Are there really direct trains from Cusco to Machu Picchu? Many travelers assume it’s possible to board a train in the heart of Cusco and get off right at the foot of the Inca citadel. But how true is this? In this article, we’ll tell you what’s true, what’s myth, and what you should know before buying your tickets.
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Are there direct trains from Cusco to Machu Picchu?
Is there a direct train from Cusco to Machu Picchu?
Yes, there are direct trains from Cusco to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes), but they don’t run every day or at all times. These services depart from either San Pedro Station or Poroy Station, although the latter is most active only during the dry season (April through December).
Despite this, most trains depart from Ollantaytambo station, so many travelers choose to travel first by car or bus from Cusco to Ollantaytambo and then take the train. This option offers more available schedules and varied prices, making it more flexible and popular among tourists.
From which station in Cusco does the train to Machu Picchu depart?
Trains can depart from two main stations in Cusco: San Pedro and Poroy. San Pedro Station is in the center of Cusco and has limited departures, while Poroy Station is located about a 25-minute drive from the city center.
Poroy Station is the most used station for luxury or business-class tourist trains that travel directly to Aguas Calientes, but it only operates from April to December due to weather conditions. During the rainy season (January to March), most services are redirected to Ollantaytambo, from where the train continues.
What is the actual train route from Cusco to Machu Picchu?
The actual train route from Cusco (Poroy or San Pedro) to Machu Picchu follows the Urubamba River Valley and passes through natural landscapes and small towns until reaching Aguas Calientes. The journey descends in altitude, passing through rural, agricultural areas and then through more jungle-like areas near the entrance to the jungle.
From Cusco to Ollantaytambo, the train climbs and descends sharp curves known as zigzags to leave the city. It then continues parallel to the river, passing through stations like Pachar, and finally arrives in Aguas Calientes, the base town for visiting Machu Picchu.
How long does the train take from Cusco to Machu Picchu?
The direct train journey from Cusco (Poroy) to Machu Picchu takes between 3 hours and 30 minutes to 4 hours, depending on the type of service. From San Pedro Station, the journey may take slightly longer due to the initial urban stretch and the greater number of curves.
If traveling from Ollantaytambo, the train ride to Machu Picchu takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. Add to this the travel time by land transportation between Cusco and Ollantaytambo, which is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes longer.
Stations, routes, and operators: How does the train actually work?
What is the difference between Poroy, San Pedro and Ollantaytambo?
| Season | Location | Distance to the center of Cusco | Operating season | Main advantages | Main disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saint Peter | Historic center of Cusco | A few minutes walk | April to December (limited) | Very close to the center; walking distance | Very few trains; limited service and not available year-round |
| Poroy | Outskirts of Cusco (Poroy area) | 25–30 minutes by taxi | April to December | More departures than San Pedro; direct option to Machu Picchu | Does not operate during the rainy season; additional transfer required |
| Ollantaytambo | Town in the Sacred Valley | 1h 45min approx. by road | All year | More schedules and trains; varied prices; you can visit the town | Requires additional transportation from Cusco (round trip) |
Which station is closest to Cusco?
The closest station to Cusco’s historic center is San Pedro Station, located a few blocks from the Plaza de Armas. From there, some trains depart directly to Machu Picchu, although departures are limited and not available year-round.
Poroy Station is approximately 13 km from Cusco, equivalent to a 25- to 30-minute ride by taxi or private transport. Although it’s not in the city center, it’s still part of the Cusco metropolitan area and is used mostly by high-end tourist trains when they are operating.
Which trains go to Machu Picchu from Ollantaytambo?
Trains depart from Ollantaytambo Station on two companies: PeruRail and Inca Rail. Both offer different types of tourist services, ranging from budget options to luxury trains, all destined for Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes).
PeruRail offers trains such as the Expedition, Vistadome, and Hiram Bingham, while Inca Rail offers the Voyager, 360°, First Class, and The Private. These options allow you to choose based on the type of experience, comfort, and budget you have for your trip.
What are the train companies that serve Machu Picchu?
The only two companies authorized to operate tourist trains to Machu Picchu are PeruRail and Inca Rail. Both offer similar routes from Cusco (when available) and primarily from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.
PeruRail is the oldest company and has the greatest presence on the route, while Inca Rail is newer but also very popular with tourists. Both companies offer comfortable services, with panoramic options and some premium experiences with food and personalized service on board.
