Highlights
- DAY 1: Cusco – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes.
- DAY 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Puente Ruinas – Hidroeléctrica – Cusco.
- Travel Guide
- About us
- Inca Trail Availability
- Payments
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Inca Jungle Treks
This superb “MachuPicchu by Bus” tour is designed for individuals who wish to embark on short 2-3 hour hikes while also saving money to fulfill their dream of visiting the legendary Machu Picchu.
The tour offers an affordable and enriching experience that allows travelers to explore the breathtaking scenery without relying on expensive services provided by private guides or high-cost train journeys, which often increase their prices for tourists. By choosing this budget-friendly option, visitors can enjoy well-planned itineraries, knowledgeable guidance, and comfortable travel arrangements that make the trip both enjoyable and economical.
Furthermore, the itinerary is crafted to maximize the experience within a short period, ensuring that guests can fully appreciate the historic site’s beauty, culture, and history without unnecessary expenses. This economical journey not only reduces financial strain but also opens the door for more inclusive travel, allowing a wider audience to realize their dream of standing before the majestic ruins of Machu Picchu.
By selecting this tour, travelers benefit from a well-rounded adventure that balances affordability, convenience, and a genuine connection with one of the world’s most iconic wonders, making the journey as memorable as the destination itself.
The adventure begins in the early morning light of Cusco. Between 7:00 and 7:30 a.m., our group gathers, anticipation filling the crisp air. A comfortable bus awaits, ready to whisk us away on a six-and-a-half-hour journey through the stunning Andean landscape towards Hidroeléctrica.
As the bus winds its way out of Cusco, we pause briefly near Ollantaytambo for a short 10 to 15-minute break. Here, travelers stretch their legs, refill water bottles, grab a quick snack, or use the restroom, before we resume our expedition.
After this brief respite, the road ascends towards Abra Malaga. The soaring panorama unfolds before our eyes: snow-capped peaks that pierce the sky, rolling highland pastures, and the vibrant tapestry of the high jungle as we descend. Along the way, we pass through quaint villages like Santa Maria and Santa Teresa, offering a glimpse into the local way of life and culture.
Our bus finally reaches Hidroeléctrica, where we disembark for a well-deserved lunch break. The aroma of local cuisine tantalizes our senses, rejuvenating us for the next leg of the journey. From here, we set off on a two-and-a-half-hour walk along a mostly flat trail that winds down to Aguas Calientes, the charming town nestled at the base of Machu Picchu.
Most of our fellow travelers choose the scenic route on foot, though there is an option to board a short 25-minute train ride for an additional fee. However, the majority opt to keep the tradition of walking, enjoying every moment of the journey. As we arrive in Aguas Calientes, the buzz of the town greets us. We head straight to our accommodations, take a moment to settle in, and perhaps even visit the relaxing hot springs, if time allows and the mood strikes.
As evening falls, we gather for dinner. The tour guide shares valuable insights and tips about the next day’s adventure, ensuring everyone is well-prepared for the visit to Machu Picchu that awaits at dawn. The night ends with a sense of excitement and restful anticipation, as we retire for the night in Aguas Calientes.
The second morning breaks before dawn, around 4:30 to 5:00 a.m., as our final day on this memorable journey begins. The atmosphere is hushed and expectant as we prepare to make our way to the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu.
A one-hour and forty-minute walk through the pre-dawn light lies ahead, a journey that feels both intimate and profound. Alternatively, for those preferring a shorter path, there is the option of a 25-minute bus ride to the archaeological center for a modest fee. However, many choose the path on foot, embracing the ritual of the climb. The first bus, departing at 5:30 a.m., carries those who opt for this quicker alternative.
Upon reaching the entrance of Machu Picchu, the gates open to reveal the awe-inspiring ruins bathed in the early morning glow. Our guide greets us, and soon we are part of a group, ready to explore the ancient site. The guided tour unfolds over the next two hours, as we wander through sacred plazas and hallowed halls, learning stories of the Inca civilization along the way. We marvel at significant spots like the Temple of the Sun, the Inca House, the Water Mirrors Zone, and the Temple of the Condor, among many others.
