Everything You Need To Know About The Machu Picchu Train
Are you thinking about taking a Machu Picchu train from Cusco?
This famous scenic ride is perhaps one of the best of its kind in the entire country, where you can enjoy epic views of Andean mountains on your journey to Machu Picchu through the Sacred Valley. However it’s important to know that there are several trains you can take, which will all differ in price, quality and how long it takes to arrive.
In this article we’ll explore everything you need to know about the various Machu Picchu trains. This includes your different options from Cusco, how long the journey takes as well as what we think the overall best option is.
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Which Is The Overall Best Machu Picchu Train?
This ultimately depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for, as well as other factors such as price, comfort and logistics. The best all-rounder in these departments has to be the Vistadome Train, with its comfortable seats, massive observatory windows and various train station stops (5 throughout Cusco and the Sacred Valley).
If you’re looking for the most luxurious experience possible then the winner is easily the Hiram Bingham Train, which has both great on-board entertainment and comfort. Those who are looking to spend the least will want to consider either the Expedition Train (PeruRail) or the Voyager Train (Inca Rail).
The Different Machu Picchu Trains From Cusco
There are various different trains you can take to get to Machu Picchu. Below we’ll cover the main options you have, as well as the pros and cons of each choice.
The Expedition Train (PeruRail)
Starting off we have the famous Expedition Train operated by PeruRail, which is the cheapest option possible to get from Cusco to Machu Picchu. Whilst the service and quality is less compared with premium trains such as those of the Hiram Bingham train, it’s still a wonderful ride to take (and much better than buses and walking). They depart from the San Pedro Station in Cusco, Poroy Station and Ollantaytambo Station.
The Voyager Train (Inca Rail)
Next we have the Voyager Train which is owned by the main competitor Inca Rail – which is the other famous train service provider of the region. Also an entry-level option for trains to Machu Picchu, the Voyager has a more premium gold feel within the cabins, although with less legroom and smaller windows. They depart from their train station within the Historic Centre of Cusco, as well as from Ollantaytambo.
The Vistadome Train (PeruRail)
One of our personal favourites for the train from Cusco to Machu Picchu, the Vistadome Train is the very best for outward views with its giant windows both on the walls and roof. You’ll also get to relax and enjoy an upgraded cabin compared with the Expedition Train, which we offer on our various Machu Picchu and Inca Trail tours. They have several departure points, which include inside Cusco (Wánchaq, San Pedro and Poroy) as well as from Ollantaytambo and Urubamba.
The Hiram Bingham Train (Belmond)
The most luxurious train option you can take, the Hiram Bingham Train is the most luxurious, comfortable and stylish way of getting to Machu Picchu – where you’ll feel like you’re travelling back in the 1950’s! On-board there is entertainment, food and an observatory lounge, where you’ll be able to enjoy comfortable seats with your own private table. They depart from both Poroy Station as well as from Ollantaytambo Station.
Machu Picchu Train FAQ
Below we’ll now answer some of the frequent questions we get about the different Machu Picchu trains, as well as anything else important that you need to know.
How Long Is The Machu Picchu Train Ride?
This depends on which stop you will be boarding at. For example, the various train stations in Cusco will take the longest with a ride of 3.5 hours. Those who board in Urubamba can expect a train ride of 2.5 hours, whilst those boarding in the ancient Inca town of Ollantaytambo can expect a ride of 1.5 hours.
How Much Does The Train To Machu Picchu Cost?
Prices can vary a lot depending on what type of service you wish to use to get to Machu Picchu. The entry-level trains (Expedition and Voyager) begin around $140 for a one-way ride, whilst the luxurious Hiram Bingham Train will cost $950 for a one-way ride.
Is There A Bathroom On The Train To Machu Picchu?
All trains from Cusco to Aguas Calientes (the station where Machu Picchu is located) have an on-board toilet, which is both convenient and useful. However we still recommend bringing your own toilet paper with you just in case you need to go and they have recently run out.
Overview Of The Different Machu Picchu Trains
And that’s everything you need to know about the different Machu Picchu trains you can take from Cusco and the Sacred Valley region.
One of the legendary Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu is an absolute must-visit on any itinerary throughout Peru. For those who are interested in a more comfortable ride to the Inca citadel, there are several different types of trains that you can take – which all differ on price, logistics, comfort and entertainment.
Are you looking to explore Machu Picchu? Then check out our memorable overnight Machu Picchu tour, which includes all meals, an expert tour guide to lead your group as well as the option of arriving with the Vistadome Train.