Why choose HidroBus?
15 USD per person (one way only)
30 USD round trip - TRANSPORT ONLY from your hotel in Cusco to
Hidroeléctrica
*Additional services available upon consultation
HidroBus is the most economical, authentic and adventurous alternative to get to Machu Picchu. Perfect for travelers seeking a complete experience without spending a fortune.
✅ Comfort
You don't need to look for additional transportation
✅ Safety
Authorized and monitored drivers
✅ Practicality
You start the journey from your hotel door
Packages and additional services
In addition to the basic transportation service, HidroBus can complement your trip with additional services so you have a complete experience without worries.
Includes: Transportation only
Price: 15 USD (one way) | 30 USD (round trip)
Ideal for: Independent travelers who prefer to manage their own accommodation and activities
Includes: Transportation + additional services
Available: Accommodation, entrance tickets, other transportation
Ideal for: Those seeking comfort and all-inclusive services
🔧 Services you can add:
• Accommodation reservation in Aguas Calientes
• Machu Picchu entrance tickets (official tickets)
• Train from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes
• Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
• Tourist guide in Machu Picchu
• Personalized packages according to your needs
Step 1: Pickup from your hotel in Cusco
The HidroBus service includes direct pickup from your hotel in Cusco, so you won't have to travel to any terminal. And if you happen to be near the boarding point, you can also easily walk there to board the bus.
Preparation
An authorized taxi will pass at the indicated time through your hotel reception. You just need to be ready with your luggage and belongings to board.
Transfer to boarding point
Once the taxi picks you up, it will take you to the official HidroBus boarding point, where you'll board the tourist bus that departs to Hidroeléctrica.
Step 2: Bus journey from Cusco to Hidroeléctrica
The HidroBus journey has an approximate duration of 6 to 7 hours, depending on traffic and weather. This route is one of the most exciting parts of the trip, as you'll pass through various contrasting landscapes.
🗺️ Route itinerary
| Section | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Cusco – Sacred Valley | Views of Inca terraces and traditional villages |
| Abra Málaga (4,316 m above sea level) | Imposing high mountain pass with snowy views |
| Santa María – Santa Teresa | Descent to cloud forest, warm and humid climate |
| Arrival at Hidroeléctrica | Final bus stop, beginning of the adventure |
🎒 Bus amenities:
• Reclining seats
• Panoramic windows
• Technical stops for rest and food
💰 HidroBus rates:
• Basic service (transport only):
- One way only: 15 USD per person
- Round trip: 30 USD per person
- Includes pickup from hotel in Cusco
• Additional services available:
- Accommodation in Aguas Calientes
- Machu Picchu entrance tickets
- Hidroeléctrica-Aguas Calientes train
- Aguas Calientes-Machu Picchu bus
- Personalized packages
Step 3: From Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes
Once the bus arrives at Hidroeléctrica station, you'll have two options to get to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo):
Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Cost: Free
Experience: You walk parallel to the train tracks, surrounded by an impressive jungle environment. You'll see the Vilcanota River, vegetation-covered mountains and hear local bird songs.
Ideal for adventurous and budget travelers.
Duration: 30 minutes
Cost: Varies by company and nationality
Experience: Quick and comfortable journey without physical effort
Check prices with Inca Rail.
Step 4: Accommodation in Aguas Calientes
Upon arriving at Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), we recommend confirming your accommodation and leaving your luggage, so you can rest peacefully and prepare for the next day. Keep in mind that the visit to Machu Picchu is usually done very early in the morning, so it's important to be well organized and ready to make the most of the experience.
🏠 Accommodation options for all budgets:
- Budget: Hostels like Pachakuteq, Wiracocha Inn or Kantu Inn
- Mid-range comfort: Central accommodations like Cusi Wasi or Chaska
- More complete: Boutique hotels with breakfast included
👉 Important tip: Book in advance, especially during high season (June to August).
Step 5: Ascent to Machu Picchu
Once settled in Aguas Calientes, you have two alternatives to reach the entrance of the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary:
Duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes approx.
Cost: Free
Experience: You walk on a trail surrounded by nature, ideal for those seeking adventure and don't mind physical effort.
Duration: 25 to 30 minutes
Cost: 12 USD per person (one way)
Experience: Comfort, speed and less fatigue before touring the citadel.
Complete trip summary
🗺️ Available service options:
- Basic service: Transport only Cusco ↔ Hidroeléctrica
- Intermediate package: Transport + accommodation in Aguas Calientes
- Complete package: Transport + accommodation + entrance tickets + other services
- Personalized: Create your own itinerary according to your needs
All packages include pickup from your hotel in Cusco
HidroBus service options:
Basic: 15 USD (one way) | 30 USD (round trip)
Complete packages: Available with accommodation,
entrance tickets and other services
Inquire about personalized packages according to your needs
HidroBus: your economical gateway to Machu Picchu
HidroBus offers total flexibility for your trip to Machu Picchu. You can choose just the basic transport for 15 USD (one way) or 30 USD (round trip), or request complete packages that include accommodation, Machu Picchu entrance tickets, other transportation and additional services according to your needs and budget.
The adventure to the most famous Inca citadel in the world begins with HidroBus!