• Español
  • English

We accept

logorap
Menu

COMPLETE GUIDE TO THE

TRAIN TO
MACHU PICCHU

Everything you need to know before traveling by train to Machu Picchu in 2026

  • Destination Machu Picchu Pueblo
  • Operators PeruRail and Inca Rail
  • Main route Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
  • Duration Approx. 1 hour 30 min.
  • Luggage Small backpack

ASK YOUR QUESTIONS

ASK VIA WHATSAPP

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION

  • Destination: Machu Picchu Pueblo
  • Operators: PeruRail and Inca Rail
  • Main Station: Ollantaytambo
  • Duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours
  • Services: Direct train or bimodal service
  • Luggage: Backpack up to 8 kg
  • Operation: Year-round

TRAIN TO MACHU PICCHU

In this ultimate guide, you will find everything you need to know to organize your train journey to Machu Picchu: which company to choose, the main train stations, how long the journey takes, how the bimodal service works, what luggage is allowed, and which documents you need to present.

You will also learn about the differences between economy, panoramic, and luxury trains, along with recommendations for properly coordinating your train, bus, and Machu Picchu entry schedule. Discover our Machu Picchu tours and enjoy a fully organized experience.

Map of the train route to Machu Picchu

MAIN TRAIN STATIONS

  • Ollantaytambo
    Main departure station, with the widest variety of trains and schedules to Machu Picchu.
  • Cusco – Wanchaq
    Departure point for bimodal services that combine bus and train.
  • Poroy
    Station near Cusco used by certain services and during certain seasons.
  • Machu Picchu Pueblo
    Final station on the route, located in Aguas Calientes at the foot of the Inca citadel.

HOW TO GET THERE?

Typical route from Cusco

  • 1 Book your entry
    Choose your Machu Picchu circuit and entry time in advance
  • 2 Select your train
    Choose the operator, category, route, and schedule
  • 3 Travel to the station
    Transfer from Cusco to Ollantaytambo
  • 4 Board the train
    Arrive at least 30 minutes in advance
  • 5 Scenic train journey
    Travel through the Sacred Valley and along the Urubamba River
  • 6 Arrival at Machu Picchu
    Train to Aguas Calientes and bus to the citadel

WHAT TO BRING?

  • Small backpackSmall backpack
  • Waterproof jacketJacket or raincoat
  • Warm clothingComfortable clothing and a light layer
  • SunscreenSunscreen
  • Water and snacksWater and snacks
  • CameraCamera and extra battery

WHICH TRAIN SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?

PeruRail

Available services

  • Expedition: practical and affordable option
  • Vistadome: panoramic side and overhead windows
  • Vistadome Observatory: observation car and open views
  • Hiram Bingham: luxury experience and onboard dining

Inca Rail

Available services

  • The Voyager: comfortable and affordable service
  • The 360°: panoramic windows and observation car
  • The Prime: premium experience and Andean tasting
  • First Class y Private: exclusive services

TICKETS, DOCUMENTS, AND LUGGAGE

IMPORTANT

The train ticket does not automatically include admission to Machu Picchu or the bus between Aguas Calientes and the entrance to the citadel.

Before traveling

  • Present your original passport or national ID
  • Verify that the name on the ticket is correct
  • Carry your train ticket in digital or printed format
  • Present your official Machu Picchu admission ticket
  • Check the exact station indicated on your ticket
  • Arrive at least 30 minutes in advance
  • Travel with light luggage only

PHOTOS OF THE TRAIN TO MACHU PICCHU

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Both companies offer safe and comfortable services to Machu Picchu Pueblo. The best option will depend on the available schedule, departure station, budget, and the type of experience you are looking for.

PeruRail offers options such as Expedition, Vistadome, and Vistadome Observatory. Inca Rail offers options such as The Voyager, The 360°, The Prime, First Class, and The Private.

From Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu Pueblo, the journey usually takes between 1 hour and 30 minutes and 2 hours. The duration may vary depending on the service, route conditions, and selected schedule.

If your journey begins in Cusco with a bimodal service, you should also consider the time required for the ground transfer to the station where you will board the train.

No. Normally, the train ticket covers only transportation by train. Admission to Machu Picchu, the visitor circuit, the bus to and from the citadel, and the guide service must be booked separately, unless you have purchased a tour package that includes them.

SEE MORE INFORMATION

RECOMMENDED TOUR MOST BOOKED

FULL-DAY MACHU PICCHU TRAIN TOUR

  • Hotel pickup in Cusco
  • Transfer Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
  • Round-trip tourist train
  • Bus to and from Machu Picchu
  • Official admission to the citadel
  • Professional bilingual guide
  • Ongoing assistance throughout the trip

  • 4.9/5 (1,286 reviews)
  • From USD 290 per person

VIEW ITINERARY

WHATSAPP

WHAT OUR TRAVELERS SAY

4.9

I loved the experience! The tour agency in Cusco was excellent.

Pamela Perez Saez

My family and I had a great experience.

Victor Jesus T

Our All-Inclusive Tour Packages

Explore the best of Cusco with our custom-designed tour packages. Discover the magic of this historic city and its surroundings with options that include the iconic Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, and the majestic Machu Picchu citadel.

train to Machu Picchu

Our Guarantee

  • Best price guaranteed
  • Flexible bookings
  • Safe and responsible travel

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Receive exclusive offers, travel tips, and the latest news from Peru.


    Contact us
    by mail
    Contact us
    by WhatsApp