Train to Machu Picchu

The Trip by Train to Machu Picchu is one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world. This Train from Cusco to Machu Picchu winds along the sacred Urubamba River before arriving at the Seventh Wonder of the World, Machu Picchu. South America’s Citadel of Machu Picchu receives 5940 visitors every day. 80% of these adventure travelers arrive via the Train to Machu Picchu. Even though there are two railway operators (Peru Rail and Inca Rail) that travel on the Machu Picchu Railway Line, it is not always possible to find a selection of Train Tickets because of the high demand. For these reasons, it is a better option to book reservations for your trip and for your Machu Picchu Train Tickets well in advance. In this way, your visit to the last Sanctuary of the Incas will be hassle-free.

From the comfort of your home you can choose the type of train and the hourly schedule that you prefer for your trip to Machu Picchu. We guarantee that we will issue you the tickets that you want at the best price. There will not be any extra charges or commissions, and we will send you your Machu Picchu Train Tickets via email within in two hours.

You can make your reservation for your Train Tickets to Machu Picchu on the Travel 1 Website.

A great trip to Machu Picchu starts with good planning. So, start right here and we will give you some helpful tips. Whether you’re traveling by yourself, with your family or friends, or with a large group, we can show you how to get the best price and how to book your reservations. Right here we have everything that you need to know before visiting Machu Picchu in Latin America.

Which Train Should You Choose in Order to Travel from Cusco to Machu Picchu?

PeruRail and Inca Rail offer different levels of service. Both Railway companies travel to Machu Picchu Pueblo from Poroy, Urubamba and Ollantaytambo. Your choice of your train company depends on your budget and your desire. PeruRail definitely offers more frequent service than Inca Rail on this route. So, there is a variety of levels of service, and arrival and departure times that you can choose from.

PeruRail

Is the main railway company for both passengers and freight in southern Peru. It operates various routes. Of course, the most famous route of all is the Poroy – Urubamba – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes (Machupicchu Pueblo) route. They offer four distinct levels of service on their Tourist Trains to Machu Picchu: The Luxurious Belmond Hiram Bingham Train, the Sacred Valley Train, the Vistadome Train, and the Expedition Train. They also operate a local train that is only available to Cusco residents and Peruvian travelers.

Inca Rail

Is the other company that offers train service from Poroy and Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu. The services that they offer are: The Voyager Train, The 360º Machu Picchu Train, The First-Class Train and The Private Train. The Private Train is one entire carriage reserved exclusively for you and your travel companions. On the journey you will be served champagne, fine wines and a very delicious meal prepared from locally grown products is included.

Visit our article How to get to Machupicchu and discover more ways to get to the Inca city.

Prices and hourly schedule for PERURAIL & INCARAIL trains from Cusco to Machu Picchu

• Point of Departure: Poroy, Urubamba or Ollantaytambo Stations.
• Destination: Aguas Calientes – Machupicchu Pueblo.

Prices and hourly schedule for PERURAIL & INCARAIL trains from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, Urubamba or Poroy

• Point of Departure: Aguas Calientes – Machupicchu Pueblo.
• Destination: Poroy, Urubamba or Ollantaytambo Station.

Which Type of Service Should You Choose When Traveling to Machu Picchu?

That would depend on your budget and the level of service that you would like to enjoy on this epic trip to the Ciatdel of Machu Picchu.

The Belmond Hiram Bingham Train, PERURAIL

This is by far the most luxurious train available. You will experience a magical and unforgettable journey. The Belmond Hiram Bingham is considered to be one of the most spacious and comfortable trains in the whole world. The cars are modern and luxurious. Their design was inspired by the famous Pullman cars of the 1920´s. The seats are wide and trimmed with polished bronze. The service offered aboard this train is personalized and exclusive, and in all of South America, there is not a more luxurious train.

