Bus from Cusco to
Hidroelectrica

USD $15

Traveling by Bus from Cusco to Hidroelectrica and Aguas Calientes

SAP Adventures, provides daily transportation Services from Cusco to Hidroelectrica and back to Cusco.

For travelers looking to reach Machu Picchu taking the bus from Cusco to Hidroelectrica. and then continuing to Aguas Calientes is a popular and economical alternative to the train. Here’s an overview of the journey:

Tourist bus ticket
(Cusco - Hidro electrica)

Pick up from your hotel.

Free Travel Tips.

ITINERARY BUS FROM CUSCO TO HIDROELECTRICA

Cusco to Hidroelectrica by Bus

Departure Point: Our transportation service begins at “Cusco” and picks you up from your hotel or accommodation between 6:30 am and 7:00 am..
Duration: The bus ride from Cusco to Hidroelectrica takes approximately 6-7 hours, covering around 200 kilometers (124 miles). The journey is scenic, passing through the Sacred Valley and offering stunning views of the Andes.
Route and Stops: The route winds through mountainous terrain, including a stretch on the famed Abra Málaga pass at an altitude of 4,316 meters (14,160 feet). Our buses make brief stops in towns like Ollantaytambo and Santa Teresa for refreshments and restrooms.
Road Conditions: While the initial part of the journey is on paved roads, the final segment from Santa Teresa to Hidroelectrica involves a dirt road, which can be bumpy and narrow.

From Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes

Arrival at Hidroelectrica: Once at Hidroelectrica, travelers need to disembark from the bus. Hidroelectrica is a small station primarily used as a hydroelectric power plant area, but it also serves as a drop-off point for those heading to Machu Picchu.
Hiking Option: From Hidroelectrica, there is a popular hiking trail to Aguas Calientes, which is about 11 kilometers (6.2 miles) and takes around 2-3 hours to walk. The trail follows the train tracks and is relatively flat, making it accessible for most travelers. It offers beautiful views of the surrounding jungle and river.
Train Option: Alternatively, for those who prefer not to hike, there is a train service from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes. The train ride is short, taking about 30 minutes, but tickets should be booked in advance, especially during peak tourist season. Train ticket price one way 46 usd

Aguas Calientes

Arrival: Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, is the town located at the base of Machu Picchu. It is the gateway for most visitors heading to the ancient Incan city.
Accommodations and Amenities: The town offers a range of accommodations from budget hostels to luxury hotels, as well as numerous restaurants, cafes, and shops catering to tourists.
Access to Machu Picchu: From Aguas Calientes, visitors can take a shuttle bus to the entrance of Machu Picchu or choose to hike up, which takes about 1.5-2 hours. The bus ride is about 25-30 minutes.

Advantages of this Route

Cost-Effective: The bus and hiking option is significantly cheaper than taking the train directly from Cusco to Aguas Calientes.
Scenic Journey: The route offers diverse landscapes, from high mountain passes to lush jungle valleys.
Flexibility: Travelers have the flexibility to hike or take the train from Hidroelectrica, catering to different preferences and budgets.

Considerations

Weather: Be prepared for variable weather conditions, especially at higher altitudes and during the rainy season (November to March).
Physical Fitness: The hike from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes is not difficult but does require a basic level of physical fitness.
Booking in Advance: It’s advisable to book bus tickets and train tickets (if opting for the train) in advance, particularly during the peak tourist season (June to August).

This route offers a memorable and adventurous way to reach one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites, providing a rich experience of Peru’s natural beauty and cultural heritage..

schedule bus service: Bus from Cusco to Hidroelectica

FROM

CUSCO

pick-up time & point

departure time

DESTINATION

HIDROELECTRICA

ARRIVAL time

Returning by Bus from Machu Picchu (Aguas Calientes) to Hidroelectrica and Cusco

For travelers who have visited Machu Picchu and are looking for a cost-effective way to return to Cusco, the bus route from Aguas Calientes to Hidroelectrica and then onward to Cusco is a popular option. Here’s a detailed guide on how to make this journey:

