The Best Trains from Cusco to Machu Picchu (Schedule for Train to Machu Picchu this 2025 – 2026)

Cusco to Machu Picchu trains or Train to Machu Picchu

Traveling by rail from Cusco to Machu Picchu allows you to take in the stunning landscape as well as the region’s rich cultural legacy. It is just as crucial to enjoy the trip as it is to arrive at the end objective, the majestic fortress of Machu Picchu.

The journey from Cusco to Machu Picchu – Train to Machu Picchu

Trains from Cusco to Machu Picchu are the simplest, quickest, and most pleasant method to travel there. The railway companies that operate between these locations are Peru Rail and Inca Rail. Both companies provide various levels of service, with PeruRail providing a more opulent choice.

The train ride from Cusco to Machu Picchu takes around 3 hours. Trains leave from a variety of stations, including San Pedro, Wanchaq, Poroy, and Ollantaytambo. The trains go through the breathtaking Sacred Valley before landing at Aguas Calientes, at the foot of Machu Picchu Mountain.

Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) is the last destination for all trains, regardless of operator. Passengers must board a bus from Aguas Calientes to the historic Inca stronghold of Machu Picchu. The buses leave every few minutes and travel time is around 25 minutes.

Hiram Bingham’s Machu Picchu Train

How do you go from Cusco to Machu Picchu?

There are three options for getting from Cusco to Machu Picchu: trekking, train, or bus. The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the most well-known tour of Machu Picchu.

A hike to Machu Picchu

The most popular journey to Machu Picchu is the Inca Trail. The Short Inca Trail, Salkantay Trek, Lares Trek, Choquequirao Trek, and Huchuy Qosqo Trek are among the other treks.

Train Tours to Machu Picchu

Train tours to Machu Picchu are an unforgettable experience. While riding the train, you may view the Inca fortress of Machu Picchu and the gorgeous Peruvian landscape.

Amazon Machu Picchu Access

Hidroelectrica is a different way to go to Machu Picchu. You must travel there and then return along the train lines to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo).

Companies that provide train service to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes Town)

Machu Picchu is served by two rail companies: Peru Rail and Inca Rail. Trains from Cusco to Machu Picchu Pueblo (also known as Aguas Calientes town) and Trains from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu Pueblo are available from both companies.

The 360-degree train to Machu Picchu

Both organizations provide good service and pleasant accommodations. Prices may vary somewhat depending on the departure times that are most suited for your schedule. Depending on availability, Sparrow Explorer Travel offers trips with both trains.

Peru Rail Inca Rail Price Approximate

• Local Train Economic Service N.A. 5 to 12 soles (Peruvian only)
• Expedition Voyager Standard Service Starting at $60 USD
• Vistadome 360° Premium Service Starts at $90 USD.
• Hiram Bingham Deluxe Service First Class From $500 USD

Machu Picchu train companies

• Peru Rail (https://perurail.com/)

One of the top train companies to Machu Picchu, they began transporting visitors to the site in 1999. They offer more trains and various services and rates than the other firm. PeruRail has a long and rich history, which is reflected in its experienced personnel and contemporary infrastructure. The corporation has been instrumental in the development of Peru’s railway network and is a market leader in the rail sector.

• Inca Rail (https://www.incarail.com/)

The newest train company to Machu Picchu, they began transporting visitors to the site in 2007. They provide services in Cusco and Ollantaytambo. Other services provided by Inca Rail include Machu Picchu tours, hiking excursions, and luxury trains.

Stations of the Machu Picchu Railway

• Wanchaq Railway Station
• Station San Pedro
• Poroy Railway Station
• Train Station in Ollantaytambo
• Train station in Valle Sagrado
• Train station in Aguas Calientes

Various Train Services to Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu Standard Trains

The Expedition Train

This is PeruRail’s regular, normal, and cheapest train to Machu Picchu. The railway carriages are designed in the Inca style, transporting you to Machu Picchu when you join the train. The Expedition Train takes you on a memorable ride through the Peruvian countryside, with breathtaking vistas of the Andes Mountains and glimpses of traditional communities. The train leaves from the train stations of San Pedro, Poroy, and Ollantaytambo.

