Train from Machu Picchu to Cusco and Ticket Prices

Traveling to the Lost City of the Incas is a journey of a lifetime, and for 90% of visitors, the adventure centers around the train from Cusco to Machu Picchu. Unlike other tourist destinations where transportation is merely a utility, the train to Machu Picchu from Cusco is an integral part of the experience, winding through the Sacred Valley and plunging into the high altitude cloud forest. As we enter the 2025 travel season, understanding the logistics of this route is vital, as ticket availability can be scarce and prices fluctuate dynamically.

While the outbound journey builds anticipation, the train from Machu Picchu to Cusco offers a relaxing conclusion to your trek or tour, often featuring on board entertainment and fashion shows. Whether you choose PeruRail or Inca Rail, the two main operators, the route offers breathtaking views of the Urubamba River. In this guide, we will break down every aspect of the railway journey, from luxury carriages to budget seats, ensuring you secure the best seats for your Andean adventure.

Comprehensive Cost of Train from Cusco to Machu Picchu by Service Class

One of the most common questions travelers ask is: how much is the train from Cusco to Machu Picchu? The answer depends entirely on the level of comfort and exclusivity you desire. The cost of train from Cusco to Machu Picchu is not fixed; it uses a dynamic pricing model similar to airlines. Prices are higher during peak season (May to August) and popular morning departure times. Conversely, late afternoon or evening departures often yield a lower train from Cusco to Machu Picchu cost, making them attractive for budget conscious travelers.

To help you budget accurately for 2025 and 2026, it is helpful to categorize the trains into service classes. Each class offers a distinct experience, from basic transport to a five star rolling restaurant. Below is a table summarizing the approximate price ranges you can expect for a one way ticket during the standard tourist season.

Service Class	Train Name (PeruRail / Inca Rail)	Approx. Cost (One Way)	Key Features
Budget / Economy	Expedition / The Voyager	$55 – $75 USD	Standard comfortable seating, snack for purchase, large windows.
Mid-Range / Scenic	Vistadome / The 360°	$85 – $120 USD	Panoramic roof windows, included snack, on board entertainment.
First Class	Vistadome Observatory / The First Class	$130 – $200 USD	Balcony access, live music, cocktail included, lounge car.
Ultra Luxury	Hiram Bingham / The Private	$500 – $600+ USD	Gourmet brunch/dinner, open bar, bus ticket & entrance fee included.

Understanding these tiers is essential because the cost of train from Cusco to Machu Picchu can double or triple just by changing the departure hour or the carriage type. We recommend booking at least 4 weeks in advance to secure the lower end of these price ranges.

Luxury Train from Cusco to Machu Picchu Cost and VIP Services

For those seeking the best train from Cusco to Machu Picchu, the luxury services offer an experience reminiscent of the golden age of rail travel. The luxury train from Cusco to Machu Picchu options are designed not just to transport you, but to indulge you. These trains feature 1920s style Pullman carriages, elegant dining cars, and open air observation decks where you can breathe in the Andean air while sipping a Pisco Sour.

The luxury train from Cusco to Machu Picchu cost reflects this exclusivity. While the price tag is high, it is an “all inclusive” experience. Travelers often choose these options for honeymoons or special anniversaries. The service begins at the station with a welcome cocktail and traditional dance, setting the tone for a journey where every need is anticipated by white gloved staff.

Hiram Bingham Train from Cusco to Machu Picchu Price and Inclusions

The Belmond Hiram Bingham train from Cusco to Machu Picchu is widely considered the “Orient Express of the Andes.” It is the pinnacle of luxury rail in South America. The Hiram Bingham train from Machu Picchu to Cusco or the outbound leg includes a gourmet three course meal paired with fine Peruvian wines. The interior is decked out in polished wood and brass, offering an atmosphere of refined elegance.

