Trains to Machu Picchu
James Bustamante is Native to New York but born to Peruvian parents. He has been traveling throughout Latin America since early 2003 and finally made his home in Peru. James has made his way by eating and traveling through almost every country in Central and South America.
Last Updated on February 4, 2021 by James Bustamante
Traveling to the famous Inca Ruins of Machu Picchu? Well, unless you’re interested in hiking through Urubamba and up the mountain, the quickest and safest way to get there is by taking one of the many trains to Machu Picchu.
Before we proceed with the information we want to point out that trains are already included in any of our Peru tour packages to Machu Picchu.
You can find train stations in the following locations: Poroy, 13 km (8 miles) from Cusco, Ollantaytambo found within the Sacred Valley, 89 km (56 miles) from Cusco, and there’s also a train that leaves from the Urubamba valley.
Now, the biggest choice you’ll have to make is when choosing which train company to use as there are three competing train companies.
PeruRail is the main one, but there are two smaller companies known as Inca Rail and Machu Picchu Train.
PeruRail has a wide range of different kinds of trains to accommodate wildly different budgets. This includes the ‘Expedition’, the ‘Vistadome’ and the ‘Hiram Bingham’, but we’ll get into that a little later on. You can check on a comparison of Perurail vs Inca Rail.
The best option used to be to catch one of the trains for your Machu Picchu hike coming all the way from Cusco, seeing as most if not all of the visitors arrive there first.
However, as of April 1st of 2009, Cusco’s main station no longer provides that service and trains must leave from Poroy station, 13 kilometers (8 miles) west of Cusco.
This means you miss out on some beautiful scenery as you go up Picchu Hill, but you still get an incredible experience as you travel to Machu Picchu, regardless of which train service you acquire.
Now that we’re talking about which train you need, we can look at what services each one provides.
Train Stations to Machu Picchu
In this chart you can get where the trains are departing from, the name of each train station and how long the train ride will be to reach the town of Aguas Calientes.
| Departing From | Train Station | Time to Machu Picchu Station |
| Cusco | San Pedro Station | 4.5 hours |
| Cusco | Poroy Station | 3.5 hours |
| Sacred Valley | Urubamba Station | 2.5 hours |
| Sacred Valley | Ollantaytambo Station | 1.5 hours |
The Local Train to Machu Picchu
First up is the Local Train. This train is only for local Peruvian communities (as per the name) and (during certain times of year) meaning that it is not an option at all unless you’re a Peruvian national.
The local is a subsidised daily service for Peruvians, leaving from Cusco’s San Pedro station in downtown Cusco.
Local trains also run 3 times a day between Machu Picchu and Hydroelectric station (for the Machu Picchu hydroelectric power station), 40 minutes beyond Machu Picchu. It will usually leave Cusco at 07:15. Remember, no foreigners allowed, so try not to get it mixed up.
Local Train to Machu Picchu Details
- It currently has 05 passenger cars and some other freight cars,it is a train that can only be used by Peruvians, and the only way to approach it is to present the DNI of identity).
- The cars are not very comfortable, the train is allowed to transport passengers on foot and load in additional passengers.
- The established schedules can be modified due to weather or other circumstances. Peru Rail is the only company that offers the local train service.
The Expedition Train to Machu Picchu
Next up is the Expedition (formerly known as the Backpacker). It offers comfortable seats, tables and large windows to enjoy the trip to Machu Picchu. The wagons are decorated with an Inca theme.
It is the cheapest tourist service and includes: service on board, sale of drinks and snacks. As it is the cheapest option for people traveling to Machu Picchu the price tends to stay at around $77 each way per person.
Seating is basic but reasonably comfortable with panoramic windows and a buffet car where you can buy drinks and a variety of snacks.
‘Expedition’ Trains Include The Following:
- Large windows – The trains have Inca designs in all their cars. Its windows are wide to appreciate the beautiful landscapes.
- Comfortable tables and seats – All seats (arranged for two people) are comfortable and have large tables.
- Sale on board – All trains have on-board drinks and snacks sales service. The stand is arranged in the final part of the car.
- Service on board – Tourists are carefully served by people offering the service on board. Tourists can consult with them any questions during the trip.
The Vistadome Train
The Vistadome is the mid-range option as it will cost you around $90 per person but it includes complimentary snacks & non-alcoholic drinks served at your somewhat more comfortable seat.
