Luxury Trains To Machu Picchu: Your Expert Guide
Are you deciding which luxury train to Machu Picchu is the right fit for your journey?
The iconic site of Machu Picchu is one of the major highlights of a trip to Peru, however there are various types of trains you can choose from to make your trip smoother and all-inclusive. From champagne service and gourmet dining to panoramic views of the Sacred Valley, each train offers something unique - therefore it’s important to look at the pros and cons of each train before making your decision.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various trains to Machu Picchu, and what each option offers to luxury travellers. We’ll also answer your most frequently asked questions in our FAQ section.
Comparison Table Of The Different Machu Picchu Trains
Below we’ll quickly summarize the different Machu Picchu trains, and how they differ in service, cost and pick-up locations. For more detailed information you can read more about each train in their individual sections.
Why Choose a Luxury Train to Machu Picchu?
Quick Answer: Essentially, choosing a luxury train to Machu Picchu is the most elegant, comfortable and quickest way of reaching this New Seventh Wonder of the World.
While other options such as taking buses or private taxis are widely used by tourists to make the trip from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, the trains are by far the best choice. All three of the main trains offer a more direct route, and can all be boarded in Cusco or within the surrounding Sacred Valley for ease.
As we’ll see below, trains to Machu Picchu can offer travellers all kinds of benefits such as all-inclusive gourmet meals and live entertainment on-board the Hiram Bingham Train, as well as picturesque, 360° views of the striking Andes when riding the Observatory carriage of the Vistadome Train. Trains are also included when choosing a luxury Machu Picchu tour package, so this way you will be able to enjoy the most seamless experience when visiting this incredible Inca citadel.
The Different Luxury Trains To Machu Picchu Options
Below we’ll now take a look at the different trains to Machu Picchu, what each package offers, as well as what we best recommend for luxury travellers.
It’s important to know before proceeding, that the trains to Machu Picchu are operated by two companies - PeruRail and IncaRail - both with their own particular features which we’ll discuss in detail.
PeruRail Trains To Machu Picchu
The Hiram Bingham Train (Recommended)
The most luxurious and all-inclusive option of reaching Machu Picchu, the Hiram Bingham Train is a true bucket-list experience that delivers on all fronts - and is our recommendation for guests here at The Luxury Peru Travel Company. Owned by Belmond and operated by PeruRail, here we can enjoy beautiful interiors of the carriages, observation cars along with the most comfortable seats and live folklore entertainment. Full gourmet meals (lunch or dinner) are also included, as well as much better service, which makes the Hiram Bingham Train the overall stand-out option for luxury travellers.
👍 Pros: Incredible Luxurious Carriage And Seats, All-Inclusive Gourmet Meals And Service, On-Board Live Entertainment, Spacious Scenic Windows
👎 Cons: Most Expensive Option
💲 Cost: $500+ Per Person (One-Way)
📍 Boarding Locations: Poroy (Cusco), Urubamba, Belmond Río Sagrado
The Vistadome Observatory
While part of the same Vistadome Train operated by PeruRail, the Vistadome Observatory is actually an entirely separate carriage - which is both more exclusive and offers additional perks compared with standard carriages. Large panoramic windows on both the roof and sides allow for a much more striking viewing of the surrounding Peruvian Andes as we journey to Machu Picchu, along with an open-air balcony. Snack and food options tend to be better than the standard Vistadome carriages, while we can also enjoy local music and dances on-board.
👍 Pros: Affordable, Giant Windows For Stunning Views, Various Pick-Up Locations
👎 Cons: General Amenities
💲 Cost: $120+ Per Person (One-Way)
📍 Boarding Locations: Wánchaq (Cusco), San Pedro (Cusco), Poroy (Cusco), Ollantaytambo, Urubamba
The Vistadome Train
The entry-level option, the Vistadome Train is the most accessible and simple option for reaching Machu Picchu. Operated by train company PeruRail, here we can enjoy comfortable seats and large panel windows on the sides to see out as we journey through the Sacred Valley. Food and drink is sometimes also included depending on your package, although options are the most limited when compared with say the luxury Hiram Bingham Train.
👍 Pros: Affordable, Various Pick-Up Locations
👎 Cons: Busy, Non-Exclusive, General Amenities And Food Options
💲 Cost: $80+ Per Person (One-Way)
📍 Boarding Locations: Wánchaq (Cusco), San Pedro (Cusco), Poroy (Cusco), Ollantaytambo, Urubamba
IncaRail Trains To Machu Picchu
The Presidential Train
The most luxurious option offered by IncaRail, the Presidential Train is best for those who want an exclusive and ultra-comfortable experience on their journey to Machu Picchu. A single private carriage provided by special request, here you will enjoy an open bar with free drinks, gourmet meals and a much more personalised experience. It’s commonly compared in standards to PeruRail’s Hiram Bingham Train - although the latter is often recognised as one of South America’s best luxury train rides.
