The Ollantaytambo train station is where most Machu Picchu trips begin. Overall, this guide explains where it is, how to reach it from Cusco, and how to time your ride.
A missed train can ruin a tight plan. Therefore, a calm, well-timed transfer matters more than most travelers expect.
Below, you will find clear steps, honest tips, and current prices for a private driver.
Ollantaytambo Train Station at a Glance
First, the station sits at the edge of town, at about 2,792 meters above sea level. Its street address is Avenida Ferrocarril, according to Inca Rail.
From here, trains run down the Urubamba canyon to Aguas Calientes. Next, a short bus ride climbs to the Machu Picchu citadel.
Where the Station Is
The station is a short walk from the main plaza. Expect about 10 to 15 minutes on foot, although luggage makes it feel longer.
Cars and taxis reach the entrance directly. As a result, most travelers arrive by vehicle with their bags.
Which Trains Leave From Here
Two companies run trains from Ollantaytambo train station on this route. PeruRail and Inca Rail publish current schedules and ticket options.
The ride to Aguas Calientes takes about 90 minutes to two hours, depending on the service. Therefore, check your ticket for the exact departure time.
How to Reach Ollantaytambo Train Station From Cusco
The drive from Cusco takes about one hour and 45 minutes. The road has fresh pavement, and it crosses scenic high plains before it drops into the valley.
You have three common choices. However, each one trades price against comfort.
Private Transfer to Ollantaytambo Train Station
A private driver picks you up at your hotel door. The driver also knows the station entrance and the best drop-off point.
The price is fixed per vehicle, and it also covers tolls and insurance. Moreover, we time the pickup to match your train, so you never rush.
Our private Cusco to Ollantaytambo transfer is built for exactly this trip.
Colectivo or Taxi to Ollantaytambo Train Station
Shared vans run from Cusco to Urubamba, and then local vans continue to Ollantaytambo. However, you may change vehicles with your bags.
A taxi works too, but you must agree on the fare first. Meanwhile, early morning taxis can be hard to find.
The Train From Poroy
Some trains start at Poroy, a station on the edge of Cusco. They reach Ollantaytambo train station in about 90 minutes.
This option works if you already hold a ticket. Still, you must reach Poroy on time, which adds another transfer.
Step by Step: Your Ride to Ollantaytambo Train Station
Buy your train ticket first, and then book your ride. That order protects you if a time slot sells out.
First, book your ride and share your train time. Next, send your hotel name and the number of travelers.
On the day, your driver meets you at the hotel door. Then the driver loads your bags and starts the drive.
Along the way, the road climbs over the plateau and then descends into the valley. Finally, the driver stops at the station entrance, close to the platform.
Because the driver handles the route, you can rest or enjoy the view. As a result, you arrive calm instead of tired.
Private Transfer Prices
Our fares to Ollantaytambo train station are per vehicle, not per person. A sedan fits one to three travelers, and a minivan fits four to five.
A Sprinter carries six to fifteen travelers with luggage. Therefore, a group splits one fare across many seats.
Cusco to Ollantaytambo
A sedan costs $44. Meanwhile, a minivan costs $58, and a Sprinter costs $73.
Every fare includes tolls, insurance, and a driver who speaks clear English. In addition, there are no hidden fees at the curb.
Ollantaytambo Back to Cusco
The return ride costs the same as the one-way fare. Therefore, you can book both legs together.
Our Ollantaytambo to Cusco guide explains the trip back after Machu Picchu.
Timing Your Ride to Ollantaytambo Train Station
First, plan to reach the platform with time to spare. Inca Rail advises arriving at least 30 minutes before departure.
Add the drive time, a traffic buffer, and a few minutes for the walk inside. Then tell your driver the exact train time.
A Sample Timeline for a Morning Train
This example shows how a morning plan can look. Adjust it to your own ticket.
Say your train leaves Ollantaytambo train station at 7:30. Your driver picks you up at about 5:15, and you reach the station around 7:00.
That leaves roughly 30 minutes for check-in and boarding. Therefore, you board without rushing.
Early Morning Trains
Many trains leave early. In that case, your driver leaves Cusco before sunrise.
Streets are quiet at that hour, so the drive is fast. Even so, we add a buffer for fog and road work.
Late Afternoon Returns
After a long day, the last thing you want is a taxi hunt. Instead, book your driver to wait at the station.
Your driver waits near the exit and meets you on arrival. As a result, you ride straight to your hotel.
What to Know Before You Arrive at Ollantaytambo Train Station
A few small details make the morning smoother. First, keep your passport and ticket in one pocket.
Check-In and Boarding
Staff at Ollantaytambo train station check your passport against your ticket. Next, you wait on the platform until boarding opens.
Therefore, bring the same passport you used when you booked.
Luggage Rules at Ollantaytambo Train Station
Both operators limit the size and weight of bags on board. Therefore, check the current rules on each company’s website before you pack.
Many travelers leave a large suitcase at their Cusco hotel. Then they carry only a small daypack to Machu Picchu.
Altitude and Weather
The station sits lower than Cusco, so many travelers breathe more easily. However, mornings can be cold, and afternoons can be hot.