The Voyager Train

IncaRail’s standard version and cheapest train option include comfortable seats and great service, and you may plan travel from Cusco or Ollantaytambo.

Premium Voyager Train

This model features larger windows and more comfy seats than the regular model. Trains with Panoramic Views to Machu Picchu.

The Vistadome Train

The railway carriages feature panoramic windows that allow you to appreciate the scenery as you ride down the Urubamba River. These picturesque trains are included in all of our Sparrow Explorer trips. The Vistadome train provides panoramic views of the Peruvian landscape, as well as luxurious seats and enough legroom.

360° Train

The Panoramic Inca Rail has glass windows on the top and an outside viewing carriage. This one-of-a-kind train excursion takes travelers through some of Peru’s most breathtaking countryside, including the Sacred Valley and Aguas Calientes. The train trip is an adventure, with comfy seats and huge windows that provide panoramic views of the passing scenery.

Trains to Machu Picchu in Luxury

Sacred Valley Railway

This luxurious train links Urubamba and Machu Picchu, and it includes meals, beverages, and an observation lounge from which to take in the scenery. This service is provided by Peru Rail.

Hiram Bingham Express

Take the opulent Belmond Hiram Bingham train. Enjoy the sophisticated dining, bar, and observation lounge, where you may drink classic Peruvian cocktails while listening to live local music. Peru Rail operates this luxury train to Machu Picchu.

Exclusive Train

The only private charter train in Machu Picchu, an elite train for small groups with music, a bar, and food aboard. This service is provided by Inca Rail.

First-rate

The most luxurious train to Machu Picchu, complete with an observation lounge, live music, and gourmet food. Inca Rail operates this train.

Best Trains from Cusco to Machu Picchu and Return

San Pedro to Machu Picchu trains

PeruRail is the sole company that leaves from the San Pedro Train Station; these trains go the most distance and are only accessible in two shifts. Furthermore, these trains only operate from late April to late December during the dry season.

The San Pedro Train Station is located in the city center, 10 minutes walk from the Plaza de Armas; travelers will be able to enjoy the views as they exit Cusco city, as well as views of the Anta high plains, the Huarcondo canyon, and finally arrive in the Sacred Valley and follow the Urubamba river until they reach Machu Picchu.

These trains are intended for visitors who want to see diverse landscapes, take their time and relax on the train, and arrive at their destination in less than 5 hours.

• PeruRail Expedition 31 – Leaves at 6.40 a.m. and arrives in Aguas Calientes at 9.54 a.m.
• PeruRail Vistadome 31 – Leaves at 6.40 a.m. and arrives in Aguas Calientes at 9.54 a.m.
• PeruRail Expedition 203 departs at 7.30 a.m. and arrives at 12.11 p.m. in Aguas Calientes.
• PeruRail Vistadome 203 – Departs at 7.30 a.m. and arrives at 12.11 p.m. in Aguas Calientes.

Trains from Poroy to Machu Picchu are available.

Porory railway station is 40 minutes by car from Cusco. After San Pedro railway Station, this railway station provides the second longest train travel. To clarify, all trains leaving from San Pedro will also stop at Porroy, and you may book and board the trains there.

• PeruRail Expedition 33 – Leaves at 6.40 a.m. and arrives in Aguas Calientes at 9.54 a.m.
• PeruRail Vistadome 33 – Leaves at 6.40 a.m. and arrives in Aguas Calientes at 9.54 a.m.
• PeruRail Expedition 31 departs at 7.35 a.m. and arrives at 10.52 a.m. in Aguas Calientes.
• PeruRail Vistadome 203 – Departs at 7.35 a.m. and arrives at 10.52 a.m. in Aguas Calientes.
• PeruRail Expedition 203 departs at 8.25 a.m. and arrives at 12.11 p.m. in Aguas Calientes.
• PeruRail Vistadome 203 – Departs at 8.25 a.m. and arrives at 12.11 p.m. in Aguas Calientes.
• Belmond Hiram Bingham 11 – Departs at 9.05 a.m. and arrives at 12.24 p.m. in Aguas Calientes.

Trains from Machu Picchu to Poroy station are available.

Trains from Aguas Calientes Town (Machu Picchu Pueblo) leave in the afternoon and take over 4 hours to reach Poroy railway station, from whence you will need to go by vehicle for around 40 minutes to your accommodation in Cusco.

