Visiting Machu Picchu is one of the dreams of every traveler who arrives in Peru. But what many do not know is that
Today there are several ways to get there, but without a doubt the trains to Machu Picchu are the most comfortable, safe and scenic option. There are different levels of service (from economy to luxury) and each offers a different way to experience the journey.
How to get to Machu Picchu by train?
Most travelers depart from Cusco or Ollantaytambo, in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. From there, the train crosses the valley following the course of the Urubamba River until it reaches Aguas Calientes, the town that functions as a prelude to Machu Picchu.
The journey takes between 1 hour 30 minutes and 3 hours, depending on the starting point. During the journey, the landscape changes: the snow-capped peaks of the mountain range give way to a jungle, humid environment full of vegetation. It is one of the most beautiful railway routes in the world.
Two companies operate this route: PeruRail and Inca Rail. Both offer several types of trains, with different prices, schedules and comfort levels.
PeruRail: the pioneering company
PeruRail was the first company to operate tourist trains to Machu Picchu. Founded in 1999, it is today the best known and has three main services: Expedition, Vistadome and Hiram Bingham.
Expedition
It is PeruRail’s most economical train. It offers a functional environment, with comfortable seats, Andean music and large side windows. It is ideal for those who want to get there quickly and without luxuries, but enjoying the scenery of the Sacred Valley.
- Includes: snacks, drinks and on-board service.
- Departures: from Cusco, Poroy or Ollantaytambo.
- Average duration: 1 h 45 min – 3 h.
Vistadome
A classic for those looking for something more special. The Vistadome has a panoramic roof, large windows and complimentary service with drinks and snacks. On the return trip, it usually includes a show of typical dances and a parade of alpaca garments, which give a cultural touch to the tour.
Ideal if you want to combine comfort, views and authenticity.
Vistadome Observatory
It is the premium version of the Vistadome. In addition to the panoramic car, it has an
Best for: Those who want a trip with open views, a relaxed atmosphere and an added cultural touch.
Price: between 120 and 140 USD.
If you would like to enjoy a unique trip on this train, you can live this experience on the Machu Picchu Tour by Observatory Train
Hiram Bingham
The most luxurious train that travels to Machu Picchu. Operated by Belmond, it is inspired by the Pullman trains of the 20s and offers a full luxury service: gourmet lunch, open bar, live music and observatory car.
More than a transport, it is a five-star experience on rails. Perfect for celebrations, honeymoons or travelers looking for something unique.
Approximate price: between 450 and 550 USD per person.
Inca Rail: modernity and exclusivity
Inca Rail was born in 2009 as a modern alternative to PeruRail. It stands out for the contemporary design of its trains and the personalized attention. It operates from Ollantaytambo and also offers connections from Cusco by bus + train.
The Voyager
It’s your standard service. The carriages have large windows, ergonomic seats, complimentary snacks and drinks. It offers a simple but very pleasant experience, ideal for travelers looking for good value for money.
Average price: 65 – 85 USD.
The 360°
One of the most recommended panoramic trains. Its windows extend to the ceiling and it has an open
Ideal for those who want an immersive experience without paying total luxury.
The First Class and The Private
These services are designed for the most demanding public. The First Class offers ample seating, gourmet menu, signature wine and exclusive service.
The Private goes one step further: it is a private carriage, reserved only for your group, with its own chef and guide.
Prices: from 400 USD and up.
Tips for choosing your train to Machu Picchu
Choose your starting point wisely.
From Cusco the trip is longer, but you save on transfers. From Ollantaytambo, on the other hand, the route is shorter and cheaper.
Buy in advance.
Between June and September, trains fill up quickly. It is advisable to book at least a month in advance.
Please note the departure time.
Morning trains allow you to get to Machu Picchu sooner, but they involve getting up early. Those in the afternoon offer better views because of the sunset light.
Compare the price to the value of the service.
Sometimes paying a little extra changes the experience: the panoramic ones offer views that are worth every extra dollar.
Check return times.
The last train usually leaves between 18:00 and 21:30, depending on the season.
Comparison chart between trains to Machu Picchu
| Service | Enterprise | Level | Key features | Price approx. (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Local Train | PeruRail | Essential | For residents only; No extras | 10 – 20 |
| Expedition | PeruRail | Standard | Comfortable, Andean music, snacks included | 60 – 80 |
| Vistadome | PeruRail | Panoramic | Glass roofs, snack and cultural show | 90 – 110 |
| Vistadome Observatory | PeruRail | Panoramic Plus | Observatory car with live music and open views | 120 -140 |
| The Voyager | Inca Rail | Standard | Wide windows, friendly service, snacks included | 65 -85 |
| The 360° | Inca Rail | Panoramic | Observatory car and 360° views | 100- 130 |
| Hiram Bingham | PeruRail | Luxury | Gourmet lunch, open bar, live music | 450 – 550 |
| The First Class / The Private | Inca Rail | Luxury / Premium | Exclusive wagon, gourmet menu, wine and personalized attention | 400 – 500 |
There is no single way to get to Machu Picchu, but the train is undoubtedly the most magical. Each service has its charm: the basic ones are functional, the panoramic ones give you unforgettable postcards and the luxury ones transform the trip into a movie experience.
If you have time, I recommend taking the day train to enjoy the scenery and return with natural light. Because in Machu Picchu, even the road is worth as much as the destination.