When evaluating the train from Cusco to Machu Picchu Orient Express style experience, consider the value of the inclusions. The ticket price (often exceeding $550 USD) includes the bus ticket up to the citadel, the entrance fee to Machu Picchu, and a guided tour for small groups. This bundles the logistics into one seamless VIP package, justifying the premium price for many luxury travelers.

First Class Train from Cusco to Machu Picchu and Private Wagons

If the Hiram Bingham is out of budget but you still want exclusivity, the first class train from Cusco to Machu Picchu provided by Inca Rail (The First Class) or the Vistadome Observatory is a fantastic alternative. These luxury train to Machu Picchu from Cusco options often feature a dedicated bar car and a balcony where you can step outside the train.

For families or private groups, Inca Rail offers “The Private,” which is a luxury train to Cusco / from Cusco to Machu Picchu where you rent an entire wagon. This bespoke service allows for a completely private dining experience and lounge area, perfect for maintaining a social bubble while traveling through the Sacred Valley.

Mid Range Vistadome Train from Cusco to Machu Picchu Rates

The Vistadome train from Cusco to Machu Picchu is the most popular choice for international travelers. It strikes the perfect balance between price and experience. The train from Cusco to Machu Picchu Vistadome features panoramic windows that curve onto the ceiling, ensuring you don’t miss the towering granite peaks as you enter the canyon.

The train from Cusco to Machu Picchu price for the Vistadome typically ranges between $85 and $110 USD one way. This fare includes a light snack (usually a quinoa brownie or sandwich) and a hot drink. The main selling point, however, is the immersive visual connection with the landscape, making the 3.5 hour journey feel incredibly short.

Vistadome Train from Machu Picchu to Cusco Scenic Experience

The return journey on the Vistadome train from Machu Picchu to Cusco is distinct from the outbound trip. While the train ride from Cusco to Machu Picchu is quiet and focused on the scenery, the return trip transforms into a cultural show. Staff members perform a traditional “Saqra” dance (masked Andean dance) and put on a fashion show featuring baby alpaca wool garments.

This entertainment adds value to the train ride from Machu Picchu to Cusco, keeping passengers engaged as night falls and the scenery becomes less visible. It is a festive way to end a long day of hiking, allowing you to relax and enjoy the culture before arriving back at your hotel.

Train Options from Cusco to Machu Picchu with Panoramic Windows

When comparing train options from Cusco to Machu Picchu, the window size is a critical factor. The route passes through a deep canyon where the mountains rise vertically from the riverbank. Standard windows cut off the peaks. Therefore, train options from Machu Picchu to Cusco like the Vistadome (PeruRail) or The 360° (Inca Rail) are superior because they offer roof windows. The 360° train even includes an outdoor observation carriage in the center of the train, allowing photographers to capture glare free images of the landscape.

Budget and Cheap Train from Cusco to Machu Picchu Fares

For backpackers and budget travelers, finding a cheap train from Cusco to Machu Picchu is a priority. The lowest train fare from Cusco to Machu Picchu is found in the Expedition class (PeruRail) or The Voyager (Inca Rail). While these services don’t offer panoramic roof windows or fashion shows, they provide clean, comfortable leather seats and air conditioning.

The train price from Cusco to Machu Picchu in these economy classes can be as low as $55 USD if booked months in advance or during the low season (January-March). However, these seats sell out the fastest, so spontaneity can be costly.

Expedition Train from Cusco to Machu Picchu Ticket Deals

The Expedition train from Cusco to Machu Picchu is designed for the adventurous spirit. The decor often features indigenous tapestries and maps of the Inca Trail. When you buy train tickets from Cusco to Machu Picchu in this class, note that food is generally not included, though there is a trolley service to purchase drinks.

To get the best deal on a train ticket from Cusco to Machu Picchu, try to book departures that leave very early in the morning (around 5:00 AM) or very late in the evening. These “off peak” hours often have lower fares than the prime 9:00 AM slots.

