Machu Picchu Amazonian Access
Exploring Machu Picchu is the dream of many travelers, and now there is a lesser-known but equally impressive route that allows access to this wonder of the world: the Amazon route through Hidroeléctrica. This trail offers a scenic and accessible alternative, immersing visitors in the rich biodiversity and spectacular scenery of the Amazon region.
Beginning the Hidroelectrica Adventure
The starting point of this route is the Hidroeléctrica station, located at about 1,800 meters above sea level. This station is accessible from Cusco, usually by car or bus, which takes about six hours and passes through breathtaking scenery, including the Abra Malaga, at 4,316 meters above sea level.
Options to get to Aguas Calientes
From Hidroeléctrica, you have two main options to get to Aguas Calientes, the base town to visit Machu Picchu:
- Walk along the railroad tracks:
- This approximately 10-kilometer hike is an accessible and popular experience among travelers. The trail follows the train tracks and offers breathtaking views of the rainforest, mountains and Urubamba River. It is a relatively easy hike, with a mostly flat route that can be completed in about two to three hours.
- Viaje en Tren:
- For those who prefer to avoid the hike, the train is a comfortable and scenic option. The train departs from Hidroeléctrica at 14:30 and the trip takes approximately 30 minutes. Tickets can be purchased in person on the same day, as there is usually availability, or online at www.perurail.com.
Enjoying Aguas Calientes
Once in Aguas Calientes, visitors can enjoy the range of restaurants, souvenir stores and lodging options that this picturesque town has to offer. It is the perfect place to rest and prepare for the next day's visit to Machu Picchu.
Visiting Machu Picchu
From Aguas Calientes, access to Machu Picchu is by a short bus ride or an uphill hike of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Machu Picchu, with its impressive Inca architecture and majestic location among the mountains, promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
Conclusion
La ruta amazónica a través de Hidroeléctrica ofrece una alternativa única y enriquecedora para llegar a Machu Picchu. Ya sea que elijas la caminata a lo largo de las vías del tren o prefieras el trayecto cómodo y panorámico en tren, esta ruta promete una experiencia memorable, combinando la belleza natural de la Amazonía con la riqueza histórica de los incas.
Book your bus now!
Itinerary: Buses from Cusco / Ollantaytambo to Hidroeléctrica
Important notice for our travelers:
We inform that due to maintenance works on the Santa María - Hidroeléctrica section , both the outbound and the return trip may present delays of up to 50 minutes. These road improvements are intended to ensure safer and smoother travel in the future, but may currently affect travel times.
BUSES | BOARDING | DEPARTURE |
Bus tickets Cusco Hidroelectrica | 06:15 to 06:30 | 06:45 |
14:00 to 14:30 | 14:45 | |
08:45 to 09:10 | 09:15 |