Wear layers and drink water. The CDC guidance on high altitude explains common symptoms and simple remedies.
Delays, Fog, and Road Closures
Fog can slow the drive on cold mornings. In addition, protests or road works sometimes close a road for a few hours.
Therefore, watch local news and leave extra time on travel days. Also, share your train time with your driver the night before.
Families and Mobility Needs
Traveling with children or older relatives? Mention it when you book. We then pick the right vehicle and leave extra time for boarding.
A minivan adds legroom and easy seating. Meanwhile, the driver carries every bag to the station entrance.
Staying a Night Near Ollantaytambo Train Station
Many travelers sleep in town before an early train. As a result, they skip the dark drive from Cusco, and the walk to Ollantaytambo train station is short.
Our Ollantaytambo Peru guide explains what to see and where to eat.
In addition, you can stay in Urubamba and drive over in the morning. Our Cusco to Urubamba guide covers that route. If your ticket names the Cusco side instead, our Poroy train station guide explains that departure. Heading back later? Our Aguas Calientes to Cusco route explains the trains and the road. Your train ends in town, where the Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu bus leaves for the citadel. Before you pick a train, read which company suits your trip for stations and classes. See our advice on what to do if trains are delayed before you travel. Before you travel, read our guide to where to buy your train tickets and the rules at the station. For more detail, see our Inca Rail stations guide, PeruRail stations guide, train times to Machu Picchu, and taxi from Cusco to Ollantaytambo. Many guests also ask about the Lima to Machu Picchu trip planner, so we wrote a full guide. If you are flying in from Lima, our Lima to Machu Picchu distance guide explains each leg. You may also like our guide to getting from Machu Picchu back to Lima, which compares timing and costs. Many guests also ask about the return train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, so we wrote a full guide.
After the Train: Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu
The train ends at Aguas Calientes, also called Machu Picchu Pueblo. From there, a shuttle bus climbs to the citadel.
Our Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu guide explains each step. Meanwhile, our Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes guide covers the town. Landing in Cusco first? Our Cusco airport to Ollantaytambo guide shows the direct route to this station. Cusco also has other rail stops, such as the Wanchaq train station, so check your ticket. After your train day, our Ollantaytambo to Pisac transfer guide explains the drive to Pisac.
For the full picture, see our Machu Picchu by train guide. Also, our Cusco to Machu Picchu guide compares every route. Arriving by shared van instead? Our guide to the Cusco to Ollantaytambo bus covers the change in Urubamba.
The Hidroelectrica Alternative
A longer road route reaches Machu Picchu through Hidroelectrica. It can save money on tickets, although it takes more time.
Our Cusco to Hidroelectrica guide explains this option in detail.
From the Airport to Ollantaytambo Train Station
Some travelers head straight to the valley after landing. The airport connects to the valley by a smooth road. As a result, this plan works well.
Our Cusco airport to Machu Picchu guide shows how the full journey fits together. Also, our private airport transfer page lists prices. To see how the station fits into the full route, read our Machu Picchu transportation guide.
Common Mistakes at Ollantaytambo Train Station
First, travelers book a tight connection. Consequently, one delay can cost a train.
Next, many assume a taxi will be waiting at dawn. Instead, book your ride ahead.
Also, some forget that bags have limits. Because rules are strict, check the weight before you leave.
Finally, a few arrive without a passport copy at hand. Keep your documents in your daypack.
Why Travelers Choose Our Private Drivers
In short, our service is transport only. We do not guide, sell tickets, or provide meals.
Our drivers are punctual, licensed, and used to mountain roads. Meanwhile, our vehicles are clean, modern, and insured.
Our English-speaking team answers on WhatsApp day or night. Moreover, you can change your pickup time if your train shifts.
See every vehicle on our fleet page. Explore every route and price on the Machu Picchu Shuttle home page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Ollantaytambo train station?
It sits at the edge of Ollantaytambo, on Avenida Ferrocarril. The main plaza is about a 10 to 15 minute walk away, although luggage slows you down.
How far is the Ollantaytambo train station from Cusco?
The drive takes about one hour and 45 minutes by car. Once you book, a private driver takes you to the entrance.
How early should I arrive at the Ollantaytambo train station?
Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure. Also, add extra time if you travel with a group.
How much is a private transfer to the Ollantaytambo train station?
A sedan costs $44, a minivan costs $58, and a Sprinter costs $73. The price is per vehicle.
Can I book the return ride too?
Yes. The return ride costs the same as the one-way fare, so you can book both together.
How long is the train to Machu Picchu?
The ride to Aguas Calientes takes about 90 minutes to two hours. However, the exact time depends on the service.
Which companies run trains from Ollantaytambo?
PeruRail and Inca Rail both run this route. Therefore, check their websites for schedules and tickets.
Can I leave luggage at the station?
Rules change, so ask your hotel or the operator. Also, many travelers leave large bags in Cusco.
Do you provide tour guides or tickets?
No. We provide private transport only, so you buy tickets and book guides separately.
Book Your Ollantaytambo Train Station Transfer Today
First, match your ride to your train and lock in a fixed price. Then a private driver turns the morning into a calm start.
Share your train time and hotel, and confirm your booking in minutes.
