Trains to Machu Picchu from Ollantaytambo to Cusco
A trip to Machu Picchu is one of the best experiences you can have in your life. This journey combines spiritual journeys with an adventure that will allow you to connect with nature. Many people make the trip seeking to connect with the sacred energy of the Inca site.
What are train trips to Machu Picchu like?
- Train trips are the safest way to reach Machu Picchu. In addition to that, you can save quite a bit of time. This is mainly because the other ways to get there are on foot.
- Train travel normally starts in Ollantaytambo, but there are some trains that depart from stations in Cusco.
- Travel time from Ollantaytambo is approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.
- Travel time from Cusco is approximately 4 hours and 20 minutes.
- Sometimes travel time may vary due to natural disasters, some mechanical unforeseen events or similar situations.
- Although it is one of the simplest and fastest options, it is recommended to make the trip in advance. That is, arrive at Machu Picchu Pueblo or Aguas Calientes at least 1 hour before your entrance time to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
- Before making the train trip, it is recommended that you have your entrance ticket to Machu Picchu. This way you can choose the appropriate time to make the trip.
- In case you make the train trip to find an entrance ticket in Machu Picchu Pueblo, you should be ready to stand in long lines.
What other ways exist to reach Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu can only be reached by walking or hiking. Some of them have commercial names and we will list them below:
- The Salkantay Trek route of 4 or 5 days of hiking.
- Doing the Inca Trail of 2 or 4 days of hiking.
- Hike from Hidroeléctrica.
- Choquequirao Trek of 7 or 8 days of hiking.
How far in advance can you reserve entrance tickets to Machu Picchu?
Something important to keep in mind is that the reservation of entrance tickets to Machu Picchu can sell out in a short time. This is mainly for the most popular tickets such as Circuit 2 and the route to Huayna Picchu.
It is for this reason that you should reserve entrance tickets to Machu Picchu at least 2 months in advance. Only this way can you secure the desired ticket and also the entrance time. If you want to have a good travel experience, make the reservation in advance.
Can I have a spiritual or mystical experience traveling by train?
Having a spiritual experience as such on train trips is unlikely. It is recommended to take the train trip only if you have little time to make the trip.
When making the tour through Machu Picchu, you can choose between the 10 alternatives offered. We recommend taking the route to the Great Cavern.
Why visit the Great Cavern? Because it is one of the least explored destinations and enclosures in Machu Picchu. Also, due to its location and construction, it still maintains a spiritual space. Making it ideal to connect with nature and even perform a brief gratitude ceremony.
How many train companies exist to reach Machu Picchu?
Currently there are two train companies in charge of transporting tourists.
- These companies are PeruRail and Inca Rail. Although they recently entered into competition, both agencies offer a very similar service.
- PeruRail trains can depart from stations in Cusco. That is, from Wanchaq or San Pedro station.
- Meanwhile, Inca Rail trains depart only from Ollantaytambo. To purchase these services, the company offers a bus service that covers the Cusco - Ollantaytambo route.
How long is the bus trip from Cusco to Ollantaytambo?
- Travel time is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. This travel time can be by bus or by car.
- There are buses from the same companies that make these routes. Of course they charge for it.
- Sometimes the most advisable thing is to make the trip with a travel agency or with a tour guide.
Are there other means of transportation to make the trip from Cusco to Ollantaytambo?
- Yes, there are private and rental vehicles, as well as public transportation that has daily departures at different times.
- The latter have an approximate cost of between 10 and 15 soles.
- The Ollantaytambo train station is located 10 minutes walking from the Plaza de Ollantaytambo.
- At the Ollantaytambo train station you can find snacks, varied breakfasts and also make last-minute purchases such as insect repellents.
Can you spend the night in Ollantaytambo?
- Yes, there are several hotels of different categories.
- Likewise, in Ollantaytambo you can enjoy good restaurants and especially visit the archaeological site of the same name.
- Visiting the archaeological site of Ollantaytambo is often an excellent option before going to Machu Picchu.
- It is also advisable to tour the Sacred Valley before or after visiting Machu Picchu.
Which trains are the most economical to reach Machu Picchu?
The most economical trains to reach Machu Picchu are:
- Expedition Train (PeruRail): Ideal for tourists looking for comfort at low cost. It offers panoramic windows, comfortable seats and onboard service. Approximate price: from $60 USD per segment.
- Expedition train tickets can be reserved online. Preferably in advance, but taking into account the time and date of entry to Machu Picchu.
- The Voyager Train (Inca Rail): Similar to the Expedition, with large windows and basic service. It also costs around $60 USD per segment.
- The Voyager train tickets can be reserved online. Preferably in advance, but taking into account the time and date of entry to Machu Picchu.
- Local Train (for Peruvians only): Exclusive to Peruvian citizens, with a cost of S/12 per segment (approximately $3 USD)
- Local train tickets cannot be reserved online. It is necessary to make the purchase a week in advance and also in person.
Are there luxury trains to reach Machu Picchu?
Yes, there are two luxury trains that offer exclusive experiences:
| Luxury Train | Services Included | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hiram Bingham (PeruRail) |
|
From $450 USD | Does not have daily departures. Book in advance to include entrance tickets to Machu Picchu. |
| The First Class (Inca Rail) |
|
From $398 USD | Does not depart every day. Private service option available with exclusive car. |
Both trains are designed to provide a complete luxury experience, from the ambiance to personalized service.
