Cusco to Machu Picchu train

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Taking the train from Cusco to Machu Picchu is not just a way to get there, it is an essential part of the journey. This route takes you through spectacular landscapes: Andean valleys, mighty rivers, and vegetation-covered mountains, as you delve into the heart of the Inca Empire.

Besides being comfortable and safe, traveling by train allows you to calmly appreciate the transition from the Andean landscape to the cloud forest, all while learning more about the history and culture of this emblematic region of Peru.

Here we will show you which are the best trains to go from Cusco to Machu Picchu, what options are available according to your budget and preferences, and how to choose the ideal service to turn your journey into a unique experience.

How to get to Machu Picchu from Cusco?

Currently, there are 3 ways to travel from Cusco to Machu Picchu: walking, by train and by car. The most popular route is by train and the most challenging is via the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Keep in mind that there is no direct bus from Cusco to Machu Picchu, so you will have to make some stops along the way.

1. Treks to Machu Picchu

The Inca Trail is the most famous hike to reach Machu Picchu, accessing through the Sun Gate or Intipunku. Other hikes include the Short Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trail, Lares, Choquequirao, and Huchuy Qosqo.

2. Machu Picchu by Train

If you don't like walking or don't have much time, this option is the most convenient. Train tours offer a great experience because you'll be able to appreciate the rural landscape of Peru while traveling by train to the citadel of Machu Picchu.

3. Jungle Access to Machu Picchu

This is the most popular alternative route to Machu Picchu. You'll need to take a shuttle to Hidroeléctrica and then walk along the train tracks to the town of Aguas Calientes. From Hidroeléctrica it's also possible to take a train.

Traveling from Cusco to Machu Picchu by Train

Traveling by train to Machu Picchu is the easiest, fastest, and most comfortable way to get from Cusco to Machu Picchu. The train ride from Cusco to Machu Picchu takes on average about 3 hours. Trains depart from several stations, including San Pedro, Wanchaq, Poroy, and Ollantaytambo and wind through the stunning Sacred Valley before arriving at the town of Aguas Calientes at the base of Machu Picchu Mountain.

Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) is the final stop for all trains, regardless of which company you travel with. From Aguas Calientes, passengers must take a bus to the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Buses leave every few minutes and the journey takes about 25 minutes.

Train Companies to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes)

Currently, there are two main companies that operate train service to Machu Picchu Pueblo (also known as Aguas Calientes): PeruRail and Inca Rail. Both offer routes from Cusco and from Ollantaytambo, providing several train categories depending on the type of experience you desire: from comfortable tourist options to luxury services with panoramic windows and personalized attention.

PeruRail stands out for its variety of services and is considered the most luxurious option on the market. Inca Rail, for its part, also offers premium experiences, as well as more accessible alternatives. Prices may vary slightly between both companies, and usually depend on factors such as departure time, train type, and season.

Fact to consider: Train tickets can sell out weeks in advance, especially during high season, so it is recommended to book in advance to secure the desired schedule and service.

Type of service

Peru Rail
The first private company to Machu Picchu. They started taking travelers to Machu Picchu in 1999. They have more trains than the other company and different prices and services. Peru Rail has a long history and has played a major role in the development of Peru's rail network and is one of the main leaders in the rail industry.
Inca Rail
Inca Rail is the newest company to Machu Picchu and they started operating in 2007. They have different services from Cusco and Ollantaytambo. It also offers other services such as Machu Picchu tours and luxury trains.

Trains to Machu Picchu: Types and Experiences

Standard Trains to Machu Picchu

Expedition Train (PeruRail) This is PeruRail's most affordable option, ideal for those seeking comfort without luxuries. The cars are decorated with motifs inspired by Inca culture, adding a cultural touch to the journey. It offers comfortable seats and basic snack service.
Voyager Train (Inca Rail) This is Inca Rail's standard alternative. It features spacious seats, panoramic windows, and onboard service. It is an efficient and comfortable option from both Cusco and Ollantaytambo, offering good value for money.
The Voyager Premium & Lounge Train (Inca Rail) An upgrade to the standard service, with wider seats, larger windows, and an exclusive lounge car where you can relax before boarding. Ideal for those looking for a comfortable journey without paying for the luxury category.

Panoramic Trains to Machu Picchu

Vistadome Train (PeruRail) Designed for landscape lovers, the Vistadome features panoramic windows on the walls and ceiling, allowing you to enjoy views of the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba River. A snack and a cultural presentation are included onboard. It is the most popular train for round trip tours.
360° Train (Inca Rail) This train offers an immersive experience with wide windows, a glass roof, and an open-air observation car. It also includes snacks, drinks, and entertainment. It is one of the best ways to appreciate the natural beauty of the journey to Machu Picchu.

