Train tickets to Machu Picchu: Complete guide
There are many routes to reach the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu, but the fastest and most comfortable way is by taking the train. This service can depart from one of the three stations in Cusco, offering you unique landscape views like no other in the world. Additionally, there are various service classes that enhance the overall experience. Learn more about train tickets to Machu Picchu and book yours now.
- How to get to Machu Picchu?
- Train service to Machu Picchu
- Types of trains
- Train routes and stations
- Tips and recommendations
- Frequently asked questions
Train station to Machu Picchu
How to get to Machu Picchu?
There are three main ways to get to Machu Picchu: The Inca Trail, the train route, and the Hydroelectric route. Each offers a different experience and duration, and some of them can also be combined with other routes for a more extensive journey. Learn about their main features:
| MAIN ROUTES TO MACHU PICCHU | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Routes to Machu Picchu | Duration | Type of experience | Features | Alternative combinations |
| Classic Inca Trail | 4 days / 3 nights | Hiking adventure along historic trails and exclusive archaeological sites (nights spent in camps). | Reservations must be made 4 or 5 months in advance due to high demand and the daily ticket limit. |
|
| Train Route | 2 – 4 hours (depending on the station) | The most comfortable and fastest option without physical effort. | There are many types of services that offer exclusive experiences, and reservations can be made only weeks in advance. |
|
| Hydroelectric Route | 5 hours by car + 2 hours of hiking | Hiking adventure and long car ride. The cheapest option to get there. | This route is free; it only involves a longer journey. |
|
The Train Service to Machu Picchu
- Traveling by train to Machu Picchu is not only the fastest way to get there, but it is also an experience filled with unforgettable attractions.
- Before departure, depending on the station you board the train from, you can take tours to explore historical sites and natural landscapes.
- According to the train service you booked, you will enjoy various experiences once you board the train, such as dances, live music, drinks, meals, carriages with balconies, and much more.
- The landscapes you will see throughout the journey are one of the main reasons to choose this route, as you will follow the course of the Urubamba River while watching the Andean landscapes transform into lowland jungle sectors.
- The train journey ends in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town), from where you take a bus that will take you to the entrance of the Inca citadel in 30 minutes.
- Train tickets should be booked at least 2 weeks in advance to secure your preferred schedule and service.
- The main station with the most available schedules is Ollantaytambo; from here, the journey takes just under 2 hours.
How to book train tickets to Machu Picchu?
You can book tickets through the websites of the companies in charge of the train service to Machu Picchu: PeruRail and Inca Rail, which are the only authorized providers for transfers to Aguas Calientes town. Just like Machu Picchu tickets, train tickets must be booked in advance. If you prefer a more relaxing experience, with Boletomachupicchu you can organize your entire trip to Machu Picchu, avoiding the hassle of meticulous planning, and we will provide the best options and offers for an unforgettable experience.
Peru Rail Trains
Types of Trains
The train service is operated by two railway companies, each offering different types of services and experiences for your trip. Some of their main features are as follows:
| PERURAIL SERVICES | ||
|---|---|---|
| Train | Service Description | Service Type |
| Expedition | Basic, comfortable, and affordable service. Carriages with reclining seats, ambient music, and panoramic windows. Ideal for an economical and peaceful journey. | Basic |
| Vistadome | Panoramic train with large windows in the roof and side walls, larger seats, and snacks and drinks service. Cultural performances are included on some schedules. | Superior |
| Vistadome Observatory | Enhanced version of the Vistadome, with an observation car and live music. Combines spectacular views with a cultural atmosphere. | Executive |
| Hiram Bingham | The most luxurious train of PeruRail. It features elegant decoration, a gourmet three-course menu, unlimited drinks, live music, and entry to Machu Picchu. | Luxury |
| INCA RAIL SERVICES | ||
|---|---|---|
| Train | Service Description | Service Type |
| The Voyager | Economical option with more available schedules. It features comfortable seats, large windows, and onboard service. | Basic |
| The 360° | Panoramic train with windows offering 360° views of the Sacred Valley. Includes an observation car, snack service, drinks, and entertainment on certain sections. | Superior |
| Premium & Lounge | Executive service with a bar car and panoramic balcony. Offers personalized service, gourmet snacks, and a cozy atmosphere, ideal for couples or small groups. | Executive |
| The First Class | Luxury train with a gourmet menu, drinks, and à la carte service. Spacious carriages, comfortable seats, and panoramic views. Includes VIP lounge access and exclusive service. | Luxury |
| The Private | Private and personalized experience. Includes a chef on board, drinks, private guide, and a cabin with a balcony. Designed for those seeking total exclusivity during the journey. | Luxury |
Train Routes and Stations
- Ollantaytambo Station
- It is the most popular station, as it offers the most train schedules and services available.
- Getting from Cusco to Ollantaytambo takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes by car.
- The train journey from Ollantaytambo station to Machu Picchu town takes approximately 2 hours.
- It is the fastest and most comfortable option, and if you have enough time, you can visit the town of Ollantaytambo and its Inca archaeological site.
- Wanchaq Station
- This station is the closest to the city, although it offers very few departure schedules.