After the official tour concludes, a period of free exploration begins. Visitors roam the expansive grounds, capturing photographs and soaking in the atmosphere until about 11:30 a.m. This time allows personal reflection and an intimate connection with the ruins, making the experience even more meaningful.
As the day progresses, it’s time to begin the journey back. We retrace our steps from Machu Picchu to Hidroeléctrica—a three-hour walk filled with reflections on the wonders witnessed—and then prepare for the final leg of our journey home. A bus awaits at Hidroeléctrica around 3:00 p.m., bound for Cusco.
By approximately 9:30 p.m., our tour concludes as we arrive back in Cusco, hearts full of memories and minds enriched by the timeless history and breathtaking beauty of Machu Picchu.
The group service for the 2-day Machu Picchu by Car tour offers an affordable and social way to experience the journey from Cusco to Aguas Calientes and back. Travelers join a shared bus for the scenic 6.5-hour drive through Andean landscapes, including stops near Ollantaytambo and Abra Malaga, passing villages like Santa Maria and Santa Teresa. After arriving at Hidroeléctrica, the group enjoys a communal lunch before a 2.5-hour flat walk to Aguas Calientes, fostering interaction among participants. Overnight stays in basic shared accommodations promote camaraderie, with dinner and guide briefings included. On day 2, the early 1-hour 40-minute uphill walk to Machu Picchu (or optional bus) leads to a 2-hour guided tour of key sites like the Temple of the Sun and Temple of the Condor, followed by free exploration until 11:30 a.m. The return mirrors the outbound route, arriving in Cusco by evening. This format suits budget-conscious adventurers seeking community and efficiency, with groups of 10-20 people ensuring organized pacing and shared costs for transport, basic meals (excluding first breakfast and last lunch), and Machu Picchu entry on Circuit 2.
| Service Type | Price per Person (USD) |
|---|---|
| Group Service | 160 |
The private service elevates the 2-day Machu Picchu by Car tour into a personalized all-inclusive adventure, ideal for couples, families, or small groups desiring flexibility and exclusivity. A dedicated vehicle provides comfortable transport from Cusco, with customizable stops for photos or breaks along the Andean route. At Hidroeléctrica, private dining options await, followed by the walk to Aguas Calientes (or train upgrade). Accommodations upgrade to private rooms in mid-range hotels, with tailored meals and extended guide interactions. Day 2 allows adjusted pacing for the ascent to Machu Picchu, a private 2-hour tour focusing on interests like Inca engineering or astronomy, and ample free time for reflection. Return transport ensures seamless logistics. Advantages include adaptive schedules to avoid crowds, undivided guide attention for deeper insights, enhanced comfort reducing fatigue on walks, privacy for intimate discussions, and premium inclusions like all meals, boutique lodging, and Circuit 2 entry, making it perfect for those prioritizing quality over cost.
| Number of People | Price per Person (USD, All-Inclusive) |
|---|---|
| 1 | 650 |
| 2 | 400 |
| 3 | 350 |
| 4 | 300 |
| 5 | 280 |
| 6 | 260 |
| 7+ | 240 |
Group bookings of 4 or more receive a 10% discount on private service prices. Students with valid ID (under 25) and Andean Community members (Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, Bolivia) qualify for $25 off any service. Early bookings (90+ days in advance) offer 5% off, mirroring agency incentives for off-peak travel (November to March).
Trains provide a convenient alternative to walking segments of the itinerary, departing from Hidroeléctrica or Aguas Calientes. PeruRail and IncaRail operate services with panoramic views of the Urubamba River canyon, comfortable seating, and onboard snacks. Schedules align with tour timings, such as early morning arrivals for sunrise at Machu Picchu. Prices are additional to base tour costs.
