Trains to Machu Picchu depart daily from Cusco, Poroy, and Ollantaytambo, offering different schedules and services. There are only two ways to visit the citadel of Machu Picchu, but the most popular, comfortable and relaxing option is by train. During the journey, you can enjoy breathtaking natural landscapes.
Over the years, the train service to Machu Picchu has evolved from a basic backpacker service to one that offers comfort and even luxury, making it an expensive but worthwhile option. Despite the price, the train ride remains one of the most breathtaking experiences.
Machu Picchu has been recognized as the most popular site to visit in 2024 by the World Travel Awards, National Geographic and TripAdvisor. These accolades have added to its appeal, drawing even more visitors to this iconic destination.
While there are several ways to reach Machu Picchu, traveling by train remains the most popular choice. This guide provides essential information on how to book your train to Machu Picchu and select the best service for your next adventure to the Inca citadel.
Remember, to complete your itinerary, you'll need a ticket to Machu Picchu, a shuttle bus to the Inca citadel, and a guide. Here you'll find all the information you need, along with the best tips for planning your visit to the City in the Clouds.
2025 Train to Machu Picchu
According to PeruRail, all trains from Cusco and Poroy will leave from Ollantaytambo between January and April 2025. From Cusco to Ollantaytambo, PeruRail will offer a tourist bus service called Bimodal.
The Hiram Bingham train will depart from the Sacred Valley, Rio Sagrado. A bimodal tourist bus service will be offered from Cusco to Rio Sagrado.
For IncaRail, the normal service from Ollantaytambo will continue and a tourist bus service will be offered from Cusco to Ollantaytambo.
Train to Machu Picchu
There are two train companies to operate to Machu Picchu: PeruRail and IncaRail. Both companies are the only operators of the TransAndino railway in Cusco and Puno.
Both Machu Picchu train companies offer different services and schedules for departing trains. However, PeruRail is the only train company authorized to depart from Cusco and Poroy. IncaRail offers a bimodal service that departs from Ollantaytambo and includes a bus ride from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, followed by a train ride to Machu Picchu.
PeruRail
PeruRail is the oldest company that provides train services to two of the most representative destinations in Peru: Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca. The types of train services offered on the Cusco - Machu Picchu route are:
Perurail Hiram Bingham
The Hiram Bingham Luxury Train to Machu Picchu, voted one of the best trips of 2008 by Italian Class magazine, is characterized by its blue and gold colors and its warm, comfortable interiors with elegant upholstery. This service includes four cars: two dining cars, a bar car with an observatory, and a kitchen car. The Hiram Bingham train features a highly trained staff dedicated to providing personal attention, along with the best local music and a catwalk of models wearing Alpaca clothing.
Perurail: Vistadome Observatory
The PeruRail Vistadome Observatory train travels between Poroy or Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu, offering a unique and unforgettable journey. Immerse yourself in the magical landscape with panoramic cars and an observatory car, offering an exclusive atmosphere and a pleasant experience. We recommend that you purchase a morning ticket from Poroy or Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu and an afternoon ticket from Machu Picchu to Ollantaytambo no later than 2pm. If you get a later ticket, the route may be too dark to see much, making it less worthwhile.
Perurail Vistadome
Surrounded entirely by glass, with cars featuring wide panoramic windows that offer unparalleled scenic views and opportunities for spectacular photography.
The Vistadome to Machu Picchu was the first panoramic train created by PeruRail in response to requests from travelers. Due to its immediate popularity, it has become the second most chosen service by travelers, offering large windows and stunning views. If you are planning to purchase a ticket for this Machu Picchu train, we recommend that you book the morning option and return no later than 3:00 pm. If you choose a later time, it will be too dark to see anything and you won't be able to fully enjoy the trip. Also, a snack is included on this train.
Perurail Expedition
The PeruRail Expedition offers a comfortable and culturally immersive journey, with onboard amenities and decor inspired by Inca culture. It is the perfect prelude to your visit to Machu Picchu. Additionally, you will have access to our onboard shop, featuring ideal items for your tour of the Inca citadel.
Our trains depart every day of the year, with multiple times and frequencies that easily adapt to your itinerary.
Autobagon: An exclusive service departing from the new station located in the Tambo del Inca hotel in Urubamba. It features panoramic windows on the sides for a complete view of the surroundings.
PeruRail to Machu Picchu: Routes
- Cusco - Machu Picchu - Cusco
- Poroy - Machu Picchu - Poroy
- Ollantaytambo - Machu Picchu - Ollantaytambo
- Hidrolectrica - Machu Picchu - Hidrolectrica
You can select the best starting point and return destination according to your request.
IncaRail
Unlike PeruRail, this company operates only between the stations of Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu.
Inca Rail Private
Get on board an exclusive private journey to the city of Machu Picchu. Enjoy the beautiful views of the Sacred Valley of the Incas while you delight in a three-course gourmet menu, drink pairings, and live entertainment on board. Designed for passengers seeking privacy, luxury, and maximum comfort, the Inca Rail Private offers a finely decorated lounge with beautiful images of Peruvian culture and a bar on board. The wagon is fully wood-veneered with warm lighting, panoramic windows, and luxurious finishes.
Inca Rail First Class
Travel to Machu Picchu by train in a comfortable lounge with an outdoor balcony, where elegance and comfort meet. Enjoy the most beautiful landscapes offered during the train trip to Machu Picchu. Discover the Inca citadel comfortably in a luxury train while enjoying a three-course menu and a beverage tasting on board.
Inca Rail 360°
This service operates daily, year-round, in six IncaRail frequencies. These cars have a capacity for 64 passengers and feature comfortable seats, carefully designed for comfort. All seats have tables in front and panoramic windows to enjoy the beautiful landscape. Tickets can be purchased up to 30 minutes before departure at the station ticket offices or 24 hours in advance through the IncaRail website or at their offices in Lima and Cusco.
Inca Rail The Premium & Lounge
Experience Machu Picchu at your own pace and immerse yourself in the magic of the Andean landscape, enjoying every moment from the comfort of our lounge.
Treat yourself to premium service and relish the comfort of our lounge and outdoor balcony, stunning and vibrant scenery, and soothing Andean music, making your journey to Machu Picchu truly unforgettable. Benefit from priority boarding, more comfortable seats, and large windows. The warm hospitality of our staff will ensure a delightful journey until you reach the Machu Picchu Pueblo train station.
Inca Rail The Voyager
Experience the mystique of an unforgettable journey with our comfortable seats and excellent onboard service. Delight in the incredible scenery that surrounds the path to Machu Picchu. The Voyager train departs every day. This train to Machu Picchu is the most economical and is requested by all travel agencies and travelers. The departure times from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu are optimal, and the return times are similar.
These Machu Picchu train have the following routes:
Inca Rail to Machu Picchu: Routes
- Ollantaytambo - Machu Picchu - Ollantaytambo
The Inca Rail train company offers the bus service from Cusco to Ollantaytambo and back. The name of this service is "VOYAGER."