- From the city center, this station is only 15 minutes away, but it is primarily used for the bimodal service (bus + train).
- The train journey from Wanchaq station to Machu Picchu town takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes.
- It is an alternative option that is not available during the rainy season (January 1st to April 30th), but it allows for a direct journey.
- Poroy Station
- The alternative Poroy station is located at the gateway to the Sacred Valley. While it does not have many available schedules, it offers a more scenic experience.
- Getting from Cusco to Poroy takes approximately 20 minutes by car.
- The train journey from Poroy station to Machu Picchu town takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.
- It is an alternative option that is not available during the rainy season (January 1st to April 30th), but it offers an almost direct trip with beautiful views of the Sacred Valley.
Inca Rail Trains
The Hidroelectrica Station
If you travel to the town of Santa María (5 hours from Cusco), you can take a train from the Hidroelectrica station. The schedules are very limited, but the journey is very short—only 30 minutes. You can also choose to walk for 2 hours to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town). Both options are simple and very accessible.
Tips and Recommendations
- Book your train tickets at least 3 weeks in advance to secure your preferred schedule and service.
- Choosing to travel by train from Ollantaytambo station is the best option, as it offers the most available schedules and is the fastest way to reach Machu Picchu.
- During the months of higher rainfall intensity (January 1 to April 31), the train stations at Poroy and Wanchaq are closed.
- When booking your train service, you can also opt for the bimodal option, where the same railway company transports you by bus from Cusco to Ollantaytambo before boarding the train to Aguas Calientes.
- Trains are the most comfortable and fastest way to reach Machu Picchu, though there are other options such as the Inca Trail and the Hidroelectrica route.
- Remember to arrive at your preferred train station 30 minutes before departure to avoid any inconvenience and board smoothly.
- Most tours to Machu Picchu include the train service, so opting for this option allows you to have a more relaxed experience without worrying about organizing everything yourself.
- With Boletomachupicchu, you can book both your train service and tours to the Inca citadel. Consult with our sales advisors for all the available options to make your trip memorable.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) What is the best way to get to Machu Picchu?
The fastest and most comfortable way to reach Machu Picchu is by train. This service connects the Sacred Valley with Aguas Calientes. Additionally, the journey offers spectacular views of Andean landscapes and lowland jungle as you approach the destination.
2) From which stations can I take the train to Machu Picchu?
There are three main stations: Ollantaytambo, Poroy, and Wanchaq. The most frequented is Ollantaytambo, as it has more available schedules and a shorter journey (about 2 hours). Poroy and Wanchaq only operate outside the rainy season (May to December).
3) How far in advance should I buy my train tickets?
We recommend booking your train tickets at least three weeks in advance. During high season (May to October), demand is very high, and the best schedules tend to sell out quickly. Booking in advance will allow you to choose the service type and schedule that suits you best.
4) Which companies offer the train service to Machu Picchu?
There are two authorized companies operating this route: PeruRail and Inca Rail. Both offer different categories of trains, from basic and affordable options to luxury experiences with exclusive onboard services.
5) How long is the train ride to Machu Picchu?
The duration varies depending on the departure station. From Ollantaytambo, the journey takes approximately 2 hours; from Poroy, 3 hours and 30 minutes; and from Wanchaq, about 4 hours and 30 minutes. All trains arrive at the Aguas Calientes station (Machu Picchu town).
6) What should I do once I arrive at Aguas Calientes?
Once you arrive at Aguas Calientes, you will need to take a bus that ascends to the entrance of the Machu Picchu citadel. This ride takes about 30 minutes, and buses depart every 20 minutes from the center of the town.
7) What services do the trains include?
This depends on the service you choose. All trains offer comfortable seats and panoramic windows. Higher-cost services include beverages, snacks, and entertainment on board. Luxury trains offer gourmet meals, a bar, and live cultural performances.
8) Which station is best for departure?
If you seek speed and variety of schedules, Ollantaytambo is the best choice. If you prefer a closer departure point to Cusco, Poroy or Wanchaq may be more convenient, although they only operate during the dry season. Your choice will depend on the experience you want and the time you have available.
9) What is the best time of year to travel by train to Machu Picchu?
The best time is between May and October when the weather is dry, and the landscapes are clearer. During the rainy season (January to April), trains operate normally, though the stations at Poroy and Wanchaq remain closed.
10) Can I book the train and the entry to Machu Picchu together?
Yes, with us, you can book your train ticket, entry to Machu Picchu, and guided tours in a single package. This way, you ensure a complete experience without worrying about planning.
Advice from people who have been there
By: Janett A.“What can I say about Machu Picchu?“
“The lines are long, tickets must be booked in advance, there are many people, the bus is expensive; but when I passed through the gate, I arrived at the place I had dreamed of since I was a child, it’s incredible, one of the best days of my life; we went up by bus and walked down, there are like 10,000 steps (I exaggerate) but the experience is unmatched, the views, the city, the mountains, and the amazing buildings; I recommend bringing a good camera, the photo opportunities are endless; but being there is worth the time, the effort, the money, and everything. That’s all I have to say about Machu Picchu.“
By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, October 30, 2025