Two companies operate the trains to the town of Aguas Calientes, the access point for Machu Picchu. PeruRail and Inca Rail provide different levels of service. Most departures start from Ollantaytambo station, about 1 hour 45 minutes from Cusco by road. Some options include a bimodal service with bus transfer from Cusco hotels. The train ride lasts approximately 1 hour 45 minutes from Ollantaytambo. Private transportation to stations uses agency-owned vehicles with highly trained drivers.

Buy tickets online directly from the companies or through authorized agencies. Book months ahead for high season from May to September. Prices rise each year, so 2026 estimates include a moderate increase from late 2025 figures.

Machu Picchu by World arranges complete packages with train tickets, entry to the Inca City, bus shuttles, and expert guides who speak multiple languages with wide experience on the routes.

Main Train Companies and Services

• PeruRail Offers Expedition (basic comfort), Vistadome (panoramic windows and snacks), Vistadome Observatory (roof windows and shows), and Hiram Bingham (full luxury with meals).
• Inca Rail Provides Voyager (comfortable basic), 360° (panoramic roof), and First Class (gourmet options and observatory car).

All trains include seats with tables and windows for views of the Andean landscape and Vilcanota River.

Key Details for the Journey

• Luggage limit: 8 kg per person, one bag.
• Departures: Multiple daily from 5:00 a.m. to afternoon.
• Arrival: Aguas Calientes station. Then take the 30-minute bus to the entrance.
• Children under 12 pay reduced rates on most services.
• No local trains for tourists; only the two companies.

Estimated Prices for 2026 (Round Trip per Person, from Ollantaytambo)

Prices approximate and may vary by exact schedule, season, and availability. Higher in peak months. One-way costs about half.

From Cusco/Poroy adds 50-100 USD extra per direction due to longer route or bimodal transfer.

Sample Daily Schedule Example (Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes)

Early options suit first entry slots at Machu Picchu.

• Departure around 6:00 a.m., arrival 7:45 a.m.
• Mid-morning around 8:00 a.m., arrival 9:45 a.m.
• Afternoon options for later visits or returns.

Return trains run until late afternoon, arriving back after 6:00 p.m.

Tips for Booking and Travel

• Secure spots early, especially for Vistadome or higher classes.
• Show passport when boarding.
• Seats assign at purchase; window preferred.
• Onboard sales for drinks and light items.
• Weather changes quickly; bring layers.

Meals on Longer Routes or Add-Ons

Luxury services include full meals with natural, local organic ingredients from Andean areas like quinoa and corn. Basic trains offer snacks. International options available on premium trains, sometimes at extra cost. Ask reservations for details.

Machu Picchu by World owns all private transportation to stations with skilled drivers. Multilingual expert guides join for the full experience to the Inca City. The agency focuses on quality service for travelers worldwide. Contact for 2026 packages combining train, entry, and transfers. Plan now for best availability.