• The Belmond Hiram Bingham is equipped with a dining car, a bar car, and an observation deck. During the journey you will be offered:
• A welcoming show features traditional dances of the Cusco region and music from all over Peru and from different parts of the world.
• Delicious Peruvian cocktails.
• Gourmet lunch and Dinner on board.
• Live music show.
• A guided tour of Machu Picchu in English or in Spanish in a small group.
• Your entrance ticket into Machu Picchu is included.
• Round trip bus ticket up to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes and back.
• Afternoon Tea Time at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge.
• VIP waiting room in the Machu Picchu Train Station

This luxury train departs from the Poroy station every day from May 1 to January 1 except for on the last Sunday of the month. From January 2 to April 30 the Belmond Hiram Bingham departs from and returns to the Belmond Rio Sagrado Hotel Station in Urubamba. This is because January, February and March are the rainy season months.

The Private Train, INCA RAIL

This is the most exclusive service which Inca Rail offers. Its capacity is only 8 people. The carriage boasts impeccable attention to detail. The inspiration for the decoration is the colours and flavors of Andean culture. The railcar is finely decorated. There are comfortable seats and pillows.

The principle services included on Inca Rail´s The Private Train are:

• Your private rail car where you will enjoy exclusive luxury.
• Open air observation balcony.
• Gourmet food.
• Open bar- free drinks
• Live music show.
• Private bus ride up to the Citadel of Machu Picchu and back down is included.

PERU RAIL, Sacred Valley Train

PeruRail Sacred Valley. This train is also inspired by the elegance of the 1920´s. The Sacred Valley Train connects Urubamba in the Sacred Valley with Machu Picchu. PeruRail’s Sacred Valley offers you a premium train ride that takes you on a very comfortable journey from the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu. Enjoy the stunning landscapes out your window with a gourmet lunch or dinner aboard as you travel to Machu Picchu & Huayna Picchu. Head to the Observatory car for a classic drink at the bar and soak up the scenery.

If you are looking for a more luxurious option, the better choice would be journeying to Machu Picchu on the First Class Machu Picchu Train, or Belmond Hiram Bingham. On your Sacred Valley Expedition you will make a quick stop at the Belmond Hotel Rio Sagrado. This is actually a new private station where only the guests of the hotel are allowed to board. Like the Hiram Bingham, there is an observation car and a dining car with a wonderful selection of food available.

The services offered include:

• A cheerful welcome which includes a special Andean hot drink.
• Your gourmet lunch on board.
• Delicious dinner served on board.
• Drinks.

The First Class Train, Inca Rail

First Class service on Inca Rail offers maximum space and comfort. Enjoy the personalized service and make the most of your travel experience! The new First Class features a luxurious Observatory-Lounge car​riage​ offering live music, a bar, and a balcony ​from which you can view the most incredible scenery. The cars have panoramic windows and ceilings. The tables are decorated with fresh flowers. This exclusive service is only available from April through October.

This First Class – Inca Rail service includes:

• A welcome cocktail.
• Gourmet lunch and dinner.
• An open-air observation car.
• Gourmet food.
• Bar and free drinks.
• Live music show.
• Private Bus up to Machu Picchu and returning to Aguas Calientes.

Vistadome Train, PERURAIL

This is the ideal alternative which enables the explorer to see all the impressive natural scenery that surrounds you on the Cusco to Machu Picchu route. If you love nature and the countryside, the PeruRail Vistadome is the exact option that you’re looking for. As the name implies, PeruRail’s Vistadome train features spectacular panoramic windows with incredibly scenic views, offering you ample opportunities to capture incredible photographs of your beautiful journey to and from Machu Picchu. Snacks are served on board, as well as non-alcoholic drinks. On the return trip back from Machu Picchu there will be a fashion show featuring traditional clothes made out of baby alpaca wool. There will also be a historic Andean dance show.

Folks who are staying as guests at the Belmond Hotel Rio Sagrado are offered an exclusive Vistadome train that travels from Urubamba to Machu Picchu (the 601) and returns from Machu Picchu to the hotel (the 304.)

The 360º Machu Picchu Train, Inca Rail.

The Best Scenic Train in South America is THE 360° MACHU PICCHU TRAIN. Experience a unique way to discover Machu Picchu, and explore the Andean landscape like never before, with wider and taller panoramic windows and an observation outdoor carriage with a bar included. This is the only train in Peru with an entertainment app on board which allows you to learn more about the journey and about Incan civilization. This train features modern cars with panoramic windows. The coaches are wide and comfortable. These are some of the many reasons why you could choose the 360°.

