Hello, dear reader! Machu Picchu is one of the world’s most iconic travel experiences — and the train journey to get there is just as unforgettable. Whether you’re planning your trip from Cusco or the Sacred Valley, understanding how to take the train to Machu Picchu will make your journey smooth, scenic, and stress-free.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know: routes, train companies, schedules, tips, and what to expect once you’re on board.

1. How to Get to Machu Picchu by Train

There’s no direct train that goes inside Machu Picchu — all trains stop at Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), located at the base of the mountain. From there, you’ll take a short bus ride (or hike) to reach the entrance of the citadel.

Inside Train to Machu Picchu | Peruvian Sunrise
Inside the Train to Machu Picchu

Step-by-Step Routes

Route 1: From Cusco (Poroy or San Pedro Station)

  • Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours (including transfers).
  • Details: Only a few departures operate from Cusco directly, mainly on PeruRail’s Vistadome and Hiram Bingham trains.
  • Best for: Travelers who want to start directly from Cusco without extra transfers.

Route 2: From Ollantaytambo (Sacred Valley)

  • Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.
  • Details: This is the most common and flexible route. You can take a private transfer, taxi, or bus from Cusco (1.5–2 hours) to Ollantaytambo, then board your train.
  • Best for: Travelers who want more train options, lower costs, and flexibility.

Route 3: Bimodal Service (Bus + Train)

  • What It Is: A combined bus from Cusco to Ollantaytambo + train to Aguas Calientes.
  • Offered by: Both PeruRail and Inca Rail.
  • Tip: This is the most convenient choice if you’re staying in Cusco and don’t want to arrange separate transport.
Train Machu Picchu Town Aguas Calientes Peru | Peruvian Sunrise
Machu Picchu Town or Aguas Calientes in Cusco, Peru

2. Train Tickets, Prices, and When to Book

Where to Buy?

You can buy tickets directly from:

PeruRail.com
IncaRail.com
Or through a trusted travel agency like Peruvian Sunrise, where we help you coordinate all connections and entry tickets to Machu Picchu.

When to Book?

  • High Season (June–August): Book 2–3 months in advance.
  • Low Season (November–March): 2–3 weeks is usually enough.

4. PeruRail or Inca Rail... Which one is Better?

If you’re looking for comfort and great views, the Vistadome or 360° trains offer the perfect balance between price and experience.
For luxury travelers, the Hiram Bingham Train by PeruRail is an all-inclusive experience with gourmet meals, drinks, and live music.

Train to Machu Picchu Inca Rail | Peruvian Sunrise
Inca Rail Train to Machu Picchu

5. Duration and Stations Explained

  • Cusco (Poroy or San Pedro) → Aguas Calientes: ~3.5–4 hours
  • Ollantaytambo → Aguas Calientes: ~1.5–2 hours
  • Urubamba (limited service) → Aguas Calientes: ~2.5 hours

Arrival: All trains arrive at Aguas Calientes station, a few minutes’ walk from hotels and the bus station to Machu Picchu.

6. Connection to Machu Picchu

Once in Aguas Calientes, you’ll take a bus (25–30 min) up the mountain to the entrance of Machu Picchu.

  • Bus tickets: Can be bought in Aguas Calientes (cash or card).
  • Schedule: Buses run every 5–10 minutes from 5:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
  • Alternative: You can also hike up (~1.5–2 hours), but it’s steep and only recommended for experienced hikers.
Train to Machu Picchu Peru Rail | Peruvian Sunrise
Peru Rail Train to Machu Picchu

7. Tips for the Trains to Machu Picchu

Book train + Machu Picchu entry together to ensure synchronized schedules.
Pack light: only your essentials, camera, and a rain jacket.
Enjoy Aguas Calientes: Visit the hot springs, artisan market, or local cafés before or after your visit.
Sit on the left side of the train from Ollantaytambo to enjoy the best mountain views.

If you don't want to do all by yourself and prefer to have a smooth experience, you can always book with us and we will organize everything for you.

Plan your Machu Picchu Adventure with Peruvian Sunrise

At Peruvian Sunrise, we’ve helped thousands of travelers explore Machu Picchu with personalized itineraries, comfortable logistics, and authentic Peruvian experiences.
We can take care of your train tickets, transfers, Machu Picchu entry, and local guide, so you can simply enjoy the journey.

Contact us today to plan your unforgettable trip to Machu Picchu — we’ll make sure your sunrise over the Andes is one you’ll never forget.

Train Machu Picchu Views | Peruvian Sunrise
Views of Cusco on the way to Machu Picchu