their passport/ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, hat, camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, and waterproof shoes. Pets, large luggage, professional cameras, and tripods aren’t allowed.
Customers should provide passport details for admission ticket confirmation, as high season may affect ticket availability.
While the long car trip may be exhausting, add-ons are available for less physical demand.
Reviews suggest mixed experiences with guides and transportation quality, so customers should set appropriate expectations.
Mobility and Accessibility
Since this 2-day budget tour to Machu Picchu isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, travelers with such needs should consider alternative tour options.
The itinerary involves a steep 1.5-hour trek to reach Machu Picchu and several other physically demanding activities. Plus, the long car rides can be exhausting.
While the tour operator offers optional add-ons to reduce the physical demands, these may not fully accommodate the needs of travelers with mobility issues.
Therefore, it’s essential for such individuals to carefully review the tour details and explore other accessible tour options that can better accommodate their requirements.
What to Bring
Travelers typically pack a range of essential items for the 2-day budget tour to Machu Picchu.
The tour organizers recommend bringing a valid passport or ID, comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, a hat, a camera, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Waterproof shoes are also advised, as the terrain can be wet and slippery in parts.
Travelers should pack a daypack to carry their essentials.
Large luggage, pets, and professional cameras with tripods aren’t allowed.
Providing passport details in advance ensures the timely confirmation of admission tickets.
While the tour is designed to be manageable, the long car rides can be tiring, so optional add-ons are available for those seeking less physical exertion.
Customer Experiences
While the tour’s logistics and inclusions are well-outlined, customer reviews suggest mixed experiences. Some travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and efficient transportation, allowing them to make the most of their time at Machu Picchu.
However, others report issues with the quality of the guides and vehicles, which can detract from the overall experience. Visitors also note that the long car rides can be tiring, emphasizing the importance of carefully considering one’s physical abilities before booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Book This Tour for a Group of 10 People?
Yes, you can book this Machu Picchu 2-day budget tour for a group of 10 people. The tour’s shared transportation and group size accommodations make it suitable for larger parties.
Do I Need to Bring My Own Snacks and Water for the Tour?
No, the tour includes lunch and dinner. However, you should bring your own snacks and water for the long travel days and hiking around Machu Picchu. Preparing with extra provisions can make the tour more comfortable.
Is There an Option to Visit Other Sites in the Sacred Valley?
Yes, there’s an option to visit other sites in the Sacred Valley on this tour. The itinerary includes a stop in Santa Teresa for lunch, providing an opportunity to explore additional attractions in the Sacred Valley region.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Fit My Preferred Schedule?
The tour can be customized to accommodate the customer’s preferred schedule. Clients can discuss adding extra activities or altering the itinerary with the tour operator, who’ll work to personalize the experience.
Are There Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?
The tour operator doesn’t currently offer discounts for students or seniors. However, they may be willing to provide a small discount for group bookings or for those booking well in advance. It’s best to inquire directly with the operator.
From Cusco: Machu Picchu 2-day Budget Tour by Car
“Seeing Machu Picchu was a lifetime dream of mine! The morning was rainy and foggy but it cleared up soon after sunrise. Take the extra time to hike…”
Recap
The 2-day budget tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu offers an affordable way to explore this iconic site. Travelers journey through the Sacred Valley, enjoy a lunch stop, and have options for trekking or taking a train. With essential amenities like transportation, meals, and a bilingual guide, this tour provides a memorable experience for visitors.
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