2 Day Machu Picchu by Bus – Bus Tickets to Machu Picchu

Name: 2 Day Machu Picchu by Bus – Bus Tickets to Machu Picchu
Brand: Quechuas Expeditions
SKU: 1
Price: 180.00 USD
Availability: InStock

2-Day Machupicchu By Bus / Car – Bus to Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu by bus via Santa Teresa is a scenic and budget-friendly alternative to the train. The journey starts in Cusco, with a drive through the Andes, passing the high Abra Málaga and descending into lush jungle near Santa Teresa. After an optional visit to the relaxing Cocalmayo hot springs (Optional on Private Tours only), you continue by vehicle to Hidroeléctrica. From there, a 2–3 hour walk along the train tracks takes you through stunning rainforest scenery to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. This route is perfect for adventure seekers wanting a mix of nature, culture, and savings.

Cusco I Ollantaytambo I Abra Malaga I Alfamayo I Wamanmarca I Santa Maria I Colcamayo I Santa Teresa I Hidroelectrica I Aguas Calientes I Machu Picchu

Duration of the trip:

2 Days 1 Night

Total Distance

13km

Physical Level:

Moderate

Altitude:

2700 m.a.s.l

Type of Tour:

Trekking Nature & Culture

Group SIze:

Group Service

2-Day Machu Picchu By Bus – Bus to Machu Picchu Overview

TOUR NAME: Machu Picchu by Bus via Santa Teresa and Walk from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes
100% LOCAL COMPANY: fully licensed Machu Picchu by busTour Operator, Highly Recommended! Check out our reviews on Trip Advisor & Youtube what our Passengers say about us
STARTING POINT: Pick-up from Cusco & Sacred Valley Hotel/Airbnb. From 6:30 am to 7:00 am
ENDING POINT: Drop-off in Cusco at Hotel/Airbnb 10:30 pm
DEPARTURE: Daily.
HIKING DISTANCE: 2 Days Time
PHYSICAL LEVEL: Level 2. we Also recommend Aclimatize 2 days before we begin the Inca before the trail
MAXIMUM ALTITUDE: The Abra Málaga Pass sits at an impressive 4,316 meters (14,160 feet) above sea level
TRANSPORTATION: Tourist Bus Round trip Cusco – Hidroelectrica – Cusco
ACCOMMODATIONS: 1 Night in a Hotel in Aguas Calientes (Twin Bedroom, 3 Beds room, 4 Bedrooms. (Upon Request)
MEALS: 1 breakfast, 1 lunch, 1 dinner
MACHUPICCHU: Machupicchu entrance fee Included.(Circuits to Visit Machu Picchu) Based on availability

2-Day Machu Picchu By Bus – Bus to Machu Picchu Short Itinerary:

Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Malaga Pass – Santa Maria – Santa Teresa – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes
Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machupicchu – Hidroelectrica – Santa Teresa – Santa Maria – Malaga Pass – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

2-Day Machu Picchu By Bus – Bus to Machu Picchu Highlights

Scenic Road Trip Through the Andes
Journey from Cusco through dramatic mountain passes and lush cloud forests—great views and a bit of thrill on winding roads.
Pass Through the Abra Málaga (4,316 m / 14,160 ft)
A breathtaking high-altitude mountain pass with panoramic views, sometimes snow-capped!
Tropical Vibes in Santa Teresa
Enjoy the warm, jungle-like climate of Santa Teresa—a great spot to relax, grab a meal, or visit the Cocalmayo hot springs.
Adventurous Trek from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes
A 2–3 hour hike along the train tracks, through lush vegetation and waterfalls, right into the base town of Machu Picchu.
See the Urubamba River Up Close
Walk alongside this roaring river, surrounded by steep cliffs and greenery—it feels like stepping into a lost world.
Budget-Friendly Alternative
Significantly cheaper than the train, making it perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.
Wildlife and Nature Along the Trail
Spot birds, butterflies, and sometimes monkeys—this area is rich in biodiversity.
More Time to Explore the Region
Option to stay in Santa Teresa or visit places like Lucmabamba or Llactapata ruins for extra trekking and Inca sites.
Sunset Arrival in Aguas Calientes
Arriving on foot gives a rewarding sense of adventure—plus the views at dusk are incredible.
Same Iconic Machu Picchu Experience
Despite the alternative route, you still get full access to Machu Picchu, just like those who take the train!

