All the information about the Expedition train to Machu Picchu

Find all the travel information for the Expedition train from PeruRail. This train to Machu Picchu is highly demanded due to its affordable prices offered to all tourists. The routes covered by this service go from Cusco to Aguas Calientes or Machu Picchu Pueblo. Similar departures can be found on the Hydroeléctrica route and Machu Picchu Pueblo, though this route is only for local passengers. The main benefit of traveling on this train is the variety of schedules and departures, which makes it the ideal option to avoid congestion and allows the majority of tourists to reach their destination smoothly. Below are all the details of this service.

Expedition Train Information from PeruRail

• The PeruRail Expedition train offers a tourist service with a wide variety of schedules.
• It is one of the most economical trains for the Cusco – Aguas Calientes/Machu Picchu Pueblo routes.
• The majority of users are domestic and foreign tourists.

Main features:

• The wagons are designed for a limited number of passengers, ensuring comfort.
• Each wagon offers the following services, as listed below:
• Ambient music at a moderate volume.
• Tourist information audios to answer travel and scenic questions.
• Caring decoration with Andean and Cusco regional details.
• Additionally, the windows are equipped with UV protection.

The Expedition train from PeruRail offers:

• Variety of schedules and departure frequency.
• Comfortable seats (52 per wagon), slightly reclining.
• 13 wooden tables per wagon, with seating for 4 passengers each.
• Available hygienic services.
• Luggage space.
• Onboard service by PeruRail staff.

Services Included with the Expedition Train

The PeruRail Expedition train offers onboard service and assistance during the journey. The staff ensures your comfort throughout the trip and can also help with any questions or concerns you may have.

However, as it is an economical service, it does not offer all the amenities found in more exclusive trains. Despite that, this train provides everything necessary to ensure a pleasant journey and the comfort of most tourists. Now, let’s take a look at all the services the PeruRail Expedition train offers:

• Snack sales.
• Drink sales.
• PeruRail service and staff, trained to handle any emergency or unexpected situation.
• Hygienic services.
• The PeruRail Expedition train departs from various stations, including:
  • Ollantaytambo Station.
  • San Pedro Station.
  • Hidroeléctrica Station.
  • Poroy Station.
  • Machu Picchu Pueblo Station.
• It offers bimodal service and regular service.
• The bimodal service provides a trip to Ollantaytambo station by bus, departing from Cusco.
• The regular service offers a direct journey from any of the previously mentioned stations.
• The travel time from Ollantaytambo Station to Machu Picchu Pueblo Station is 1 hour and 30 minutes.
• A regular trip will depend on the station of departure. For this information, we provide the departure schedule details.

Departure Schedules for the Expedition Train

Trains departing to Machu Picchu Pueblo or Aguas Calientes:

Best Departure Times for the Expedition Train to Machu Picchu

• It is one of the most popular trains due to its value for money.
• It offers a wide range of schedules, providing more flexibility for travelers.
• For entering Machu Picchu at 6:00 am, we recommend:
  • Travel the day before to Aguas Calientes.
  • Reserve a hotel room to spend the night.
  • Take an early ecological bus to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
  • The bus ride takes only 30 minutes to the top.
• For entering Machu Picchu between 9:00 am and 12:00 pm, we recommend:
  • Depart early from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, especially taking the first departure times.
  • Estimated travel time (bus + train + bus): 4.5 to 5 hours.
  • The ascent to the archaeological site may take 30 minutes.
  • It is ideal for those looking for more affordable options and do not want to pay for a hotel.
• For entering Machu Picchu between 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm, we recommend:
  • You can depart at a more comfortable time, leaving between 6:00 am and 8:00 am to reach Machu Picchu without issues.
  • Estimated travel time in the combined service (bus + train + bus): 4.5 to 5 hours.
  • The ascent to the archaeological site may take 30 minutes.
  • It is ideal for those who want to avoid waking up early to travel to Machu Picchu.
• What time do tours depart?
  • Travel agencies offer Full Day Machu Picchu tours, departing from the early hours of the day and the first available departure times.
  • Some agencies also offer afternoon tours for visiting the Inca citadel.
  • The ascent to the archaeological site takes about 30 minutes in the ecological buses.
  • If you decide to hike, it can take up to 2 hours of continuous effort.

How to Acquire or Book My Train Ticket?

Making a reservation for the Expedition train ticket is easy. Just keep an eye on availability and follow these steps:

• Have your valid identity document or passport.
• Have the reservation for the entrance ticket to Machu Picchu, though you may travel for other reasons (optional).
• Present the train ticket, either printed or in digital format, along with your ID when boarding.
• Make the payment using your preferred method, whether it’s a credit or debit card.
• Arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time of the train.

Travel Tips to Machu Picchu:

• Machu Picchu is located in a tropical area with a warm climate and the presence of mosquitoes.
• Use mosquito repellent, sunscreen, light clothing, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
• Bring snacks and drinks for your ascent, ensuring you dispose of waste in the appropriate trash bins.

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1) How much luggage can I bring on board?

  Passengers are allowed to carry one piece of luggage not exceeding 5 kg (11 pounds) and dimensions of 62 linear inches (height + length + width). Additional luggage can be stored in Cusco.

• 2) What services are available during the trip?

  On board, there is ambient music, informational audio about the route, restrooms, luggage space, and personalized service from the travel assistants.

• 3) What type of seats does the train have?

  The carriages have 52 comfortable seats that slightly recline, organized around 13 wooden tables, with space for 4 passengers per table.

• 4) Does the train have panoramic windows?

  Yes, the windows are designed with UV protection and offer spectacular views of the landscape during the journey.

• 5) Is it possible to purchase tickets for different schedules?

  Yes, the PeruRail Expedition train offers a wide variety of schedules, making it easier to plan trips according to passengers’ needs. It is recommended to book in advance.