• PeruRail Expedition 34 departs at 15:20 and arrives at 19:05 in Poroy.
• PeruRail Vistadome 34 – Departs at 15:20 and arrives at 19:05 in Poroy.
• PeruRail Vistadome 32 – Departs at 16:43 and arrives at 20:23 in Poroy.
• PeruRail Expedition 32 departs at 16:43 and arrives at 20:23 in Poroy.
• PeruRail Vistadome 604 departs at 17:23 and arrives at 20:52 in Poroy.
• PeruRail Expedition 604 departs at 17:23 and arrives at 20:52 in Poroy.
• Belmond Hiram Bingham 12 – Departs at 17:50 and arrives at 21:16 in Poroy.

Trains go from Machu Picchu to San Pedro.

These four trains will proceed from Poroy to the San Pedro Train Station. Please keep in mind that this is the longest train travel and the arrivals are quite late.

• PeruRail Vistadome 32 – Departs at 16:43 and arrives at 21:23 in Poroy.
• PeruRail Expedition 32 departs at 16:43 and arrives at 21:23 in Poroy.
• PeruRail Vistadome 604 departs at 17:23 and arrives at 21:52 in Poroy.
• PeruRail Expedition 604 departs at 17:23 and arrives at 21:52 in Poroy.

Trains from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu and vice versa are the best.

Ollantaytambo is the most popular railway station; this town is gorgeous, and it is the most pleasant and quickest route to get to Machu Picchu by train and bus. To get to Ollantaytambo railway station, you must take a 2-hour automobile ride from Cusco.

Unless the trip is confirmed with a particular train mentioned in communications, we will utilize this railway station for all Sparrow Explorer excursions.

Trains from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu Pueblo in Peru

To board the train from Ollantaytambo, you must drive from Cusco and arrive at least 30 minutes before the train’s departure time. The train travel to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes) takes around 1.5 hours.

• PeruRail Expedition 71 departs at 05:05 and arrives at 06:37 in Aguas Calientes.
• PeruRail Expedition 81 departs at 06:10 and arrives at 07:40 in Aguas Calientes.
• PeruRail Vistadome 301 departs at 07:05 and arrives at 08:27 in Aguas Calientes.
• PeruRail Expedition 83 departs at 07:45 and arrives at 09:15 in Aguas Calientes.
• Vistadome Observatory 83 – Departs at 7:45 a.m. and arrives in Aguas Calientes at 9:15 a.m.
• PeruRail Vistadome 601 – Departs at 08:00 and arrives at 09:25 in Aguas Calientes.
• PeruRail Expedition 33 departs at 08:29 and arrives at 09:54 in Aguas Calientes.
• PeruRail Vistadome 33 departs at 08:29 and arrives at 09:54 in Aguas Calientes.
• PeruRail Vistadome 501 departs at 08:53 and arrives at 10:29 in Aguas Calientes.
• PeruRail Vistadome 31 departs at 09:15 and arrives at 10:52 in Aguas Calientes.
• PeruRail Expedition 31 departs at 09:15 and arrives at 10:52 in Aguas Calientes.
• PeruRail Vistadome 203 departs at 10:32 and arrives at 12:11 in Aguas Calientes.
• PeruRail Expedition 203 departs at 10:32 and arrives at 12:11 in Aguas Calientes.
• Belmond Hiram Bingham 11 – Departs at 10:53 and arrives at 12:24 in Aguas Calientes.
• PeruRail Expedition 91 departs at 11:52 and arrives at 13:34 in Aguas Calientes.
• PeruRail Expedition 73 departs at 12:55 and arrives at 14:25 in Aguas Calientes.
• PeruRail Vistadome 73 departs at 12:55 and arrives at 14:25 in Aguas Calientes.
• Vistadome Observatory 303 – Departs at 13:27 and arrives at 14:50 in Aguas Calientes.
• PeruRail Vistadome 603 departs at 15:37 and arrives at 17:02 in Aguas Calientes.
• PeruRail Expedition 75 departs at 19:04 and arrives at 20:45 in Aguas Calientes.
• PeruRail Vistadome 75 departs at 19:04 and arrives at 20:45 in Aguas Calientes.
• PeruRail Expedition 51 departs at 21:00 and arrives at 22:45 in Aguas Calientes.