DAY 1
Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Malaga Pass – Santa Teresa – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes+

DAY 2
Aguas Calientes – Sunrise at Machu Picchu – Hidroelectrica – Ollantaytambo – Cusco+

2-Day Machu Picchu By Bus Includes:

Tourist Bus Round trip Cusco – Hidroelectrica – Cusco
English Speaking Guide in Machupicchu
01 Breakfast, 01 Lunch, 01 Dinner
Machupicchu entrance fee (Circuits Based on Availability)
01 Night Hotel in Aguas Calientes

2-Day Machu Picchu By Bus Doesn´t Include: (Please, No hidden costs or surprises)

Breakfast – Day 1
Lunch and dinner – Day 2
Tips (optional)
Travel and health insurance. (bring copies with you please): Quechuas Expeditions highly recommend getting insurance of trip cancellation/interruption insurance to protect your travel investment. Included with your pre-departure package, bring your travel insurance to cover trip cancellation, interruption, baggage loss, and delay, emergency medical evacuation insurance, and emergency medical expense insurance.

2-Day Machu Picchu by Bus (Prices for 2025)

Availability: Daily Departures All Departures are 100% Guaranteed. If You’re Booked, You are Going, We won’t cancel your Trip !!!

How to Book?: Send us all Your Personal information, as well as a Deposit of 30%, and the Final Balance will be paid once you are in Cusco.

Group Service: Price per person: US$180

(You will be joined into a formed group of people who come from different countries/Nationalities)

Private Service: Price per person: US$320

Recommended for Honeymooners, Families with children & Groups of Friends (04 People Minimum)

What you need to bring to Machupicchu By Bus:

Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America, but because of the higher altitude in the Andes, the temperature can feel quite cold, especially at night. We recommend the use of a duffel bag or backpack, whichever is easiest for you to carry. A good size daypack is also essential.

List of things you must bring:

Original Passport (and some copies) If you have changed your passport Bring a couple of copies of the one that you used to purchase the Inca trail permit.
Travel insurance is essential (and some copies)
Airline tickets (and some copies)
US$ cash and Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
Camera and Memory cards
Rechargeable batteries and adapters
Reading/writing material
Binoculars
Cover for backpacks
Pocketknife.
Fleece top
Windproof/waterproof jacket
Small towel and swimwear
Shirts/t-shirts
Sun hat
2 pairs of shorts
2 pairs of long trousers *Zipp off
1 pair of hiking pants/track pants
Hiking boots/ sturdy walking shoes (with ankle protectors)
Knee-length socks (to be used with rubber boots, if provided at the jungle lodge)
Sport hiking sandals
Sunblock
Sunglasses
Toiletries (biodegradable)
Watch or alarm clock
Water bottle
Purifying tablets or filter (Micropur recommended)
Insect Repellent (for mosquitos)25 % of deet at least you can also buy in Cusco.
Flashlight (headlight recommended)
Money belt
Sleeping silk liner (for sleeping bags)
Wool hat, mitts or gloves (preferably waterproof)
Rain poncho, plastic bags for your personal stuff to keep dry
Sleeping bag (it can be hired from us) we have goose down or synthetic sleeping bag
Copy of a valid passport/Peruvian immigration card Copy as well.
Copy of yellow fever and tetanus vaccinations
Money for soft drinks or beers and handicrafts
Anti-inflammatory tablets (e.g. Ibuprofen)
Thermal underwear
Personal first-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band-Aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – 2-Day Machu Picchu by Bus Tour

1. How long does the Machu Picchu by bus tour last?
The tour lasts two days, with the first day dedicated to traveling and exploring Aguas Calientes, and the second day spent visiting Machu Picchu and its surroundings.

2. What time does the tour start and end?
The tour typically starts on Day 1 in the morning, with departure from the meeting point. On Day 2, the tour ends at 8 AM after breakfast and drop-off at the airport or designated location.