The service includes:

• Andean appetizers.
• Hot and cold drinks.
• On board entertainment systems.
• Hand-made, locally-crafted items for sale on board.

PERURAIL Expedition Train.

If you are looking for an adventure on your visit to Machu Picchu at an unbeatable price, book the Peru Rail Expedition. This train has all the onboard comforts you could ask for, and it is the most popular PERURAIL train. That is because it offers great executive service at a very economical price.

The train cars of the PeruRail Expedition train are steeped in the designs of Incan culture, making them the perfect way to start the trip to the Citadel of Machu Picchu. PeruRail Expedition gives you the chance to take in the unbelievable scenery and to snap incredible panoramic pictures. This service is designed for adventurous travelers seeking comfort and security. There is plenty of space for travelers´ bags. Normal price is between $ 55.00 USD and $ 85.00 USD.

The Voyager Train, Inca Rail.

The Voyager is an affordable option for your trip to Machu Picchu. There is room for 42 passengers and guides. Along the way you can enjoy the ever-changing scenery from spacious coaches which are equipped with comfortable leather seats. There are dining tables and panoramic windows with anti-impact, UV protection glass which provides you insurance for your eyes.

On board the Voyager you will be offered:

• Snacks.
• Hot and cold drinks.
• Music

The Local Train to Machu Picchu by PERURAIL

This train can only be used by the residents of Aguas Calientes, Ollantaytambo and Cusco. There is the possibility that some Peruvian national tourists could buy tickets, but foreign tourists are not allowed on board. The first prerequisite to buying a ticket is the presentation of a DNI which is the Peruvian national identity card. Locals usually fill up this train immediately. Even Peruvian nationals probably will not be able to find tickets unless they purchase them at least a week in advance.

Some of the characteristics of the Peru Rail local train:

• There are 5 passenger coaches and there are other cars for carrying freight.
• This service is only for residents of the zone. If there are extra spaces, Peruvian tourists can purchase tickets.
• A Peruvian DNI is needed to buy your ticket and to board the train.
• It is not very comfortable as there are standing-room passengers and cargo in the aisles.
• It is operated only by PERURAIL.
• This is the service with the most cancelations due to bad weather and to problems with the track. Priority is given to the tourist trains.

How to Buy Your Train Tickets to Machu Picchu on Perurail?

Via Internet:

• Go to the web-page of Perurail.
• Complete the required form with route, destination, dates, and number of passengers. Click on “find your train”.
• Verify that there are tickets available and choose the train of your preference for both legs of the journey.
• Complete your personal information.
• Select your method of payment: credit card (Visa or MasterCard), PayPal or bank transfer.
• Accept the terms and conditions and make your payment.
• Finally, print out you payment voucher. With this you can pick up your tickets at any PeruRail office. To pick up your tickets you will need to present the following documents: voucher of payment, a photocopy of the credid card which you used to make your payment, and your personal ID.
• If you are traveling with a child under 3 years of age, there will be no charge for that child. Before boarding the train you should go to a PeruRail office and consult with a PeruRail counter representative if you are travelling with a young child. They will put your child´s data on your adult ticket. That way your child will be allowed to board with you without any incovenience. You can do this at the train station if you arrive an hour ahead of your scheduled departure time.

At the offices of PeruRail:

• Larcomar Shopping Center, Avenue Malecon de la Reserva 610, Office 214, Miraflores, Lima.
• Jorge Chavez International Airport in Lima, Avenue Elmer Faucett, between gates 13 and 14 in the terminal for national flights.
• Centro Comercial Plaza Norte, Avenue Alfredo Mendiola 1400, on the first floor of the Galería Sur in Lima.
• Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport, Avenue Velasco Astete in Cusco.
• Plaza de Armas, Portal de Carnes 214, Cusco.
• Plazoleta Regocijo 202, Cusco.
• Avenue El Sol 409, Cusco.
• Wanchaq Station, Avenue Pachacutec, Cusco.
• Poroy Station, Calle Roldan, Poroy, Cusco.
• Urubamba Station, Avenue Ferrocarril, Urubamba, Sacred Valley, Cusco.
• Ollantaytambo Station, Avenue Ferrocarril, Ollantaytambo, Sacred Valley, Cusco.
• Aguas Calientes Station, Barrio Las Orquideas, Machu Picchu.

