GENERAL INFORMATION
Duration: 2 Days/1 Night
Size of group: Small group-maximum 10 hikers in Machu Picchu.
Starting point: Cusco
Point of arrival: Cusco
Travel style: Adventure, hike, cultural and ecological.
Level of difficulty: Easy
Climate: Warm and/or humid.
Tour availability: every day
Hike Altitudes:
- City of Cusco: 3400 m.s.n.m. (Main Square)
- Santa María: 1300 m.s.n.m. (lowest point)
- Pass Malaga: 4330 m.s.n.m. (Highest point)
- Machu Picchu: 2400 m.s.n.m.
- Cocalmayo thermal baths: 1600 m.s.n.m.
- Eco- Lodge Majestic Sky Domes: 2000 m.s.n.m.
Map of Machu Picchu + Thermal Baths of Colcalmayo-2 Days
TOUR DETAILS
Information
INTRODUCTION
This 2-day excursion begins with pickup from Cusco and continues by private transport to the Abra Málaga pass, from where we descend toward Santa María and then to Santa Teresa, where we stop for lunch. The travel time from Cusco to Santa Teresa is approximately 5 hours.
In Santa Teresa we visit the Cocalmayo thermal baths (1,600 m.a.s.l.), with thermal pools surrounded by subtropical vegetation. We continue 40 minutes by transport to the lodge, where we spend the night in private wooden geodesic domes with private bathroom and hydro-massage shower. In the evening there is the option to gather around a bonfire.
The following day we depart early by transport for 1 hour to Hidroeléctrica, the starting point of the hike. From there we walk 2 hours and 30 minutes to the town of Aguas Calientes (2,000 m.a.s.l.), and then take a bus up to the Machu Picchu archaeological site (2,400 m.a.s.l.).
At Machu Picchu we carry out the guided tour led by a local guide, with explanations of the history and architecture of the site. After the guided tour there is free time before taking the bus back down to Aguas Calientes, where lunch is included. In the afternoon we make our way to the train station for the return journey to Cusco.
HIGHLIGHTS
- A 2-day route combining high-altitude landscapes, subtropical vegetation, and archaeological sites.
- Visit the Cocalmayo thermal baths with natural-temperature thermal pools.
- Travel by private transport with views of valleys, snow-capped peaks, and mountain forest.
- Visit the Machu Picchu archaeological site with the guidance of a knowledgeable local guide.
- Hike the Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes trail, a 2-hour 30-minute walk through dense vegetation alongside the Urubamba River.
- Rest in private wooden geodesic domes with private bathroom and hydro-massage shower.
- Hotel pickup included from accommodations in Cusco.
- Suitable for couples, groups of friends, families, and travelers interested in nature and history.
RECOMMENDATIONS
- Book your Machu Picchu tour as far in advance as possible, as entry tickets have limited availability and sell out quickly.
- Arrive in Cusco at least 1 day before the excursion to acclimatize.
- Keep in mind that Cusco is located at 3,400 m.a.s.l.
- Review your personal items in advance to make sure you have everything needed for the tour.
- Visit our office in the historic center of Cusco the day before the tour at 7:00 p.m. to attend the pre-tour briefing with your guide. I
- f you have no place to leave your luggage during the excursion, you can use the free storage facility at our office.
- Carry valid identification documents, as these will be required at checkpoints and at the Machu Picchu entrance.
- If you have any questions or would like more information about this Tour, do not hesitate to contact us: WhatsApp: +51 984525006 / +51 984683047 or write to us at: info@incredibleperutours.com
IS THIS ROUTE FOR ME?
If you have two days available and want to combine a visit to Machu Picchu with the Cocalmayo thermal baths and a night in wooden geodesic domes, this is a suitable option. The route is designed for travelers with a moderate level of fitness, with no prior hiking experience required.
