The train to Machu Picchu is the main way in for most visitors, and it earns the detour. Carriages run along the Vilcanota river, cliffs rising on either side, with the gorge tightening as you drop from Ollantaytambo (2,792m) down to Aguas Calientes (2,040m).
Two main departures exist: from Poroy, just outside Cusco, or from Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley. The Cusco run adds a scenic stretch through the valley but takes longer; from Ollantaytambo it’s about 1 hour 45 minutes.
Service classes run from the Expedition (full windows, the standard class) up to the Vistadome with its glass roof panels, and the Belmond Hiram Bingham with lunch and a bar car. All of them have the same scenery; the difference is comfort and food.
If it’s your first time, the train is the trip — mountains, river, cloud forest, and the slow build-up to Aguas Calientes.
Book through Peruways for timetables, class comparisons, and bundled citadel tickets.
