The train to Machu Picchu is one of the most memorable parts of a trip to Peru. The tracks follow the Urubamba River through a narrow, green canyon. Snowy peaks rise above you. Then the valley turns warmer and more tropical as you get closer to the citadel.

For most visitors, the train is also the only practical way to get there. No road connects Cusco to Aguas Calientes, the town below Machu Picchu. In this guide, you’ll learn where trains depart, how the service classes compare and what you can bring on board. You’ll also see how a guided trip with Good Life Expeditions handles the timing for you.

How the Train to Machu Picchu Works

Two companies run tourist trains on this route: PeruRail and Inca Rail. All trains end at Aguas Calientes. From there, buses climb a winding road to the entrance of Machu Picchu. The bus ride takes about 25 to 30 minutes.

Where trains depart

Ollantaytambo is the most common departure point. This small Inca town sits in the Sacred Valley, about two hours by road from Cusco. Trains leave from here all year. The ride to Aguas Calientes takes about an hour and a half.

Cusco also has departures on some services. During the rainy months, usually January to April, many of these become “bimodal” trips. You take a bus from Cusco to a station in the valley, then switch to the train. Schedules can change, so always confirm the day before.

Many travelers start from Ollantaytambo after a day exploring the Sacred Valley. It’s a great way to combine sightseeing and travel. Our guide to a Sacred Valley tour shows what that day can look like.

Train Classes Compared

Both companies offer several levels of service. All of them have large windows, so the views are part of the trip on every train.

PeruRail offers:

• Expedition: the entry-level service, with panoramic windows.
• Vistadome: larger windows, a light snack and a more relaxed feel.
• Vistadome Observatory: adds an observation car with an open-air section.
• Hiram Bingham: a luxury service by Belmond, with fine dining and a classic design.

Inca Rail offers:

• The Voyager: the entry-level service, with wide windows.
• The 360°: panoramic windows and an open-air observatory car.
• First Class: a lounge car, an open-air balcony and a multi-course meal.

The best class depends on your budget and travel style. Entry-level trains are comfortable and scenic. Higher classes add space, food and extra touches for a special occasion.

Tips for Your Train Ride

Pack light

Both companies limit luggage on this route. In general, you can bring one small bag or backpack of about 8 kilograms (around 17 pounds). Larger suitcases need to stay at your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley. Pack a small overnight bag with the essentials for your visit.

Enjoy the views from any seat

The river and the mountains appear on both sides of the train. Every seat has a good view, especially in cars with panoramic windows.

Match your times carefully

Your train, your bus and your Machu Picchu entry time all need to line up. Machu Picchu tickets have timed entry slots. A late train can put your visit at risk. That’s why many travelers spend the night in Aguas Calientes before their visit.

Plan for the season

The rainy season can bring delays and schedule changes. Our guide to the best time to visit Peru can help you choose your dates.

How Good Life Expeditions Handles the Train

Coordinating trains, buses and entry tickets is one of the trickiest parts of planning a Machu Picchu trip. Both of our active tours take care of it.

With the Machu Picchu Getaway and Classic Peru, you’ll explore the Sacred Valley first. Then you’ll board an afternoon train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and spend the night there. The next morning, you’ll take an early bus up to the citadel for a guided tour. Your train back to Ollantaytambo, private transfer to Cusco, entry ticket and guide are all included.

A local expert guide makes the visit richer. Learn how a Machu Picchu guided tour helps you understand Inca culture.

Good Life Expeditions is the travel brand of MEDLIFE. A part of what you invest in your trip stays in Peru and helps fund MEDLIFE’s projects in local communities.

FAQ: Train to Machu Picchu

How long is the train ride to Machu Picchu?

From Ollantaytambo, the ride to Aguas Calientes takes about an hour and a half. Trips that start in Cusco take longer, especially when they include a bus connection.

Can you drive to Machu Picchu?

No road connects Cusco to Aguas Calientes. Most visitors arrive by train. From Aguas Calientes, a bus takes you up to the citadel entrance.

How much luggage can I take on the train to Machu Picchu?

Usually one small bag or backpack of about 8 kilograms (around 17 pounds). Leave larger suitcases at your hotel.

Enjoy the Journey to the Lost City

The train ride is your first glimpse of the world around Machu Picchu. With the right timing, it becomes one of the highlights of your trip. Let us handle the tickets and connections, so you can simply enjoy the view.

contact our team to start planning.