It is an accessible route for a wide range of visitors: couples, families, groups of friends, and solo travelers looking to combine nature, rest, and history over two days.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: CUSCO – ABRA MÁLAGA – SANTA TERESA – COCALMAYO – ECO-LODGE
- 7:30 a.m. Departure from Plaza Regocijo in Cusco by private transportation.
- 10:00 a.m. Approximate arrival at Abra Málaga (4,330 m / 14,206 ft) and a short stop.
- 10:20 a.m. Continue the journey to Santa Teresa.
- 1:00 p.m. Approximate arrival in Santa Teresa and lunch.
- 2:00 p.m. Departure to the Cocalmayo Hot Springs.
- 2:15 p.m. Arrival at Cocalmayo and free time to enjoy the thermal pools.
- 4:15 p.m. Departure from Cocalmayo to the Majestic Sky Domes Eco-Lodge.
- 5:30 p.m. Approximate arrival at the Eco-Lodge, check-in, and rest.
- 7:00 p.m. Dinner.
- 8:00 p.m. Optional campfire and overnight stay in private domes.
DAY 2: ECO-LODGE – HYDROELECTRIC STATION – AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO
- 5:30 a.m. Breakfast at the Eco-Lodge.
- 6:00 a.m. Departure by private transportation to the Hydroelectric Station.
- 7:30 a.m. Approximate arrival at the Hydroelectric Station.
- 7:40 a.m. Start of the hike to Aguas Calientes.
- 10:30 a.m. Approximate arrival in Aguas Calientes.
- 10:35 a.m. Transfer to the bus station for the ride up to Machu Picchu.
- 11:00 a.m. Guided tour of Machu Picchu.
- 1:30 p.m. Approximate end of the visit and bus ride back to Aguas Calientes.
- 2:00 p.m. Lunch at a local restaurant and free time.
- 6:10 p.m. Check-in at the train station.
- 6:30 p.m. Tourist train departure to Ollantaytambo.
- 8:10 p.m. Approximate arrival in Ollantaytambo and transfer to Cusco.
- 9:40 p.m. Approximate arrival in Cusco and transfer to your hotel.
DETAILED ITINERARY
DAY 1: CUSCO CITY – MALAGA PASS – SANTA TERESA – COCALMAYO THERMAL BATHS – ECO LODGE MAJESTIC SKY DOMES
Departure is scheduled at 7:30 a.m. from Plaza Regocijo by private transport. The route passes through the town of Ollantaytambo and continues along a paved road for approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes to the Málaga Pass (4,330 m.a.s.l. / 14,200 ft), the highest point of the route, where we make a stop.
We continue by transport for another 2 hours and 30 minutes to the town of Santa Teresa, arriving at approximately 1:00 p.m. for lunch. From there, an additional 15 minutes by transport brings us to the Cocalmayo thermal baths, where you will have approximately 2 hours to use the facilities.
The complex has 3 thermal pools fed by underground springs, with water temperatures ranging between 38 °C and 45 °C (100 °F and 113 °F). Facilities include changing rooms, showers, and swimsuit rental. The waters are attributed with beneficial properties for skin conditions, rheumatism, and joint pain. Next to the hot pools, cold water cascades from the Uripata lagoon are also accessible.
After the visit we continue by transport for 50 minutes to the Majestic Sky Domes Eco-Lodge, arriving at approximately 5:30 p.m. Dinner is included. In the evening there is the option to gather around a bonfire. Accommodation is in private wooden domes.
DAY 2: ECO LODGE MAJESTIC SKY DOMES – HYDROELECTRIC – MACHU PICCHU – AGUAS CALIENTES – CUSCO CITY
Day 2: Majestic Sky Domes Eco-Lodge – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Breakfast is scheduled at 5:30 a.m. At 6:00 a.m. we leave the lodge by private transport for 1 hour and 30 minutes to the Hidroeléctrica station, arriving at approximately 7:30 a.m.
From Hidroeléctrica we begin the hike following the railway line for approximately 3 hours to the town of Aguas Calientes. The route runs alongside the Urubamba River and passes through a cloud forest zone with bromeliads and various species of orchids. Estimated arrival in Aguas Calientes at 10:30 a.m.