3. How do we get to Machu Picchu?
You will travel by bus to Aguas Calientes, followed by a bus ride to the Machu Picchu entrance on Day 2. The journey is comfortable and scenic.

4. Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, breakfast is provided on both days, and lunch is typically included on Day 2. Additional meals and snacks can be purchased throughout the trip.

5. What should I bring with me?

We recommend packing light with essentials such as:

Comfortable walking shoes
Water bottle
Sunscreen
Hat
Camera
Passport or ID (for entry to Machu Picchu)
Small backpack for your belongings

6. Can I hike up to Machu Picchu instead of taking the bus?
While there are hiking options for those who wish to trek to Machu Picchu, the standard tour is by bus. If you are interested in hiking, please inform us in advance.

7. Is the tour suitable for all ages and fitness levels?
The tour is suitable for most people, but there is some walking involved in Machu Picchu. If you have mobility concerns, please let us know so we can arrange assistance.

8. Are the buses comfortable?
Yes, the buses used for the tour are modern and comfortable, with large windows to enjoy the scenic views.

9. What if I have dietary restrictions or allergies?
Please inform us about any dietary restrictions or allergies when booking, and we will do our best to accommodate your needs during meals.

10. Can I visit the Inca Bridge or hike Huayna Picchu during this tour?
The standard 2-day tour typically includes a visit to the main Machu Picchu site. If you would like to visit additional areas like the Inca Bridge or hike Huayna Picchu, you must arrange this in advance as additional permits are required.

11. Is there an entrance fee to Machu Picchu?
Yes, the entrance fee to Machu Picchu is included in the tour price. Please make sure to bring your passport for entry.

12. How far in advance should I book the tour?
We recommend booking as early as possible, especially if you’re traveling during peak season (April to October), to secure your spot and entrance tickets.

13. Is there a guide for the Machu Picchu tour?
Yes, a knowledgeable guide will accompany the group throughout the Machu Picchu tour, providing historical and cultural insights about the site.

14. What happens if it rains during the tour?
Machu Picchu operates year-round, rain or shine. We recommend bringing a rain jacket or poncho, especially during the rainy season (November to March).

15. Can I take a lot of photos at Machu Picchu?
Yes, you can take photos, but please be respectful of other visitors. Drones are not allowed at Machu Picchu.

16. Are there restrooms available at Machu Picchu?
Yes, there are restrooms available at the entrance to Machu Picchu, but they are limited within the site itself.

17. What time will we return to the starting point?
The tour will conclude at 8 AM on the second day, with transportation provided back to your hotel or airport, depending on your preference.

18. How can I prepare for the altitude?
Machu Picchu is located at a high altitude, but the tour is generally manageable for most travelers. We recommend drinking plenty of water, avoiding alcohol, and taking it slow.

19. Will there be Wi-Fi or phone signal at Machu Picchu?
There is no Wi-Fi at Machu Picchu, and the phone signal can be limited within the site. We recommend using this opportunity to disconnect and enjoy the experience.

20. What happens if I miss the bus or get separated from the group?
If you miss the bus or get separated, please contact the tour leader immediately. We’ll help you reconnect with the group, but it’s important to stay on schedule.

21. Is there a souvenir shop at Machu Picchu?
Yes, there are a few souvenir shops near the entrance where you can purchase gifts and memorabilia.

22. Can I extend my stay in Aguas Calientes?
If you’d like to stay longer in Aguas Calientes after the tour, please let us know, and we can help arrange additional accommodations.

23. Are tips included in the tour price?
Tips are not included but are appreciated for the guides and drivers. It’s customary to give a tip if you are satisfied with the service.

24. Can I cancel or change my tour reservation?
Our cancellation policy allows you to cancel or reschedule with a fee, depending on how far in advance you notify us. Please review the terms and conditions for more details.

25. What happens if the weather or other factors prevent us from visiting Machu Picchu?
If, due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather, we are unable to visit Machu Picchu, we will offer alternative options or reschedule the visit, subject to availability.

Book Now with Quechuas Expeditions

Related Tours