Cusco to Hidroelectrica Transfer: A Helpful Review

So, you’re probably thinking about seeing Machu Picchu, right? Very, very exciting! Getting there, actually, can be quite the adventure, especially if you’re watching your budget, as you probably are. One option lots of folks use is the shared transfer from Cusco to Hidroelectrica. That, that is where the train tracks start for the final, pretty short leg to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town). This is my experience – what went well, what wasn’t so perfect, and just maybe some tips to hopefully make your trip smoother, or at least less of a surprise!

Why Choose the Hidroelectrica Route?

Now, there are, in fact, a bunch of different roads that will lead you to Machu Picchu. You can take the train directly from Cusco or Ollantaytambo – this, typically, is the faster (and much pricier) option. The Hidroelectrica route, though, is a budget-friendly choice, as a matter of fact, favored by backpackers and thrifty travelers. You’ll go by road for a big part of the trip and then walk along the train tracks or hop on a shorter train ride. It is a longer journey, so too it’s almost a full day of travel, but you will save some cash. Plus, the scenery along the way could be spectacular!

Booking Your Shared Transfer

You’ll see heaps of travel agencies in Cusco advertising this transfer, typically, around Plaza de Armas. Very often, hostels and hotels can book it, too, just a little easier maybe. Do some shopping around, though, anyway. Prices could differ quite a bit. Check what’s included – just the transport, or also any meals? What time will you be collected at the accommodation? What kind of vehicle do they use? Most importantly, read some online reviews if possible, just maybe avoid any major headaches, right? It may be slightly tempting to go for the absolute cheapest option, very cheap! But remember, safety and comfort tend to be quite valuable, so they are. Is that correct?

The Early Start: Cusco Pick-Up

Be ready for an early start, actually! Like, seriously early. Mine, actually, was around 6:30 AM. A small bus, minibus perhaps, will pick you up from your hotel or a designated meeting spot, like your hotel door. Because Cusco streets tend to be quite narrow and traffic tends to be a bit hectic, especially at the peak times, it might take a bit of time to collect everyone. Be patient, anyway, it’s Peru time, so to say, right? Use that moment to grab a quick breakfast if you haven’t already, like your typical mate de coca to help with altitude. Also, is that so wrong?

The Road to Hidroelectrica: A Scenic Ride?

The drive can be quite long, usually from six to eight hours, with some stops along the route. The first part climbs through the Andes, very scenic, and you might, arguably, spot some small villages and breathtaking mountain views. The roads are, mostly, paved but can get winding in places. A bit, maybe even slightly, carsick? Consider taking some motion sickness pills beforehand. Stops might, for instance, include a quick breakfast spot and later a lunch buffet (typically not included in the transfer price, actually). After that, too it’s almost down the mountains towards hotter cloud forest climate. A world away from Cusco really.

Lunch and Leg Stretches: Making the Most of the Breaks

The lunch stops are usually at touristy restaurants along the way, naturally. They provide the possibility to stretch your legs and use the facilities. The food tends to be decent enough, as a matter of fact, usually a buffet with Peruvian dishes like chicken, rice, and maybe some veggie options. So, too it’s almost wise to bring snacks and drinks for the journey, anyway, because prices can be steeper at these designated stops, in a way. But is that really important, I wonder?

Arrival at Hidroelectrica: What to Expect

Hidroelectrica itself could be described as pretty small. It’s basically the power plant (that gives the place its name!) and some little restaurants and hostels. This is where the road ends, alright, and the hike (or short train ride) to Aguas Calientes starts. Anyway, your driver will, seemingly, drop you off and maybe point you in the right direction, so you may wish to verify beforehand which way you need to head in to keep walking to Aguas Calientes or catch the train. The meeting point for the return transfer from Hidroelectrica will be confirmed, basically, upon arrival too.

The Walk to Aguas Calientes: Along the Train Tracks

Most people choose to walk the approximately 10 km along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes, often. The hike typically takes around 2-3 hours, that. Is that not awesome? It’s a relatively flat and straightforward path, as a matter of fact, following the Urubamba River, seemingly, so very nice scenery all the time! Be aware of passing trains, so just step aside when you hear one coming. If you don’t fancy the walk, so too it’s almost possible to catch a train from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes, so very easy for some people, no?

The Return Trip: Planning and Flexibility

The return transfer usually leaves Hidroelectrica in the early afternoon, usually about 2:00 or 2:30 PM. Plan your time in Aguas Calientes wisely, you know? Ensure you’ve allowed enough time to hike back (or take the train) to Hidroelectrica to avoid missing your transfer. Delays can occur, as I was saying, so just maybe be a bit early to be on the safe side, too, as is usual. Is that not interesting?

Potential Downsides and How to Mitigate Them

Alright, so, the trip could be quite long and tiring, admittedly. The roads may be bumpy, that. Breakdowns, while rare, can occur, maybe, possibly leading to delays, even though they are rare, I repeat! Cramped seating, just a little too compact seating in a small minibus is always a possibility as well, for example. To mitigate these possible downsides: bring snacks, so remember them! Consider motion sickness medication just if you’re prone to travel sickness. Bring a small pillow, arguably for the ride. Book with a reputable agency that’s known for vehicle maintenance.

Is the Shared Transfer Worth It?

So, all things considered, is the shared transfer from Cusco to Hidroelectrica worth it? That could really depend. On a budget and happy with an adventurous, very, very long day of travel? If so, and the amazing vistas more than compensate for the bumpy bits, then probably, actually, yes! Very concerned about time and comfortable spending more for convenience? After that, possibly consider the train all the way. It got you covered really! The Hidroelectrica route will give you bragging rights too, probably.

Tips for a Smoother Transfer

Book in advance, but not excessively so: Especially during peak season.
Confirm pick-up details: Double-check the time and location with the agency.
Pack light: You will need to carry your luggage in the bus, typically and, too, you’re more than likely walking for a few hours at least.
Dress in layers: Temperatures vary substantially, probably!
Bring cash: For lunch, snacks, and entrance tickets.
Stay hydrated: That is really important with the altitude.
Charge your devices: You can listen to music or read to relax while getting from a spot to the other!
Be patient: Delays happen; so too it’s almost not worthwhile getting too stressed out.

So, there you have it, right? This Cusco to Hidroelectrica shared transfer, possibly. Not the most glamorous journey perhaps, admittedly, but affordable and could be just a little bit adventurous. Hopefully, anyway, with a little planning and realistic expectations, the trip to Machu Picchu by way of Hidroelectrica can be a rewarding part of your Peruvian journey! Right? What do you believe?

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