Machu Picchu by Train: The Easiest Way to Reach the Lost City

Machu Picchu by train gives you the easiest and most scenic way to reach the Lost City of the Incas.

Taking the train to Machu Picchu is the easiest and most comfortable way to reach the Lost City — especially if it’s your first time in Peru.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the
train to Machu Picchu: which routes exist, how to choose between
companies, how to buy your tickets, and how to connect the last stretch from Aguas Calientes up to the ruins.

Why Go to Machu Picchu by Train?

Machu Picchu sits deep in the Andes, on the edge of the Amazon. The site is not accessible by regular road:
you either hike a multi-day trek or take the train along the Urubamba River.
For most travelers, the train is the simplest and most time-efficient option.

All trains arrive at Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes). From there, you’ll take a
short bus ride or hike up to the citadel itself.

Train Companies to Machu Picchu

Two main companies operate the Machu Picchu train routes:

PeruRail

PeruRail runs several services, including the budget-friendly Expedition, the mid-range
Vistadome with large panoramic windows, and the luxury Hiram Bingham train.
They operate departures from Cusco (San Pedro station), Poroy (seasonally), and Ollantaytambo
in the Sacred Valley.

Inca Rail

Inca Rail offers the The Voyager, The 360° with extra-large windows,
and premium services such as First Class and Private.
They mainly operate from Ollantaytambo and also provide a combined
bus + train service from Cusco.

For up-to-date schedules and prices, always check the official websites of PeruRail and Inca Rail before booking.

Main Train Routes to Machu Picchu

Most travelers will start their Machu Picchu train journey either from
Cusco or the Sacred Valley. Here are the main options:

1. From Cusco to Machu Picchu (via Ollantaytambo)

Today, the most common route is a bus or private transfer from Cusco to Ollantaytambo
(about 1.5–2 hours), then the train from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu Pueblo.
Some combined “bimodal” tickets include both segments.

2. From Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu

This is the most popular train Machu Picchu route. Trains run frequently
throughout the day, and the journey takes around 1.5 hours along the Urubamba River.
If you are already staying in the Sacred Valley, this is usually the best choice.

3. From Cusco (San Pedro) – Seasonal & Limited

Certain seasons and services offer trains directly from San Pedro station in Cusco.
These can be convenient but are more limited and often take longer than the Ollantaytambo option.
If your schedule is flexible and you want the full train experience from Cusco, it’s worth checking.

How to Take the Train to Machu Picchu: Step-by-Step

1. Choose your dates and route.
   Decide if you’ll leave from Cusco or the Sacred Valley, and whether you want
   a morning or afternoon train.
2. Book your Machu Picchu tickets.
   Entrance tickets to the site are now limited and must be booked in advance.
   Check the official Peruvian government site or work with a trusted agency
   like Majestic Andes.
3. Reserve your train seats.
   Visit PeruRail or Inca Rail online, or ask your tour operator to secure tickets
   that match your Machu Picchu entrance times.
4. Plan your transport to the station.
   From Cusco, reserve a transfer to Ollantaytambo or San Pedro station with enough buffer
   time. Aim to arrive at the station at least 30–40 minutes before departure.
5. Travel to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo).
   Enjoy the scenic ride through the Sacred Valley — you’ll follow the river into a greener,
   more tropical landscape as you approach the town.
6. Take the bus up to Machu Picchu.
   From Aguas Calientes, buses leave regularly (every 5–10 minutes) and take about
   25–30 minutes up the mountain. Buy bus tickets the day before or early in the morning.
7. Explore Machu Picchu.
   Enter at your assigned time slot and follow the designated circuit. Consider hiring
   a certified guide to make the most of your visit.
8. Return by bus + train.
   Head back down to Aguas Calientes by bus, then take your return train to
   Ollantaytambo or Cusco.

Which Train Class Should You Choose?

You don’t need the most expensive ticket to enjoy the journey, but choosing the right
service will improve your experience.

Standard / Tourist Class

Comfortable seating and large windows, with snacks available for purchase.
Ideal if you want to keep costs reasonable while still enjoying the ride.

Panoramic / Vistadome / 360°

These trains feature large panoramic windows and sometimes glass ceilings,
making the landscapes the main attraction. Perfect for photography and first-time visitors.

Luxury Services

On premium trains like Hiram Bingham or First Class,
expect gourmet meals, bar service, live music and lounge cars. They are significantly more
expensive but turn your Machu Picchu train into a once-in-a-lifetime experience.