Luxury Trains to Machu Picchu

Sacred Valley Train (PeruRail) An exclusive train connecting Urubamba with Machu Picchu, featuring classic-style cars, first-class onboard service, gourmet food, and an observation car. It is currently not in operation, but it is ideal when available for a complete luxury experience.
Hiram Bingham Train (PeruRail - Belmond) Considered the most luxurious train in Peru, it offers a five-star experience with Pullman-style cars, an elegant dining car, a bar with live music, a gourmet menu, and all-inclusive service. Traveling on the Hiram Bingham is like stepping back in time with style.
Private Train (Inca Rail) A charter train designed exclusively for small groups. It offers total privacy, personalized attention, onboard music, a wine list, and gourmet cuisine. Ideal for family trips or special celebrations.
First Class Train (Inca Rail) A luxurious option with less exclusivity than the private train, but with excellent services: reclining seats, panoramic windows, live music, an observation car, and a gourmet menu inspired by Peruvian cuisine.

Train Stations to Machu Picchu

Before we get into the best trains to Machu Picchu, you should know that there are several train stations. Here are the most important ones:

Wanchaq train station
San Pedro station
Poroy station
Ollantaytambo train station
Sacred Valley station
Aguas Calientes train station

About Train Stations for Traveling between Cusco and Machu Picchu

Trains from San Pedro to Machu Picchu
PeruRail is the only company that operates from San Pedro station, located right in the historic center of Cusco, just a 10-minute walk from the Plaza de Armas. This service covers the longest route to Machu Picchu and has only two departures per day. During the dry season (from late April to late December), the journey offers spectacular views of the plains of Anta, the Huarocondo canyon, and the Sacred Valley, following the Urubamba River until reaching Aguas Calientes. It is an excellent option for those who wish to enjoy the landscape peacefully, on a journey that takes around 5 hours.
Trains from Machu Picchu to San Pedro station
On the return from Machu Picchu, some trains extend their route from Poroy to San Pedro station. This is the longest route to Cusco, and arrivals are later, so it is important to plan transfers and accommodation in advance if you choose this option.
Trains from Poroy to Machu Picchu
Poroy station is located about 40 minutes by car from the center of Cusco and is the second furthest after San Pedro. All trains that depart from San Pedro also stop at Poroy, allowing passengers to board there if they prefer. The journey from this station takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes and offers beautiful views of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
Trains from Machu Picchu to Poroy station
Trains returning from Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) to Poroy depart in the afternoon and take about 4 hours to arrive. From Poroy, you will need to make an additional 40 minute transfer by vehicle to Cusco. This option is convenient for those who wish to return to the city on the same day of their visit to Machu Picchu, although it requires additional logistics.

The Best Trains from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu (and Back)

Ollantaytambo train station is the most used to travel to Machu Picchu, both for its strategic location in the Sacred Valley and for the speed of the journey. From Cusco, it can be reached by car in approximately 2 hours, making it a comfortable and efficient option for travelers.

Trains from Peru Rail: Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu Pueblo
To board the train, it is advisable to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes in advance. The train journey to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes) takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. PeruRail offers different types of trains from this station, including the Expedition (economy) service and the Vistadome (panoramic).
Trains from Inca Rail: Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu
Inca Rail also operates frequent departures from Ollantaytambo. Upon boarding, passengers are usually greeted with a small welcome show. For a more comfortable experience, the Premium Lounge service is recommended, which includes drinks, snacks, and personalized attention on board.
Bimodal Train Service: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Machu Picchu
The bimodal service combines bus transport from Cusco to Ollantaytambo and then a train to Machu Picchu. This modality is very useful during the rainy season (January to March), when trains from San Pedro or Poroy are not directly available.
Bimodal Peru Rail
Buses depart from the Wanchaq station in Cusco. After a road trip of about 2 hours, you arrive at Ollantaytambo station to board the train to Aguas Calientes. This service facilitates the entire journey, without the need to coordinate separate transport.
Bimodal Inca Rail
The journey begins from the Inca Rail office on Av. El Sol, where buses depart for Ollantaytambo. Passengers can choose to arrive by taxi on their own or hire a service with pickup from the hotel. Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, the transfer by train to Machu Picchu takes place.

A fact to consider: The route from Ollantaytambo is especially recommended for those taking a Sacred Valley tour, as they can visit the Inca ruins there and then continue directly to Machu Picchu on the same day, without having to return to Cusco.

The Best Machu Picchu Trek & Tours

Cusco offers spectacular landscapes and routes that leave unforgettable memories. Among intensely colored mountains, deep valleys, and archaeological sites full of history, walking its paths is one of the best ways to enjoy the region. The altitude, changing climate, and diverse ecosystems make each trail a unique experience, with physical challenges and views that are worth the effort. Here are some very popular treks: