Complete Guide for the Hydroelectric to Machu Picchu Hike

Traveling to Machu Picchu via the Hydroelectric route is the cheapest option to visit the historic Inca sanctuary. Choosing this route first involves a long car journey and then a short hike. Learn more about this route and don’t miss out on a more immersive adventure discovering the Inca legacy.

Machu Picchu Route - Santa Teresa
Hike from Hydroelectric to Machu Picchu

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How to get from Cusco to Machu Picchu via the Hydroelectric route?

Choosing to visit Machu Picchu via the Hydroelectric route is one of the best options, not only because it’s the cheapest route, but also because it offers a very immersive adventure where you can discover more of the biodiversity surrounding the Inca citadel along the way.

The journey begins in the city of Cusco, from where you must head toward the town of Santa Teresa, which is a 5-hour car ride. From there, a short 30-minute trip takes you to the Hydroelectric station, where the final stretch to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town) begins.

The hike starts at Hydroelectric and takes approximately 2 hours. Once you arrive in Aguas Calientes, you can either ascend to Machu Picchu by bus (30 minutes) or on foot via a continuous uphill hike (2 hours).


The cheapest route to Machu Picchu

There are many ways to travel to Machu Picchu, each with its own characteristics. Discover the main ones:

  • Train Route to Machu Picchu: It’s the fastest and most comfortable route, but also the most expensive (although there are different levels of train service). It departs from Ollantaytambo (2 hours from Cusco) and travels through the most scenic landscapes of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
  • Inca Trail Route: This is the most immersive and adventurous route. It spans 4 days through trails filled with history and exclusive archaeological sites. Nights are spent in campsites surrounded by nature.
  • Hydroelectric Route: This is the most economical route, but also the longest. It combines a lengthy journey in tourist transport and a short hike. It’s ideal to do it in two days to allow enough rest.


Transport to Hydroelectric

Hydroelectric - Machu Picchu
Tourists at the Hydroelectric station

The best option to travel to Hydroelectric without inconvenience is to rent private round-trip transportation. This way, you’ll have a complete itinerary secured so you can focus solely on enjoying the experience of visiting Machu Picchu.

  • The journey begins with pickup from your hotel or a previously agreed-upon point in the city of Cusco. Since it’s private transportation, you choose the time and plan that best suits you.
  • The trip lasts 5 hours, passing through Andean landscapes until reaching the high jungle of the town of Santa Teresa.
  • Lastly, there is a short 30-minute ride to the Hydroelectric station, where the hike to Machu Picchu begins. The hike to the Inca citadel is not included, but you can also hire a guide to enjoy a more informative experience.
  • After your visit to Machu Picchu, and returning via the same hiking route, the transport will be waiting to take you back to Cusco.

The Hot Springs of Cocalmayo

During your trip along the Hydroelectric route, you can make a stop in Santa Teresa to visit the famous hot springs of Cocalmayo. It’s an ideal destination to relax in the middle of nature — a perfect plan to do before the Hydroelectric hike or even after visiting Machu Picchu.



The Hike from Hydroelectric to Machu Picchu

One of the main attractions of the Hydroelectric route is the hike, which is considered an adventure thanks to the impressive biodiversity surrounding Machu Picchu.

The route takes only 2 hours on a flat path, requiring little effort. You’ll only need to focus on carefully observing each of the landscapes along the way.

The trail follows train tracks, so signage is very good. Along the way, you’ll spot a great variety of plants and even some animals characteristic of this area.

At the end of the hike, you’ll arrive in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town), where you can choose to continue walking to Machu Picchu (2 hours) or take a bus (30 minutes).


Route from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu

Upon arriving in Aguas Calientes, you can choose to ascend to Machu Picchu either on foot or by bus. Taking the bus is highly recommended, as the trail is steep and involves many stairways. However, for the return, walking down is more appealing since it is easier and shorter (1 hour).



