Cusco to Hidroelectrica (Machu Picchu by Car) Private Transport
- Premium Modern Fleet Travel in comfort with modern, well-maintained vehicles for every journey.
- Fully Insured (SOAT) All our vehicles are fully insured for your safety and peace of mind.
- MINCETUR Authorized Officially authorized by Peru’s Ministry of Tourism to provide transportation services.
- 100% On-Time Guarantee Punctual service you can rely on for every transfer and tour.
Travel to Machu Picchu by road via Hidroelectrica: a scenic private drive across the Abra Malaga pass and down to the high jungle, with the freedom to stop at coffee farms and hot springs.
- Duration Full day
- Difficulty Moderate
- Altitude 1,800 - 4,300 m (5,905 - 14,108 ft)
Reach Machu Picchu by Car via Hidroeléctrica
The Hidroeléctrica route is the budget-friendly and adventurous alternative to the train for reaching Machu Picchu. Our private transport takes you from your hotel in Cusco across the Andes and down into the high jungle until you reach the Hidroeléctrica station, from where you can walk or take a short train to Aguas Calientes.
The journey takes about 6 hours and is one of the most spectacular drives in Peru: you will cross the Abra Málaga pass at 4,300 meters, with views of glaciers, and then descend to tropical valleys full of coffee, banana and fruit plantations.
With a private vehicle you can stop wherever you want, visit the Cocalmayo hot springs in Santa Teresa or a coffee farm, and travel safely with a driver who knows this mountain road perfectly. The return trip from Hidroeléctrica to Cusco can also be booked.
Highlights
- Abra Málaga mountain pass and glacier views
- Coffee farms and high-jungle landscapes
- Optional Cocalmayo hot springs
- Cheaper alternative to the train to Machu Picchu
Included
- Pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Cusco
- Private vehicle exclusively for your group
- Professional bilingual driver
- Driver waiting time at every stop
- Bottled water and first-aid kit with oxygen
- Passenger insurance, fuel, tolls and parking
Not Included
- Entrance fees and tourist tickets (Boleto Turístico del Cusco)
- Lunch and other meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- Tips for the driver or guide (optional)
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
- Travel insurance
Itinerary
A scenic road trip to Hidroeléctrica, the alternative route to Machu Picchu.
07:00 – Pickup in Cusco
Departure from your hotel towards the Sacred Valley.
09:30 – Abra Málaga pass
Cross the 4,300 m mountain pass with views of the Verónica glacier.
11:30 – Santa María and Santa Teresa
Descend into the high jungle, with optional stops at coffee farms.
13:30 – Arrival at Hidroeléctrica
From here, walk 2.5-3 hours along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes, or take the local train.
Prices
Prices are per vehicle, not per person, and include the private transportation and driver for the whole tour.
- Sedan (up to 3 passengers): USD 150
- SUV / Truck (up to 4 passengers): USD 170
- Minivan (up to 6 passengers): USD 200
- Mercedes-Benz – 10 pax (up to 10 passengers): USD 250
- Mercedes Benz 15pax (up to 15 passengers): USD 300
Recommendations
Cusco and its surroundings sit at high altitude and the weather changes quickly during the day. To fully enjoy your private tour we recommend that you bring:
- Original passport (required for some entrance tickets)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Layers of clothing, a warm jacket and a rain poncho
- Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat
- Cash in Peruvian soles for entrance fees and small purchases
- Water and snacks
Spend at least one or two days in Cusco to acclimatize before doing high-altitude excursions, drink plenty of water and avoid heavy meals the night before.
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions about traveling to Machu Picchu via Hidroeléctrica.
About 2.5 to 3 hours on a flat path along the railway. There is also a local train.
Yes, we can arrange the return transfer to Cusco on the day you choose.
Why Choose Our Private Tours?
At Private Transport Cusco, we offer a new way to explore Cusco and the Sacred Valley: private transportation that lets you discover each destination at your own pace. Enjoy the freedom to create your own itinerary, choose where to stop, and spend more time at the places you love, without the rush of a traditional group tour.
- Travel at Your Own Pace: Enjoy each destination without rushing or following a fixed group schedule.
- 100% Private Transportation: Travel comfortably with your own vehicle and enjoy a more personalized experience.
- Flexible Itineraries: Explore Cusco City, the Sacred Valley, and its incredible attractions according to your preferences.
- Freedom & Comfort: Stop for photos, enjoy the scenery, and make your journey truly yours.
Your journey, your pace, your experience. Discover Cusco and the Sacred Valley with the freedom of private transportation, designed around the way you want to travel.
What Our Clients Say
We take pride in delivering safe, comfortable, and reliable transportation experiences. See why travelers from around the world choose Private Transport Cusco for their transfers, tours, and personalized journeys.
