Cusco to Machu Picchu by train is one of the great scenic routes in South America, and PeruWays can line up the whole chain — station, service level, Aguas Calientes connection and timed entry — in one booking.
Most trips depart from Ollantaytambo (around 1h40 by road from Cusco) rather than Poroy, which has been largely out of service post-pandemic. From Ollantaytambo you follow the Urubamba downstream for about 1h30, through a deepening gorge with Andean peaks closing overhead.
PeruRail service levels run from the Expedition (budget) through the Vistadome (panoramic windows) and the 360° observation car to the Belmond Hiram Bingham with its dining car, bar and brunch. Inca Rail’s parallel range (Voyager, 360°, First Class, Private) covers similar ground.
Sit on the left on the way down and on the right coming back for the better river views. The dry season (May to September) is the busiest, and trains sell out around Inti Raymi in late June — book several weeks ahead.
PeruWays bundles train, Consettur bus and the timed Machu Picchu entry ticket, so you don’t juggle three operators.
