Last Updated on October 21, 2026 by James Bustamante
Traveling to the famous Inca Ruins of Machu Picchu? Well, unless you’re interested in hiking through Urubamba and up the mountain, the quickest and safest way to get there is by taking one of the many trains to Machu Picchu.
Before we proceed with the information we want to point out that trains are already included in any of our Peru tour packages to Machu Picchu.
The main tourist train operators are PeruRail and Inca Rail. Compare PeruRail and Inca Rail by departure time, station, fare conditions and confirmed onboard services.
Departure arrangements vary by date and service. Your booking may start at a rail station or use a combined bus and train service. Do not assume that every departure leaves from Poroy or that a ticket described as departing Cusco covers the whole journey by train.
Train Stations and Journey Times
Ollantaytambo is a common boarding point in the Sacred Valley. Other departure arrangements depend on the operator, service and season. Check the actual station or bus meeting point on your ticket.
Allow for your hotel transfer, the operator’s required arrival time, the rail journey and the bus from Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu entrance. Use the published schedule for your departure rather than a single journey time for every train.
The Local Train to Machu Picchu
PeruRail’s local train is a subsidized service with specific eligibility and documentation requirements. It should not be treated as a standard tourist ticket. Check eligibility directly with PeruRail; international visitors planning a vacation should compare the tourist services.
The Expedition Train to Machu Picchu
PeruRail Expedition offers seats, tables and large windows with an Inca inspired interior. It is a useful starting point for travelers comparing fares. Prices vary by date, departure and availability, so request a current quote rather than relying on an old fixed fare. Confirm onboard inclusions for the selected service.
The Vistadome Train
Vistadome is a PeruRail service with panoramic windows and a different onboard experience from Expedition. Both services have large windows. Compare the exact departure, direction, inclusions and upgrade price. Entertainment and refreshments should be checked against the service you are booking; they are not identical on every journey.
The Hiram Bingham Train
Hiram Bingham, A Belmond Train, offers a luxury experience with dining and onboard hospitality. The price and included ground services depend on the reservation. Request written confirmation of meals, transfers, Machu Picchu entry, guiding and any other inclusions before booking. We can compare it with other train options as part of your Machu Picchu vacation package.
Machu Picchu Train Luggage Policy
Pack a small bag for the rail journey and arrange storage for larger suitcases before leaving your hotel. Confirm storage terms and your collection arrangements rather than assuming they are included.
PeruRail publishes different baggage details across its service information and booking terms. Check the allowance attached to your selected service and ticket, including both weight and dimensions. Use the official PeruRail baggage policy and ask the operator to clarify any discrepancy before travel.
Inca Rail has its own baggage conditions. Check those for your reservation rather than applying PeruRail’s allowance to another operator. Ask in advance about oversized luggage or special assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Trains to Machu Picchu
Which train should I take to Machu Picchu?
Choose by departure time, station, price, fare conditions and confirmed onboard services. PeruRail and Inca Rail both offer tourist services. Ask us to compare the options available for your itinerary.
When is the best time to take the train to Machu Picchu?
Choose a departure that gives you enough time for station check in, the train journey, the bus queue and your ticketed Machu Picchu entry. An overnight stay in Aguas Calientes can make the timing less rushed.
How expensive is the train?
Fares depend on the operator, service, departure date and availability. Request a current quote that specifies whether the price is for one direction or the return journey and lists any extra services.
How long is the train ride to Machu Picchu?
The duration depends on the station and selected service. Some itineraries combine a bus transfer with the train. Check the published schedule for your exact departure and allow separately for the bus to the Machu Picchu entrance.
What is the difference between the Vistadome and the Expedition?
Both have large windows. Vistadome offers a different onboard experience, but the actual inclusions and upgrade cost depend on the selected departure. Compare the confirmed services rather than assuming a fixed price difference.
