Machu Picchu, Peru’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, is only reachable by hiking or train. The train journey offers comfort, scenic views, and a hassle-free way to experience the Andes. Trains depart from Cusco (11,152 ft / 3,399 m) or Ollantaytambo (9,160 ft / 2,792 m) to Aguas Calientes (6,693 ft / 2,040 m), the base town for visiting the ruins.

Train Companies and Classes

PeruRail Expedition

Affordable option with large windows, snacks, and basic seating. Popular with budget travelers. Prices: $60–$100 one-way.

PeruRail Vistadome

Panoramic windows, Andean music/dance performances, and complimentary drinks. Prices: $80–$150 one-way.

Inca Rail Voyager

Mid-range comfort with snacks and tea/coffee. Slightly roomier than Expedition. Prices: $70–$120 one-way.

Inca Rail 360°

Glass ceilings and side windows for immersive views. Free Wi-Fi and alpaca-wool seat covers. Prices: $90–$160 one-way.

Belmond Hiram Bingham

Luxury service with gourmet meals, live bands, and an open-air observatory car. Round-trip: $500–$900.

How to Book Machu Picchu Train Tickets

• Book 2–3 months early for peak season (June–August). Use official sites: PeruRail or Inca Rail.
• Choose Ollantaytambo Station for shorter trips (1.5–2 hours vs. 4 hours from Cusco).
• Check luggage rules: 11 lbs (5 kg) per person. Most hotels in Cusco/Ollantaytambo store extra bags.
• Match passport names: Tickets require exact passport details.
• Combine tickets: Some packages include Machu Picchu entry and bus tickets.

Key Stops and Altitudes

• Cusco (11,152 ft / 3,399 m): Start point for trains from Poroy Station. Acclimatize here for 1–2 days.
• Ollantaytambo (9,160 ft / 2,792 m): Closer to Machu Picchu; shorter train ride.
• Aguas Calientes (6,693 ft / 2,040 m): Final stop. From here, take a 25-minute bus or hike to Machu Picchu.

What to Expect on the Train

• Views: Urubamba River, snow-capped peaks, and cloud forests.
• Onboard service: Snacks (budget trains), full meals (luxury), and cultural shows.
• Seat tips: Left side from Cusco/Ollantaytambo for river views; right side on return.

Travel Challenges and Solutions

• Altitude sickness: Drink coca tea, avoid alcohol, and rest in Cusco first.
• Last-minute tickets: Rare in peak season. Have a backup plan like hiking from Hidroelectrica.
• Entry tickets: Train tickets ≠ Machu Picchu entry. Book entry slots at [Official Machu Picchu Website].

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the train ride safe?
Yes, but keep valuables secure. Trains are modern and well-maintained.

Can I bring my own food?
Yes, but luxury trains include meals. Budget trains sell snacks.

Are kids allowed on trains?
Yes. Children under 3 ride free if they sit on a parent’s lap.

Is Wi-Fi available?
Only on Inca Rail 360°. Signal is weak in remote areas.

Do trains run in the rainy season?
Yes, but landslides can cause delays (December–March).

What’s the best seat?
Window seats for photos. Book early to secure them.

Can I charge devices onboard?
Yes, most trains have USB ports or outlets.

Are there toilets on trains?
Yes, all trains have restrooms.

How early should I arrive at the station?
30 minutes before departure. Security checks are quick.

Can I buy tickets at the station?
Risky. Stations rarely sell last-minute seats.

Is there a luggage fee?
No, but bags must fit under seats or overhead.

Are pets allowed?
No, except service animals with prior approval.

Can I change my travel date?
Depends on the fare type. Flexible tickets cost 20–30% more.

Do trains operate at night?
No. Last departure from Aguas Calientes is around 3:30 PM.

Is the Belmond train worth the price?
If you want luxury and all-inclusive service, yes. Otherwise, budget options work fine.

Machu Picchu Train Travel Guide

Planning Your Route
Most travelers fly into Cusco, spend 1–2 days acclimatizing, then take a taxi/bus to Ollantaytambo for the train.

Acclimatization Tips
Cusco’s high altitude can cause headaches or nausea. Take it slow, hydrate, and avoid heavy meals.

Packing Essentials

• Layers (temps swing from 50°F to 80°F / 10°C to 27°C)
• Passport (required for train and Machu Picchu)
• Rain jacket (especially November–April)
• Comfortable shoes for Aguas Calientes’ steep streets

Aguas Calientes Tips

• Hot springs: $5 entry fee. Towels not included.
• Restaurants: Try lomo saltado or quinoa soup.
• Bus tickets: Buy round-trip to Machu Picchu ($24) to save time.

Sustainable Travel
Trains use eco-friendly practices like biodiesel fuel. Avoid single-use plastics.

Day Trip vs. Overnight
Day trips are possible but rushed. Staying overnight lets you visit Machu Picchu at sunrise.

Highlights

• Trains to Machu Picchu depart from Cusco or Ollantaytambo.
• Book tickets 2–3 months in advance for peak season.
• Ollantaytambo offers shorter, cheaper rides.
• PeruRail and Inca Rail operate multiple service classes.
• Passport details must match train tickets.
• Combine train tickets with Machu Picchu entry permits.
• Aguas Calientes has buses, hikes, or hotels for overnight stays.
• Altitude sickness is common; acclimatize in Cusco first.
• Luxury trains like Belmond include meals and cultural entertainment.
• Pack layers, rain gear, and broken-in hiking shoes.
• Trains enforce strict 11 lbs (5 kg) luggage limits.
• Left-side seats offer the best river views.
• Sustainable tourism initiatives reduce environmental impact.
• Check entry ticket availability before booking trains.
• Last-minute train tickets are expensive or unavailable.