Machu Picchu – By Car (2 Days)

The "Machu Picchu – By Car (2 Days)" tour offers an appealing alternative for those seeking to experience the iconic Incan citadel without the physical demands of traditional hiking. Combining transportation, accommodation, and guided exploration, this budget-friendly package caters to travelers with moderate fitness levels. Starting from Cusco, the journey includes a scenic transfer to Hidroeléctrica, where hikers and train enthusiasts alike can make their way to Aguas Calientes. With one night’s stay and all meals on the second day, this tour promises a memorable glimpse into the breathtaking landscapes surrounding Machu Picchu. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a first-time visitor, this tour could be the perfect way to…

About Your Stay

1. This 2-day tour from Cusco, Peru, offers an opportunity to visit the iconic Machu Picchu site, with 1 night’s accommodation and a guided tour included.
2. The tour price starts from $199 and includes transportation, entrance fees, and select meals, but optional add-ons like bus and train rides are available.
3. Moderate physical fitness is required, and the tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers, those with serious medical conditions, or individuals with limited mobility.
4. Customer reviews indicate some issues with pickup times, lack of English-speaking assistance, and missing meals, leading to a 3.5/5 rating based on 3 reviews.
5. The tour has a non-refundable cancellation policy, but options for rescheduling, transferring bookings, and purchasing travel insurance are available.

Tour Overview and Details

The Machu Picchu – By Car (2 Days) tour offers travelers a convenient way to explore the renowned Incan citadel.

Priced from $199.00, this 2-day tour departs from Cusco, Peru and includes 1 night’s accommodation in Aguas Calientes, entrance to Machu Picchu, and a guided tour.

Transportation between Cusco, Hidroeléctrica, and Cusco is provided, along with meals on the second day.

Optional add-ons include the bus to/from Machu Picchu and the train to/from Aguas Calientes.

With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour is operated by Machu Picchu Amazon Peru and has a rating of 3.5/5 based on 3 reviews.

Travelers should note the health and safety restrictions and the non-refundable policy for this tour.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour includes a night’s accommodation in Aguas Calientes, entrance to Machu Picchu, and a guided tour of the historic site.

The package also covers transportation between Cusco, Hidroeléctrica, and Cusco, as well as meals on the second day.

Customers can optionally add a bus ride from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and back, as well as a train ride from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes and back.

The tour has some health and safety requirements, such as moderate physical fitness and no accessibility for pregnant travelers or individuals with serious medical conditions.

Cancellations are non-refundable.

The inclusions are:

1. 1 night accommodation in Aguas Calientes
2. Entrance to Machu Picchu
3. Guided tour of Machu Picchu
4. Meals: Breakfast on Day 1, Lunch and Dinner on Day 2

Pickup and Transportation

Guests are picked up from hotels within the historic center of Cusco at 7:00 am to begin the Machu Picchu by Car tour.

From there, they’ll be transported to the Hidroeléctrica train station, where they’ll have the option to take the train to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu.

Alternatively, guests can choose to hike the scenic route from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes, which takes approximately 2-3 hours.

At the end of the tour, the return journey follows the same route, with transportation provided back to Cusco.

Health and Safety Considerations

For this Machu Picchu by Car tour, moderate physical fitness is required.

The tour isn’t recommended for those with the following conditions:

1. Pregnant travelers
2. Individuals with heart problems or serious medical conditions
3. Persons who aren’t wheelchair accessible
4. Travelers who can’t handle moderate physical activity

Confirmation of booking is received at the time of reservation.

This tour isn’t suitable for those with limited mobility or serious health concerns. Participants should ensure they’re physically capable of the activities involved in this 2-day Machu Picchu excursion.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

The customer reviews for this Machu Picchu by Car tour provide valuable insights into the actual experience.

One reviewer, Helen_O, reported a dreadful experience in May 2024, citing issues like incorrect pickup time, lack of English-speaking assistance, missing meals, and unsecure Machu Picchu tickets.

However, the reviewer noted that an amazing guide helped despite the overall stress.

The tour receives a rating of 3.5/5 based on 3 reviews, and the company isn’t recommended due to poor service and communication.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Travelers can’t receive refunds for cancellations on this Machu Picchu by Car tour. This non-refundable policy applies regardless of the reason for cancellation.

However, the tour company does offer the following options:

1. Rescheduling the tour for a different date, subject to availability.
2. Transferring the booking to another person.
3. Purchasing travel insurance to protect against unexpected circumstances.
4. Providing a credit voucher for a future tour, valid for up to one year.

It’s essential for travelers to carefully review the cancellation policy before booking this Machu Picchu tour, as no refunds will be issued once the reservation is confirmed.

Enhancing Your Experience

Although this Machu Picchu by Car tour provides a convenient way to explore the iconic site, there are several optional add-ons that can enhance the overall experience.

Travelers can choose to take the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and back, which offers a more direct and faster route compared to the included hike.

Plus, upgrading to the train service from Hydroelectric to Aguas Calientes and back provides a more scenic and comfortable journey.

These optional upgrades come at an additional cost, but they can significantly improve the convenience and enjoyment of the Machu Picchu experience.

Questions About Your Stay

Are Children Allowed on This Tour?

The tour’s website does not specify if children are allowed. It’s best to contact the tour operator directly to inquire about their policy regarding minors and any age restrictions that may apply.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Travelers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on tours, but it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand. Some may restrict outside food and drink for logistical reasons.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Accommodation?

The tour company doesn’t offer an accommodation upgrade option. However, travelers can arrange their own hotel stay in Aguas Calientes independently if they’d like to upgrade their lodging for the Machu Picchu visit.

Can I Extend My Stay at Machu Picchu?

Customers can extend their stay at Machu Picchu, but this would need to be arranged separately from the tour package. Additional nights and activities can be booked directly with local providers in Aguas Calientes.

Are There Any Discounts Available for This Tour?

There are no discounts available for this Machu Picchu tour. The price is fixed at $199 per person, with no additional reductions or promotional offers mentioned. The tour company doesn’t seem to provide any discount options.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The "Machu Picchu – By Car (2 Days)" tour offers a budget-friendly and adventurous way to experience the iconic Incan citadel. Featuring transportation, accommodation, and a guided tour, the package caters to travelers with moderate physical fitness. With the option to hike or take the train, and meals provided, this tour ensures a memorable experience amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes.