Taking the train to Machu Picchu is the standard route and the one that gives you the Urubamba gorge for free. The ride works from Cusco (via Poroy) or more commonly from Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley.
The line drops out of the Andean highlands and threads along the river, passing Ollantaytambo’s fortress and the small trackside hamlets around km 82 — the start of the Classic Inca Trail. Large windows frame everything on the way down.
Three main services cover the range. The Expedition is the standard seat for everyday travel. The Vistadome adds panoramic skylights and onboard entertainment. The Hiram Bingham is PeruRail’s premium service — a 1920s-style Pullman with four-course lunch or dinner, open bar and live music.
Book early in peak season; fares rise sharply inside a two-week window. For a one-shot checkout of train, entry and shuttle, Peruways packages the lot.
