Bus Availability for the Hidroelectrica Route to Machu Picchu

Bus Availability for the Hidroelectrica Route to Machu Picchu

If you’re planning to reach Machu Picchu via the adventurous and budget-friendly Hidroelectrica route, here’s everything you need to know about transportation options available in 2025. This is a safe, comfortable, and scenic journey through the Andes and jungle.

🚍 Types of Bus Service

Standard Service

• 💲 Price: $14 one way / $25 round trip
• 🪑 90° reclining seats
• ❄ Air conditioning
• 📡 GPS monitoring
• 🛡 Safety and pre-trip briefing included

Royal Class Service

• 💲 Price: $20 one way / $38 round trip
• 🪑 Reclining seats
• ❄ Air conditioning & heating
• 🔌 Cell phone charger
• 🚻 On-board toilet

🔄 If Royal Class service is not available due to force majeure, Standard Service will be provided and the price difference refunded. If Standard Service is unavailable, Royal Class will be offered at no extra cost.

🕒 Daily Departure Schedule

Route Boarding Time Departure Arrival

• Cusco → Hidroelectrica 6:15–6:30 a.m. 6:45 a.m.

  ~   1:30 p.m (Arrive at Hidroeléctrica)

• Hidroelectrica → Cusco 2:00–2:30 p.m. 2:45 p.m.    ~   9:30 p.m (Arrive at Cusco)
• ⏱ Trip duration: approx. 6 hours
• 📍 All buses monitored via GPS with a max speed of 90 km/h
• ❗ Only one schedule available per day (no multiple departures)

📍 Boarding Points

1. Cusco: Plaza de Armas (ATM BCP, Espaderos St.)
2. Hidroelectrica: Escobar Restaurant

View locations on Google Maps

📋 What’s Included

• Transportation (one way or round trip)
• Accredited and certified drivers
• First-aid kit on board
• Pre-travel safety briefing

🚫 Not Included

• Meals or drinks
• Personal expenses

❗ Important Travel Notes

• Roads between Santa María and Hidroelectrica are under construction – expect occasional delays
• During rainy season (Nov–Mar): possible road closures or emergency transfers (approx. 10 soles extra if needed)
• Bring: sunscreen, mosquito repellent, rain poncho, light luggage, cash, and hiking shoes
• Hiking time from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes: 2.5 hours
• Recommended time to start the hike back to Hidroelectrica: 11:00 a.m.

🔁 Flexible Returns

• You can return on day 2, 3, or 4—just notify the agency 24 hours in advance
• No returns are allowed the same day
• Boarding after 14:30 will not be permitted (unit departs at 14:45 sharp)
• Cancellation penalties apply depending on timing (see full policy for details)