Finding the Cheapest Train from Cusco to Machu Picchu for Backpackers

The absolute cheapest train from Cusco to Machu Picchu is often a topic of confusion. There is a “Local Train” that costs only a few dollars, but this is strictly reserved for Peruvian citizens and residents with DNI cards; international tourists are not allowed to board it. The backpacker’s train from Cusco to Machu Picchu is effectively the Bimodal Service (Bus + Train), which is often cheaper than the direct train service from Poroy.

To secure cheap train tickets from Cusco to Machu Picchu, consider taking a minivan (collectivo) from Cusco to Ollantaytambo (approx. $4 USD) and only booking the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. This cuts the train distance in half and significantly reduces the ticket price compared to departing directly from Cusco.

Train Schedule from Cusco to Machu Picchu and Station Logistics

Navigating the train schedule from Cusco to Machu Picchu requires attention to detail, as there are multiple departure stations. The earliest trains leave Ollantaytambo around 5:00 AM, allowing for a morning arrival. The train time from Cusco to Machu Picchu Poroy station usually starts around 6:40 AM.

For the return, the train schedule from Machu Picchu to Cusco runs from the afternoon until late at night. The last trains depart Aguas Calientes around 9:50 PM, arriving in Ollantaytambo past 11:30 PM. It is crucial to match your train arrival time with your Machu Picchu entry ticket slot to ensure you have enough time to board the bus and enter the ruins.

How Long Is the Train from Cusco to Machu Picchu Journey

Travelers often underestimate how long is the train from Cusco to Machu Picchu. It is not a high speed rail; it is a slow, winding narrow gauge mountain railway. If departing from Poroy (Cusco), the journey takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.

If departing from Ollantaytambo, the journey is roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes. The return leg follows the same timing. So, how long is the train from Machu Picchu to Cusco? Expect a nearly 4 hour trip if going all the way back to the city, or 1.5 hours if stopping in the Sacred Valley. Below is a breakdown of travel times by station.

Departure Station	Destination	Approx. Travel Time
San Pedro (Cusco City)	Machu Picchu	~4 hours (only May-Dec)
Poroy (Cusco Outskirts)	Machu Picchu	~3 hours 30 min
Ollantaytambo (Valley)	Machu Picchu	~1 hour 30 min
Machu Picchu	Ollantaytambo	~1 hour 30 min

Knowing train from Cusco to Machu Picchu how long it takes helps in planning connecting flights or tours upon your return.

Travel Time from Poroy vs Ollantaytambo Stations

The train from Poroy Cusco to Machu Picchu is the most convenient for those staying in the city center, as Poroy is a 25 minute taxi ride away. However, it has fewer departures. Most travelers opt for the Ollantaytambo station because it offers more frequency. When checking train from Cusco to Machu Picchu times, remember that Ollantaytambo is 2 hours by car from Cusco, so you must factor that transfer into your day. The train from Machu Picchu to Cusco time can feel long after a day of hiking, so many choose to get off at Ollantaytambo and take a private taxi back to Cusco for speed and comfort.

Train Station from Cusco to Machu Picchu Location Maps

Identifying the correct train station from Cusco to Machu Picchu is vital. There are three main stations. San Pedro is located directly in the city center near the market. Poroy is located on the plateau above the city. Ollantaytambo is in the Sacred Valley. When looking at a train from Cusco to Machu Picchu map, you will see that the rail line does not go straight; it zig zags out of Cusco (the famous “switchbacks”) before descending into the valley.

The closest train station to Machu Picchu from Cusco city center is San Pedro, but it operates on a limited schedule. During the rainy season (January to April), the Cusco and Poroy stations close for safety, and all services operate under a “Bimodal” system (Bus from Cusco to Ollantaytambo + Train to Machu Picchu).

Is There a Direct Train from Cusco to Machu Picchu City Center

Many travelers ask, is there a direct train from Cusco to Machu Picchu? Yes, during the dry season (May-December), direct trains run from San Pedro and Poroy. However, is there a train from Cusco to Machu Picchu year round? No. As mentioned, maintenance closes the Cusco leg in the early months of the year.

