Machu Picchu by train

No, the train leaves from the town of Ollantaytambo and reaches its final station at Aguas Calientes, which sits at the base of the mountain 9 km from Machu Picchu. To get to the site from Aguas Calientes, it's a 30-minute bus ride or a 1.5-hour walk up a steep path if you’re feeling active.

The journey involves a 2-hour bus ride from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, followed by a 1.5-hour train ride from Ollantaytambo trough the winding Sacred Valley to the gateway town of Aguas Calientes. From here, it's a 30-minute bus ride or a 1.5-hour walk.

Tours are led by a local guide and usually last for 1.5 to 2 hours. According to Machu Picchu visiting regulations, all visitors must follow a pre-determined circuit within the site to relieve crowding. Circuit-based tickets are available on a first come, first served basis. 

We'll try our best to get everyone travelling in a group on the same route, but it's not always possible and travellers in the same group may be on different circuits. After the guided tour, visitors must exit the site and personal exploration of Machu Picchu isn’t permitted.

Yes, you can. If you change your mind and wish to trek after booking the train option, you can: 

• Request to book the Inca Trail, subject to permit availability 

• Hike the equally incredible Quarry Trail, which includes a visit to Machu Picchu after the trek. 

Change fees may apply. The closer to departure you request the change, the higher the fees may be. 

On most of our Machu Picchu trekking trips, you can opt to take the train option instead. If you let us know your preference at the time of booking, there are no extra fees involved. But if you change plans at a later stage, fees may apply. 

The closer to the departure date you make the change, the higher the change fees may be, as most services will have already been confirmed and paid on your behalf. 

Your local leader will take the train. Travellers on most trips tend to do a mix of all three options, with some choosing the Inca Trail, some choosing the Quarry Trail and some taking the train.

Those who hike will be accompanied by specialised mountain guides during the 3 to 4 day trek, which means your trip leader can stay with those who opt for the train. 

Light refreshments are available to buy on board – soft drinks, cookies, things like that. You may also like to bring your own snacks and drinking water. 

Yes, there are toilets on the train and at the train stations. You may want to bring your own supply of toilet paper and hand sanitiser just in case they run out. 

The bulk of your luggage will stay at your hotel in Cusco, so you'll need a small overnight bag to travel to Machu Picchu and back. 

Some trains offer a wi-fi service, but it’s best not to rely on it. 

Yes, your leader will give you your ticket with an assigned seat number. 

Yes, we can usually sit everyone in the same travel group together. 

Most trains are wheelchair accessible, and staff can usually assist with boarding. Just let us know in advance and we’ll do our best to accommodate you.