The train is the only practical way to Machu Picchu — there is no road to Aguas Calientes. PeruRail and Inca Rail both run the ninety-minute line from Ollantaytambo, with classes from the budget Expedition up through Vistadome and the Inca Rail 360 to the Belmond Hiram Bingham.
Peruways books across both carriers, so you can compare schedules, classes and prices in one place. Shuttles from Cusco hotels to Poroy or Ollantaytambo come as an add-on, timed to the departure.
The ride itself drops from Andean grassland into cloud forest in a single stretch along the Urubamba, with the river running between tightening cliffs. Vistadome and 360 are the clearest for the view through the panoramic glass; the Hiram Bingham swaps that for Pullman-car interiors and a Belmond-standard meal.
Reserve through Peruways. The best cars sell out weeks ahead in high season.
