Key facts
- PeruRail and Inca Rail depart mainly from Ollantaytambo: 1 h 30 min to 2 h to Aguas Calientes.
- From January to April, PeruRail departures from Cusco are bimodal (bus + train).
- Included luggage: one backpack or carry-on item of about 8 kg.
- Book the train 2 to 4 weeks ahead, after you’ve bought your entry ticket.
The train is the most popular way to reach Machu Picchu. Two companies run the route to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes): PeruRail and Inca Rail. Both depart mainly from Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley, and PeruRail also has departures from Cusco.
Stations and travel times
| Departure point | Operator | Approximate time to Aguas Calientes |
|---|---|---|
| Ollantaytambo | PeruRail and Inca Rail | 1 h 30 min to 2 h |
| Poroy (Cusco) | PeruRail | About 3 h 30 min |
| Cusco (bimodal service: bus + train) | PeruRail | 4 h to 4 h 40 min |
| Hidroeléctrica | PeruRail | 40 to 45 minutes |
Times based on PeruRail and Inca Rail timetables and guides.
PeruRail classes
- Expedition: the economy class, with panoramic windows. Snacks are sold on board.
- Vistadome: windows in the roof and along the sides, with snacks, drinks and onboard entertainment.
- Vistadome Observatory: an observation car with an open-air balcony, live music and dance, plus snacks and drinks included.
- Hiram Bingham (Belmond): the luxury train, with fine-dining service.
Inca Rail classes
- The Voyager: economy class with large windows; snacks for sale.
- The 360°: an open-air observation car and panoramic windows.
- The Prime: its own dining car and priority boarding.
- The First Class: a multicourse dinner, bar lounge and live music.
- The Private: a private car for groups.
Luggage allowance
| Operator | Included luggage |
|---|---|
| PeruRail | 1 backpack up to 8 kg and 100 linear cm (height + length + width), or 1 carry-on bag up to 12 kg and 115 cm |
| Inca Rail | 1 carry-on item up to 8 kg and 118 linear cm; there are no luggage racks |
Leave large suitcases at your hotel in Cusco or at the station’s left-luggage office. PeruRail offers free luggage storage in Ollantaytambo and in Machu Picchu Pueblo.
Bimodal service in the rainy season
From January to April, all PeruRail departures from Cusco are bimodal: a bus takes passengers to Ollantaytambo (or Pachar station), where they board the train. The rest of the year, some departures are bimodal as well. Inca Rail always runs with a bus or transfer to Ollantaytambo.
Which train to take for your entry time
Arrive in Aguas Calientes at least an hour before your entry time: allow about 30 minutes for the bus up to the sanctuary gate, plus time waiting in line.
| Machu Picchu entry time | Recommended train from Ollantaytambo |
|---|---|
| 6:00 to 8:00 a.m. | Spend the night before in Aguas Calientes, or take the first early-morning train (arriving around 6:40 a.m.) |
| 8:00 to 10:00 a.m. | Trains arriving between 6:40 and 8:30 a.m. |
| 10:00 a.m. to noon | Trains arriving between 8:30 and 10:00 a.m. |
| Afternoon | Trains arriving before noon |
Schedules change by season, so confirm them on the operator’s website when you book.
When to book
PeruRail recommends booking 2 to 4 weeks in advance, especially from June to August and in December and January. Buy your Machu Picchu ticket first, since it sells out sooner, and then book the train.
From Aguas Calientes, the last stretch is by bus to Machu Picchu or on foot. If you’re looking for the cheapest option, read our guide to the Hidroeléctrica route.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the train ride to Machu Picchu?
From Ollantaytambo, between 1 h 30 min and 2 h. From Poroy, near Cusco, about 3 h 30 min. With the bimodal service from Cusco, between 4 h and 4 h 40 min.
Which train is better, PeruRail or Inca Rail?
Both run the same route with similar travel times. Choose based on the departure that fits your Machu Picchu entry time and the class you prefer: economy, panoramic or luxury.
Can I bring a suitcase on the train to Machu Picchu?
Only carry-on luggage: one backpack or bag of about 8 kg. Leave large suitcases at your hotel or at the station’s left-luggage office.