Route Features

Category
Details
Route Type
Alternative, budget-friendly adventure route. Combines road transport with a hike along the railway surrounded by biodiversity.
Geographical Location
Santa Teresa district, La Convención province, in the Cusco region, Peru.
Climate
Humid, typical of the high jungle region.
Approximate Duration
  • Cusco → Aguas Calientes: 7 to 8 hours.
  • Hydroelectric → Aguas Calientes hike: 2 hours (10 kilometers).
Key Altitudes
  • Cusco: 3,399 meters above sea level.
  • Hydroelectric Station: 1,900 meters above sea level.
  • Aguas Calientes: 2,040 meters above sea level.
  • Machu Picchu: 2,430 meters above sea level.
Flora
Wild orchids, bromeliads, bamboo, giant ferns, and avocado, banana, and coffee trees.
Fauna
Cock-of-the-rocks (Peru’s national bird), hummingbirds, parrots, multicolored butterflies, capuchin monkeys, occasionally the Andean bear, among many others.
Advantages
  • Much cheaper than the standard train journey.
  • More authentic experience and closer contact with nature.
  • Opportunity to visit the Cocalmayo hot springs.
  • More flexibility for planning.
Disadvantages
  • Long and physically demanding journey.
  • Risk of landslides or roadblocks during rainy weather.
  • Less comfort and safety compared to the train.
  • Hike along train tracks with limited signage.
Best Season
April to October, dry season: more stable weather, better road conditions, and lower chances of rain.


Recommendations for Your Trip

Hike to Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu
Hike to Aguas Calientes via the Hydroelectric route
  • Along the Hydroelectric route, you’ll be at an altitude of approximately 1,900 meters above sea level, which means you can walk without major breathing difficulties, unlike the higher altitude of Cusco (3,399 meters above sea level).
  • Use insect repellent during the hike and upon arrival at Machu Picchu—it’s essential, as this area is known for having many mosquitoes.
  • At the beginning of the route, you’ll find many food stalls and basic necessity shops, helping you better prepare for the walk.
  • You won’t need to book well in advance to use the Hydroelectric route—just a few days ahead is enough.
  • However, for Machu Picchu entrance tickets, you must book in advance—one month is usually sufficient. But if you want to hike one of the more popular routes, such as Circuit 2 or Huayna Picchu Mountain, you’ll need to book about three months in advance.
  • You can take advantage of your stay in Santa Teresa to visit the popular Cocalmayo hot springs—an unforgettable experience that perfectly complements the Hydroelectric route.
  • The Hydroelectric hike is suitable for all ages and considered low difficulty, making it a great option for the whole family.
  • Choosing private transportation for this route offers greater safety, comfort, exclusivity, and scheduling flexibility—allowing you to enjoy your journey worry-free with personalized service.
  • Remember, you can book your Hydroelectric route experience with Carmachupicchu. Talk to our advisors to explore all your options for making your trip to Machu Picchu truly unforgettable.

Frequently Asked Questions

To get to Machu Picchu via the Hydroelectric route, first you must travel by car for about 5 hours from Cusco to Santa Teresa. Then, take local transportation for 30 minutes to the Hydroelectric station. From there, start the 2-hour walk to Aguas Calientes. Finally, you can go up to Machu Picchu by bus or on foot.
The total time is approximately 7 to 8 hours. This includes the car trip and the walk to Aguas Calientes. If you decide to walk from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, you should add 2 more hours.
No, it is an easy walk suitable for all ages. The terrain is flat and stable, so it doesn’t require much physical effort. Additionally, the scenery is spectacular, full of vegetation, birds, and the sound of the Urubamba River accompanying you along the way.
The best season is from April to October, during the dry season. In these months, you will find better weather conditions. From November to March, rain is frequent and the journey can become more difficult.
Yes, it is essential to book your Machu Picchu entrance tickets in advance. We recommend doing it at least one month before. If you want to visit Huayna Picchu or circuit 2, it’s ideal to book three months in advance.
It is not necessary to book so far ahead. A few days before your trip is enough to secure your spot. However, if you want more comfort and flexibility, hiring private transportation will give you a safer and more personalized experience.
We recommend bringing light and comfortable clothes for walking, trekking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a waterproof jacket in case of rain. Don’t forget insect repellent, as this area is humid and there are many mosquitoes.
The main advantage is the low cost compared to the traditional train. Also, you will have a more authentic experience, enjoy nature, and visit local attractions such as the Cocalmayo hot springs.
Yes, it is a walk suitable for the whole family. Since the path is flat and easy, it can be done without problems. Just make sure to bring enough water and snacks for more comfort during the trip.
If you want to save money, connect with nature, and have a different experience, this route is ideal. Not only will you see incredible landscapes, but you will also have the chance to visit exclusive attractions and travel at your own pace.