Aguas Calientes to Hidroelectrica

Departure from Aguas Calientes: The journey begins in Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo. Since there is no direct road connecting Aguas Calientes to the rest of the region, travelers have two main options to reach Hidroelectrica.
Hiking Option:
- Trail: The hike from Aguas Calientes to Hidroelectrica follows the train tracks and covers approximately 11 kilometers (6.2 miles). It typically takes around 2-3 hours to walk.
- Scenery: This hike is relatively flat and offers beautiful views of the Urubamba River and the lush surrounding jungle.
Train Option:
- Service: For those who prefer not to hike, a short train ride from Aguas Calientes to Hidroelectrica is available. The journey by train takes about 30 minutes.
- Tickets: It’s advisable to purchase train tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Train ticket price one way 46 usd

Hidroelectrica to Cusco by Bus

Boarding the Bus: Upon arriving at Hidroelectrica, whether by hike or train, travelers will need to board a bus for the journey back to Cusco. It’s recommended to pre-book bus tickets to ensure availability.
Departure Times: Buses typically leave Hidroelectrica in the early afternoon, between 2:30 PM and 3:00 PM. This timing allows hikers to comfortably make the journey from Aguas Calientes in the morning.
Duration: The bus ride from Hidroelectrica to Cusco takes approximately 6-7 hours. The road is mostly the same as the one taken on the way to Hidroelectrica, with scenic views and mountainous terrain.
Route and Stops: The bus route includes traveling through Santa Teresa and the Sacred Valley. Our buses might make short stops for refreshments and restrooms along the way.
Arrival in Cusco: Mini Buses usually arrive in Cusco in the evening, between 9 to 10 pm dropping passengers off at San Francisco Plaza, which is just 300
meters from the main square of Cusco City.

Advantages of this Route

Economical: The bus and hiking option is a budget-friendly alternative to the more expensive train services.
Scenic Experience: Travelers can enjoy the varied landscapes, from the jungle near Hidroelectrica to the high Andean mountains.
Adventure: The combination of hiking and bus travel offers a sense of adventure and a deeper connection with the region’s natural beauty.

Considerations

Weather: Be prepared for changes in weather, especially if hiking from Aguas Calientes to Hidroelectrica. Rain gear is recommended during the wet season (November to March).
Comfort: The bus ride can be long and somewhat bumpy, particularly on the dirt roads near Hidroelectrica. Bring snacks and water for the journey.
Fitness Level: The hike from Aguas Calientes to Hidroelectrica is not particularly challenging but does require a basic level of fitness.

schedule bus service: Bus from Hidroelectrica to Cusco.

FROM

HIDROELECTRICA

pick-up time & point

departure time

DESTINATION

CUSCO

ARRIVAL time

BOOKING tickets online: Bus from Cusco to Hidroelectrica.

SERVICE	RUTE	PRICE	BOOKING
Bus Cusco to Hidroelectrica (one way)	Cusco - Ollantaytambo - Santa Teresa - Hidroelectrica	$15 USD
Bus from Hidroelectrica to Cusco (Return)	Cusco - Ollantaytambo - Santa Teresa - Hidroelectrica	$15 USD
Bus Cusco to Hidroelectrica (Roundtrip)	Cusco - Ollantaytambo - Santa Teresa - Hidroelectrica	$30 USD

Faq

Can you get a bus from Cusco to Machu Picchu?

Yes it is possible to go by bus to Machu Picchu but not directly, the fastest route to get to Machu Picchu is by train but they have excessively high costs and that is why many people are choosing to make the trip by bus.

Price Comparison

by train
It has a price range: from $70 USD – 262 soles to $1000 USD – 3800 soles. (ONE WAY)
by bus
general cost: $18 – 70 soles (ONE WAY)

Is there a bus from Cusco to Aguas Calientes?

Not directly, but you can get to Machu Picchu up to a certain point where you will have to walk.

How do you get from Cusco to Machu Picchu fast?

The fastest way to get to Machu Picchu is by train relatively, the trip takes approximately 3 hours depending on the time and point of departure.

What is the cheapest way to go to Machu Picchu from Cusco?

The cheapest way to get to Machu Picchu is to take a bus tour, since the train ticket could even be more expensive than the entrance ticket to Machu Picchu.

Should I go to Cusco before or after Machu Picchu?

First you should go to Cusco is the closest city to go to Machu Picchu and the rest of its attractions.

Can you just turn up to Machu Picchu?

Yes it is possible to just turn up to Machu Picchu, but remember that you must buy your tickets on the official government website, then book a hotel in Cusco, and another in Aguas Calientes depending on how many days you are staying, as well as transportation either by train or bus, if you want to travel to Machu Picchu on your own you can write us and we will gladly help you plan your trip.