Where to Take the Train to Machu Picchu? Stations & Travel Guide

Taking the train is the most popular, comfortable, and fastest way to reach the Inca citadel, whether you are planning a 1-day Machu Picchu tour or an overnight experience in Aguas Calientes.

Where to Take the Train to Machu Picchu: Main Train Stations

To board the train heading to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) station, you can depart from the following primary stations:

• Ollantaytambo Station (Sacred Valley): This is the most frequently used station, offering the widest range of daily schedules year-round. Located about a 2-hour drive from downtown Cusco, it is also the most budget-friendly option to start your train journey.
• Poroy Station (Cusco): Located just 25 to 30 minutes outside downtown Cusco (a taxi costs approximately $7.50 - $9 USD / S/ 25 - S/ 30). It is ideal if you want to skip the road drive to the Sacred Valley, though train tickets are generally higher-priced and operate mostly during the dry season.
• San Pedro Station (Cusco City): Situated right across from the San Pedro Central Market in Cusco. This is a convenient alternative if you are staying in the historic center, operating on seasonal availability.
• Urubamba Station: Located in the Sacred Valley, catering primarily to guests staying at luxury resorts in the area.

Train Companies and Service Classes

There are two primary operators running train services to Machu Picchu:

• PeruRail: Offers the highest frequency of daily departures. Services range from the budget-friendly Expedition class and the panoramic Vistadome to the luxury Hiram Bingham (which includes gourmet dining, drinks, and live entertainment).
• Inca Rail: Features comfortable options such as The Voyager, the panoramic The 360°, and the premium The First Class train.

Travel Schedule and Itinerary Details

If you choose a single-day trip (Machu Picchu Full Day), your journey typically starts early in the morning with a transfer from Cusco to your chosen train station, returning late in the evening. For a more relaxed experience, you can take an afternoon train, spend the night at a hotel in Aguas Calientes, and explore Machu Picchu early the next morning.

How to Get to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes Station

Once you arrive at the final train station in Aguas Calientes, you have two options to reach the Inca citadel:

1. By Consettur Bus (Recommended): Takes about 25 minutes. Buses depart every 15 minutes continuously throughout the day, costing around $12 USD per one-way ticket. You can purchase bus tickets in Aguas Calientes or in advance in Cusco.
2. By Foot (Hiking): A steep, uphill hike following stone steps and zig-zag trails that takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, recommended for travelers in good physical condition.

Need assistance choosing departure times or securing tickets? At Inca World, we craft seamless, customized travel itineraries. Contact us today to plan your trip to Machu Picchu!