PeruRail is one of the two companies that run passenger trains to Machu Picchu. This guide explains its trains, its stations, and the rules that matter on travel day.
It also shows how a private ride gets you to the right PeruRail station on time. We provide private transportation only, so we do not sell PeruRail tickets.
PeruRail at a Glance
PeruRail operates trains from the Cusco region to Aguas Calientes, the town below Machu Picchu. Aguas Calientes is also called Machu Picchu Pueblo.
The company runs year-round and offers two kinds of service. Also, regular service is train only, while bimodal service combines a bus and a train.
Every PeruRail train to Machu Picchu ends in Aguas Calientes. From there, a shuttle bus climbs to the citadel.
PeruRail Trains: Which One Fits You
PeruRail lists three main trains on its schedule page, plus a luxury option. Each one runs the same track, so the difference is comfort and extras.
PeruRail Expedition
The Expedition is the entry-level PeruRail train. It has panoramic windows and a simple, comfortable interior.
It suits travelers who want a reliable ride at the lowest fare. In addition, Our guide to the PeruRail Expedition and Vistadome compares it with the next level.
PeruRail Vistadome
The Vistadome has larger windows and a light snack. Many travelers choose it for the better views and the more relaxed feel.
It is a popular middle option. Therefore, it often sells out before the Expedition.
PeruRail Vistadome Observatory
The Vistadome Observatory adds an observation car and an onboard show. It is the most scenic regular PeruRail option.
The extra features suit couples and photographers. Book early for popular morning departures.
Hiram Bingham by PeruRail and Belmond
The Hiram Bingham is the luxury PeruRail train, operated with Belmond. Besides, it offers Pullman-style cars, gourmet meals, and a bar and observation car.
It costs far more than the regular trains. Therefore, it is usually a special-occasion choice.
PeruRail Stations and Departure Points
PeruRail serves several stations in the Cusco region. Your departure point depends on the service you choose.
Ollantaytambo Station
Most travelers board in Ollantaytambo, which is the simplest option. The ride to Aguas Calientes takes about 1.5 hours.
Our guide to the Ollantaytambo train station explains where to enter and what to expect.
Poroy and Cusco Stations
PeruRail lists Wanchaq and San Pedro in Cusco, plus Poroy just outside the city. These stations serve bimodal and some regular trips.
Read our guides to the Poroy train station and the Wanchaq train station before your trip. Moreover, each station works a little differently.
Pachar and Hidroeléctrica Stations
PeruRail says Pachar station serves as a transfer point on selected bimodal schedules. Hidroeléctrica is the station for the hydroelectric route.
Hidroeléctrica trains are short, about 40 minutes. Our guide to Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes explains this budget route.
PeruRail Schedules and Travel Time
PeruRail publishes sample departures on its schedule page. Trains from Ollantaytambo take roughly 1 hour 25 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes.
Bimodal trips from Cusco take about 4 to 4.5 hours in total. Furthermore, they include a bus ride before the train.
Our guide to the Machu Picchu train schedule lists sample times for both companies. Timetables change, so always check the official page before you book.
PeruRail Rules to Know Before Travel Day
A few simple rules prevent most problems at the station. Review them a few days before your trip.
Luggage on PeruRail
Third-party guides say PeruRail allows one item up to 8 kilograms on the Machu Picchu route. Some trains allow a small carry-on of up to 12 kilograms.
Large bags are stored or charged extra. Therefore, leave suitcases at your Cusco hotel.
Tickets and Passports
The ticket carries your passport details, and staff check your passport at boarding. Also, the name must match exactly.
Our guide to Machu Picchu train tickets explains how to book each step.
Arriving on Time
Plan to reach the station at least 30 minutes before departure. Busy mornings need more time.
Consequently, leave your hotel with a comfortable margin. A missed train is hard to replace in high season.
Getting to Your PeruRail Station With a Private Driver
The train is only one part of the day. A private driver covers the road to the station, which is where plans often break.
Our fares are per vehicle, not per person. In addition, they stay fixed, so you know the price before you travel.
Cusco to Ollantaytambo Station
Our private fares between Cusco and Ollantaytambo are $44 for a sedan, $58 for a minivan, and $73 for a Sprinter van. The drive takes about two hours with stops.
Read our guide to getting from Cusco to Ollantaytambo for every option. Then book the ride that fits your group.
Cusco to Poroy Station
Our private fares to Poroy are $20 for a sedan, $35 for a minivan, and $58 for a Sprinter van. The ride takes about 25 minutes.
Still, leave extra time for traffic and luggage. Poroy trains often leave early in the morning.
When to Leave Your Hotel
For an Ollantaytambo train, leave Cusco at least three hours before departure. Besides, this covers the drive and the arrival window.
Early trains need an earlier start. Therefore, ask us to confirm your pickup time once you know your train.
PeruRail vs Inca Rail in Short
Both companies run to Aguas Calientes, and both are reliable. The best choice depends on schedule, price, and comfort.
Our full comparison of Inca Rail and PeruRail explains the differences. You can also read our Inca Rail guide for its services and stations.
Planning Your Machu Picchu Day With PeruRail
The train ticket is only one of three tickets you need. The entrance ticket and the bus ticket are separate.
