Hydroelectric Route to Machu Picchu 4D/3N

4.9 (1047 reviews)
  • Departures
    Availability Daily departures
  • Hotel pickup
    Transporte Hotel pickup
  • Tour guide
    Tour Guide Tour guide included
  • Languages
    Available languages Spanish, English & Portuguese
  • Group
    Service type Shared service
  • Cancellation
    Cancellation policy Non-refundable
  • Altitude
    Maximum altitude 3,850 m.a.s.l.
  • Difficulty
    Difficulty Easy

The Hydroelectric Machu Picchu Tour 4D/3N is an unforgettable adventure through the most iconic landscapes of Cusco. Over four days, you’ll discover living history, ancestral culture, and the breathtaking beauty of the Peruvian Andes. This budget program combines cultural visits, spectacular mountain views, and the magical experience of Machu Picchu.

On the first day, explore the imperial city of Cusco on an exciting City Tour, visiting ancient Inca temples, fortresses, and colonial streets that reveal the glorious past of the Inca Empire — a perfect introduction before venturing into the Sacred Valley.

On the second day, travel through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, visiting traditional towns such as Maras, Moray, and Ollantaytambo. Discover ancient agricultural terraces and impressive salt mines before heading to Hidroelectrica, the starting point of a scenic hike along the Urubamba River.

The third day brings the adventure to life as you trek towards Aguas Calientes, surrounded by lush jungle and towering mountains. The next morning, ascend to the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, where you’ll explore its temples, terraces, and panoramic viewpoints with an expert guide.

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, affordable, and adventurous experience, exploring the best of Cusco while supporting local operators and connecting deeply with Andean culture.

Itinerary

Day 01 Arrival in Cusco – City Tour

Upon arrival in Cusco, we’ll transfer you to the hotel for check-in and acclimatization at 3,400 meters. In the afternoon, begin your Cusco City Tour, exploring the living history of the Inca capital.

Visit Qoricancha, the Temple of the Sun, and the Cusco Cathedral, a masterpiece of colonial art. Then explore the impressive ruins of Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Pukapukara, and Tambomachay, all surrounded by majestic Andean landscapes.

End the day at Cusco’s main square, where you can enjoy a spectacular sunset before returning to your hotel.

Day stats:

  • Max altitude: 3,850 meters above sea level

  • Distance: approx. 10 km

  • Route: Cusco – Archaeological sites – Historic Center

  • Difficulty: Easy

Day 02 Sacred Valley - Maras and Moray

Early in the morning, head towards the Sacred Valley of the Incas, admiring fertile landscapes and sacred mountains. The first stop will be Chinchero, known for its colorful textiles and Inca-Colonial architecture.

Continue to Moray, a fascinating circular agricultural laboratory used by the Incas for crop experiments, and then to Maras Salt Mines, featuring over 3,000 gleaming white salt pools cascading down the mountainside.

After a buffet lunch in Urubamba, visit Ollantaytambo, a majestic Inca fortress that still preserves its original urban layout. In the evening, return to Cusco to rest.

Day stats:

  • Max altitude: 3,762 meters above sea level

  • Distance: approx. 90 km

  • Route: Cusco – Chinchero – Moray – Maras – Urubamba – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

  • Difficulty: Moderate

Day 03 Cusco – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes

Start early for a panoramic drive to Hidroelectrica, located in Cusco’s high jungle region. From there, enjoy a 3-hour scenic hike along the train tracks beside the Urubamba River.
The trail passes through lush vegetation, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic mountain views as you transition from Andean highlands to tropical rainforest. 

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, check in at your accommodation and relax. In the evening, enjoy a local dinner and prepare for the grand visit to Machu Picchu.

Day stats:

  • Hike distance: approx. 10 km 

  • Starting altitude: 2,430 meters above sea level

  • Max altitude: 2,700 meters above sea level

  • Route: Cusco – Santa Teresa – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes

  • Difficulty: Moderate

Day 04 Machu Picchu – Cusco

After breakfast, take the bus up to the Machu Picchu Sanctuary, the crown jewel of the Andes. Explore the temples, terraces, stairways, and viewpoints during a 2-hour guided tour led by an expert guide.
Afterward, enjoy free time to explore on your own, take photos, or simply absorb the mystical atmosphere. Return to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included) or relax in the town’s thermal baths.
In the afternoon, board the train to Ollantaytambo, then continue by bus to Cusco, arriving around 10:00 p.m.

