Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu: Complete Train Guide 2026
Complete guide to trains from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu. PeruRail vs Inca Rail, prices, schedules, booking tips, and station information.
Ollantaytambo is the main train departure point for Machu Picchu, located in the Sacred Valley 60 km from Cusco. The scenic train journey follows the Urubamba River through stunning mountain scenery to Aguas Calientes. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about taking the train from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu.
Quick Overview
Journey Details
- • Distance: 30 km
- • Duration: 1.5-2 hours
- • Companies: PeruRail, Inca Rail
- • First train: 5:05am
- • Last train: 9:00pm
- • Frequency: 15-20 trains daily
Price Range
- • Expedition/Voyager: $60-$70
- • Vistadome/360°: $75-$100
- • First Class: $150-$200
- • Hiram Bingham: $500+
- • Round-trip: Save $10-$20
Train Companies & Classes
PeruRail
Largest train operator with most departures. Owned by Belmond (luxury hotel group).
Expedition (Budget)
Price: $60-$70 one-way | Best for: Budget travelers
- Comfortable seats with tables
- Large panoramic windows
- Snack and beverage service (for purchase)
- Onboard bathroom
- Most frequent departures
Vistadome (Mid-Range)
Price: $75-$100 one-way | Best for: Most travelers
- Panoramic windows including ceiling
- More spacious leather seats
- Complimentary snack and beverage
- Onboard entertainment (fashion show, music)
- Better views of mountains and valley
Hiram Bingham (Luxury)
Price: $500-$600 one-way | Best for: Special occasions
- 1920s Pullman-style luxury train
- Gourmet 4-course meal with wine
- Open bar with premium drinks
- Live music and entertainment
- Observation car with bar
- Bus to Machu Picchu included
- Guided tour included
Inca Rail
Newer company with modern trains. Good alternative to PeruRail with similar quality.
Voyager (Budget)
Price: $60-$70 one-way | Equivalent to: PeruRail Expedition
- Comfortable seating
- Large windows
- Snacks available for purchase
- Clean, modern trains
360° (Mid-Range)
Price: $80-$100 one-way | Equivalent to: PeruRail Vistadome
- Panoramic windows all around
- Observatory lounge car
- Complimentary snacks and drinks
- Cultural entertainment
- Slightly better food than PeruRail
First Class (Premium)
Price: $150-$200 one-way | Best for: Comfort seekers
- Exclusive small car (8 passengers max)
- Gourmet meal service
- Premium bar service
- Extra spacious seating
- More personalized service
Sample Train Schedules
Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
| Departure | Arrival | Company | Class |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5:05am | 6:45am | PeruRail | Expedition |
| 6:10am | 7:52am | PeruRail | Vistadome |
| 6:40am | 8:25am | Inca Rail | Voyager |
| 7:05am | 8:52am | PeruRail | Expedition |
| 7:45am | 9:32am | Inca Rail | 360° |
| 8:00am | 9:50am | PeruRail | Vistadome |
| 8:53am | 10:52am | PeruRail | Expedition |
| 9:15am | 11:05am | PeruRail | Hiram Bingham |
Note: Schedules change seasonally. Check official websites for current times. More trains available throughout the day until 9:00pm.
Return: Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
| Departure | Arrival | Company | Class |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2:55pm | 4:45pm | PeruRail | Expedition |
| 3:20pm | 5:02pm | PeruRail | Vistadome |
| 4:22pm | 6:09pm | Inca Rail | Voyager |
| 4:43pm | 6:31pm | PeruRail | Expedition |
| 5:35pm | 7:23pm | Inca Rail | 360° |
| 5:48pm | 7:45pm | PeruRail | Hiram Bingham |
| 7:00pm | 8:52pm | PeruRail | Expedition |
How to Book Train Tickets
Booking Options
1. Official Websites (Best)
- PeruRail: www.perurail.com
- Inca Rail: www.incarail.com
- Pros: Best prices, most availability, official tickets
- Payment: Credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Amex)
- Tickets: Print or show on phone
2. Travel Agencies in Cusco
- Pros: Can book in person, help with planning
- Cons: 10-20% markup, limited availability
- When to use: If you can't book online or need help
3. Hotel/Tour Operator
- Pros: Convenient, part of package
- Cons: Highest markup (20-30%)
- When to use: If booking full Machu Picchu package
Booking Tips
- Book 2-4 weeks ahead: Especially for high season (May-September)
- Morning trains sell out first: 6-8am departures most popular
- Prices increase closer to date: Book early for best rates
- Round-trip saves money: $10-$20 cheaper than two one-ways
- Check both companies: Compare schedules and prices
- Passport required: Must match your Machu Picchu entrance ticket
- Print tickets: Or have digital copy on phone
- Arrive 30 min early: For boarding and seat assignment