Upon arriving in Aguas Calientes (2,000 m.a.s.l. / 6,562 ft) we leave our bags and board the bus that travels 25 minutes up the winding road to the Machu Picchu archaeological site (2,400 m.a.s.l. / 7,874 ft).
The guided tour begins at 11:00 a.m. and lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, with explanations of the history and architecture of the site provided by the guide.
In the afternoon we take the bus back down for 25 minutes to Aguas Calientes, where lunch is included at a local restaurant. There is free time to explore the town and the craft market.
At 6:30 p.m. we board the return tourist train to Ollantaytambo, arriving at approximately 8:10 p.m. From there a transport will take us back to Cusco, with an estimated arrival at 9:40 p.m. and a final transfer to your hotel.
Included services
THIS TOUR INCLUDES
- Hotel pickup on the day of the tour.
- One-way tourist transport from Cusco to the Majestic Sky Domes Eco-Lodge.
- Bilingual professional tour guide (Spanish and English).
- All meals during the tour: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner.
- Vegetarian and special diets available at no additional cost.
- First aid kit and emergency oxygen cylinder carried by the guide.
- Entry tickets to the Cocalmayo thermal baths and the Machu Picchu archaeological site.
- Visit to the Cocalmayo thermal baths.
- Transport from the Majestic Sky Domes Eco-Lodge to Hidroeléctrica station.
- Hike from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes.
- Round-trip bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
- Guided visit to the Machu Picchu archaeological site.
- Return train ticket in tourist service to Cusco.
- 1 night accommodation in geodesic domes with private bathroom.
What should you bring
LIST OF PERSONAL ITEMS TO BRING TO THE MACHU PICCHU + COCALMAYO THERMAL BATHS TOUR 2 DAYS/1 NIGHT
Please check this list and remember that everything is very important to the success of your trip.
Documents
- Original passport.
- Excursion coupon issued by us.
Essential
- Day pack.
- Some snacks like cookies, candies, chocolates, energy bars.
- Extra cash in case you want to buy some souvenirs from teh Tour.
Clothes and shoes
- Comfortable hiking boots or sneakers.
- Waterproof clothing: rain jacket and rain poncho. (November to March).
- Swimwear, if you want to visit the Aguas Calientes Thermal Baths.
- Hat to cover yourself from the Sun.
Pharmaceutical products
- Personal medications, bandages and anti-inflammatory pills.
- Insect repellent.
- Sunscreen.
- Cream for skin and lips.
Other articles
- Sunglasses.
- Camera with extra batteries and memory cards.
- Good general health and a good sense of humor.
Frequent questions
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Here you will find the Most Frequently Asked Questions from our Clients. Before asking anything, we invite you to carefully read these questions and answers, as well as all our links about this Tour. This will help you obtain valuable information in a simple, fast and practical way.
1. WHERE ARE THE COCALMAYO HOT SPRINGS LOCATED?
The Cocalmayo Hot Springs are located in the district of Santa Teresa, in the province of La Convención, Cusco region.
2. IS THIS TOUR RECOMMENDED FOR FAMILIES?
Yes, this tour can be a great option for families, couples, friends, and travelers who want to visit Machu Picchu and enjoy a relaxing experience.
3. IS IT NECESSARY TO BOOK IN ADVANCE?
Yes, booking in advance is recommended, especially during high season, since entrance tickets to Machu Picchu are limited and depend on availability.
4. IS THE TOUR DIFFICULT?
The tour has a moderate level of difficulty. It may include some walking and long transfers, so having basic physical fitness is recommended.
5. WHAT IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO TAKE THIS TOUR?
The best season is usually from April to October, when there is less rain and better travel conditions.
6. ARE THERE DISCOUNTS FOR CHILDREN AND STUDENTS?
Yes, for this Tour we offer discounts and special rates for infants, children and students.
