Short itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Abra Málaga – Santa Teresa – Aguas Calientes
- Pick up from your hotel in Cusco around 7:30 AM in private transportation.
- Travel through the Sacred Valley passing Urubamba and Ollantaytambo.
- Short stop at Ollantaytambo, then ascend to Abra Málaga (4,400 masl) to enjoy views of Veronica and Salkantay snow peaks.
- Descent through the high jungle passing Santa Maria and the Aobamba river valley to Santa Teresa.
- Lunch stop in Santa Teresa.
- Continue by car to Hidroeléctrica.
- Begin a 3-hour hike along flat railway tracks to Aguas Calientes, with distant views of Huayna Picchu and parts of Machu Picchu.
- Check in at your hostel in Aguas Calientes and overnight stay.
Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Hidroeléctrica – Cusco
- Early breakfast at the hostel.
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu (approx. 2 hours) exploring key sites such as the Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana, Sacred Plaza, and terraces.
- Free time to explore on your own or optionally climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (with advance booking and additional cost).
- Return hike to Hidroeléctrica.
- Lunch in route (included).
- Board the car back to Cusco, arriving around 9:00 PM.
Detailed itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Abra Málaga – Santa Teresa – Aguas Calientes
After breakfast, we’ll pick you up from your hotel in Cusco around 7:30 AM and begin our journey through the Sacred Valley, passing by Urubamba and reaching Ollantaytambo. After a brief stop here, we’ll start a scenic ascent toward Abra Málaga, situated at 4,400 meters above sea level. From this high point, you can take in breathtaking views of the snow-capped Veronica and Salkantay peaks. Then we begin our descent through lush high jungle landscapes, passing by Santa Maria and following the Aobamba river valley until we reach Santa Teresa, where we will stop for lunch and stock up on water.
Continuing by car, we’ll reach Hidroeléctrica, where we start a pleasant 3-hour hike along flat railway tracks to Aguas Calientes. Along the way, you’ll enjoy views of Huayna Picchu and some structures of Machu Picchu in the distance. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town), we’ll help you check in at your hostel. You’ll have the evening to relax and prepare for the visit to Machu Picchu the next day.
Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Hidroeléctrica – Cusco
Early in the morning, after breakfast, we’ll head up to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of about two hours. You’ll explore the most important sectors of this Wonder of the World, including the Temple of the Sun, the Sacred Plaza, the Intihuatana, and the agricultural areas. After the tour, you’ll have free time to explore on your own. Those who booked in advance can climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for a spectacular panoramic view.
At the scheduled time, we’ll return by foot to Hidroeléctrica, where we’ll enjoy lunch. Then we’ll board our private transport back to Cusco, arriving around 9:00 PM after a day full of stunning landscapes and unforgettable memories.
Included
- Tourist bus Cusco – Hidroeléctrica – Cusco
- 1 night hostel accommodation in Aguas Calientes
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- Professional guide at Machu Picchu
- 01 breakfast, 01 lunch, 01 dinner
Not included
- Additional expenses
- Train from Aguas Calientes to Hidroeléctrica
- Meals except those mentioned
- Hostel in Cusco (optional)
Recommendations
- Bring light clothing, a jacket for cold or rain, and sturdy walking shoes
- Use sunscreen, hat or cap, sunglasses, and insect repellent
- Carry your valid passport or ID (required for entry)
- Have a small backpack with water, snacks, and essentials
- Book Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain in advance if you wish to hike them
- Follow your guide’s instructions and respect park rules to help preserve this World Heritage site
