Best Train Routes in Cusco: Journeys through the Altiplano
It is not uncommon to hear that the train journey to Machu Picchu is one of the most incredible experiences you can have while traveling by rail. Although it is not the only route in Cusco that falls into this category, as there are more services that take you through beautiful Andean landscapes on unforgettable journeys that can last up to three days. Discover the Andean Explorer and Titicaca train routes by PeruRail, and get ready to experience extraordinary trips.
- Rail Services in the Andes of Peru
- PeruRail Titicaca
- Andean Explorer, Belmond Train
- Train Services to Machu Picchu
- Frequently Asked Questions
The train route from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu offers stunning views.
Rail Services in the Andes of Peru
- Traveling to Machu Picchu is an unforgettable experience, not only for the fact of visiting one of the wonders of the world, but also for crossing dreamlike landscapes in the diverse geographical territory of Peru.
- This is further enhanced by the train journey to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu village) that traverses the vast biodiversity of the Sacred Valley. During the trip, you’ll also see archaeological sites and experience the transition from Andean to subtropical ecoregions.
- But this is not the only railway journey you can experience while in Cusco, as the PeruRail Titicaca and Andean Explorer services also offer unforgettable experiences through territories surrounded by dreamlike landscapes.
- These are more exclusive experiences, focused on panoramic and scenic experiences through the Peruvian highland with the best service and comfort.
Rail Companies in Cusco
To travel through Cusco, especially to Machu Picchu, there are two railway companies with which you can book your dream train journey to the Historic Sanctuary. PeruRail and Inca Rail offer various train services that add comfort to your journey, but all provide comfort and wide views to explore every landscape along the way. We recommend traveling during the day to not miss any detail of this diverse territory.
PeruRail Titicaca
- The journey aboard the Titicaca train is one of the most exclusive and spectacular rail experiences in Peru.
- This train journey connects the cities of Cusco and Puno, crossing some of the most impressive landscapes in the Andes.
- It is a one-day experience that includes all the necessary services for you to comfortably discover more of the vast Peruvian territory.
- Its design combines comfort and elegance, with three spacious cars (observation car, bar car, and restaurant car) to enjoy the highland scenery at all times.
- During the journey, you can also see native Andean animals, such as vicuñas, alpacas, and llamas. Additionally, the landscapes are filled with mountains, snow-capped peaks, agricultural fields, rivers, lakes, and valleys.
- It is a 10-hour and 30-minute journey from the city of Cusco to the city of Puno, where you will experience various highlights, including: a stop at the town of La Raya, a gourmet lunch, a Pisco Sour demonstration, and afternoon tea.
- The train station in Puno, where the train arrives, is less than 10 minutes from Lake Titicaca, an ideal place to explore the incredible floating islands of Uros and Taquile.
- The PeruRail Titicaca train also offers the option of traveling from the city of Puno to Cusco, so you can choose the route that best suits your needs.
Schedule
- Cusco to Puno: Departs at 07:50 AM from Cusco and arrives at the Puno station at 6:20 PM (departures on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays).
- Puno to Cusco: Departs at 07:50 AM from Puno and arrives at the Wanchaq station at 6:20 PM (departures on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays).
| SERVICES INCLUDED IN THE PERURAIL TITICACA TRAIN SERVICE | |
|---|---|
| Category | Details |
| Experience Type | Day trip from Cusco to Puno or Puno to Cusco |
| Duration | Approximately 10 hours 30 minutes |
| Meals | Gourmet lunch with 3 courses |
| Drinks | Courtesy drink, Pisco Sour class, and afternoon tea |
| Entertainment | Live music and traditional dance performances |
| Facilities | Dining car + observation car |
| Comfort | Spacious seats and classic ambiance |
| Stops | La Raya town, to enjoy panoramic views |
Andean Explorer, Belmond Train
- One of the most luxurious train services in the world is the Belmond Andean Explorer.
- This exclusive journey crosses the stunning cities of Cusco, Puno on the second day, and Arequipa on the third day.
- During the trip, you will enjoy the most imposing landscapes of the Andes, exquisite Peruvian cuisine, and all the luxury comfort the service offers.
- The journey lasts three days and two nights, with panoramic stops, guided tours, and many cars where you can enjoy different experiences.
- Includes a spa car, sleeping car, observation car, piano bar, and dining car, as well as suite, twin, or bunk cabins for overnight stays.
- The landscapes are filled with mountains, snow-capped peaks, lakes, rivers, agricultural fields, Andean flora, and abundant native fauna.
- The Andean Explorer train also offers the option of traveling from Arequipa to Cusco, so you can choose the route that best suits your needs.
Schedule
- Cusco – Puno – Arequipa: Departs at 11:00 AM from Cusco and arrives at the Arequipa station at 3:30 PM on the third day (departures every Thursday).
