PeruRail and Inca Rail train services offer a variety of routes that connect tourist destinations and major cities, combining comfort with spectacular landscapes. From trains to Machu Picchu through the Sacred Valley to luxury trips across the Andean highlands, these routes allow you to explore the country in a unique way. Each journey offers different experiences with landscapes full of surprises, so embark on each one.
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Train Machu Picchu – Cusco / Cusco – Machu Picchu
This route connects the city of Cusco with Machu Picchu, the most important tourist destination in Peru. There are different train services that vary in comfort and price, offering experiences for all travelers.
Locations:
- Stations in Cusco: Wanchaq and San Pedro
- Station in Machu Picchu: Aguas Calientes.
Route description:
- The route runs through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, with views of mountains, rivers and Inca agricultural terraces.
- You pass through traditional towns such as Poroy, Ollantaytambo and Urubamba before reaching Aguas Calientes.
Duration:
- Approximately 3 hours
Availability:
- All year
Train Ollantaytambo – Machu Picchu / Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo
This is the most popular route to get to Machu Picchu, as Ollantaytambo is a key connection point between Cusco and the Inca citadel. From here, trains have greater availability and shorter travel times compared to the direct departure from Cusco.
Locations:
- Station in Ollantaytambo: Ollantaytambo railway terminal.
- Station in Machu Picchu: Aguas Calientes.
Route description:
- The route follows the Urubamba River and crosses the Sacred Valley, offering views of mountains and jungle landscapes as it approaches Machu Picchu.
Duration:
- Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes.
Availability:
- All year
Hydroelectric Train – Machu Picchu / Machu Picchu – Hydroelectric
This is an alternative route used by travelers looking to save on transportation or have a different experience. Hidroeléctrica is accessed by road and you can continue by train or walk to Machu Picchu.
Locations:
- Hydroelectric Station: In the district of Santa Teresa, Cusco.
- Station in Machu Picchu: Aguas Calientes.
Route description:
- It is the final stretch of the trip for those who choose the land route via Cusco – Santa Teresa – Hidroeléctrica.
Duration:
- Approximately 30 minutes.
Availability:
- All year
Train Cusco – Puno / Puno – Cusco
This is a scenic journey across the Andean highlands, connecting Cusco with the city of Puno on the shore of Lake Titicaca. The route is famous for its panoramic views and luxury train service.
Locations:
- Station in Cusco: Wanchaq.
- Station in Puno: Puno railway terminal.
Route description:
- The route crosses Andean landscapes, rivers, mountains and small towns.
- You pass through the highest point of the route, La Raya (4,319 m above sea level), where you can see the mountain range and shepherds with llamas and alpacas.
Duration:
- Approximately 10 hours and 30 minutes.
Availability:
- All year
Cusco – Arequipa / Arequipa – Cusco Train
This train connects Cusco and Arequipa, passing through Puno and skirting Lake Titicaca before descending towards the country’s southern coast. It is one of the longest and most scenic railway routes in Peru.
Locations:
- Station in Cusco: Wanchaq.
- Station in Arequipa: Arequipa railway terminal.
Route description:
- It is a long two-night trip, passing through Puno and skirting Lake Titicaca before continuing on to Arequipa.
- Andean landscapes, lagoons and fauna such as flamingos and vicuñas can be seen in the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve.
Duration:
- 3 days
Availability:
- All year