Trains from Machu Picchu to Ollantaytambo on the Inca Trail

The Inca Rail trains leave Ollantaytambo with a welcoming spectacle. We suggest upgrading your train to the Premium Lounge service if you are heading to Aguas Calientes.

• The Voyager 41 departs at 06:40 and arrives at 08:01 in Aguas Calientes.
• The Voyager 61 departs at 07:22 and arrives at 08:48 in Aguas Calientes.
• 360° Train 61 – Departs at 07:22 and arrives at 08:48 in Aguas Calientes.
• The Voyager 43 departs at 11:15 and arrives at 12:41 in Aguas Calientes.
• Premium Lounge 43 – Departs at 11:15 and arrives at 12:41 in Aguas Calientes.
• The Voyager 65 departs at 12:36 and arrives at 14:00 in Aguas Calientes.
• The Voyager 45 departs at 16:36 and arrives at 18:09 in Aguas Calientes.
• The Voyager 67 departs at 19:27 and arrives at 21:09 in Aguas Calientes.
• The Voyager 41 departs at 06:40 and arrives at 08:01 in Aguas Calientes.

Trains from Machu Picchu Pueblo to Ollantaytambo in Peru

• PeruRail Expedition 50 departs at 05:35 and arrives at 07:44 in Ollantaytambo.
• PeruRail Expedition 72 departs at 08:53 and arrives at 10:52 in Ollantaytambo.
• Vistadome Observatory 302 – Departs at 10:55 and arrives at 12:32 in Ollantaytambo.
• PeruRail Vistadome 602 – Departs at 12:46 and arrives at 14:19 in Ollantaytambo.
• PeruRail Vistadome 204 departs at 13:37 and arrives at 15:04 in Ollantaytambo.
• PeruRail Expedition 74 departs at 14:55 and arrives at 16:31 in Ollantaytambo.
• PeruRail Vistadome 74 departs at 14:55 and arrives at 16:31 in Ollantaytambo.
• PeruRail Expedition 34 departs at 15:20 and arrives at 17:08 in Ollantaytambo.
• PeruRail Vistadome 34 – Departs at 15:20 and arrives at 17:08 in Ollantaytambo.
• PeruRail Vistadome 304 – Departs at 15:48 and arrives at 17:29 in Ollantaytambo.
• PeruRail Expedition 504 departs at 16:22 and arrives at 18:10 in Ollantaytambo.
• Vistadome Observatory 504 – Departs at 16:22 and arrives at 18:10 in Ollantaytambo.
• PeruRail Vistadome 32 – Departs at 16:43 and arrives at 18:31 in Ollantaytambo.
• PeruRail Expedition 32 departs at 16:43 and arrives at 18:31 in Ollantaytambo.
• PeruRail Vistadome 604 departs at 17:23 and arrives at 19:02 in Ollantaytambo.
• PeruRail Expedition 604 departs at 17:23 and arrives at 19:02 in Ollantaytambo.
• PeruRail Vistadome 606 – Departs at 18:10 and arrives at 19:51 in Ollantaytambo.
• PeruRail Expedition 84 departs at 18:20 and arrives at 20:05 in Ollantaytambo.
• PeruRail Vistadome 84 – Departs at 18:20 and arrives at 20:05 in Ollantaytambo.
• PeruRail Expedition 86 departs at 20:50 and arrives at 22:20 in Ollantaytambo.
• PeruRail Expedition 76 departs at 21:50 and arrives at 23:37 in Ollantaytambo.
• PeruRail Vistadome 76 – Departs at 21:50 and arrives at 23:37 in Ollantaytambo.

Trains from Machu Picchu Pueblo to Ollantaytambo operated by the Incas.

