The most affordable way to reach Machu Picchu. Reliable daily shuttles from Cusco to Hydroelectric via Santa Teresa for independent travelers.
The Bus Cusco Hidroelectrica route is a budget-friendly and adventurous alternative to reach Machu Picchu. Instead of taking the expensive train, travelers can enjoy a scenic drive through the Andes, followed by a pleasant walk through the lush cloud forest. This route is ideal for backpackers and nature lovers who want to experience the magic of the Sacred Valley and arrive at Aguas Calientes in a more authentic and affordable way.
⚠️Important Before Booking
Please note that this vehicle is from the year 2015 and is in good mechanical condition.
However, the level of comfort is basic, as it does not have air conditioning, heating, reclining seats, or other additional amenities.
Ideal for travelers who prioritize the destination over transportation luxury.
Thank you for your understanding! 💰✅
Note: We invite you to review our terms and conditions for more details regarding our refund policies.
Meeting point (Plaza de Armas ATM BCP corner of Calle Espaderos)
⚠️ Important: If you do not show up at the indicated time or go to another location, it will be entirely your responsibility and there will be no refund or rescheduling of the service.
The first stop is at a local traditional restaurant, where you will have 25 minutes to use the restrooms, make any last-minute purchases, or have breakfast (optional).
This is only a boarding point, no visits are made
⚠️ Important: Our meeting point has temporarily changed to the entrance of Ollantaytambo due to roadwork; the new location will be sent to you via WhatsApp one day before.
Reference point: the town of Santa María.
⚠️ Approximately 30 minutes of dirt road is traveled due to roadwork; these works are being done to improve the route.
Reference point: the town of Santa Teresa.
⚠️ Drop-off point for people going to the Cocalmayo hot springs.
Final Bus Station and starting point of the hike to Aguas Calientes (2 hours and 30 minutes).
Optional: Lunch at Escobar Restaurant at your own expense.
Arrival in the town of Aguas Calientes; continue with your visit plan to Machu Picchu (the following day)
This is the recommended schedule to start the return to Hidroelectrica, in order to arrive with enough time and board the bus without any issues.
Meeting Point (Escobar Restaurant – Hidroelectrica, bus departure at 3:00 pm)
⚠️ Important: If you do not show up at the indicated time or go to a different location, it will be entirely your responsibility, and there will be no refund or rescheduling of the service.
Meeting point is the front door of the Municipality
⚠️ Boarding point for those who visited the Cocalmayo hot springs
Reference point: town of Santa María
Optional: (snack or use of restrooms) at a local restaurant at your own expense
This is only a drop-off point, no visits are made
⚠️ Important: Our drop-off point has been temporarily changed to the entrance of Ollantaytambo due to roadwork on the usual exit route.
Arrival in Cusco (San Francisco Plaza) – end of service
It’s easy to fabricate written reviews or create fake ones on platforms like TripAdvisor, but we believe the best proof comes from video testimonials. Videos capture real experiences, showing genuine reactions from our travelers. That’s why we encourage you to check out our video reviews to see firsthand the authentic experiences our customers have had with us. Trust real stories from real people, not just words on a screen. You can also visit our social media channels to watch all our video testimonials and get an even better sense of the quality of our service.
"The best budget way to get to Aguas Calientes! Way cheaper than the train and the 3-hour walk from Hidroelectrica is beautiful."
"I was worried about the curves, but our driver was very professional and cautious. Arrived exactly on time at Hidroelectrica."
"The views crossing the Abra Malaga pass are incredible. It's a long drive (6 hours), but the mountain scenery makes it fly by."
"Picked us up at our hostel on time. The van was modern and had good AC. Perfect for backpackers looking to save money."
"We stopped in Santa Teresa for a quick lunch before reaching the station. Very well organized and the driver was friendly."
"The drop-off point is right where the jungle walk starts. Much easier than I expected. Definitely booking the return trip too."
"Seats were comfortable and the van wasn't overbooked. Plenty of space for our backpacks on the roof rack."
"Excellent communication via WhatsApp. They confirmed our pickup the night before. Very reliable service in Cusco."
"A bit of an adventure! If you want to see the real Peruvian Andes and save $100+ on train tickets, this is the way to go."
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