- Puno – Arequipa – Cusco: Departs at 11:00 AM from Puno and arrives at the Arequipa station at 3:30 PM on the third day (departures every Thursday).
| SERVICES INCLUDED IN THE ANDEAN EXPLORER TRAIN SERVICE | |
|---|---|
| Category | Details |
| Duration | 2 nights |
| Cabins | Suite, twin, or bunk |
| Meals | All gourmet meals included |
| Drinks | Onboard bar with selected drinks |
| Entertainment | Live music, cultural activities, guided experiences |
| Facilities | Private cabins, lounge, piano bar, dining car, and spa |
| Comfort | 5-star level, elegant design, and personalized service |
| Stops | La Raya town, Lake Titicaca station, Saracocha, and Kilometer 93 |
| Tours | Tour around Lake Titicaca, Sumbay Caves |
Spectacular landscape of the Cusco – Puno train route
Train Services to Machu Picchu
- Traveling to Machu Picchu by train also means discovering unforgettable Andean and subtropical landscapes. Additionally, it can involve luxury, making it one of the best train journeys in the world.
- There are two railway companies that operate this route: PeruRail and Inca Rail.
- Each company offers different types of services and experiences, according to the trip that best suits your preferences. Discover their main features:
| TRAINS TO MACHU PICCHU | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Train | Company | Service Type | Description |
| Expedition | PeruRail | Basic | Basic, comfortable, and affordable service. Carriages with reclining seats, ambient music, and panoramic windows. Ideal for an economical and peaceful journey. |
| The Voyager | Inca Rail | Basic | Affordable option with more available schedules. Comfortable seats, large windows, and onboard service. |
| Vistadome | PeruRail | Superior | Panoramic train with large windows on the roof and side walls, larger seats, and snack and beverage service. Some schedules include cultural presentations onboard. |
| The 360° | Inca Rail | Superior | Panoramic train with 360° views of the Sacred Valley. Includes an observation car, snack service, drinks, and entertainment on certain sections of the trip. |
| Vistadome Observatory | PeruRail | Executive | Enhanced version of the Vistadome, with an observation car and live music. Combines spectacular views with a cultural atmosphere. |
| Premium & Lounge | Inca Rail | Executive | Executive service with a bar car and panoramic balcony. Personalized service, gourmet snacks, and a cozy atmosphere, perfect for couples or small groups. |
| The First Class | Inca Rail | Luxury | Luxury train with a gourmet menu, drinks, and à la carte service. Spacious carriages, comfortable seats, and panoramic views. Includes access to a VIP lounge and exclusive service. |
| Hiram Bingham | PeruRail | Luxury | The most luxurious train by PeruRail. Features elegant décor and includes a three-course gourmet menu, unlimited drinks, live music, and entry to Machu Picchu. |
| The Private | Inca Rail | Luxury | Private, personalized experience. Includes a chef onboard, drinks, private guide, and a cabin with a balcony. Designed for those seeking total exclusivity during the journey. |
Frequently Asked Questions
1) What is the best time to travel by train in Cusco?
Any time of year is ideal for traveling by train. From November to March, you can enjoy greener landscapes, but with a higher chance of rain. From April to October, you’ll appreciate clearer landscapes, perfect for panoramic views.
2) What services are included in the PeruRail Titicaca train?
The PeruRail Titicaca train includes gourmet lunch, complimentary drinks, live music, a Pisco Sour demonstration, afternoon tea, and a panoramic stop at La Raya. Everything is designed for a comfortable journey with the best service.
3) Is it recommended to do the route in both directions, Cusco–Puno and Puno–Cusco?
Yes, if you have the time. Both directions offer different landscapes depending on the time of day and the train’s orientation. You can choose the route that best fits your itinerary.
4) What is the experience like aboard the Andean Explorer by Belmond?
It is an absolute luxury experience, considered one of the best rail journeys in the world. You’ll travel in a boutique hotel-style train, with elegant cabins, a spa, a piano bar, and gourmet cuisine. It’s perfect for those seeking an exclusive multi-day journey.
5) How many days does the Andean Explorer journey last?
The full itinerary lasts three days and two nights. During this time, you’ll travel through Cusco, Lake Titicaca, and Arequipa, with stops and guided tours included. There is also an option for a one-day or two-day journey.
6) How demanding is the altitude during these trips?
The trains travel through high-altitude areas, especially in the Altiplano. However, since the journeys don’t require physical exertion, you should be able to handle it well. We recommend staying well-hydrated and avoiding heavy meals before your trip.
7) Is the train journey to Machu Picchu also panoramic?
Yes, the route to Aguas Calientes passes through the Sacred Valley, along with subtropical and Andean zones, offering spectacular landscapes. It’s an unforgettable journey, even before you reach the world wonder.
8) Which train is best if I am looking for an economical option to Machu Picchu?
I would recommend the Expedition service by PeruRail or The Voyager by Inca Rail. They are comfortable, affordable, and offer a wide range of schedules.
9) Which option is better if I want panoramic views?
The Vistadome by PeruRail and The 360° by Inca Rail are perfect for this. Both trains have large windows and even observation cars so you can enjoy the landscape without any limits.
10) Where are the train stations located in Cusco?
Trains to Machu Picchu mainly depart from Cusco, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo. For the PeruRail Titicaca and Andean Explorer trains, the main stations are in Cusco, Puno, and Arequipa. You can choose the station that best fits your itinerary.
Advice from people who have been there
By: Enrique C.“The Train to Machu Picchu“
“Vistadome is the intermediate train service by PeruRail. With a dome-shaped roof and glass windows, the train journey through these narrow canyons is an unforgettable experience. Drinks and food are available on board. The trip lasts approximately two hours from the Ollantaytambo station. The train takes you to the town of Aguas Calientes, from where you can walk to the entrance of Machu Picchu. Excellent route!“
By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, December 5, 2025