Which is the easiest way to get to Machu Picchu? By train. Without doubt!
Many people have the concern of how to get to Machu Picchu, as there is no direct road between Cusco and Machu Picchu. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to hike the famous Inca Trail to get to the Lost City of the Incas, and most senior citizens can do the trip. From Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu, 30 km, the only available secure transport is by train. Train companies offer a range of options varying in schedules, itineraries, price, and luxury. Anyway, there is another way to reach Machu Picchu going through Santa Maria and Santa Teresa by car and then by train or walk, but given the dangerous unpaved road, we do not recommend it. The dirt road is narrow and winding, surrounded by deep hills.
There are two train companies that offer a range of options varying in price and luxury, while all trains arrive at Machu Picchu Pueblo (also known as Aguas Calientes): Peru Rail and Inca Rail and their trains depart from Poroy Station (a 20-minute trip from Cusco) or Ollantaytambo Station, located in the Sacred Valley (a 90-minute trip from Cusco). Once in Machu Picchu, you will only need to take a short walk to the bus stop to board the exclusive ecological bus service to the actual site of Machu Picchu (a 20-minute trip), which departs every 10 minutes. Trains departures are scheduled every day, with a variety of schedules and frequencies, despite the Hiram Bingham that operates every day except for the last Sunday of each month. To see all trains schedules: machupicchu_train_schedules
Peru Rail
Three type of services are offered, the Hiram Bingham, the Vistadome and the Expedition (previously known as Backpacker). A local train also does the route but you must have a Peruvian ID to be able to use it. The ride from Cusco takes about 4:30 hours and from Ollantaytambo about 1:30 hours. Below information was been taken from Peru Rail website:
Hiram Bingham
A train of exclusive luxury. A journey filled in with an unforgettable one-in-a-life-time experience on your way to Machu Picchu.
Have you ever dreamed of traveling through the Peruvian Andes on a train modeled on the Pullman cars of the 1920s The Belmond Hiram Bingham train not only makes this possible, it turns a magical journey into an unforgettable experience, with personalized service that takes care of every last detail on your trip. Travel on the exclusive and luxurious Belmond Hiram Bingham train and enjoy the elegant dining car, the bar car, and the Observatory, where you can take in the unmatched scenery in the open air while sipping on a traditional Peruvian cocktail and listening to live local music. Start your experience off with a welcome cocktail. Once onboard, the maître will invite you to a brunch and gourmet lunch. The return trip includes a fine dining experience at dinner. In both cases, you can accompany your meals with beverages (non-premium) and an excellent wine selection. To the beat of the Peruvian cajón and tambourines, live traditional Peruvian and international music will set the tone throughout the trip for an unforgettable trip to the Machu Picchu citadel.
Vistadome
Bask in the scenery and experience Andean culture. A train with panoramic windows that will ensure a one-of-a-kind experience during your trip to Machu Picchu.
If you love nature and the countryside, the Vistadome is exactly what you’re looking for. The panoramic windows located beside and above your seat will bring you close to nature, unlike anything you’ve experienced before. The Vistadome train offers a unique connection with the scenery along the way to Machu Picchu, making passengers feel as if they were somehow part of the nature that surrounds them. Return trips on the Vistadome also offer an onboard fashion show, featuring the exclusive baby alpaca wool collection with the latest trends in alpaca apparel, all available for sale. As an added bonus, you can enjoy live dances inspired by the ancient culture of the Andes. Passengers also receive a snack made from local ingredients, so you can get the full Andean experience through our cuisine. The trip also includes non-alcoholic beverages for your onboard refreshment.
Expedition
Begin your adventure by train. Have a once-in-a-lifetime experience at an unbeatable price on your journey to Machu Picchu.
If you are looking for an adventure on your way to Machu Picchu at an unbeatable price, on a train with all the onboard comforts you could ask for, the Expedition train has just what you need. The train cars of the Expedition train are steeped in the designs of Incan culture, making them the perfect way to start your trip to the Machu Picchu citadel. The Expedition gives you the chance to take in the unbelievable scenery and take incredible panoramic pictures of a journey unlike any other. You will be waited on by a highly-trained staff member for the duration of your trip, offering you a hot or cold beverage and a snack made from Andean ingredients. If you wish, you’ll be able to take advantage of some onboard shopping, offering you everything you need for your visit to the Incan citadel.
Inca Rail
They offer two types of services: executive (panoramic views + snacks), and first class (more comfortable + reading books). All Inca Rail train services depart from Ollantaytambo. The ride from Ollantaytambo takes about 1:30 hours. Below information has been taken from Inca Rail website:
First Class
Enjoy a personalized service and make the most of your travel experience!
