I’ve seen a lot of people asking about Machu Picchu by car vs the train, so I wanted to share how it really works — without the Instagram filter.

First, what “by car” actually means:

You don’t drive all the way to Machu Picchu.

You take a van from Cusco to Hidroelectrica (around 6–7 hours with stops), then you walk along the railway for about 2.5–3 hours to reach Aguas Calientes.

The next morning, you either hike up to Machu Picchu (1.5–2 hours uphill) or take the bus.

It’s cheaper than the train. But it’s definitely more tiring.



# Pros

– Much cheaper  
– The drive through the Andes + cloud forest is beautiful  
– Feels more adventurous  
– Good option if you're backpacking  
– You see more of the countryside



# Cons

– Very long travel day  
– The Hidroelectrica walk can feel repetitive  
– Basic accommodation  
– You return late to Cusco  
– Not ideal if you're short on time



# Budget difference (rough idea)

Train → more expensive, shorter and more comfortable  
Car route → cheaper, longer, more physical



# Who it’s good for

– Budget travelers  
– Backpackers  
– People who like hiking  
– Flexible itineraries



# Who should skip it

– Families with small kids  
– Anyone with knee problems  
– Travelers prioritizing comfort  
– Tight schedules



Honestly, both options are valid.

It really depends on whether you want to save money and have an adventure — or prioritize comfort and time.

Happy to answer questions if anyone’s planning it 👇

Is Machu Picchu by car actually worth it? My honest breakdown after doing it