It’s a series of diesel railcars with panoramic windows, just a little bit more luxurious that what you’ll see in the Expedition Train.
It’s also a great train for when you are in your own Machu Picchu group tours along with your friends and family. It’s a bit more spacious adding to the comfort of the entire ride.
‘Vistadome’ Trains Include The Following:
- Panoramic view – Trains are characterized by large trapezoidal windows that offer a complete view of the landscapes. It also includes comfortable seats and large windows.
- Complimentary snacks – Both the round trip include a complimentary snack (cold or hot non-alcoholic). In addition there is sales service on board.
- Live dance – The return trip includes a dance show on board. The dance of ‘Saqra’ (devils) is characteristic of Cusco.
- Fashion show – The return trip includes a fashion show from the exclusive collection of ‘baby alpaca’ products. These products are for sale within the trip.
The Hiram Bingham Train
Finally we have Hiram Bingham. This is the deluxe option, meaning it’s also the most expensive starting at around $475 (£285) each way per person.
Services include gourmet brunch on the way out and dinner on the way back, a selection of Peruvian wine, cocktails, entertainment, bus connections & entrance to the Machu Picchu citadel and even a guided tour. Yes, it even includes your Machu Picchu Reservations.
It is the most luxurious way to travel and should be experienced at least once in your life.
What The Hiram Bingham Luxury Train Includes
- Welcome pisco cocktail.
- Music show at Poroy station.
- Briefcase Belmond Hiram Bingham (courtesy).
- Gourmet lunch (one way train) or gourmet dinner (return train).
- Open bar (with the exception of some selected wines).
- Observatory car (one way trip only).
- Machu Picchu Solo entrance.
- Bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (round trip).
- Tour guide in Machu Picchu.
- Tea at the luxury hotel Belmond Sanctuary Lodge.
- Live music band on board.
- Sale of jewelry to souvenirs on board.
All in all, there are many different options to choose from. If you’re on a budget then you’re set with the Expedition Train, but if you’re in the mood for real luxury then have a shot at the Hiram Bingham.
No matter what you choose you’ll definitely have the experience of a lifetime once you reach the incredible Machu Picchu.
Remember that you can contact us as your Machu Picchu Travel Agency and we will take care of all bookings and Machu Picchu reservations necessary to make sure your trip is an amazing one,
Machu Picchu Train Luggage Policy
As you might assume, there are limitations when it comes to storage for any of the trains to Machu Picchu. The limit is set at one carry-on piece of luggage per passenger. In addition to the luggage limit there is also a weight limit for each bag.
PeruRail Luggage Policy
Passengers are allowed to bring carry-on luggage or a backpack with a maximum weight of 5kg (11lbs). The allowed dimensions for your bag to enter the train are 157 cm (62 inches) in length, width and height.
Inca Rail Luggage Policy
Passengers are allowed one piece of carry-on on luggage with a weight limit of 8 kg (17 lbs). The allowed dimensions for the bags are of 118 cm (46 inches) in length, width and height.
What travelers should realize is that when you are taking any of the trains to Machu Picchu you won’t need to bring all of your luggage from Cusco or the Sacred Valley. Most hotels will offer luggage storage for their guests.
This means that your luggage can safely stay behind while you are heading to and hiking Machu Picchu.
You can safely retrieve your luggage upon your return. Hotels are very much aware that travelers will need to return for at least one more overnight stay.
Frequently Asked Questions About Trains to Machu Picchu
Which train should I take to Machu Picchu?
This all comes down to your budget and preference. The expedition train is the least expensive with the Vistadome having better views and being a bit more comfortable. The Hiram Bingham is the luxury choice.
When is the best time to take the train to Machu Picchu?
It depends on your Machu Picchu permit schedule and your itinerary. If you are on the “express tour” for example you’ll need to leave Cusco as early as possible. Remember that overall it will take around 3.5 hours between boarding, train travel and the shuttle to Machu Picchu. This all needs to be done before actually entering.
How expensive is the train?
The price for train tickets varies depending on which train you take as well as schedule chosen. The costs can vary from $54 to over $600/ride.
How long is the train ride to Machu Picchu?
Train rides take between 50 minutes to 3 and a half hours depending on the train / route chosen.
What is the difference between the Vistadome and the Expedition?
The main difference is that the Vistadome train has more comfortable seating and larger, panoramic style windows. The price difference tends to be around $15-$25/ride.
