Bimodal Service
Discover the Bimodal service to make your trip to Machu Picchu the best experience. By combining your trip by bus and train you will have the opportunity to travel more comfortably without worrying about setbacks.
Bimodal service to Machu Picchu
What is the Bimodal service?
The Bimodal train service, offered by both PeruRail and Inca Rail, is a travel option that combines two modes of transport: train and bus. This service is designed to offer a more flexible and accessible experience to passengers, especially on routes where the train does not directly reach certain destinations or when there are limitations in the railway infrastructure.
Features of the Bimodal service:
- Bus + Train:
- The journey begins by bus and then continues by train, or vice versa, depending on the route and availability.
- For example, on the Cusco-Machu Picchu route, the bus takes passengers to Ollantaytambo, and from there a train takes them to the final destination in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu).
- Flexibility:
- This service is ideal for those looking for a more economical option or for those who wish to combine the experience of the train with the comfort of the bus on certain sections.
- Mixed experience:
- Passengers enjoy the unique experience of the train, with its spectacular scenery, and then complete the journey by bus, allowing them to reach destinations that are not directly connected by rail.
- Time efficiency:
- By combining bus and train travel, the Bimodal service makes it possible to avoid some of the limitations of traditional routes and to optimise travel time, especially during periods of high demand.
- Improved accessibility:
- Offering more direct access to Aguas Calientes, it is an attractive option for travelers looking for a seamless, hassle-free experience.
- Comfort:
- Both the train and the bus offer a high level of comfort, with spacious seats and quality services during the journey.
Bimodal service routes
- Route Cusco – Ollantaytambo (Bus) + Aguas Calientes (Train):
- Start of the trip: The service begins with a bus from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, a journey of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Bus section: The bus travels through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, providing stunning views of the Andean landscape.
- Train section: From Ollantaytambo, passengers board the train that takes them directly to Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu. The train ride takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, during which spectacular views of the Vilcanota River and the surrounding mountains can be enjoyed.
- Route Aguas Calientes (Train) + Ollantaytambo (Bus) – Cusco:
- Train section: The trip begins with the train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, on the same panoramic route, which lasts about 1 hour and 45 minutes.
- Bus route: From Ollantaytambo, passengers take a bus back to Cusco, completing the journey in approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
What is the difference between having the bimodal service and the regular service?
| Aspect | Bimodal Service | Regular Service |
|---|---|---|
| Means of transport | Bus + Train | Train |
| Starting point | From Cusco. | From Ollantaytambo. |
| Cost | Additional cost, because it includes bus transfer from Cusco. | More economical, because it only covers the train section from Ollantaytambo. |
| Duration of the trip | 3.5 hours (due to the bus and train journey) | 1.5 hours (train only) |
| Target audience | Travelers departing from Cusco and prefer a combined service. | Travelers who arrive on their own to Ollantaytambo and take only the train. |
Conclusion:
- If you are leaving from Cusco and prefer everything to be organized, the Bimodal service is the option.
- If you arrive on your own to Ollantaytambo, the Regular service is your option.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Bimodal service is usually a bit more expensive than the Regular service, as it includes bus transport. The price varies depending on the season and the type of train chosen.
Schedules may vary, but there are generally departures from very early in the morning until the afternoon. It is advisable to check the updated schedules.
If you are in Cusco, the Bimodal service is more convenient because it allows you to make the entire trip with a single ticket and without worrying about getting transportation between Cusco and Ollantaytambo. If you are already in Ollantaytambo, the Regular service may be the best option, since you only need the train.
Yes, but there are baggage limits. Generally, a backpack or carry-on bag of up to 8 kg and dimensions of 46 x 40 x 25 cm is permitted.
Yes, especially during the high season (May to September). Trains and buses have limited capacity, so it is advisable to book several weeks in advance.