Reaching Machu Picchu is the dream of every traveler visiting Peru. While there are hiking routes like the Inca Trail or Salkantay, most visitors choose the train as their means of transportation to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to the citadel. But which company to choose? Which station does the train depart from? How much does it cost? In this complete guide, we explain all the routes, updated prices (2026), and tips to make your trip unforgettable.
🚆 Operating companies: PeruRail vs Inca Rail
Two companies manage the train service to Machu Picchu: PeruRail and Inca Rail. Both offer different categories, from economy trains to luxury services with panoramic cars. The choice will depend on your budget and the level of comfort you're looking for.
| Company / Service | Available routes | Reference price (round trip) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| PeruRail Expedition | Poroy - Ollanta - Aguas Calientes Also from Cusco (Wanchaq) | USD $70 - $100 | Standard cars, comfortable seats, large windows. Ideal price-quality ratio. |
| PeruRail Vistadome | Poroy / Ollanta - Aguas Calientes | USD $85 - $130 | Cars with panoramic roof and windows, dance show on board, snacks included. |
| PeruRail 360° | Ollanta - Aguas Calientes | USD $110 - $150 | Cars with side windows and glass roof, 360° landscape observation. |
| Inca Rail (The 360°) | Ollanta / Cusco (Wanchaq) - Aguas Calientes | USD $90 - $140 | Panoramic cars, onboard service, Andean music, observation option. |
| Inca Rail First Class | Ollanta / Poroy - Aguas Calientes | USD $150 - $220 | Luxury, spacious seats, gourmet menu, premium drinks, exclusive car. |
| Belmond Hiram Bingham | Poroy - Aguas Calientes | USD $500+ | Andean Orient Express: extreme luxury, dinner on board, guided visit to Machu Picchu included. |
📍 Train stations: where to depart from?
There are three main stations to board the train to Machu Picchu:
- Poroy Station (Cusco): The closest to Cusco city (20 minutes by car). Used mainly by PeruRail. Altitude: 3,570 m / 11,710 ft.
- Wanchaq Station (downtown Cusco): Operated by Inca Rail and some PeruRail services. More central and convenient if you're staying in the historic center.
- Ollantaytambo Station (Sacred Valley): The most popular among travelers who spend the night in the Sacred Valley. Offers more frequencies and slightly lower rates. Picturesque departure among mountains.
Many package tours include transfer from your hotel in Cusco to the corresponding station. If traveling independently, you can take a taxi or collective bus.
🔄 Routes and journey duration
The journey from Cusco to Aguas Calientes takes between 3.5 and 4 hours depending on the departure station. From Ollantaytambo, the trip is reduced to approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, ideal if you want to minimize time on the train. The landscape along the route is spectacular: it changes from the high Andes to the cloud forest, with the Urubamba River always present.
🎟️ How to buy tickets and practical tips
You can purchase your tickets directly on the official websites of PeruRail (perurail.com) and Inca Rail (incarail.com). Key recommendations:
- Buy at least 2 months in advance for high season (May-September) and dates near holidays.
- You will need your passport number when purchasing. The name must exactly match your travel document.
- Allowed luggage is usually one large suitcase (up to 23 kg) plus a carry-on. Check each company's policies.
- There are discounts for children, students, and Peruvian citizens/foreign residents. Verify conditions.
- Once you buy the ticket, check the exact departure station (Poroy, Wanchaq, or Ollantaytambo). Many tourists confuse the terminal.
🚍 Arrival at Aguas Calientes and ascent to Machu Picchu
After getting off the train at Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes) station, you will need to take a bus to the citadel entrance (20-30 minutes, $12 USD one way). You can also walk up the stairs (1.5 hours, demanding). We recommend buying bus tickets together with train tickets to save time. Remember that you need your Machu Picchu entrance ticket purchased in advance on the official Ministry of Culture website.
📅 Best time to travel by train
The dry season (April to October) is the most crowded and prices rise. However, the landscape is clearer and there is less chance of rain. If you're looking for lower rates and fewer crowds, travel between November and March (rainy season). That said, bring waterproof clothing and be prepared for possible cancellations due to huaicos (landslides) in extreme cases.
🎫 Do you need a visa or special permit?
Foreign tourists only require a valid passport. No visa is needed to enter Peru for most countries in the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Oceania. When buying the train ticket, you will be asked for your passport information to issue the ticket. At the Machu Picchu access control, they will also ask for your identification document.
🏁 Conclusion: Choose according to your budget and comfort
The train to Machu Picchu is an experience in itself. From the budget services of PeruRail Expedition to the luxury of Hiram Bingham, there are options for every budget. If you're looking to save without sacrificing comfort, choose Expedition from Ollantaytambo. If you want an unforgettable panoramic experience, Vistadome or The 360° are perfect. For special occasions, First Class or Belmond will make you feel like you're in the golden age of rail. Plan ahead, buy your tickets online, and prepare for one of the most beautiful railway routes in the world.
✍️ Text by the Peru Global Travel team — We advise on train ticket and Machu Picchu entrance purchases. Contact us for a stress-free trip.