How to Buy Your Train Tickets to Machu Picchu on Inca Rail?

Via Internet:

• Go to the oficial website of Inca Rail on the internet.
• Fill out the requested information: the dates you will be traveling, number of passengers and currency to be used. Click on ¨ Buy tickets¨
• Choose your route and the level of service desired.
• Complete the required form dealing with your personal information.
• Choose your method of payment and make the payment.
• Finally, print out your voucher stating that you have paid. With this voucher you can pick up your train tickets at any Inca rail office. To pick up your tickets you will need to present the following documents: your voucher of payment, a photocopy of the credit card which you used to make the payment, and your personal ID.
• If you are traveling with a child under 3 years of age, there will be no charge for that child. Before boarding the train you should go to an IncaRail office and consult with an IncaRail counter representative if you are travelling with a young child. They will put your child´s data on your adult ticket. That way your child will be allowed to board with you without any incovenience. You can do this at the train station if you arrive an hour ahead of your scheduled departure time.

At the offices of Inca Rail:

• Portal de Panes 105 on the Plaza de Armas in Cusco.
• Ollantaytambo Station, Avenue Ferrocarril in the town of Ollantaytambo.
• Aguas Calientes Station, in the town of Machupicchu Pueblo.
• Avenue El Sol 843, in the City of Cusco.

What are the Stations Between Cusco and Machu Picchu?

Stations where trains leave for Machu Picchu:

• Poroy Station. Located on Roldan Street in the town of Poroy, 30 minutes from downtown Cusco.
• Urubamba Station. Located on Ferrocarril Avenue, in the town of Urubamba, 1 hour and 30 minutes from Cusco
• Ollantaytambo Station. Located in the town of Ollantaytambo, 2 hours from Cusco.

Station from which the train returns from Machu Picchu to Cusco:

• Aguas Calientes Station, located in the town of Machupicchu Pueblo, 4 hours from Cusco.

Now that you know everything about the trains to Machu Picchu, you just need to book the Machu Picchu tickets. To enjoy an unforgettable trip through the Inca city.

How far is Machu Picchu from Cusco and how long does it take to get there?

The distance from Cusco to Machu Picchu is 115 km. How long it takes depends on from which station you are traveling to Machu Picchu. The approximate travel time from the following stations is:

• 3 hours and 30 minutes from the Poroy Station (Cusco).
• 2 hours and 30 minutes from the Urubamba Station.
• Less than 2 hours from the Ollantaytambo Station.

Recommendations for buying your train ticket to Machu Picchu

• Reserve your ticket at least 20 days before you plan to travel if you are traveling during low tourist season.
• If you are traveling during high tourist season, you should make your reservation at least 90 days in advance.
• When reserving your ticket, you must use the exact data as printed in your passport.
• You must present your passport or your identity document when you board the train. If you do not, you will not be allowed to board.
• If you need to change or cancel your ticket for any reason, you should go directly to the offices of your train line at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure. You should bring with you your identity documents and the printed out train tickets.
• Make sure that you arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure of your train.
• In case you have been affected by a cancelation or re-scheduling of service by Perurail or Inca Rail, you must contact the carrier within 7 days.
• If you personally purchased your train ticket and you have been affected by a cancellation, you should contact the operator on the very same day or as soon as possible.
• If you purchased your train ticket through a travel agency, contact your travel agency as soon as possible.
• Before you buy your ticket, it is good to be aware of when the rainy season occurs. The height of the rainy season is during the months of January and February. This is when the majority train cancelations, re-scheduling problems and delays occur. These problems are usually casued by overflowing rivers because of the rain.
• If you buy a Cusco – to – Machu Picchu train ticket and the ticket is for any date between January 2 to April 30, the service that you will receive on some trains will be bimodal (BUS + TRAIN going to Machu Picchu and TRAIN + BUS returning to Cusco). Travelers should therefore be very sure which type of tickets they are buying.

There are so many ways to travel to Machu Picchu. But, of all of them, the best will always be the one in which you lived unforgettable experiences. Book our best tours to Machu Picchu and enjoy an incredible trip.