PeruRail Expedition

The smart, comfortable way to Machu Picchu: panoramic windows and Sacred Valley views at an easy pace.

  • Duration: ~1 h 30 min from Ollantaytambo
  • Route: Cusco (Poroy / Wanchaq) or Ollantaytambo - Machu Picchu Pueblo
  • Class: standard

The PeruRail Expedition is the train that gets you to Machu Picchu in comfort, with the spectacle outside doing the rest. Large panoramic windows frame the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba River, assigned seats let you settle in, interiors inspired by Inca culture add a sense of place, and ambient music keeps the mood relaxed from the moment you leave the station. It departs several times a day from Ollantaytambo and from Cusco's San Pedro and Poroy stations, and the ride from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu Pueblo takes about an hour and a half to two hours. An interpretive audiotour points out what you are passing, snacks and drinks are available on board, and on daytime bimodal services, weather permitting, there is a scenic stop at Huaypo Lake. It is the practical, friendly choice for travelers who want to arrive relaxed and put the rest of the trip where it counts: a great hotel in Aguas Calientes, a private guide at the citadel, or an extra night in the valley. Machu Picchu entrance is not included in the train ticket, so we reserve it for you at the same time as your seats. We recommend it for travelers who value smart planning and flexibility, and for anyone who wants the valley views without complications. We wish you a window seat and a calm, scenic morning on your way to Machu Picchu, and we are here to arrange your train, your entrance and the rest of your trip.

Why we chose it

  • The most cost-effective way to reach Machu Picchu without sacrificing comfort or the views.
  • Frequent daily departures make it easy to fit around a guest's itinerary and wake-up time.
  • The same window-side valley scenery as PeruRail's premium trains, at a fraction of the price.
  • A smart way to free up budget for a better hotel in Aguas Calientes or a private guide at the ruins.

Highlights

  • Panoramic windows over the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba River
  • Spacious, comfortable assigned seats and interiors inspired by Inca culture
  • Interpretative audiotour along the route, with ambient music
  • Several daily departures from Ollantaytambo and Cusco's San Pedro and Poroy stations
  • About 1.5 to 2 hours from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu Pueblo
  • Snacks and drinks available on board
  • Scenic stop at Huaypo Lake on daytime bimodal services, weather permitting

Ideal for

  • travelers who value smart planning
  • travelers packing light
  • anyone who wants valley views without complications
  • families and groups

Practical information

Schedule
PeruRail Expedition departs Ollantaytambo multiple times daily, with common slots around 5:05am, 6:10am, 12:55pm, and a later evening departure around 7:00-9:00pm; the journey takes roughly 1.5 hours. During the Jan-Apr rainy season a bimodal bus+train option (bus from Cusco, then train from Ollantaytambo or Pachar) may apply on some schedules. Exact times and frequency vary by date -- confirm at booking.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a one-way Expedition ticket cost?

One-way fares typically run about US$60-80, depending on the season, time of day and how far in advance you book. Prices tend to rise closer to the travel date.

How often does the Expedition train run?

PeruRail schedules several Expedition departures a day from both Ollantaytambo and Poroy (near Cusco), so there's usually a convenient option for most itineraries. Exact times vary by season, so we confirm the best departure once we know your plans.

How long is the ride?

About 1.5 hours from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). Departing from Poroy, near Cusco, takes longer, closer to 3.5 hours.

Are seats assigned?

Yes, every ticket has an assigned seat, and the train has a bathroom on board.

Does the ticket include the Machu Picchu entrance fee?

No. The train ticket only covers transportation; the archaeological site entrance ticket is booked separately.

Can I bring luggage?

Yes, but space is limited to one carry-on bag per passenger (around 5 kg / 11 lbs). Larger bags should be left at your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley.

What is there to enjoy on board?

Panoramic windows over the Sacred Valley, spacious assigned seats, interiors inspired by Inca culture, ambient music and an interpretive audiotour. Snacks and drinks are available on board, and daytime bimodal services may include a scenic stop at Huaypo Lake, weather permitting.