• The Voyager 42 departs at 08:30 and arrives at 10:10 in Ollantaytambo.
• The Voyager 62 departs at 10:32 and arrives at 12:12 in Ollantaytambo.
• 360° Train 62 – Departs at 10:32 and arrives at 12:12 in Ollantaytambo.
• The Voyager 44 departs at 14:30 and arrives at 16:04 in Ollantaytambo.
• The Voyager 64 departs at 16:12 and arrives at 17:50 in Ollantaytambo.
• 360° Train 64 departs at 16:12 and arrives at 17:50 in Ollantaytambo.
• The Voyager 46 departs at 19:00 and arrives at 20:41 in Ollantaytambo.
• Premium Lounge 46 – Departs at 19:00 and arrives at 20:41 in Ollantaytambo.
• The Voyager 66 departs at 20:20 and arrives at 21:59 in Ollantaytambo.
• The Voyager 68 departs at 21:30 and arrives at 22:54 in Ollantaytambo.

Bimodal Train Service to Machu Picchu and Return

The bimodal Train Service to Machu Picchu is a one-of-a-kind excursion that allows you to see Machu Picchu’s incredible ruins in a fresh and unique manner. You will take a bus from Cusco to Ollantaytambo and then a train to Machu Picchu. The return journey is the same: half by bus, half by rail.

During the rainy season, all rail services from Sa Pedro and Poroy train stations will become Bimodal Services. The Bimodal service is ideal for those who desire an all-inclusive service in which the railway operator handles all transportation from Cusco to Cusco.

Bimodal Trains to Machu Picchu in Peru

To utilize the Perurail Bimodal service, take a cab to the WANCHAQ railway station; from there, buses will leave for Ollantaytambo. After a 2-hour travel, you will arrive at the Ollantaytambo Train Station, where you will catch the 1.5-hour train excursion to Aguas Calientes.

• PeruRail Expedition 81 – The bus leaves at 03:20 and the train arrives at 07:40.
• PeruRail Expedition 83 – The bus leaves at 05:10 and the train arrives at 09:15.
• Vistadome Observatory 83 – The bus leaves at 05:10 and the train arrives at 09:15.
• PeruRail Expedition 33 – The bus leaves at 05:40 and the train arrives at 09:54.
• PeruRail Vistadome 33 – The bus leaves at 05:40 and the train arrives at 09:54.

Bimodal Inca Rail Trains to Machu Picchu

You must take a cab to Sol Avenue in Cusco, where the Inca Trail headquarters is located; from there, buses will leave for Ollantaytambo and trains will depart for Machu Picchu. You have the option of taking a cab or a door-to-door service that includes hotel pickup.

• Voyager Bimodal 41 – The bus leaves at 04:20 and the train arrives at 08:01.
• Voyager Bimodal 61 – The bus leaves at 04:50 and the train arrives at 08:48.
• Bimodal 360° Train 61 – The bus leaves at 04:50 and the train arrives at 08:48.
• The Voyager 43 departs at 08:30 and arrives at 12:41.
• Bimodal Premium Lounge 43 – The bus leaves at 08:30 and the train arrives at 12:41.
• The Voyager 65 departs at 09:55 and arrives at 14:00.
• Bimodal 360° Train 65 – The bus leaves at 09:55 and the train arrives at 14:00.
• Voyager Bimodal 45 – The bus leaves at 13:30 and the train arrives at 18:09.
• Voyager Bimodal 67 – Bus leaves at 16:15, train arrives at 21:09.

Bimodal Trains from Machu Picchu to Cusco in Peru

• PeruRail Expedition 34 – Train leaves at 15:20 and bus arrives at 19:45 in Wanchaq.
• PeruRail Vistadome 34 – Train leaves at 15:20, and bus arrives at 19:45 in Wanchaq.
• PeruRail Expedition 504 – Train leaves at 16:22 and bus arrives at 20:30 in Wanchaq.
• Vistadome Observatory 504 – Train leaves at 16:22 and bus arrives at 20:30 in Wanchaq.
• PeruRail Expedition 84 – Train leaves at 18:20 and bus arrives at 22:30 in Wanchaq.
• PeruRail Vistadome 84 – Train leaves at 18:20, and bus arrives at 22:30 in Wanchaq.

