Day 2: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes

Llactapata is a fascinating Inca archaeological site located along the Salkantay route and one of the most special highlights of this trek. From here, you’ll enjoy a unique and beautiful view of Machu Picchu from a different angle — a perspective that very few travelers get to experience.

The day begins with an early breakfast around 5:30 a.m. Afterward, you’ll take local transportation for approximately 45 minutes to Lucmabamba, where the hike begins.

From Lucmabamba, you’ll follow an original Inca trail on a scenic 3-hour uphill hike through lush vegetation and mountain landscapes until reaching the Inca ruins of Llactapata.

Once at the site, you’ll have plenty of time to explore, rest, and enjoy the incredible views of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu Mountain. On clear days, you may even catch another glimpse of the majestic Salkantay Mountain in the distance.

After enjoying Llactapata, the trail continues with a 2-hour downhill hike toward Hidroelectrica, where you’ll stop for a nutritious lunch and a well-deserved rest.

The final section of the day is a scenic 3-hour walk along the train tracks toward Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo. Once you arrive, you’ll check in at your accommodation, take a shower, and relax after a rewarding day on the trail.

In the evening, you’ll enjoy your final dinner at a local restaurant around 7:00 p.m. After dinner, it’s time to rest and prepare for the most anticipated moment of the journey: your visit to Machu Picchu the next day.

Day 3: Machu Picchu Visit – Return to Cusco

The final day of the journey is dedicated to the unforgettable visit to Machu Picchu, the great reward after your trek.

You’ll wake up around 4:00 a.m. to get ready and receive a packed breakfast. Then, you’ll begin the walk toward the entrance route to Machu Picchu. The first section takes about 30 minutes to reach the Puente Ruinas checkpoint, where you must show your passport, Machu Picchu ticket, and student ID if applicable.

After passing the first checkpoint, you’ll continue uphill for approximately 1 hour, following the stone steps that lead to the main entrance of Machu Picchu. The goal is to arrive around 6:00 a.m., just in time to enter early and enjoy the magic of the citadel.

Once the group is together at the entrance, you’ll begin a 2.5-hour guided tour through the most important areas of Machu Picchu. Your guide will explain the history, architecture, and mysteries of the famous Lost City of the Incas, helping you understand why this site is one of the most iconic destinations in the world.

After the guided tour, you’ll have free time to explore on your own. The amount of time available will depend on your return option to Cusco and whether you have booked an additional hike, such as Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain, which must be reserved in advance.

Return Options to Cusco

Return by Train

Returning by train is the most comfortable option and gives you more time to enjoy Machu Picchu, usually around 7 to 8 hours in the area.

This option is highly recommended if you plan to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, as these additional hikes require at least 3 hours to complete.

If returning by train, you’ll need to be back in Aguas Calientes in time for your train, usually around 6:20 p.m. You may also want extra time to explore the town before departure.

The train ride takes approximately 1.5 hours to Ollantaytambo. From there, you’ll continue by vehicle for about 2 more hours, arriving in Cusco around 10:30 p.m.

Return by Car

Returning by car is a more budget-friendly option, but it allows less time at Machu Picchu.

Since there is no direct road to Aguas Calientes, this route requires walking back to Hidroelectrica and then taking a long drive to Cusco.

If you choose this option, you’ll need to leave Machu Picchu around 12:00 p.m. and walk approximately 3 hours back to Hidroelectrica, where the transport will be waiting around 3:00 p.m.

The drive from Hidroelectrica to Cusco takes around 6 hours.

If you plan to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, this option is not recommended for the same day, as you will have very limited time. In that case, it’s better to spend one extra night in Aguas Calientes and return to Cusco by car the following day.

Important Note

Your final schedule at Machu Picchu will depend on your entrance time, assigned circuit, return method, and any optional mountain hikes booked in advance.