Machu Picchu by Car 2 Days

DOCUMENTS TO CARRY WITH YOU

Frequently Asked Questions MACHU PICCHU BY CAR

When is the best time to go?

This is a difficult question to answer as Peru has a huge variety of conditions. Best time is ! Dry season runs from May to November and this is typically the time that is most recommended.

Do I need to bring my passport for this tour?

Yes. You will require your passport to enter Machu Picchu.

What type of transportation is used?

All the vehicles that we use for this type of tour are the Sprinter Mercedes Benz modern minibuses that have all the documentation required by the national authorities, all the vehicles are maintained daily to keep them in good conditions and clean and each vehicle has been properly logged.

What can I do in order to prevent the altitude sickness?

We recommend to be in Cusco at least 2 days and drink as much water as you can and drink coca tea that can be ordered anywhere you want, you can also prepare it yourself with boiled water and dried coca leaves. At least one day before the tour we recommend eating light food and if you have any medication prescribed by your doctor you can take it and the best thing that you can do is to keep in mind that you will be fine.

Is it possible to drive to Machu Picchu?

No, you cannot drive directly to Machu Picchu. The ancient Inca citadel is inaccessible by road. The final approach is only possible on foot (via the Inca Trail or other hikes), by bus (from the town of Aguas Calientes), or by train (to Aguas Calientes).

The “Machu Picchu by Car” service is a clever and scenic workaround. It involves driving to the nearest road-accessible point, which is Hidroeléctrica. From there, travelers complete the journey with a flat walk or a short train ride to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of the mountain.

Can I go to Machu Picchu without hiking?

Absolutely, yes. Many visitors to Machu Picchu do not hike the multi-day trails. Here are your no-hike options:

• The Classic Train Route: Take a scenic train from Cusco, Ollantaytambo, or Urubamba directly to Aguas Calientes. From there, you take a bus up to the citadel.

• The “Machu Picchu by Car” Service: As described in the itinerary, this uses a vehicle to get you close, and you can opt for the train segment from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes (for an extra cost) instead of the 2.5-hour walk.

• The Bus from Aguas Calientes: Everyone, regardless of how they arrive in Aguas Calientes, must take a bus or hike a very steep and long path up to the citadel entrance. The bus is the standard, non-hiking option.

How many days are needed for Machu Picchu?

The absolute minimum is one very long day from Cusco (via train), but this is rushed and exhausting. We strongly recommend:

• 2 Days / 1 Night (The Gold Standard): This is the perfect amount of time. It allows you to travel to Aguas Calientes on Day 1, spend the night, visit Machu Picchu early on Day 2, and return without feeling rushed. Our featured itinerary is designed this way.

• 3-4 Days: This is ideal if you want to explore the Sacred Valley (Pisac, Ollantaytambo) on your way or include an additional hike like Huayna Picchu Mountain.

What is the cheapest way to go to Machu Picchu?

The “Machu Picchu by Car” service is consistently the most budget-friendly option. It significantly reduces the cost by replacing the most expensive leg of the journey—the round-trip train from Cusco/Ollantaytambo—with a shared vehicle ride. While it requires more time and a bit of walking (which can be avoided with an optional train ticket), it offers the best value for money.

Is it better to return from Machu Picchu by train?

This depends on your budget and energy levels after your visit.

• Returning by Car: This is the most economical choice. However, after a tiring day exploring the ruins, the long drive back can be less comfortable.

• Returning by Train (from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo/Cusco): This is a more comfortable, scenic, and faster return journey. It’s highly recommended if your budget allows, especially for the return leg when you are likely fatigued. Many travelers opt for a hybrid: “Car there, train back.”

What is the best way to travel to Machu Picchu?

There is no single “best” way, as it depends on your priorities:

• For Scenery & Comfort: The Vistadome Train. It offers panoramic windows and a luxurious, direct experience.

• For Adventure & Value: The Machu Picchu by Car Service. It provides a diverse journey through the Andes and is the most affordable.

• For the Ultimate Experience: The Inca Trail. A 4-day hike culminating at the Sun Gate is unforgettable, but requires permits and fitness.

For most travelers, a combination is ideal. The “Machu Picchu by Car” service offers an excellent balance of adventure, value, and unique scenery.

Is the train to Machu Picchu worth it?

Yes, the train is absolutely worth it for at least one leg of the journey. It’s more than just transport; it’s a iconic part of the Machu Picchu experience. The service is exceptional, the views of the Urubamba River gorge are breathtaking (especially in the Vistadome carriages), and it adds a touch of magic and comfort to the trip. If your budget permits, including a train journey, particularly on the return, is highly recommended.

When not to go to Machu Picchu by car?

The car service is operational year-round, but you should reconsider during:

• Heavy Rainy Season (January – March): This period sees the highest rainfall. The mountain roads can become more hazardous due to fog, landslides, and mudslides, leading to potential delays or cancellations.

• If You Are Prone to Severe Motion Sickness: The road to Hidroeléctrica involves many hours of winding, serpentine curves. If you get car sick easily, the train is a much smoother alternative.

• If You Have Severe Time Constraints: While reliable, the car journey is longer and more susceptible to weather-related delays than the train. If you are on a very tight schedule (e.g., a tight flight connection the next day), the train’s predictability is safer.