If you’re the kind of traveler who enjoys the journey as much as the destination — and wants to save money while soaking in epic scenery — the Hidroeléctrica route to Machu Picchu might just be your perfect match.
This lesser-known alternative to the classic train ride offers a mix of road trip, jungle hike, and cultural experience, making it one of the most memorable ways to reach the legendary Inca citadel.
Your day starts early. Most tours and transport services pick you up near Cusco’s Plaza de Armas around 6:30 AM, and you hit the road with your backpack and plenty of excitement.
The bus ride to Hidroeléctrica takes around 6 hours, but don’t worry — the ride itself is part of the adventure. The route takes you:
Along the way, there are usually two stops:
You’ll arrive at Hidroeléctrica around 1:30 or 2:00 PM. Before starting the hike, you’ll have time to enjoy a local lunch at one of the restaurants near the station — simple but delicious food to refuel before walking.
Important: After lunch, all travelers must complete a quick registration with passport at the checkpoint. It takes just a minute and is required before you can continue toward Aguas Calientes.
At this point, you have two options:
The walk is flat, scenic, and unforgettable. You’ll follow the train tracks along the Vilcanota River, surrounded by dense jungle, birdsong, butterflies, and the occasional train rumbling by.
It’s not just a walk — it’s a vibe. You’ll likely meet other travelers along the way, sharing snacks, stories, and laughs as the afternoon sun filters through the trees.
Around 5:00 PM, you’ll reach Aguas Calientes (also called Machu Picchu Pueblo), tired but glowing with satisfaction. Nestled between steep jungle-covered mountains, the town feels cozy, alive, and buzzing with the energy of everyone preparing to visit Machu Picchu.
After checking into your hostel and taking a hot shower, you’ll want to explore the town, grab dinner (pizza + coca tea is a classic combo), and soak in the atmosphere.
Everyone’s here for the same reason — it feels like base camp before a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
💡 Tip: I booked my Machu Picchu entrance ticket months in advance, and I highly recommend it. Some travelers buy them the same day they arrive and have to wait in line or deal with limited availability. Save yourself the stress — book early!
You can also purchase your bus ticket to Machu Picchu for the next morning in town, or plan to hike up if you’re into steep early-morning treks.
After your visit to Machu Picchu the next day (spoiler: it’s mind-blowing), you’ll return to Aguas Calientes for lunch before hiking back to Hidroeléctrica around 1:30 PM.
You’ll catch your return bus around 3:00 PM, and along the way, there’s a stop in Alfamayo — a welcome break to stretch, use the restroom, or buy snacks before heading back up through the mountains.
You’ll reach Cusco around 9:30 or 10:00 PM, tired but full of stories, new friends, and that quiet joy that comes from doing something truly special.
Absolutely.
If you’re into saving money, immersing yourself in nature, making new friends, and getting a taste of real adventure — this route is for you.
It’s not the fastest way to Machu Picchu. It’s not the easiest.
But it might just be the most rewarding.
100% Local Tour Operator to Machu Picchu Trekking and Bus Cusco Hidroelectrica Company 100% Local We are NOT intermediaries.
Discover the Experience of Quillabamba Coffee at Café Snack Abra Málaga, an unforgettable 15-minute stop on the Cusco – Hidroelectrica route. Enjoy organic jungle coffee, handcrafted chocolate, and a unique view of the Andes. Part of the exclusive Machu Picchu by Car VIP experience and without a doubt, a 100% Instagram-worthy spot