Day stats:

  • Duration: approx. 10 hours

  • Max altitude: 2,400 meters above sea level

  • Distance: approx. 10 km 

  • Route: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

  • Difficulty: Moderate

Important note: Schedules are for reference only. One day before the tour, our operations team will contact you to reconfirm the schedules.

Inclusions

What’s Included

  • Guided tours: City Tour Cusco, Sacred Valley with Maras and Moray, Hydroelectric route – Aguas Calientes, and Machu Picchu visit.
  • Official entrance tickets to Machu Picchu and Maras.
  • All transportation: Cusco – Santa Teresa – Hidroelectrica – Cusco, train Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo, and bus Ollantaytambo – Cusco.
  • Professional bilingual tour guide (English/Spanish).
  • Meals:
    • Day 2: Lunch
    • Day 3: Lunch in Santa Teresa and dinner in Aguas Calientes
  • 1 night of basic accommodation in Aguas Calientes
  • Permanent assistance and first-aid kit
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What’s Not Included

  • Accommodation in Cusco
  • Tourist ticket for City Tour and Sacred Valley
  • Entrance to Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun) and Cusco Cathedral
  • Bus Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu (round trip)
  • One-way train ticket (return only included)
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Personal expenses and tips

Recommendations

Before Booking

  • Book in advance, as tickets and transport have limited availability
  • The tour is conducted in Spanish and English
  • A minimum of 2 participants is required to confirm the departure
  • Moderate physical fitness is required, especially for the walk to the Hydroelectric Plant
  • The included accommodations are simple but comfortable (1 night in Aguas Calientes)

Before Traveling

  • Original passport or valid ID (the same used for the booking)
  • Extra cash in Peruvian soles (small bills recommended)
  • Small backpack (approx. 20L) for use during hikes
  • Sunscreen, insect repellent, hat, and sunglasses
  • Light clothing for the day and warm layers for the night (temperatures in Cusco and Machu Picchu can drop significantly)
  • Comfortable trekking shoes

Hotel Options

Choosing the ideal hotel makes all the difference on your trip. That’s why we’ve carefully selected well-located options with excellent service and everything you need to enjoy a comfortable and worry-free stay.

Do you have a hotel in mind that isn’t listed here? No problem. We can book any hotel you prefer. Just contact us and our team will be happy to assist you.

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to take this tour?

The best time is from April to October, during the dry season, when the weather is more stable and the landscapes are spectacular.

What is the difficulty level?

Moderate. The 10 km (6.2 mi) hike from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes requires light physical endurance.

How long does the tour last?

It lasts 4 days and 3 nights, covering the Cusco City Tour, Sacred Valley, Hydroelectric route, and Machu Picchu.

What does the Machu Picchu ticket include?

It includes the general entrance and a 2-hour guided tour. Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain can be booked separately.

What kind of accommodation is included?

One night in Aguas Calientes in a basic tourist hostel. Upgrades to higher-category hotels are available upon request.

What train service is included?

The return train Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo (Expedition or Voyager service).

What should I bring?

Original passport, small backpack (20L), light and warm clothing, trekking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and extra cash in soles.

What is the cancellation policy?

Cancellations made 30 days or less before departure are non-refundable. Earlier cancellations may incur administrative fees.

Is travel insurance required?

Yes, international travel insurance covering health, cancellations, and baggage is highly recommended.

Can I add Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?

Yes, these can be added when booking. Availability is limited, so it’s best to reserve in advance.

Can’t find the answer to your question?

Get in touch with the experts at Machu Picchu Peru Tours for your inquiry.

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Traveler experiences

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4.9 out of 5 from more than 1,200 reviews
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Carmelo G.

jun. 2026 • Parejas

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Fue una linda experiencia y un servicio muy profesional de la agencia.

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Agostina Z.

ago. 2026

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Lucianna B.

ago. 2026

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Agostina Z.

ago. 2026

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Hermosa experiencia en familia. Tanto el traslado, el hotel como el guía fueron excelentes!

Mónica B.

ago. 2026

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