The entrance ticket is sold on the official Ministry of Culture site. Moreover, match your PeruRail time to your entrance slot.
Day Trip or Overnight Stay
A same-day return needs an early departure and an evening return train. An overnight stay in Aguas Calientes feels calmer.
Our Machu Picchu day trip guide shows a full-day plan. It also explains how much time you need at the citadel. 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 guide to how far Machu Picchu is from Lima explains each leg. Planning the whole trip? Our Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo train guide covers every step.
After the Return Train
Your driver can meet you at the station when the train returns. This saves you from late-night taxi negotiations.
Read our guide to getting from Machu Picchu to Cusco for return options.
Choosing the Right PeruRail Service
The right service depends on your budget, your schedule, and how much you value views. Furthermore, many travelers are happy with the Expedition or the Vistadome.
PeruRail for Travelers on a Budget
The Expedition gets you to Aguas Calientes at the lowest PeruRail fare. The ride is short, so timing matters more than comfort.
Book early to secure the departure time you want. Busy months sell out first.
PeruRail for Photographers and Couples
The Vistadome and the Observatory give you larger windows and more chances for photos. The trip is short, so a view-focused class is an easy upgrade.
Compare fares before you decide. Also, the right train depends on your schedule.
PeruRail for Families and Small Groups
Families often prefer morning trains because children are fresher. A private vehicle to the station removes the stress of luggage and tickets.
Check the baggage rules for each service before you book. Then plan your pickup around the train time.
What to Expect Onboard a PeruRail Train
The trip is short, so most travelers spend it watching the valley. The scenery changes as the train drops toward the cloud forest.
Seats and Windows on PeruRail
Check your ticket for your car and seat. Windows are larger on the Vistadome and the Observatory.
Keep a daypack on your lap or in the rack. Therefore, pack your camera and a light jacket within reach.
Snacks and Service on PeruRail
PeruRail lists a light snack on the Vistadome. In addition, other trains sell drinks and snacks onboard.
Bring water for the day, because Machu Picchu has limited services. Also carry a small amount of cash.
Weather and Views on PeruRail
Mornings are often clearer in the dry season. In the rainy season, clouds can cover the peaks.
Do not let weather change your plan. The ruins look dramatic in mist as well.
When to Book Your PeruRail Tickets
Train tickets sell out in busy months, especially from May to October. Therefore, buy your PeruRail tickets as soon as your dates are fixed.
Book your entrance ticket at the same time. The two tickets must match one clear schedule.
Matching PeruRail and Entrance Times
Choose a train that arrives at least one hour before your entrance slot. Besides, this buffer covers the bus line and any delay.
Read our Machu Picchu by train guide for more planning tips.
Avoiding Common PeruRail Mistakes
The most common mistake is a name that does not match the passport. The second is the wrong station.
Check both details the day you buy. Then save the confirmation on your phone and on paper.
What to Expect When the PeruRail Train Arrives
Aguas Calientes is a small town packed with travelers. The station sits in the center, close to the bus line.
Finding the Bus Line
Follow the signs to the shuttle bus stop. Lines move steadily, but they grow long in the morning.
Buy your bus ticket in advance when you can. Moreover, Our Machu Picchu bus guide explains how it works.
Meeting Your Driver or Guide
If you booked a guide, look for the sign with your name. If you booked a driver for the return, agree on the exact meeting point in advance.
Ask us to share the pickup spot on WhatsApp. This keeps the evening smooth.
Safety and Comfort on the Way to Your PeruRail Train
Mountain roads between Cusco and the Sacred Valley are winding. A calm driver and a well-kept vehicle matter 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. Read our guide to Cusco altitude before you go.
Drink water and keep your first day easy. Then enjoy the trip with more energy.
When Service Is Disrupted
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. Furthermore, we will move your ride when a driver is free.
Book Your Ride to the PeruRail Station
PeruRail takes you to Machu Picchu, and a private driver takes you to PeruRail. Together, they make the day simple and punctual.
Send us your train time, your hotel name, and your group size on WhatsApp. We will confirm a fixed price and a driver for each ride.
Does PeruRail run trains from Cusco?
Yes. PeruRail runs bimodal service from Cusco stations, which combines a bus ride and a train. Most travelers board directly in Ollantaytambo.
How long is the PeruRail trip to Machu Picchu?
Trains from Ollantaytambo take roughly 1 hour 25 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes. Also, the shuttle bus from Aguas Calientes to the citadel adds about 25 to 30 minutes.
What is the difference between Expedition and Vistadome?
The Vistadome has larger windows and a light snack. The Expedition is the simpler entry-level train with panoramic windows.
When should I arrive at the PeruRail station?
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure. Arrive earlier on busy mornings and in high season.
How much luggage can I bring on PeruRail?
Third-party guides say one item up to 8 kilograms on the Machu Picchu route. Leave larger suitcases at your Cusco hotel.
Do you sell PeruRail tickets?
No. In addition, we provide private transportation only. Tickets come from PeruRail or an authorized seller.
How much is a private ride from Cusco to Ollantaytambo station?
Our fares are $44 for a sedan, $58 for a minivan, and $73 for a Sprinter van. The price is per vehicle, not per person.