The train route from Cusco to Machu Picchu is scenic and historic. Even if you book a “direct” ticket in the rainy season, it will likely involve a bus transfer provided by the train company. Always check your ticket for the words “Bimodal Service” to understand if a bus transfer is involved.

Planning Your Train Ride from Cusco to Machu Picchu Peru

Planning your train ride from Cusco to Machu Picchu Peru involves more than just buying a ticket. You must coordinate it with your entry time to the ruins. We recommend arriving at Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes) at least 1 hour before your bus to the entrance.

When taking the train from Cusco to Machu Picchu, you have a choice between two main operators. The train companies that go from Cusco to Machu Picchu are PeruRail and Inca Rail. PeruRail generally has more frequencies and route options, while Inca Rail focuses on a boutique service experience. Both are reliable, safe, and offer similar price points for comparable services.

How to Book Train from Cusco to Machu Picchu Online Safely

To book train from Cusco to Machu Picchu, it is safest to use the official websites of PeruRail or Inca Rail, or a trusted travel agency. Learning how to book train from Cusco to Machu Picchu is straightforward: select your route, date, and class. You will need your passport number to finalize the purchase.

When considering how to buy train tickets from Cusco to Machu Picchu, be aware of third party resellers that mark up the price. If you are booking a tour package for 2026, the agency will usually handle these bookings for you, ensuring the timings align perfectly with your guided tour.

Tips for Purchasing Train Fares from Cusco to Machu Picchu in Advance

Knowing how to purchase train fares from Cusco to Machu Picchu early can save you money. Train tickets are released months in advance. For the high season (June-August), train tickets from Cusco to Machu Picchu can sell out weeks before the date.

We recommend booking train from Cusco to Machu Picchu as soon as your Machu Picchu entrance tickets are confirmed. Do not book the train first, as entrance tickets are more limited. Match the train arrival to the entry slot.

Luggage Restrictions for the Train from Cusco to Machu Picchu

A critical detail often overlooked is the train from Cusco to Machu Picchu luggage policy. Both companies have strict rules: you are only allowed one carry on bag weighing no more than 5kg to 8kg (11-17 lbs). Large suitcases are not permitted on board because the narrow carriages lack storage space.

When you buy train tickets from Machu Picchu to Cusco, plan to leave your main luggage at your hotel in Cusco or Ollantaytambo. Most hotels offer free storage for this exact reason. If you must bring luggage, you can pay for an extra seat, but this is an expensive solution.

Itineraries Using the Train to Machu Picchu from Cusco

A one day trip to Machu Picchu by train from Cusco is possible but exhausting. It involves a 4:00 AM start and a late return. This day trip to Machu Picchu from Cusco by train is ideal for those short on time but requires precise coordination of transfers to ensure you get at least 3-4 hours inside the ruins.

One Day Trip from Cusco to Machu Picchu by Train Schedule

For a successful one day trip from Cusco to Machu Picchu by train, you should aim for a train departing Ollantaytambo by 7:00 AM at the latest. You will visit the ruins from roughly 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. The train from Machu Picchu to Cusco schedule offers returns at 2:30 PM, 4:12 PM, and later.

Be careful not to miss the last train from Machu Picchu to Cusco, which usually leaves around 9:50 PM. Missing this train means finding emergency accommodation in Aguas Calientes, as there are no roads connecting the town to the outside world.

Combining the Train from Cusco to Machu Picchu Pueblo with Tours

The train from Cusco to Machu Picchu Pueblo drops you in the center of the tourist town. From there, it is a 5 minute walk to the bus station. Many luxury services offer a train from Cusco hotel to Machu Picchu transfer, where a private driver picks you up from your lobby and takes you to the station.

Note that there is no train from Cusco airport to Machu Picchu. Upon landing, you must take a taxi to the city center or Poroy station (30 mins) or drive to Ollantaytambo (1.5 hours) to catch your connection. Planning these transfers is essential for a smooth journey in 2026.