The train to Machu Picchu is part of the trip, not a transit segment. From Cusco or Ollantaytambo, it runs down the Urubamba gorge to Aguas Calientes, 2,000 metres — closer to cloud forest than Andean highland by the time you arrive.
The views out the window: Sacred Valley terraces, the Veronica glacier on the ridge opposite, the Urubamba River tightening into whitewater as the canyon narrows. The ride is 3h20 from Poroy, 1h40 from Ollantaytambo.
Modern carriages carry oversized panoramic windows (Vistadome, Inca Rail 360), reclining seats, snack service, and in the higher tiers a full lunch. The Belmond Hiram Bingham runs a 1920s-style Pullman with four-course lunch and open observation car.
For a one-pass booking, use Peruways — it carries all PeruRail and Inca Rail services and bundles with the Consettur bus and citadel entry ticket.
Pick Peruways and the train is one less thing to think about.
