Machu Picchu Tours by Train
Description
Machu Picchu, an important Inca Citadel, was discovered by archaeologist Hiram Bingham in 1911 after 500 years of lying hidden and untouched in the cloud forest of Peru. These ruins are undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and enigmatic ancient sites in the world, particularly as this small but extraordinary city is perched atop a mountain at 2,430m and is invisible from below. During its peak, it was completely self-contained, surrounded by agricultural terraces sufficient to feed the population, and watered by natural springs.
Most interestingly, it is clear that Machu Picchu was no ordinary Inca city - its layout and architecture suggests that it was utilized as a secret and exclusive ceremonial settlement for the Sapa Inca, the Emperor, rather than as a population centre.
Machu Picchu Tour
Machu Picchu by train is a popular choice for travellers who want to reach Peru’s most iconic landmark quickly and in comfort.
There are several different options for the train to Machu Picchu, with each train service priced accordingly to the level of service you can expect to receive. All are operated by either Perurail or Incarail.
The Expedition Train
This is the cheapest service but still a comfortable mode of travel to Machu Picchu. They offer an on-board snack as part of the price.
The Vistadome Train
More comfortable than the Expedition train, Vistadome also has carriages with large panoramic windows offering beautiful views of the passing Andean scenery. Breakfast is also available on board, if you travel on one of the earlier services.
The Hiram Bingham Train
Machu Picchu’s iconic train offers a luxury voyage for those who want to make the most out of their excursion to Machu Picchu. Afternoon tea in the famous Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge located at the entrance of the archaeological complex, is also included. A professional guide will also accompany you throughout the days visit, including on the train.
Itinerary Machu Picchu tours
All of our Machu Picchu tours include pick up from the city center in Cusco and a transfer to either the Poroy or Ollantaytambo stations in the morning.
Upon arrival at the station in Aguas Calientes, you will be met by your guide, who will take you directly on public bus up to Machu Picchu ruins. Once you reach the citadel, you’ll take a guided tour of approximately two hours around the ruins, followed by free time for you to explore at your own leisure.
The return train will be booked for the late afternoon or evening, and you will be picked up from either the station in Ollantaytambo or Poroy and transferred back to Cusco.
As there are many different train services running between Aguas Calientes, Ollantaytambo and Poroy each day, no fixed itinerary exists for this excursion to Machu Picchu. Train departure and return time depend solely on availability - although we will of course try our best to meet your requests.
Important notes- All train services will depart from and return to Poroy (25 min.) or Ollantaytambo (1,5 - 2 hrs) (subject to availability).
- The Hiram Bingham service does not operate on Sundays.
- The permit to access Wayna or Huayna Picchu Mountain needs to be booked separately. We recommend to do this well in advance as tickets are limited.
Photos
Practical Information Machu Picchu tours
Bring With You
- Day Pack
- Good Shoes
- Rain Jacket or a Poncho
- Water and Snacks (there are no shops in Machu Picchu)
- Hat or cap to protect you from the sun or the cold weather in the morning
- Sun Block
- Insect repellent
- Camera
- Swimsuit (if you decide to stay the night in Aguas Calientes you can visit the hot springs)
- Original passport and ISIC Card (if you have one). Photocopies are not accepted.
Included
- Roundtrip transport from the city center of Cusco to the train station.
- Roundtrip train tickets Poroy/Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes.
- Roundtrip bus ticket Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu.
- Entrance fee for Machu Picchu.
- Guided tour on Machu Picchu with professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish)
- Meals, but only:
- Expedition: small snack.
- Vistadome: breakfast on the way and a small 'brunch' on return.
- Hiram Bingham: all meals, snacks, and drinks.
Not Included
- Transfer from your accommodation in Cusco to the pick-up spot in the city center of Cusco
- A tip for your guide (per person we suggest a voluntary tip to the guide of between US$3 - US$5).
- All other meals beyond those mentioned above.
- Huayna Picchu Tickets.
Additional Options
- It is possible to combine a visit to Machu Picchu with a visit to the Sacred Valley: in that case you do not take the train from Poroy near Cusco but from Ollantaytambo, in the Sacred Valley.
- Another option is to stay overnight in Aguas Calientes and visit the ruins of Machu Picchu (again) on the second day of your tour. In Aguas Calientes, it’s also possible to visit the famed thermal hot springs.
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