1.- SACRED VALLEY TRAIN STATIONS: YOUR GATEWAY TO MACHU PICCHU (H2)
1.1.- Ollantaytambo Station: The Primary Departure Point
This is the most popular train station frequently used for trips to Machu Picchu. It is located in the town of the same name, Ollantaytambo, approximately 90 minutes from the city of Cusco. Thanks to its proximity to historical archaeological sites, it has become the most popular place to board the Train to Machu Picchu from Sacred Valley. Getting there is very easy, as you can hire private transportation in advance or take tourist buses that depart from Cusco or from other cities in the Sacred Valley.
Travelers who use the Train from Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu service can benefit from the amenities offered by this station, which are designed for the comfort of travelers. The main amenities include ticket offices, restrooms, a waiting room, and various points of sale where you can get snacks and a variety of beverages before boarding the Machu Picchu train. However, thanks to the environment that seems to have stopped in time, you can appreciate a rustic style that blends perfectly with the Inca architecture, which offers an incredible view of the surrounding mountains.
Parking areas have also been set up quite close to the station itself, as there are cases where multiple travelers decide to use their personal vehicles and can park them here while they enjoy their visit to Machu Picchu. There is also the option of taxis, private transportation, and tourist buses, which can be used from Cusco or from towns in the Sacred Valley, facilitating access not only to the Ollantaytambo station but also to the convenience of using the Train to Machu Picchu from Sacred Valley service.
1.2.- Urubamba Station: The Sacred Valley Alternative
Unlike the Ollantaytambo station, this one is located in the town of Urubamba, which is known for being the heart of the entire Sacred Valley. However, although you can also board the Train to Machu Picchu from Sacred Valley here, its operations are more limited, as it is only available during certain seasons of the year or if private and luxury services are required. The availability of this station always adapts to tourist demand and the frequency of trains that have a special category.
Another clear difference with the Ollantaytambo station is that it is only functional or active during the high season or when there are special scheduled departures such as the Sacred Valley service belonging to the Peru Rail company. It is important to understand that not all trains can start their operation from this location, so it is important to check availability in advance.
However, the few opportunities that are available can turn into a great adventure. Getting here is also quite accessible, as it is located in the lower part of the town, 15 minutes from the city center. It can be easily accessed by private transportation, taxi, or even on foot. There is no doubt that this experience is much more exclusive and intended for the most discerning travelers who are looking for an experience without crowds.
2.- TRAIN COMPANIES OPERATING FROM SACRED VALLEY
2.1.- PeruRail Services from Sacred Valley
Listed as the panoramic version of the Peru Rail company, it is undoubtedly one of the best alternatives a traveler can choose when boarding a Train to Machu Picchu from Sacred Valley. This service regularly departs from the Ollantaytambo station and is mainly characterized by offering large panoramic windows, more comfortable reclining seats, snacks, and drinks, as well as personalized service. It also includes a cultural experience where you can enjoy traditional dances and fashion shows, allowing you to get a very special souvenir.
This is the traditional and economical version, frequently used as a standard service. However, this does not mean that comfort is neglected. It also includes spacious seats and large windows, as well as special on-board service. It is mainly used by travelers who want to enjoy a comfortable experience without requiring luxury or eccentricity, but at the same time, it is still a comfortable Machu Picchu train that takes you from a station in the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu.
- Sacred Valley Train service
This exclusive service mainly departs from Urubamba station, but it is much more exclusive as it only operates at certain times of the year. It is a much more special category than the panoramic version, as it is designed primarily to provide a luxury experience and journey, with options such as gourmet lunch, live music, and carriages decorated in the style of the 1920s. There is no doubt that this is the perfect opportunity for those looking to board a Train from Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu in an exclusive and unforgettable way.
2.2.- Inca Rail Services from Sacred Valley
This version of the Train to Machu Picchu from Sacred Valley is the perfect combination of accessibility and comfort that can exist in a trip. Aimed mainly at travelers looking for an economical option, this service offers reclining seats, large windows, and onboard snack services. It mainly departs from Ollantaytambo station and is one of the most popular options among travelers today.
This service stands out thanks to its large windows that surround the entire interior of the balcony and offer a very special view of the Andean landscape from the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu. It also includes snacks, drinks, and entertainment options, as well as access to the open-air observation car, which is the perfect alternative for those who are passionate about photography.
This company is considered the highest standard category, as it is intended for travelers seeking an exclusive, high-end experience where personalized service is a priority and includes other details such as gourmet food, premium drinks, and an exclusive car where you can enjoy the trip in a more special way. Unlike other services, this version gives you exclusive access to a private lounge located in the town of Ollantaytambo, as well as all complementary transfers and support before boarding the Train to Machu Picchu from Sacred Valley. It has now become one of the most exclusive and elegant options available to travelers wishing to visit this world wonder.
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3.- COMPLETE JOURNEY EXPERIENCE: SACRED VALLEY TO MACHU PICCHU
The trip on the Train to Machu Picchu from Sacred Valley is considered one of the most incredible experiences you can enjoy during your stay in the city of Cusco. As time passes and the train travels along the railroad tracks, each of the travelers witnesses how the natural landscape gradually changes. You can see the extensive fields used mainly for agriculture, Inca terraces carved into the mountains for support, and of course the deep Andean canyons that border the entire territory. This trip also allows you to learn more about the extensive biodiversity that exists, as you can appreciate a great connection of alders, orchids, and even giant ferns. On the other hand, the local fauna has also become an emblem of preservation and sustainability, with icons such as the cock-of-the-rock, the giant hummingbird, and the amazing spectacled bear.
