Highlights
- Enjoy a comfortable and scenic shared bus ride from Hidroeléctrica to Cusco
- Start your return hike from Aguas Calientes at the recommended time of 11 AM
- Choose an optional lunch stop en route or early drop-off in Ollantaytambo
Description
Travel stress-free with our shared bus service from Hidroeléctrica to Cusco, the most popular, affordable, and scenic option for independent travelers returning from Machu Picchu.
Your journey begins with a beautiful, flat 10-kilometer hike along the railway line from Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) to the Hidroeléctrica Station. Walking at your own pace surrounded by the lush high jungle, you will reach our private terminal for a smooth boarding experience.
Once on board, you can just sit back and relax. Our comfortable transport will take you on a breathtaking route through the rugged Andes and the Sacred Valley, passing through historic towns like Santa Teresa and Santa María. To make the long drive enjoyable, we make a strategic technical stop at a welcoming local restaurant where you can use the restrooms, buy snacks, or enjoy a flexible, optional lunch to recharge your energy.
Important Flexibility Note:
Do you want to stay in the Sacred Valley? We’ve got you covered. If you prefer to end your journey early and drop off in Ollantaytambo to connect with other activities, you can absolutely do so. Please notify us in advance via the GetYourGuide chat or by messaging our official support number so our logistics team and driver can coordinate your seamless drop-off.
Avoid the hassle of last-minute bookings. Secure your seat in advance, enjoy stunning mountain vistas, and conclude your Machu Picchu adventure with total peace of mind, arriving safely right in Cusco's city center.
Itinerary
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM | Return Hike from Aguas Calientes
Suggested time to start your scenic 10-km walk along the train tracks toward the Hidroeléctrica station (approx. 2.5 hours).
2:40 PM - 2:45 PM | Bus Departure (Hidroeléctrica)
Boarding time for the return trip to Cusco. Please arrive 20 minutes early at our private terminal (GPS location will be provided upon booking).
3:40 PM - 4:20 PM | Santa Teresa (Boarding Stop)
A quick technical stop to pick up additional passengers en route.
5:00 PM | Anita Restaurant in Alfamayo (Rest & Snack Stop)
A 30-minute stop for restrooms, snacks, or an optional local bite to eat before climbing the mountain pass.
7:00 PM | Ollantaytambo (Optional Drop-off)
Quick stop for passengers ending their trip in the Sacred Valley. (Remember to notify us via chat or WhatsApp if you wish to get off here!)
9:00 PM | Arrival in Cusco
End of service with a direct, safe drop-off at the central Plaza San Francisco.
Includes
One-way shared tourist transport: Safe and comfortable bus ride from Hidroeléctrica Station back to Cusco
Professional & experienced driver: Friendly local driver familiar with the Andean and Sacred Valley routes
Strategic technical stops: Scheduled breaks for restrooms, stretching, and an optional meal along the way
Drop-off in Cusco's center: Convenient and direct arrival at Plaza San Francisco
Flexible Sacred Valley drop-off: Option to end your journey early in Ollantaytambo (upon advance request via chat)
Excludes
Food and drinks: Meals, snacks, and beverages at the restaurant stops are at your own expense
Tour guide for the trek: The 10 km hike from Aguas Calientes to Hidroeléctrica is self-guided and independent
Train or alternative transport: Any train tickets or transport prior to arriving at the Hidroeléctrica private terminal
Tips and gratuities: Voluntary tips for the driver
Personal expenses: Any extra purchases, souvenirs, or additional logistics along the route
Important Information
- Trek: Includes a self-guided 3-hour walk (10 km) from Aguas Calientes to Hidroeléctrica. Wear hiking shoes
- Road Conditions: The route from Hidroeléctrica to Santa María is rugged and unpaved. Due to ongoing road maintenance, unexpected temporary closures by local authorities may occur without prior notice, causing delays of around 50 minutes
- Winding Roads: The highway features sharp curves. If you are prone to motion sickness, we highly recommend taking medication before boarding
- Weather & Altitude: You will experience a rapid climate change from the warm, humid high jungle (ceja de selva) to the cool Andean highlands (sierra). Bring layers/a jacket in your daypack
- Ollantaytambo Drop-off: If you wish to end your trip here, you must notify us in advance via the GetYourGuide chat or our support number
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