Most common myths about trains to Machu Picchu
Is it true that you can go from Cusco to Machu Picchu by direct train?
Yes, that’s true, but only in certain cases. Some PeruRail and Inca Rail trains offer direct departures from Cusco to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes), but they don’t operate year-round. For example, trains from Poroy or San Pedro operate only during the dry season (between April and December) and in limited numbers.
During the rainy season (January to March), trains do not depart from Cusco for safety reasons, and you must first travel by land to Ollantaytambo, where most departures are located. This indirect route is the most common, as it offers more schedules and more affordable prices.
NOTE
Travelers, please note that Ollantaytambo is the busiest station, as it has frequent, daily departures, unlike the other stations. Something important to consider is not waiting for trains to arrive from San Pedro or Poroy, as these have very infrequent and infrequent departures. Waiting for one of these stations could mean you won’t be able to find trains leaving from Ollantaytambo later. So, travelers, be cautious.
Are all trains panoramic or luxury?
Not all trains are panoramic or luxurious. There are basic, more affordable services like the Expedition (PeruRail) or The Voyager (Inca Rail), which offer comfortable seats and large windows, but without any frills.
However, there are also panoramic trains like the Vistadome or The 360°, with glass roofs for panoramic views. And if you’re looking for luxury, there are premium trains like the Hiram Bingham or First Class, which include gourmet meals, live music, and personalized service, but are considerably more expensive.
Is it true that tickets can be purchased on the same day?
Yes, it’s possible to buy tickets on the day, but it’s not recommended. During the low season, you might find available seats a few hours before departure, especially on less-crowded trains. But during peak season or on weekends, tickets often sell out days (or even weeks) in advance.
Also, if you buy at the last minute, you may only find expensive options or those at inconvenient times. For the best prices and convenient times, it’s best to buy your tickets in advance, especially if you already have your Machu Picchu ticket for a specific day.
Is traveling by train the only way to get to Machu Picchu?
No, traveling by train isn’t the only way, but it is the fastest and most comfortable. There are alternative routes, such as the Hidroeléctrica route, which combines road transportation and hiking. This option takes longer, but is much cheaper and preferred by backpackers or budget travelers.
There’s also the option of hiking the trails, such as the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek, the Inca Jungle, or the Choquequirao-Machu Picchu, all of which take several days. These routes require more physical effort and planning, but offer a completely different experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
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From which station is it best to take the train?
It’s best to take the train from the Ollantaytambo station, as this station has frequent departures to the town of Aguas Calientes, unlike other stations that only offer occasional departures.
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What happens if I miss the train to Machu Picchu?
This is a situation you should avoid at all costs. Why? If you miss your train, your ticket will no longer be valid for another time, so you’ll have to buy a new one.
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Can I bring luggage on the train?
Please note! You can bring luggage, as long as your backpack is small, approximately 5 liters. If your backpack exceeds this size, you’ll be asked to leave part of your luggage at the station. If you’re staying at a hotel in Cusco, you can leave a large portion of your belongings there (this service is usually free).
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Does the train ticket include admission to Machu Picchu?
Travelers, please note that your train ticket only includes transportation. It does not include additional services such as admission to Machu Picchu. Your entry ticket is separate and must be booked separately.
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How long does the train ride to Machu Picchu take?
Remember that the busiest train station is Ollantaytambo. From there, the train ride to the town of Aguas Calientes (also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo) takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. From there, you can walk to Machu Picchu or take one of the CONSETTUR buses, which takes about 30 minutes.
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Is it dangerous to take the train to Machu Picchu?
Not at all! Keep in mind that every car offered by PERURAIL and INCA RAIL is in good condition, as are the railway tracks, which are frequently used. Furthermore, in the event of any damage, both companies usually resolve these issues very quickly.
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Which train is more comfortable: PeruRail or Inca Rail?
Both train companies are very comfortable, and there aren’t any major differences between them. Each offers carriages in good condition, both inside and out. Plus, when you make your reservation, you’ll always have an assigned seat, so there’s no risk of traveling standing up.
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Do the trains stop in Aguas Calientes?
Of course. In fact, the final stop is in the town of Aguas Calientes itself. Keep in mind that no train goes directly to the citadel of Machu Picchu, so you’ll have to walk from the town or take the CONSETTUR buses.
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Does the train leave from the historic center of Cusco?
Traveler, there is only one station near the historic center: San Pedro Station, although departures are rare. Most trains depart from Poroy or Ollantaytambo stations.