- Infants under 2 years old in the company of their parents travel for free.
- Children between 3 and 8 years old have a discount of USD 100 only by sending a scanned copy of the Passport at the time of the Reservation.
- Students also have a discount of USD 40 in the following cases:
→ School and College Students – For young people between 9 and 17 years old, only by sending a scanned copy of the Passport at the time of Reservation.
→ University Students – For young people up to 25 years of age, only by sending a scanned copy of the Valid University Card. We accept all University Cards from all Universities in the World (Students aged 26 and over are deemed adults)
7. WHY ARE TICKETS SOLD OUT SO FAST?
Unfortunately, many travelers are not aware of the limit of 500 daily spaces for this route. Furthermore, most hikers are unaware that this limit applies not only to travelers who enter the famous route each day, but also to all service personnel required by authorized agencies such as: guides, cooks and porters.
These service personnel are of vital importance in the development of your excursion since thanks to them, you will be provided with everything you need such as: food, accommodations, tents, etc. The guide will keep you safe and informed during the hike; the cook will provide you with delicious meals and keep you with the necessary energy to continue on your way; and the porters will carry everything you need such as: camping equipment, kitchen equipment, food, products, sleeping items, among others.
So, due to this regulation, the spaces required for a group of travelers will need to be Double in number (Travelers + Agency Service Personnel).
Now that you know the reason behind the high demand, you probably need to reserve a spot as soon as possible, through a Tourism Agency Authorized by the Peruvian Government to operate on this Trek, like ours, Incredible Peru Tours – IPT.
8. WHAT WILL THE WEATHER BE LIKE IN MACHU PICCHU?
The weather is very unpredictable, it is impossible to say exactly what type of weather you will encounter during the Tour. No matter what month you travel, be sure to have waterproof clothing at hand like a rain jacket or a good rain poncho.
During dry season (April to November), early mornings are cloudy and can be cold. As the morning hours pass, the clouds clear and the sun comes out, so it can be quite hot. Sun protection, insect repellent and a good hat are essential. However, keep in mind that sometimes it can be rainy in June and sunny in December.
During rainy season (from mid-November to mid-April), rainfall happens. However, don’t be surprised if some days are sunny this season. February is the month with the most rain, so during this month the Tour is not recommended.
9. DO I NEED TO BRING ADDITIONAL MONEY TO MY TOUR?
Yes, if you want to buy snacks such as cookies, dried fruit, chocolates, etc. or additional drinks such as soda, beer or an energy beverage, since it is possible to purchase these products in small stores in the area.
In addition, there is the possibility of taking a hot shower on the first day for 10 soles. Also, if you want to buy some souvenirs from the trip, you can buy them at the Handicraft Market in Aguas Calientes village. For all this, we recommend that you bring between 150 and 300 Peruvian soles. You may not need to spend any of this money, but in the event of an Emergency, you should make sure you have enough cash.
10. HOW DO I BOOK THIS TOUR?
Booking this Tour with Us will really be very safe, easy and practical, you will also enjoy Payment Facilities such as Paying for your Excursion up to 1 day before your Tour and in 2 Parts:
- You can pay the First Part online from the comfort of your house by making a Prepayment with any Credit or Debit Card from any Bank, using our safe and reliable money transfer system. Prepayment will be made through a deposit of USD 200 per person. (Click on the Reserve link)
- The Second Fee or balance will be paid upon arrival in Cusco City, in person at our Main Office in Historic Downtown, up to 1 day before the Tour.
⇒ To Book this Tour, just follow these 3 simple steps:
1. Fill out the Reservation Form: It is in the Reserve link.
2. Pay the First Part (Prepayment): We accept all cards. You can use a Credit or Debit Card from any Bank and of any company: VISA, MASTERCARD, AMERICAN EXPRESS, DINERS CLUB, DISCOVER, JCB, UNION PAY, ETC.