Additional cost: $39-90 per way, depending on service; book via operators for integration with the tour.
Gercetur outlines regulated paths through Machu Picchu to preserve the site while offering varied experiences. Tickets specify a circuit and entry time (6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.), with one-way routes lasting 2-3 hours. All include guided access to core areas like the Temple of the Sun and Condor Temple, but differ in viewpoints and hikes. Prices are for foreign adults; entry is single-use.
Additional cost: Included in base tour; upgrades for mountains below.
These optional hikes extend the visit beyond standard circuits, offering elevated perspectives of the ruins. Access requires specific tickets (Circuit 3 or 4), limited daily (350-400 spots), and advance booking. Climbs are strenuous with steep stairs; allow 2-3 hours round-trip. Guides mandatory for safety.
Additional cost: $15 upgrade from base ticket; permits sell out months ahead.
OPTIONAL:
To qualify for the student discount on Inca Trail Permits, travelers must meet the following requirements:
Student IDs will not be accepted for the discount under the following conditions:
This information is crucial for travelers seeking to benefit from discounted permits for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
“Imperial Travel Peru” is a 100% Peruvian-owned tour operator based in Cusco, with extensive experience in hiking, adventure tours, and customized travel packages. As a completely local company, we’re dedicated to providing travelers with authentic, high-quality experiences.
Our vision as a local company is to deliver personalized travel and hiking journeys, managed exclusively by experienced local professionals, with a strong focus on HIGH-QUALITY and PERSONALIZED SERVICE.
We are proud of our reputation as a travel agency that upholds RESPONSIBLE and SUSTAINABLE practices benefiting both the environment and local communities.
We treat our team like family and ensure they receive fair wages. We are incredibly proud of each member of our team! Their dedication makes it possible for us to provide the top-notch service that our many travelers appreciate.
At “Imperial Travel Peru,” we understand that our reputation and the feedback from our travelers are essential for gaining the trust of future adventurers. You can check out honest reviews from our guests on TripAdvisor, Facebook, and Google to see why we’re a reliable choice for creating your Peruvian adventure.
To ensure a more personalized experience at “Imperial Travel Peru,” we keep our group sizes to a maximum of 8 travelers. This approach allows us to offer a tailored experience, unlike companies that operate with larger groups.
Our guides are our pride. They’re highly knowledgeable and professional, fluent in English, and deeply passionate about Inca culture and history. Each guide is committed to ongoing personal and professional development, allowing them to share accurate insights and fascinating theories about Andean heritage. They are friendly, athletic, and well-educated, with backgrounds in Archaeology, Tourism, Botany, History, or Anthropology.
Hiking with “Imperial Travel Peru” ensures a fulfilling experience. Our porters are here to make your journey comfortable and memorable. They carry your equipment, prepare meals, set up camps, and attend to your needs so you can relax and enjoy the adventure. Along the way, you’ll connect with local people, explore stunning sites, and discover historic Inca villages.
We provide our porters with essential equipment at no cost: jackets, sun hats, warm hats, shirts, pants, hiking boots, comfortable bags, canteens, back support belts, sleeping bags, mattresses, and travel insurance. Our porters come from remote communities, and by hiring them, we help improve their economic conditions and support their children’s education. We treat our porters like family!
Our team—guides, cooks, porters, muleteers—and our equipment make “Imperial Travel Peru” stand out from the competition. During our hikes, we provide:
“Imperial Travel Peru” is committed to giving back to isolated communities. We support social projects and prioritize hiring local staff.
We are proud to support local communities not only by providing employment but also by offering assistance to their families. This holistic approach benefits our employees from the Peruvian Andes and their loved ones, strengthening our connection to the local heritage.
At Imperial Travel Peru, we believe every journey should be as unique as the traveler. Nestled in the heart of Peru, we specialize in curating unforgettable experiences that blend ancient history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes.
