Machu Picchu Train

Machu Picchu by Train

Looking for all the essential information to plan and prepare for your trip to Machu Picchu?
Find here in this section the ultimate travel guide to Peru!

Getting from another destination to Aguas Calientes or getting back to Cusco entails taking a Peru Rail Train. Look at your different choices of train and where and how to purchase tickets.

The Train

The train to Machu Picchu is ran by Peru rail. They have been in operation since 1999 and now provide many services depending on your preference. All routes cumulate at Ollantaytambo and follow the andean mountains and cloud forest.

Purchasing

Either your ticket is purchased through your tour operator as part of your trip or you can purchase your ticket yourself through ‘Perurail.com’.

Train Types

There are 4 different trains that will take you to Machu Picchu. They vary in route, luxury and amenities. Which one you purchase depends on the type of trip your taking and your budget. Most tour operators offer the Expedition train however always ask if you which to upgrade. All schedulings can be found on Peru Rails website.

Hiram Bingham

The Hiram Bingham train is the exceptional luxurious and all encompassing. Tickets aboard this train will also grant you access to Machu Picchu along with a tour guide and your bus tickets from August Calientes to the entrance. Entertainment aboard the train will entail a live music show, typical andean dances and an observatory cart for you to enjoy the panoramic views on your journey. The Bar and dining cart serve cocktails and champagne alongside gourmet meals. You also enjoy a stop at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge Hotel for tea.

The Stations and approximate distances by train are:

San Pedro (Cusco) – Machu Picchu: 03 h 50 min
Poroy (Cusco) – Machu Picchu: 03 h 30 min
Ollantaytambo – Machu Picchu: 01 h 30 min
Urubamba – Machu Picchu: 02 h 30 min

Vistadome

This is the train most often used as it is the most affordable. Nevertheless it boasts skylights, Inca culture art work alongside the carriage and large comfortable seats. Food and drink are available onboard at reasonable prices.
The Stations and approximate distances by train are:

Poroy (Cusco) – Machu Picchu: 03 h 30 min
Ollantaytambo – Machu Picchu: 01 h 30 min

Expedition

About: This is the only train that travels from the sacred valley. It transports you the Aguas Calientes the night before your experience at Machu Picchu and returns you the evening after your visit.Starting at the Urubamba station it travels through the andean mountains and links up with the direct route to Machu Picchu. It accommodates 33 passengers and reflects that of a 1920’s railroad carriage. It boats a fine dining experience with main meals, appetizers, entrées, desserts, wine and petits fours. It also encompasses the use of the VIP lounge at the station located at Aguas Calientes which has WIFI.
The Stations and approximate distances by train are: