Trains from Cusco to Machu Picchu

Trains from Cusco to Machu Picchu: Your Complete Guide

Machu Picchu is one of the most famous and breathtaking destinations in the world, and the journey to get there is just as exciting as the destination itself. If you’re planning a trip to Machu Picchu, you’ll most likely start your adventure in Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. One of the best ways to travel between these two incredible locations is by train, offering stunning views of the Sacred Valley along the way. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about trains from Cusco to Machu Picchu, including Peru Rail and Inca Rail, the different train options, how to buy train tickets, and more.

Train Options: Peru Rail vs. Inca Rail

When traveling from Cusco to Machu Picchu, there are two main train companies to choose from: Peru Rail and Inca Rail. Both companies offer different levels of service, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury trains. Let’s take a closer look at what each company offers.

Peru Rail

Peru Rail is the more established train company and offers several types of train services. These include:

Expedition Train

This is a more economical option, perfect for budget travelers. It’s comfortable and offers large windows to enjoy the beautiful landscape of the Sacred Valley.

Vistadome Train

A bit more upscale, the Vistadome features panoramic windows on both the sides and roof of the train, giving you a full view of the majestic Andes mountains.

PeruRail’s Vistadome Observatory

The train typically departs from Poroy or Ollantaytambo stations and offers multiple daily services. Detailed schedules can be found on PeruRail’s official website.

Belmond Hiram Bingham

The ultimate in luxury travel, this train offers gourmet meals, an open-air observation car, and live traditional music. If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, the Belmond Hiram Bingham is hard to beat.

Inca Rail

Though newer, Inca Rail has quickly become a popular choice for travelers. They also offer a range of train services:

The Voyager

Similar to Peru Rail’s Expedition train, this is a budget-friendly option with large windows and comfortable seating.

The 360° Train 

This mid-range option offers windows that extend onto the roof, much like the Vistadome.

The First-Class Train 

If you’re after a more luxurious experience, Inca Rail’s First-Class service offers spacious seating, gourmet dining, and access to an open-air balcony.

Both Peru Rail and Inca Rail provide excellent service, so the best choice depends on your budget and how luxurious you want your journey to be.

Departure points: Where to take the train from Cusco to Machu Picchu

When planning your train to Machu Picchu, it’s important to know that trains don’t always leave directly from Cusco. Let’s explore the train options for getting from Cusco to Machu Picchu Pueblo (also known as Aguas Calientes).

Poroy Station

The closest station to Cusco is Poroy, located about 20 minutes outside the city. From Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport, you can take a taxi to Poroy station. Most of the luxury trains and mid-range options depart from here. However, keep in mind that trains from Poroy are only available during the dry season, which lasts from April to October.

Ollantaytambo Station

During the rainy season or if you’re looking for more train options, trains often depart from Ollantaytambo. Located in the Sacred Valley, about two hours from Cusco, Ollantaytambo is a popular departure point for both Peru Rail and Inca Rail. You can reach this station by taking a bimodal service, which includes a bus transfer from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, followed by a train ride to Machu Picchu.

San Pedro Station

Some Peru Rail trains also depart from San Pedro station, located near the center of Cusco. This station is convenient for those staying in Cusco’s historical district.

Types of Train Tickets and How to Buy Them

If you’re planning to travel by train to Machu Picchu, you’ll need to buy train tickets well in advance, especially during the peak season from June to August. Here’s how to purchase your train tickets to Machu Picchu.

Buy Train Tickets Online

Both Peru Rail and Inca Rail offer easy online booking through their websites. You can choose your departure point, class of service, and travel dates. It’s a good idea to book months in advance during the busy season to secure your preferred train.

At the Train Station

If you’re already in Cusco or Ollantaytambo, you can also buy your tickets directly at the station. However, keep in mind that tickets may sell out, especially for the more popular trains like the Vistadome and Belmond Hiram Bingham.

Travel Agencies

Many travelers choose to book their train tickets to Machu Picchu through a travel agency. Agencies often offer package deals that include train tickets, accommodation in Aguas Calientes, and tickets to Machu Picchu. This can be a convenient option if you prefer to have everything organized for you.

What to Expect on the Journey

The train ride from Cusco to Machu Picchu is one of the most scenic in the world, offering spectacular views of the Sacred Valley, rushing rivers, and towering mountains.

Travel Time

The journey typically takes between 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on your departure point and train service. Trains from Poroy take slightly longer than those from Ollantaytambo.

Scenic Views

The train route follows the Urubamba River, winding through lush valleys and alongside towering mountains. Whether you’re on a budget-friendly train or a luxury one, the views are incredible, and you’ll have plenty of photo opportunities.

Train Amenities

Most trains offer comfortable seating, food and beverage service, and even live music on some of the higher-end trains. If you’re traveling on a luxury train like the Belmond Hiram Bingham, you’ll be treated to gourmet meals and an open-air observation car.

Arriving in Machu Picchu Pueblo

Once you reach Machu Picchu Pueblo (also known as Aguas Calientes), you’re just a short bus ride away from the entrance to Machu Picchu. Machu Picchu Pueblo is a small town nestled in the mountains, filled with hotels, restaurants, and shops. Many travelers choose to spend the night here before or after their visit to Machu Picchu.

Bus to Machu Picchu

To reach the entrance of Machu Picchu, you’ll need to take a bus from Machu Picchu Pueblo. Buses leave every 10-15 minutes and take about 30 minutes to reach the site.

Exploring Machu Picchu

After arriving at Machu Picchu, you’ll have the opportunity to explore one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world. Make sure to book your tickets to Machu Picchu in advance, as the number of visitors is limited each day.

FAQs About Trains to Machu Picchu

What is the best train to take to Machu Picchu?

If you’re looking for luxury, the Belmond Hiram Bingham is considered one of the best. For mid-range options, the Vistadome and Inca Rail’s 360° Train are both great choices with panoramic views.

How early should I buy train tickets?

It’s recommended to buy train tickets as early as possible, especially during the peak season. Booking months in advance is advisable if you’re traveling between June and August.

What is the bimodal service?

The bimodal service is a combination of a bus and train ride. You’ll take a bus from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, then catch a train to Machu Picchu Pueblo. This service is often used during the rainy season when trains don’t run directly from Cusco.

Is it worth taking a luxury train from Cusco to Machu Picchu?

If you want to make your trip extra special, the luxury trains are worth the splurge. The Belmond Hiram Bingham and Inca Rail’s First-Class Train offer gourmet meals, live music, and stunning views from open-air cars.

Conclusion

Traveling from Cusco to Machu Picchu by train is a breathtaking experience that adds to the magic of visiting this ancient wonder. Whether you choose Peru Rail or Inca Rail, there are plenty of train options to suit every traveler’s budget and style. From luxury trains to budget-friendly services, the journey through the Sacred Valley is something you’ll never forget. Be sure to buy your train tickets in advance, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure to Machu Picchu!

Trains from San Pedro to Machu Picchu

PeruRail is the only company that operates from San Pedro Train Station. These trains cover the longest distance and operate in two shifts. However, during the dry season, they are only available from late April to late December.

San Pedro Train Station is located in the heart of Cusco, just a 10-minute walk from Plaza de Armas. The journey offers breathtaking views as you depart from Cusco, passing through the high plains of Anta and the Huarcondo Canyon. The train route continues through the Sacred Valley, follows the Urubamba River, and eventually arrives at Machu Picchu.

These trains are ideal for travelers who wish to enjoy varied landscapes, take time to relax during the ride, and reach their destination in nearly five hours.

Trains from Poroy to Machu Picchu

Poroy Train Station, located 40 minutes from Cusco, offers the second-longest train ride to Machu Picchu. All trains that depart from San Pedro also stop at Poroy, allowing passengers to board from either station.

Trains from Machu Picchu to Poroy

Trains departing from Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) in the afternoon take nearly four hours to reach Poroy, after which a 40-minute drive by car is necessary to reach Cusco.

Trains from Machu Picchu to San Pedro

The following trains continue from Poroy to San Pedro Station. Please note that this is the longest route, with late arrival times.

Best Trains from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu & Vice Versa

Ollantaytambo Station is the most popular departure point for Machu Picchu, offering the fastest and most convenient service. The station is located in a picturesque town, and the journey to Ollantaytambo from Cusco takes approximately two hours by car.

This is the train station used for Sap Adventures tours unless otherwise confirmed.

Bimodal Train Service to Machu Picchu & Vice Versa

During the rainy season, trains departing from San Pedro and Poroy stations convert into a Bimodal Service, combining both bus and train transportation. Passengers depart by bus from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, then take a train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.

The Bimodal service is ideal for travelers seeking an all-inclusive journey with transportation from Cusco to Machu Picchu.