Machu Picchu, Peru’s legendary Inca citadel, is accessible only by hiking or train. Most travelers choose trains for their mix of comfort, reliability, and jaw-dropping Andean views. Trains leave from Cusco (11,152 ft / 3,399 m) or Ollantaytambo (9,160 ft / 2,792 m), winding through the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes (6,693 ft / 2,040 m), the town at the base of Machu Picchu. Trains
Types of Trains: Budget to Luxury Options
PeruRail Expedition
The go-to for backpackers: basic seats, snacks, and big windows. Prices start at $60 one-way. Locals call it the “backpacker special.”
PeruRail Vistadome
Glass-dome carriages, live Andean music, and free drinks. Great for photographers. Fares range from 80–150. Pro tip: “Snag a left-side seat for river views!”
Inca Rail Voyager
Mid-range comfort with alpaca-wool seats and complimentary coca tea. Costs 70–120.
Inca Rail 360°
Glass ceilings and walls for 360° vistas. Includes Wi-Fi (spotty, though). Prices: 90–160.
Belmond Hiram Bingham
Luxury all-inclusive: gourmet meals, Pisco sours, and a brass band. Round-trip costs 500–900. Perfect for a splurge.
How to Book Train Tickets Without Hassle
- Book 3+ months early for peak season (June–August). Use PeruRail or Inca Rail’s official sites.
- Pick Ollantaytambo Station if you’re short on time—rides take 1.5 hours vs. 4 hours from Cusco.
- Check luggage rules: 11 lbs (5 kg) max. Most hostels in Cusco store bags for 1–2/day.
- Double-check passport details: Names must match exactly. No exceptions.
- Combine tickets: Some agencies bundle train + Machu Picchu entry + bus tickets. Saves time.
Key Stops and Altitudes
- Cusco (11,152 ft / 3,399 m): Start here to acclimatize. Don’t rush—altitude hits hard.
- Ollantaytambo (9,160 ft / 2,792 m): A quieter, closer departure point with Inca ruins nearby.
- Aguas Calientes (6,693 ft / 2,040 m): Buy bus tickets here for Machu Picchu (25-minute ride).
What to Expect Onboard
- Scenery: Think turquoise rivers, terraced hills, and misty cloud forests.
- Snacks: Budget trains sell chips and cookies. Bring your own if you’re picky.
- Cultural touches: Vistadome trains feature traditional dances. “Like a mini-fiesta on rails!”
Common Challenges and Fixes
- Altitude sickness: Sip coca tea, avoid alcohol, and take it slow. Pills like Diamox help some.
- Sold-out trains: Have a backup plan—hike from Hidroelectrica (free but 3 hours).
- Rainy season delays (Dec–Mar): Trains run, but landslides can cause hiccups. Pack patience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are trains to Machu Picchu safe?
Yes, but keep your daypack close. Petty theft at stations is rare but possible.
Can I eat my own food on the train?
Yes, but luxury trains include meals. Budget trains let you bring snacks—try Peruvian chocolate!
Is there a bathroom on the train?
All trains have restrooms. Pro tip: Go before boarding; some are tiny.
Do trains have power outlets?
Most do, but bring a portable charger just in case.
Can kids ride the train?
Yes. Kids under 3 ride free if they sit on your lap.
What’s the best time to ride?
Morning trains (6–8 AM) avoid crowds and afternoon rain.
Are tickets refundable?
Most aren’t. Pay extra for flexible fares if your plans might change.
Can I buy tickets at the station?
Risky. Stations rarely have last-minute seats during peak months.
Is Wi-Fi reliable?
Only Inca Rail 360° has Wi-Fi, but signal fades in the mountains.
Do trains run year-round?
Yes, but January sees frequent track maintenance. Check schedules ahead.
Can I bring a suitcase?
No. Use a small backpack. Storage in Cusco costs 1–5/day.
Are there discounts for students?
Sometimes. Check PeruRail/Inca Rail’s promo pages.
What if I miss my train?
You’ll need to buy a new ticket. Arrive 30+ minutes early.
Is the Belmond worth the price?
If you want a fancy experience, yes. Otherwise, Vistadome is a solid pick.
Do I need cash onboard?
Cards work for snacks, but carry soles for tips or small buys.
Machu Picchu Train Travel Guide
Planning Your Route
Fly into Cusco, spend 1–2 days adjusting to the altitude, then take a taxi (15–20) or colectivo ($3) to Ollantaytambo for the train.
Acclimatization Tips
Cusco’s altitude can cause headaches or nausea. Drink coca tea, sleep well, and skip heavy meals.
Packing Essentials
- Layers: Mornings are chilly (50°F/10°C), afternoons warm (75°F/24°C).
- Rain jacket: Sudden showers are common, even in dry season.
- Passport: Required for train check-in and Machu Picchu entry.
- Reusable water bottle: Fill up in Aguas Calientes to avoid plastic waste.
Aguas Calientes Tips
- Hot springs: $5 entry. Bring your own towel.
- Bus tickets: Buy round-trip ($24) to Machu Picchu’s entrance.
- Restaurants: Try “menu del día” for cheap, hearty meals.
Sustainable Travel Practices
Trains use eco-friendly biodiesel. Support local businesses—skip chain restaurants.
Day Trip vs. Overnight Stay
Day trips work but feel rushed. Staying overnight lets you hike Huayna Picchu at sunrise.
Highlights
- Trains depart from Cusco or Ollantaytambo; Ollantaytambo saves time.
- Book tickets 3+ months ahead for June–August visits.
- PeruRail and Inca Rail offer budget to luxury classes.
- Passport details must match tickets exactly.
- Pack light: 11 lbs (5 kg) luggage limit per person.
- Left-side seats from Ollantaytambo offer best river views.
- Altitude sickness is common; rest in Cusco first.
- Aguas Calientes has buses, hotels, and cheap eats.
- Combine train tickets with Machu Picchu entry permits.
- Luxury trains include meals and cultural shows.
- Rainy season (Dec–Mar) risks delays; pack flexibility.
- Last-minute tickets are expensive or unavailable.
- Trains support eco-friendly tourism initiatives.
- Carry cash for tips and small purchases.
- Check Machu Picchu entry ticket availability before booking trains.