👍 Pros: Ultra-Luxury, Exclusive Private Carriage, Gourmet Dining, Personalized Service
👎 Cons: Very Expensive, Limited Availability, Private Charter Basis Only
💲 Cost: $2,000+ Per Group (One-Way)
📍 Boarding Locations: Cusco (San Pedro, Poroy), Ollantaytambo, Urubamba
The First Class Train
The First Class Train is IncaRail’s most frequent and easy-to-schedule premium option, which is designed for travelers who want extra comfort, fine dining and a more elegant atmosphere on their journey to Machu Picchu. Passengers can enjoy an exclusive lounge/bar in their carriage, live music, a gourmet three-course meal and welcome drink, as well as an open-air balcony to enjoy picturesque views of the Urubamba River and surrounding Andes mountains.
Train To Machu Picchu First Class
Train To Machu Picchu First Class
👍 Pros: Lounge/Bar Car, Open-Air Balcony, Gourmet Menu, Premium Atmosphere
👎 Cons: More Expensive Than 360°/Voyager, Still Shared With Other Passengers
💲 Cost: $400+ Per Person (One-Way)
📍 Boarding Locations: Cusco (San Pedro, Poroy), Ollantaytambo, Urubamba
The Prime Train
A step-up from IncaRail’s standard Voyager and 360° trains, the Prime Train offers a more refined dining-focused experience, along with wide windows for those perfect Sacred Valley views. Although it doesn’t include a lounge or balcony which the First Class option offers, passengers can enjoy a more premium culinary experience, more comfortable seating and better views than the introductory Voyager Train. It’s the perfect option for those seeking an affordable luxury upgrade, without paying more for the First Class and Presidential options.
👍 Pros: Wide Windows, Premium Andean-Inspired Meals, Comfortable Atmosphere
👎 Cons: No Lounge/Bar Car, No Balcony, Less Exclusive Than First Class
💲 Cost: $150–$200+ Per Person (One-Way)
📍 Boarding Locations: Cusco (San Pedro, Poroy), Ollantaytambo, Urubamba
The 360° Train
If you want an upgrade on the Voyager without spending too much more, then the 360° train is a solid choice. While comparable to the Vistadome Observatory, the main difference here is that the 360° is actually a separate train, which has a more all-inclusive feel with its live-music and better selection of food and drink. We’ll also get to enjoy wider windows and better views of the incredible Andes as we make our way to Machu Picchu.
👍 Pros: Panoramic Windows, Outdoor Observation Car, On-Board Entertainment App
👎 Cons: Higher Cost Than Voyager/Vistadome, Still Shared Seating
💲 Cost: $100+ Per Person (One-Way)
📍 Boarding Locations: Poroy (Cusco), Ollantaytambo, Urubamba
The Voyager Train
Like with the Vistadome Train, the Voyager is Inca Rail’s introductory option for their trains heading to Machu Picchu. Also equipped with comfortable seats and tables, here we can enjoy the ride through the Sacred Valley with a select on-board choice of food and drink. As well as being a cost-effective and more simple option, the Voyager also benefits from having several pick-up locations both in Cusco and within the Sacred Valley.
👍 Pros: Cheapest Option, Multiple Daily Departures
👎 Cons: Basic Comfort, Large Crowds, Limited Service
💲 Cost: $60+ Per Person (One-Way)
📍 Boarding Locations: Poroy (Cusco), Ollantaytambo
Which One Is Better - PeruRail, Inca Rail Or Belmond?
Overall, for luxury travellers who want the highest quality service and all-inclusive ride, the Hiram Bingham Train by Belmond is the best option. Not only can you enjoy high quality gourmet meals and relax in the most comfortable seats, you will also have incredible views out over the Sacred Valley during your train ride. There’s also several different pick-up points, including Cusco, Urubamba and the Belmond Río Sagrado.
The other trains offered by PeruRail and IncaRail (such as the Vistadome and 360°) are also good choices, and especially for those who want to pay less and don’t mind sacrificing quality and comfort. While they can be busier, they are great for flexibility - and especially for those who want to ride the Hiram Bingham train one-way (either to Aguas Calientes or back out), and then the Vistadome Observatory carriage for the other leg.
When comparing PeruRail and IncaRail as a whole, both companies really deliver in terms of flexibility and quality - although they do have their own individual perks. PeruRail tends to have more daily departures and pick-up points which makes logistics more simple, while also offering the exclusive Hiram Bingham Train (as well as the famous Andean Explorer which visits other areas of Peru such as Arequipa and Puno). IncaRail on the other hand are better-known for their newer and more modern carriages, stylish designs, as well as offering a private exclusive option (the Presidential Train).
How Long Is The Train Ride To Machu Picchu?
Once you’ve decided you want to take a luxury train ride to Machu Picchu, it’s now important to work out your logistics. This way you can leave ample time to properly explore the ancient sacred site, as well as have proper expectations before your trip.