What are the PeruRail train schedules?
PeruRail offers multiple departures from stations such as Wanchaq, Ollantaytambo, Poroy and San Pedro. Some featured schedules:
| Train Type | Route | Departure Times |
|---|---|---|
| Expedition | Ollantaytambo – Machu Picchu | 05:05, 06:10, 07:54, 08:29, 09:15, 11:52, 14:50, 19:04, 21:00 |
| Vistadome | Ollantaytambo – Machu Picchu | 07:05, 08:00, 13:27 |
| Hiram Bingham | Wanchaq – Machu Picchu | 07:20 (bimodal service) |
Schedules may vary depending on the season, so it is recommended to check with PeruRail. You can also check with the travel agency you contacted.
What are the Inca Rail train schedules?
Inca Rail offers departures from Ollantaytambo:
| Train Type | Outbound (Ollantaytambo → Machu Picchu) | Return (Machu Picchu → Ollantaytambo) |
|---|---|---|
| The Voyager | 06:40, 07:22, 11:15, 12:36, 16:36, 19:27 | 08:30, 10:32, 14:30, 16:12, 19:00, 21:30 |
| The 360° | 07:22, 12:36, 16:36 | 10:32, 14:30, 16:12 |
| First Class | 11:15 | 19:00 |
Please note that train trips from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu Pueblo last approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Why take train trips to Machu Picchu?
Traveling by train to Machu Picchu offers multiple advantages:
- Comfort: Ideal for those who do not wish to make long or demanding hikes.
- Speed: The journey from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes takes between 1.5 and 2 hours.
- Spectacular landscapes: You pass through valleys, mountains and the Vilcanota River.
- Accessibility: It allows you to reach Machu Picchu Pueblo directly, from where you take the bus to the citadel.
- Options for all budgets: From economical trains to luxury experiences.
- Will I lose connection with nature? Not entirely, the train trip allows you to appreciate beautiful landscapes and even see Apu Veronica, a sacred mountain. Similarly, the trip is accompanied by the waters of the Vilcanota River or Sacred River. Remember that taking the train trip is a way to save time.
The best options for Machu Picchu trips
The best train options to travel to Machu Picchu depend on your budget and travel style:
- Economical: Expedition (PeruRail) or The Voyager (Inca Rail).
- Comfort and views: Vistadome (PeruRail) or 360° (Inca Rail).
- Luxury: Hiram Bingham (PeruRail) or The First Class / Presidencial (Inca Rail).
Recommended stations:
- Ollantaytambo: More frequencies and accessible from the Sacred Valley.
- Poroy: Ideal for luxury trains.
- Wanchaq and San Pedro: Bimodal options from Cusco
Frequently asked questions about trains to Machu Picchu
1. What is the cheapest train to go to Machu Picchu?
The most economical train is the Local Train, exclusive to Peruvian citizens, with an approximate cost of S/12 per segment. For tourists, the most accessible are the Expedition from PeruRail and the The Voyager from Inca Rail, from $60 USD per segment.
2. What is the difference between the Expedition train and the Vistadome train?
The Expedition is more economical and offers basic services, while the Vistadome includes panoramic windows, snacks, ambient music and a more comfortable experience. Both are operated by PeruRail.
3. Are there luxury trains to go to Machu Picchu?
Yes. The luxury trains are the Hiram Bingham (PeruRail) and the First Class (Inca Rail). They offer gourmet food, live music, tour guide and priority access to Machu Picchu. They are ideal for those seeking an exclusive experience.
4. From which stations do trains to Machu Picchu depart?
The main stations are:
- Ollantaytambo: the most used by tourists. It brings together trains from both train companies.
- San Pedro and Wanchaq (Cusco): bimodal services (bus + train). In the case of Inca Rail buses, sometimes they depart from their offices. It will be important to contact the service directly.
- Poroy: used by luxury trains. More trains also depart during the rainy season. This is to avoid congestion and damage at the other stations.
5. How long does the train trip to Machu Picchu last?
From Ollantaytambo, the trip lasts between 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours. From Cusco, with bimodal services, it can last between 4 and 5 hours. The time varies sometimes due to delays in train departures or for various reasons. It is important to take this time lapse into account when making trips.
6. Is it better to go by train or do the Inca Trail?
It depends on the type of experience you are looking for. The Inca Trail is ideal for adventurers and trekking lovers. The train is perfect for those who prefer comfort, speed and panoramic views.
7. Can I buy train tickets online?
Yes. You can purchase them directly on their official websites. It is also possible to purchase complete packages that include train tickets. Likewise, some agencies can help you make reservations with complete confidence.
8. Which train offers the best views during the trip?
The Vistadome (PeruRail) and the 360° (Inca Rail) have panoramic windows and glass ceilings that allow you to enjoy the Andean landscape throughout the journey. Some of these trains have schedules in common with the more economical trains. Also, mention that these trains have a higher fare.
9. What does the luxury train ticket include?
Luxury trains include:
- Gourmet food.
- Beverages.
- Live music.
- Tour guide.
- Entrance to Machu Picchu.
- Bus transportation from Aguas Calientes.
10. What is the best option for family travel?
The Expedition from PeruRail or the 360° from Inca Rail are comfortable and accessible options for families. They offer safety, spectacular views and flexible schedules. In addition to greater comfort and services compared to the more economical trains. Since the difference between both trains at some times usually does not exceed 10 dollars.