3. Print your Travel Coupon (Voucher): We will send it to you immediately after you have made the Prepayment.
⇒ OTHER PAYMENT METHODS: If you want to make the Prepayment by other means such as: PayPal, Western Union, Bank Deposit, Bank Transfer or some form, let us know to send you all the required information to do so.
11. IF I ALREADY PAID MY FIRST FEE AND DECIDE TO CANCEL, WILL I BE REFUNDED?
Unfortunately No. We will not be able to make any type of refund or change dates for Tours that are paid in Parts. All Prepayments of USD 200 are not refundable or transferable, for this money will be invested immediately in all the Procedures and Reservations necessary to carry out the Tour, as well as in the purchase of Permits and Tickets for Machu Picchu. We will carry out these procedures at the Peruvian Ministry of Culture (State Organization in charge of the Administration of the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu).
12. WHY SHOULD I BOOK MY TOUR WITH INCREDIBLE PERU TOURS?
There are very good reasons to Book your Excursion with Us, let’s look at some:
- Strategic location: Our office is located in the Historic Center of the city of Cusco, allowing better coordination and personalized assistance.
- Authorized Peruvian agency: We are a formal, 100% local tourism agency with more than 15 years of experience organizing tours to the most incredible destinations in the region.
- Authorized operator: We have updated documentation and have been recognized as an Authorized Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Operator since 2015, providing support, safety, and trust.
- Direct prices with no hidden fees: We are direct tour operators, which allows us to offer affordable prices, all-inclusive service, and no intermediaries.
- Professional team: We work with highly trained local tour guides, cooks, porters, and staff to assist groups, families, couples, and adventure travelers.
- Guaranteed departures: We operate 100% of our treks, even if there is only one confirmed traveler, keeping small groups of 4 to 8 people on average.
- Fair treatment of our staff: We provide our team with accommodation, transportation, uniforms, meals, health insurance, and fair wages.
- Social commitment: We support social projects that benefit children and local communities, especially in health and education.
- Sustainable tourism: We are an eco-friendly company committed to protecting the environment, and we participate in Inca Trail to Machu Picchu clean-up campaigns.
- Personalized assistance: We offer support before, during, and after the trip, answering your questions by phone or email at any time.
Availability and prices
IMPORTANT:
- Spots are shared across all authorized tour operators on this route and can sell out at any time.
- We recommend booking as early as possible to secure your place.
- If you are interested in doing this Trek and want to reserve permits, or would like more information, contact us: Cell phone: +51 984 525 006 / WhatsApp: +51 984 683 047 or email us at: info@incredibleperutours.com
PRICES
Our rates are fixed and include no hidden fees. We are committed to offering the best service at the best price.
For this tour we operate a private service, where you travel exclusively with your own group of friends or family. The price varies depending on the size of the group.
PRICES OF THE PRIVATE SERVICE
| From 2 to 3 people: | USD 440 for each person |
| From 4 to 5 people: | USD 420 for each person |
| From 6 to 7 people: | USD 400 for each person |
| From 8 to 10 people: | USD 380 for each person |
| From 10 to more people: | USD 360 for each person |
OPTIONAL SERVICES
If you want, for an additional cost you have the option of adding to this tour, up to one day before the trip, some extra services such as:
- A Pair of Walking Poles for the route (Can be rented at our Head Office, USD 5 per day).
- Pick up from Cusco City Airport and transfer to your hotel, for USD 5
- Pick up from the Hotel and transfer to the Airport for USD 5
TO CONSIDER:
- Prices are shown in American dollars (USD)
- Our passion is group travel, so if you are coming with friends or family, please get in touch to offer you our promotions.
- Our company also has promotions and discounts for student groups. Please contact us to receive our offers.
- For your peace of mind and comfort, our tours do not have any hidden charges or expenses.
- If you are interested in doing this route and would like to reserve, or want more information, please contact us:
- Cell: +51 984 525 006
- WhatsApp: +51 984 683 047
- Email: info@incredibleperutours.com