The first stop in Cusco (Poroy Station) is the furthest away from Aguas Calientes, and will therefore take the longest time to reach. The Vistadome Train will take 3.5 hours to reach our destination, while the Hiram Bingham Train will also take just over 3 hours to arrive at Aguas Calientes. From Aguas Calientes it’s then a 30 minute bus ride to reach the sacred ruins of Machu Picchu.
Of course there are multiple other train stops along the route after Poroy in Cusco, such as Wanchaq, Ollantaytambo and Urubamba. Given they are closer, we can expect a shorter train ride of between 1-3 hours - depending on the stop we depart from.
How To Book Your Luxury Train To Machu Picchu
There are a few different ways to book your luxury train to Machu Picchu, and whilst they provide the same tickets - there are some differences and benefits of choosing certain booking options over others.
For example you can book online directly with the operators if you want, and their websites are in English which makes the booking process more simple. If you choose to do it this way independently, be sure to book well in advance as tickets can sell out for individuals ahead of time. Also note that you’ll need to make your own way to the train stations, so be sure to choose the right boarding point either in Cusco or within the wider Sacred Valley region.
On the same topic, you can of course head to the station directly and make your booking in person. This is an ideal option for travellers who are already within the Cusco region, however again there’s a risk of reduced availability (especially so during the popular tourist season which is between June and September). Both PeruRail and IncaRail have English-speaking employees, so there’s no worry about communication issues.
The last and best option, in our opinion, is heading on a luxury tour with a reputable operator who can organise everything for you. Not only does this take out all of the guesswork and possible complications while booking yourself, however you’ll also get to instead spend your time enjoying yourself rather than worrying about getting yourself to the train stations independently.
Frequently Asked Questions About Trains To Machu Picchu
Below we’ll now answer some of the frequent questions we get about the luxury trains to Machu Picchu, as well as anything else important that you need to know.
Is There A Luxury Train To Machu Picchu?
Yes - The Hiram Bingham Train is the flagship luxury train to Machu Picchu, which includes stellar service, all comforts and a once-in-a-lifetime experience for guests. Departing either from Cusco or select locations within the Sacred Valley, here we can enjoy live cultural performances and gourmet meals on-board, as well as watch out from the giant windows and open-air carriages as we glide through the Sacred Valley and Andes regions.
Is The Belmond Train To Machu Picchu Worth It?
The Belmond Train is 100% worth it for tourists who want the most memorable and incredible experience reaching Machu Picchu. Not only can we relax within the most luxurious carriages with all-inclusive treatment, delicious meals are also served along our ride. There is also flexibility too when booking the Hiram Bingham Train with us at The Luxury Peru Travel Company, where we can book the return journey for you, or just a one-way (if you prefer to board the Vistadome Train for the other leg).
How Much Does The Belmond Train To Machu Picchu Cost?
The total cost of the Hiram Bingham Train to Machu Picchu depends on the season and when you book. Prices generally fall between $500+ for a one-way trip, with a return journey costing anywhere from $1000+, although these can and do fluctuate. While the most expensive train option, the Hiram Bingham does include the most luxurious experience - so is definitely worth it for those who want to travel and arrive into Machu Picchu in style.
Are There Bathrooms On The Train To Machu Picchu?
Yes, all trains to Machu Picchu have toilets on-board, whether you are boarding the luxury all-inclusive Hiram Bingham Train, or are heading on the standard Vistadome Train or upgraded Vistadome Observatory carriage. They are fully operational at all times during your train rides, however we do recommend bringing your own toilet paper just in case it runs out (this is actually a good tip to follow regardless of where you’re travelling in Peru - just to be on the safe side!).
Is It Better To Return By Train Or Car To Machu Picchu?
This really is a personal choice, and depends on how tired you anticipate you will be, and how you want to end your unforgettable trip to the Machu Picchu ruins. For example, many travellers like to ride back on the Hiram Bingham Train as a way of relaxing after walking around the historic site, while enjoying top quality meals and the most comfortable seats. Others prefer to board the Hiram Bingham heading towards Aguas Calientes - and then take a simple taxi back. It really depends on your and what you prefer at the end of the day!
Overview Of The Luxury Trains To Machu Picchu
And that’s all for this guide on how to choose the best luxury train to Machu Picchu.
Getting to Peru’s most incredible wonder is very easy today, with all kinds of different transportation options from Cusco. However the luxury trains are by far the most luxurious and all-inclusive way of reaching Machu Picchu, where we properly relax with spacious seats, dine in style with gourmet meals as well as enjoy live Peruvian performances on our journey to and from the sacred Incan site.
Ready to book your luxury tour to Machu Picchu? Here at The Luxury Peru Tour Company we take out all of the guesswork and help you create your dream Machu Picchu and Peru trip with ease. Speak with our expert travel advisors now, where we will tailor your vacation exactly how you want it to be.
