3 Days
Daily Tour
10 people
English, Espanol, Francais
The 3-day, 2-night Machu Picchu by Car and Cocalmayo Hot Springs tour offers an incredible blend of adventure and relaxation. On this journey, you’ll venture to the awe-inspiring Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, where you’ll delve into its rich history with the insights of a knowledgeable local guide. Following this unforgettable exploration, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to unwind in the soothing waters of Cocalmayo Hot Springs. This tour not only allows you to immerse yourself in the ancient wonders of Machu Picchu but also to rejuvenate in the serene and natural beauty of Cocalmayo, making it a truly memorable experience in Peru.
Our journey begins with a pick-up from your hotel at 6:30 a.m., setting off on the tour at 7:00 a.m. as we head towards Ollantaytambo. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to soak in the stunning landscapes of the area, with a brief 10-minute stop to capture photos of this breathtaking scenery. We’ll then continue our ascent along a winding road towards Abra Málaga, standing at an impressive 4,316 meters above sea level. From here, you'll witness some of the most awe-inspiring vistas Peru has to offer.
After a short break to take in the views, we’ll begin our descent into the lush jungle, passing through various microclimates that blend paradise-like landscapes, from towering snow-capped peaks to the edge of the tropical rainforest. Our journey proceeds until we reach Alfamayo, where we’ll find a well-maintained paved road. However, we’ll take a detour onto a dirt path that leads us to the town of Santa María, situated at 1,575 meters above sea level. Here, we’ll take a short rest before continuing our drive to Santa Teresa, where a delightful lunch awaits us around 2:00 p.m., offering a range of dishes to suit every taste.
Around 3:00 p.m., we’ll resume our journey towards the Hydroelectric Plant. From there, we’ll embark on a 2.5-hour hike to Aguas Calientes, arriving at approximately 6:00 p.m., where you’ll be escorted to your designated accommodation. At 8:00 p.m., enjoy a hearty dinner with the company of our agency staff.
During dinner, your guide will provide you with important information for the following day and answer any questions you might have. Afterward, take the opportunity to explore the charming town of Aguas Calientes, with its inviting bars and restaurants, before retiring to your hotel for a restful night.
Driving time: Approximately 5-6 hours from Cusco to the Hydroelectric Plant
Hiking distance: 11 km / 2.5-3 hours from the Hydroelectric Plant to Aguas Calientes
Weather: Warm, breezy, and tropical
Accommodation: Basic hotel stay in Aguas Calientes
Included meals: Lunch at the Hydroelectric Plant / Dinner in Aguas Calientes
All details will be coordinated with your guide the night before. The guided tour of Machu Picchu will start at 7:00 AM, lasting around 3-4 hours. Afterward, you'll return to Aguas Calientes, either by bus or on foot, where you can enjoy a delicious lunch. Following lunch, you'll set off on a trek towards the Machu Picchu Hydroelectric Plant, where our transportation will be waiting to take you to the town of Santa Teresa. In Santa Teresa, we'll board another vehicle for a 20-minute ride to the Cocalmayo hot springs, where you can relax and unwind. After this soothing experience, we'll return to the town where you'll spend the night.
After enjoying breakfast, we'll board our transportation for the return journey to Cusco. This scenic drive will take approximately 6 hours, offering ample opportunity to reflect on the incredible experiences of the past few days as we make our way through the diverse landscapes of the region.
As we traverse the winding roads back to Cusco, you'll pass through lush valleys and rugged mountain terrain, with plenty of chances to take in the breathtaking views. This return trip not only marks the end of our adventure but also serves as a final moment to appreciate the stunning natural beauty that has surrounded us throughout our journey. Once we arrive in Cusco, you'll be dropped off at your accommodation, bringing this unforgettable tour to a close.
The tour includes transportation from Cusco to the Hidroeléctrica, a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, guided tours of Machu Picchu, and access to Cocalmayo Hot Springs. Accommodation in Aguas Calientes is also provided, as well as meals such as lunch in Santa Teresa and dinner upon arrival in Aguas Calientes.
Yes, you can choose to either hike to Machu Picchu or take the bus. The cost of the tour includes bus transportation from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. However, if you prefer to hike, it is an optional activity and can be arranged based on your preference.
The guided tour of Machu Picchu lasts about 2.5 hours. After the tour, you’ll have some free time to explore the site on your own if you choose. The tour begins around 7:00 a.m., allowing for a thorough exploration of the ancient citadel.
For the hike, wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a hat, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and a light rain jacket or poncho. It’s also helpful to have some cash on hand for any additional purchases or tips.
Optional activities like hiking Huayna Picchu or purchasing additional bus tickets to Machu Picchu are not included in the tour price. For Huayna Picchu, the cost is an extra $70 USD per person. Meals not specified in the itinerary and personal expenses are also additional.
Accommodation is provided in a basic hotel in Aguas Calientes. This includes a comfortable room for the night before your visit to Machu Picchu and after exploring the site. The hotel is selected for its convenience and comfort, ensuring a pleasant stay during your visit.
The best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. During these months, the weather is typically sunny and less likely to be rainy, making it ideal for hiking and exploring. The wet season from November to March can bring heavy rain, which may affect trekking conditions.
Yes, you can store your luggage at the storage facilities in Aguas Calientes before you head to Machu Picchu. However, be sure to bring only what you need for the day, as large bags are not allowed inside the Machu Picchu site. Small backpacks and essentials are permitted.
While visiting Machu Picchu, be mindful of the high altitude, which can affect some people. It’s important to stay hydrated and take it easy on strenuous activities. Also, wear comfortable footwear for hiking and be cautious of uneven terrain. If you have any specific health concerns, please consult with your healthcare provider before the trip.
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