Bimodal Inca Rail Trains from Machu Picchu to Cusco

• • Voyager Bimodal 62 – Train departs at 10:32 and bus arrives at 14:32 at Sol Avenue.
• • Bimodal 360° Train 62 – The train departs at 10:32 and the bus arrives at 14:32 at Sol Avenue.
• • The Voyager 44 – Train departs at 14:30, and the bus arrives at 18:30 at Sol Avenue.
• • Bimodal Premium Lounge 44 – Train departs at 14:30 and bus arrives at 18:30 at Sol Avenue.
• • The Voyager 64 – Train departs at 16:12, and the bus arrives at 20:20 at Sol Avenue.
• • Bimodal 360° Train 64 – The train departs at 16:12 and the bus arrives at 20:20 at Sol Avenue.
• • Voyager Bimodal 46 – Train departs at 19:00 and bus arrives at 23:30 at Sol Avenue.
• • Bimodal Premium Lounge 46 – Train departs at 19:00 and bus arrives at 23:30 at Sol Avenue.
• • Voyager Bimodal 68 – Train departs at 21:30 and bus arrives at 01:15 at Sol Avenue.

Questions and Answers on Machu Picchu Trains

Where can I get a train to Machu Picchu?

You can take the train to Machu Picchu at one of three specified railway stops. Remember to arrive 30 minutes before your train’s departure time to board.

• The railroad station in San Pedro

It is situated in front of the famed San Pedro Market, only a few streets from Cusco’s main center. Depending on your hotel’s location, you may either walk or take a cab.

• Poroy Railway Station

You must take a cab from your accommodation to this location, which is roughly a 25-minute drive outside of Cusco on the way to Lima.

• Train Station in Ollantaytambo

This is the primary and favored railway station in the Sacred Valley since it is near to Machu Picchu Pueblo. To go to Ollantaytambo, take a cab from Cusco, which takes around 1.5 hours.

How long does it take to go to Machu Picchu by train?

The time of travel will be determined on where you join the train:

• The journey from San Pedro railway station to Machu Picchu Pueblo takes around 4 hours and 40 minutes.
• The journey from Poroy Train Station to Machu Picchu Pueblo takes around 3 hours and 40 minutes.
• The journey from Ollantaytambo Train Station to Machu Picchu Pueblo takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes.

What is the cost of the train to Machu Picchu or How much does it cost to ride the train to Machu Picchu?

The cost of train tickets to Machu Picchu fluctuates greatly depending on demand. Costs will soar during the busy season, while railway operators will provide large savings during the low season. Train tickets to Machu Picchu operate similarly to airline tickets. To obtain the best costs, you must book long in advance; last-minute bookings are frequently highly expensive.

The basic version, such as the Expedition and Voyager trains, always has the lowest fares; if you want the greatest pricing, you must go early or late. The price of a way ticket ranges from 65.USD to 550.USD, depending on the kind of train and departure hour.

Is there any way to get a discount on the train ticket to Machu Picchu?

Children aged 0 to 2 years old are not required to purchase train tickets; nevertheless, they must sit with their parents, and no seat will be allotted for newborns.

Children aged 3 to 11 must purchase a railway ticket; however, they will get a 50% discount. Inca Rail offers this discount for a period of up to 12 years and 11 months.

Children’s discounts are not available in the premium version. If you are traveling with children, please call the railway company or us so that we can assist you.

Is it possible to take a bus from Cusco to Machu Picchu?

There are no direct buses from Cusco to Machu Picchu; instead, take a bus from Cusco to Ollantaytambo and then a train to Machu Picchu Pueblo.

The second, but not suggested, way is to take private transportation for around 6 hours from Cusco to Hidroelectrica and then trek for 3 hours along the rail track back to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes).

How is the train ride to Machu Picchu going?

If you join the train at Cusco or Poroy, you will be treated to stunning vistas of the Izcuchaca and Huarocondo high plains. You will descend into the Sacred Valley and follow the Urubamba River into the Cloud Forest, where you will find Machu Picchu.

When you board the train at Ollantaytambo, you will be treated to spectacular views of the mountains, the river, the Andes panorama, and the cloud forest.

It is vital to understand that there is only one railway from Cusco to Machu Picchu Pueblo, with train stops at Poroy and Ollantaytambo along the route.

Are there any limitations to taking the train to Machu Picchu?

You must bring your tickets (printed or digital) and display them together with your passport before boarding.

There is also a baggage limitation. You may only board the train with a compact backpack or a carry-on weighing no more than 8 kg.