In some parts of the trip, it is also possible to see some of the archaeological sites that are strategically located along this route. Among the main ones is an Inca agricultural center known as Patallacta, which is characterized by its Inca terraces and several bridges made entirely of stone. Due to their location, they are hidden in the vegetation and directly symbolize a view of the past and how important they were during this journey.
3.1.- Duration and schedule
The frequency of trains is always directly linked to passenger demand. For this reason, during the high season from May to October, each train has a higher frequency of departures, starting at 05:00 am and ending at 21:00 pm. Of course, this always depends on the service you choose, and due to its popularity, it is always recommended to book in advance, as seats can sell out quickly.
On the other hand, during the low season, which runs from November to April, the frequency of the various trains decreases considerably. However, the adventure is just as exciting and spectacular, as with fewer travelers, the whole landscape becomes even more colorful due to the presence of rain, which allows for a more intimate and appropriate visit. Please note that some schedules may be canceled or modified depending on the weather and other circumstances. In the event of any changes, the company will always notify passengers, as there are options for rescheduling or refunds in very serious cases.
3.2.- Services and amenities
Depending on the type of service you choose on board the trains, you can enjoy basic options such as snacks and hot drinks, or more complete options such as gourmet meals, which are mainly made with ingredients of Andean origin and served on high-end trains such as exclusive or luxury trains. These are offered at lunch accompanied by wines and various cocktails.
Other services, such as the panoramic Vistadome or first class, also include entertainment options consisting of a set of dances and live music, as well as a fashion show that allows you to learn more about traditional fabrics and gives you the opportunity to purchase a unique souvenir. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to capture the most incredible moments in spectacular photographs, from the immense mountains that seem to touch the sky to the incredible Urubamba River that is always present throughout the journey.
4.- TICKET PRICES AND BOOKING INFORMATION
Every year, prices are updated and adjusted to the demand of travelers seeking to discover this world wonder. Of course, these prices also increase or decrease depending on the season, so it is important to have an idea of the price range.
- Expedition or Voyager: Between $60.00 and $70.00 per trip.
- Vistadome or 360°: Between $75.00 and $85.00 per trip.
- Hiram Bingham: From $390.00 per trip.
- First Class: From $375.00 per trip.
4.1.- Reservation process
There are several ways to purchase a ticket to board the Train to Machu Picchu from Sacred Valley. The traditional option is to do so through the official Peru Rail or Inca Rail website. This intuitive process offers you many options to choose from, including the schedule and the train category you want. It is always recommended to make a reservation at least one month in advance to ensure availability on the date and time of your choice.
Another process is to do it through authorized travel agencies such as Auri Peru, they offer alternatives of complete experiences to reach the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, including transfers, entrance tickets and train tickets, there is no doubt that it is the perfect opportunity for those people looking to forget about all the details.
5.- LAST MINUTE BOOKINGS
“Although it is always recommended to make a reservation in advance, there is the possibility of getting a train ticket the same day, however this can be quite limited and risky as well as having a much higher price, take into consideration to plan your trip during the low season to have less risk when looking for your space or book well in advance if you are looking to travel during the high season.”
6.- FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- What train stations in Sacred Valley go to Machu Picchu?
Within the Sacred Valley, there are two stations to choose from. The most popular is undoubtedly the one in the town of Ollantaytambo, where trains regularly depart. In some exceptional cases, the station in Urubamba is also used.
- How long does the train ride take from Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu?
The duration of this trip varies depending on the starting point. If it is from the town of Ollantaytambo, it takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, while if it is from Urubamba, it can take around 2 hours.
- Which train company is better: PeruRail or Inca Rail?
Both companies provide outstanding service, but one of the most notable differences is that Peru Rail has more frequent departures and is more economical in comparison. On the other hand, Inca Rail is more popular for the modern and exclusive service it offers its customers.
- Can I buy train tickets on the same day?
It is possible, but not recommended, as during some seasons it is very difficult to find suitable travel times and only the most tiring ones are available, such as the early hours of the day or the late hours, making the trip more difficult.
- Do I need to book train tickets in advance?
It is best to book in advance to ensure you have a seat if you choose to travel during the high season. You can also choose between different times and get a more affordable price.
- Are there student discounts for train tickets?
Discounts are only available for children under 11 years old, who pay a child’s price. Students pay a similar price to adults.
- What’s included in the train ticket price?
Traditionally, it includes the right to travel from one of the stations in the Sacred Valley to the station in Aguas Calientes. It is a reserved seat that also includes on-board service and, depending on the type of train you choose, you may have access to other carriages and even meal options.
- Can I change or cancel my train ticket?
If possible, however, remember that the company has a set of policies that may consider an additional charge, so before proceeding, find out what the additional charges are.
- Do train tickets include entry to Machu Picchu?
No, train tickets are exclusively for the trip, and you must always purchase the entrance ticket to the Inca city of Machu Picchu separately. However, if you choose the services of an authorized travel agency, you will not have to worry about this.
Now you know everything about this trip to the world wonder, and the best way to start is by choosing your travel date. Auri Peru is one of the leading companies that has a direct alliance with the train companies, so you can organize a personalized adventure tailored to what you are looking for. Contact us now and discover the benefits of being part of our groups.
“Leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but memories.”
