Exploring Machu Picchu on a Budget: Cusco to Aguas Calientes Adventure 🚶‍♂️🌄

If you’re vibing in Cusco and want to get to Aguas Calientes (the gateway town to Machu Picchu) without splurging, here’s the budget-friendly way to do it that a lot of backpackers swear by! 🤑✨ Skip the pricey train and hop on a local bus or shared van to Hidroeléctrica. Buses leave daily from Cusco city center (check Trip.com for the best schedules and tickets!) and the journey takes about 6-7 hours. Hidroeléctrica is open all day, but starting your trek early is key so you don’t hike in the dark. Once you arrive at Hidroeléctrica, get ready for a chill trek—about 2.5 hours on flat terrain following the train tracks, all the way to Aguas Calientes. Bring 💧 plenty of water, a hat 🧢, and comfy clothes because it's seriously warmer than Cusco down here! Pro tips for the trek: - Wear sunscreen—even on cloudy days, the sun hits hard! - Pack some snacks, like granola bars or fruit—there are random little kiosks but better safe than sorry. - Leave your big luggage in Cusco and just take a small daypack for max comfort! Aguas Calientes itself is super cute, packed with little cafes, hostels, and hot springs to chill in after your hike. And best part—this route saves you major bucks! Ready to conquer Machu Picchu the adventurous way? Let’s go! 🚂🌿👣