The Machu Picchu train schedule changes by season, route, and company, so a clear plan matters. This guide shows sample departure times, travel times, and the rules that affect your day.
It also explains how to match your train to your entrance slot and your ride from Cusco. We provide private transportation only, so we do not sell train tickets.
The Machu Picchu Train Schedule at a Glance
Two companies run the trains on the Machu Picchu train schedule. Also, both go to Aguas Calientes, the town below Machu Picchu. They are PeruRail and Inca Rail.
Most trains leave from Ollantaytambo and take about 1.5 hours. Cusco departures combine a bus and a train and take about 4 hours or more.
All times below come from the PeruRail timetable page and from Inca Rail’s route page. Timetables change, so always confirm the time on your own ticket.
Machu Picchu Train Schedule From Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo is the most common starting point. In addition, it sits in the Sacred Valley, about two hours from Cusco by road.
Machu Picchu Train Schedule: PeruRail Samples From Ollantaytambo
PeruRail lists sample trains at 5:05 a.m., 7:45 a.m., 8:00 a.m., 12:55 p.m., 3:37 p.m., and 9:00 p.m. Travel times run from about 1 hour 25 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes.
The 5:05 a.m. train arrives in Aguas Calientes at 6:37 a.m. The 8:00 a.m. Vistadome arrives at 9:25 a.m.
Machu Picchu Train Schedule: Inca Rail From Ollantaytambo
Inca Rail says several departures run each day from Ollantaytambo. Besides, its station is open from 6:00 a.m. to 7:45 p.m.
The ride takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Therefore, check the exact time for each Inca Rail service when you book.
Which Machu Picchu Train Schedule Fits a Day Trip
For a same-day visit, choose a morning train and an evening return. Morning trains give you more time at the citadel.
Our Machu Picchu day trip guide shows a full-day plan.
Machu Picchu Train Schedule From Cusco
Trains from Cusco combine a bus and a train. The bus takes you to a Sacred Valley station, and the train continues to Aguas Calientes.
Machu Picchu Train Schedule: PeruRail Bimodal From Cusco
PeruRail lists bimodal departures from Wanchaq at 3:20 a.m., 5:10 a.m., and 12:30 p.m. Moreover, the trip takes about 4 hours 5 minutes to 4 hours 32 minutes.
The 5:10 a.m. service arrives in Aguas Calientes at 9:15 a.m. Therefore, you need an early pickup in Cusco.
Inca Rail Bimodal Service From Cusco
Inca Rail runs a bimodal service from Cusco on selected schedules. A bus takes you to Ollantaytambo, and a direct train follows.
Third-party guides put the total trip between 3.5 and 5 hours. Furthermore, some services run only in certain seasons.
Poroy and Wanchaq Stations
Some Cusco trains leave from Poroy or from stations in the city. Check your ticket for the exact station.
Read our guides to the Poroy train station and the Wanchaq train station. Each one works a little differently.
Machu Picchu Train Schedule From Hidroeléctrica
The hydroelectric route is a budget alternative. Also, it starts with a long road trip and ends with a short train ride.
Short Train, Long Road
PeruRail lists a train at 7:54 a.m. from Hidroeléctrica. It takes about 41 minutes to reach Aguas Calientes.
Many travelers walk the same route along the tracks, which takes 2 to 3 hours. Our guide to Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes explains this option.
Machu Picchu Train Schedule: Return Trains
Return trains follow a timetable too, and evening trains fill quickly. In addition, choose your return time with care.
Last Trains on the Machu Picchu Train Schedule
PeruRail lists its last train at 11:37 p.m. across its network. Not every route runs that late.
Therefore, check the final train for your route. Never assume a late train will be available.
Matching the Machu Picchu Train Schedule to Your Return
Leave enough time to walk, queue for the bus, and reach the station. Besides, do not book a tight connection.
Our guide on getting from Machu Picchu to Cusco explains the return options.
A Driver for the Late Return
Your driver can meet you at the station when the train returns. This saves you from late-night taxi searches.
Send us your return train time and we will plan the pickup. We track delays on request.
How to Match the Machu Picchu Train Schedule With Your Entrance Slot
The entrance ticket has a time window. Moreover, your train must arrive well before it.
Allow One Hour Between Train and Entry
Plan a buffer of at least one hour between your train arrival and your entrance time. The shuttle bus and the lines take time.
The first buses usually start around 5:30 a.m., according to third-party guides. Therefore, early trains help you beat the lines.
Buy the Entrance Ticket on the Official Site
The entrance ticket is sold on the official Ministry of Culture site. It is separate from the train ticket.
Choose your slot first. Then pick the train that fits it.
Do Not Forget the Bus Ticket
The shuttle bus ticket is also separate. Furthermore, Our guide to the Machu Picchu bus explains how to buy it.
A missing bus ticket can cost you time in line. Buy it ahead when you can.
Machu Picchu Train Schedule Rules to Know
A few simple rules prevent most problems at the station. Review them before travel day.
When to Arrive at the Station
Inca Rail advises arriving 30 to 60 minutes before departure. Also, boarding usually starts 20 to 30 minutes before the train leaves.
PeruRail travelers should also arrive early. Busy mornings need more time.
Luggage and Tickets
Both companies allow one small bag or backpack per passenger. Keep your ticket and passport ready at check-in.
The name on the ticket must match your passport exactly. In addition, Our guide to Machu Picchu train tickets explains how to book each step.
Seasonal Changes to the Machu Picchu Train Schedule
PeruRail publishes different tables for January to April and May to December. Some rows differ between the two seasons.
Therefore, always check the table for your travel date. Do not use a schedule from a different month.
Getting to the Station on Time for Your Train
The timetable is only half of the plan. Besides, the ride to the station is the other half.
When to Leave Cusco for an Ollantaytambo Train
Leave Cusco at least three hours before your train. This covers the drive, the walk to the platform, and the arrival window.
For a 5:05 a.m. train, ask us to confirm an earlier start. We plan the pickup around your ticket.
Our Private Fares
Our private fares between Cusco and Ollantaytambo are $44 for a sedan, $58 for a minivan, and $73 for a Sprinter van. Moreover, Our fares to Poroy are $20, $35, and $58.
These rates are per vehicle, not per person. Read our guide to getting from Cusco to Ollantaytambo for every option. Travelers coming from the capital can read our Lima to Machu Picchu distance guide for the full distance and time. Planning the whole trip? Our return trip from Machu Picchu to Lima covers every step. Planning the whole trip? Our guide to the train back from Aguas Calientes covers every step.
After You Arrive in Ollantaytambo
Our guide to the Ollantaytambo train station explains where to enter. It also lists nearby cafes and restrooms.
Arrive early and wait in the plaza if you have time. Furthermore, the town is pleasant in the morning.
A Sample Day Using the Machu Picchu Train Schedule
This example shows how the pieces fit together. Adjust the times to your own tickets.
Early Pickup in Cusco
For a 7:45 a.m. train from Ollantaytambo, plan a pickup in Cusco around 4:45 a.m. This covers the two-hour drive and the arrival window.
Your driver tracks the time and waits at your hotel door. Therefore, you only need to be ready.
Train, Bus, and Entrance
The 7:45 a.m. Also, PeruRail train arrives at 9:15 a.m. Then you join the bus line and ride up to the citadel.
Choose an entrance slot at least one hour after your arrival. This margin protects you from small delays.
Return and Pickup
Choose a return train that leaves after your visit and still allows a calm walk to the station. Share the time with us so we can plan the pickup.
Your driver meets you in Ollantaytambo and takes you back to your hotel.
Common Mistakes With the Machu Picchu Train Schedule
A few errors cause most missed trains. In addition, avoid them and your day will run smoothly.
Using an Old Timetable
Schedules change, and a table from last year may be wrong. Check the official page for your travel date.
Our times are samples, not guarantees. Your ticket always has the final word.
Booking a Tight Connection
Do not book a return train right before a flight or a long drive. Besides, delays happen, especially in the rainy season.
Leave a comfortable buffer on both sides of your train.
Confusing the Station
Cusco has several stations, and Ollantaytambo has one. Check your ticket for the exact name.
If you are unsure, send us a photo of your ticket on WhatsApp. We will confirm the station and the pickup time.
Choosing Between PeruRail and Inca Rail Times
Both companies run reliable trains, and their timetables differ slightly. Moreover, choose the departure that fits your day.
Our comparison of Inca Rail and PeruRail helps you decide. You can also read our Inca Rail guide and our PeruRail guide for services and stations.
For Early Risers
The 5:05 a.m. departure from Ollantaytambo gives you the longest day at the citadel. It needs a very early start from Cusco.
This plan suits travelers who like quiet mornings. Furthermore, it also avoids the midday crowds.
For a Calmer Morning
A train near 8:00 a.m. gives you time for breakfast. It still reaches Aguas Calientes in time for a midday entrance.
Choose this plan if you travel with children. It also suits travelers who dislike early starts.
For an Overnight Stay
An afternoon train suits an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes. Also, you can visit the citadel the next morning.
This plan is calmer and often more rewarding. It also reduces the risk of missing a connection.
Safety and Comfort Around the Machu Picchu Train Schedule
Early starts and winding roads need a calm driver. A well-kept vehicle matters more than speed.
Our team answers in English on WhatsApp, so you can reach us before and during your trip. Also read whether the train to Machu Picchu is safe.
Altitude and Early Starts
Cusco sits at about 11,150 feet, and early starts feel harder at altitude. In addition, read our guide to Cusco altitude before you go.
Drink water and keep your first day easy.
When the Machu Picchu Train Schedule Changes
Weather and works can delay trains, especially in the rainy season. Therefore, never book a flight on the same evening as your return.
If your plans change, message us as early as you can. We will move your ride when a driver is free.
Book Your Ride Around the Machu Picchu Train Schedule
The Machu Picchu train schedule decides your day, and a private driver protects it. Together, they make the trip simple and punctual.
Send us your train time, your hotel name, and your group size on WhatsApp. Besides, we will confirm a fixed price and a driver for each ride.
What time is the first train to Machu Picchu?
PeruRail lists its first train at 3:20 a.m. across its network. From Ollantaytambo, sample departures start at 5:05 a.m.
How long does the train take from Ollantaytambo?
About 1 hour 25 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes on PeruRail. Inca Rail says about 1.5 to 2 hours.
How long is the trip from Cusco?
About 4 to 4.5 hours on PeruRail’s bimodal service. Moreover, Third-party guides put Inca Rail’s Cusco service between 3.5 and 5 hours.
What is the last train from Aguas Calientes?
PeruRail lists its last train at 11:37 p.m., but not every route runs that late. Check your own ticket.
Do train times change by season?
Yes. PeruRail publishes separate tables for January to April and May to December. Check the table for your date.
How early should I leave Cusco?
Leave at least three hours before your train. Furthermore, early trains need an earlier start.
Do you sell train tickets?
No. We provide private transportation only. Tickets come from PeruRail, Inca Rail, or an authorized seller.
