Peru Rail vs Inca Rail: Which Train is Best for Reaching Machu Picchu?

Which train company to choose for visiting Machu Picchu?

The only train companies that take you to Machu Picchu are Peru Rail and Inca Rail. They both have stations in strategic areas of Cusco, and both allow you to purchase tickets online. Choosing between them depends on your priorities: price, comfort, departure times, and the kind of travel experience you want.

Peru Rail Services

Peru Rail has operated since 1999 and is the oldest company servicing the Machu Picchu route. It is also the only train company that connects Cusco with cities in southern Peru like Puno and Arequipa.

Types of Trains

• Expedition: The most affordable option for travelers. Comfortable seats, panoramic windows, and onboard service.
• Vistadome: Offers larger windows, skylights, and cultural performances onboard. Perfect for scenic journeys.
• Sacred Valley Train: Combines luxury with a traditional Andean feel.
• Hiram Bingham: The most luxurious train, operated by Belmond. Includes gourmet meals, open bar, guided tours, and live music.

Additional Routes

Peru Rail also offers long-distance journeys like the Belmond Andean Explorer and Peru Rail Titicaca. These luxury services travel through the highlands of Peru, connecting Cusco with Puno and Arequipa. Departure stations include: San Pedro, Poroy, Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, Hidroeléctrica, and Aguas Calientes.

Inca Rail Services

Inca Rail started operations in 2007 and focuses exclusively on the Cusco – Machu Picchu route. It is known for its personalized service and exclusive train options.

Types of Trains

• The Voyager: Affordable and comfortable. Equipped with reclining seats and panoramic windows.
• The 360°: Offers wider panoramic views, an outdoor balcony, and a bar-restaurant car.
• First Class: Includes gourmet meals, live music, large windows, and VIP services.
• The Private: A fully exclusive train for private groups with luxurious design and personal attendants.

Departure stations include San Pedro, Poroy, Ollantaytambo, and Aguas Calientes.

Peru Rail vs Inca Rail: Service Comparison

Both companies offer high-quality trains with various comfort levels. Peru Rail’s Expedition and Inca Rail’s The Voyager are affordable options for budget travelers. Higher-end options like the Hiram Bingham and The Private cater to luxury travelers.

One major difference is the frequency of service: Peru Rail has more daily departures, making it easier to find a schedule that fits your itinerary. On the other hand, Inca Rail stands out for its exclusive services, modern booking system, and customer support.

Advantages of Choosing Peru Rail

• More departure times and stations.
• Access to Hidroeléctrica, an alternative and scenic route to Machu Picchu.
• Offers the luxurious Hiram Bingham train with all-inclusive services.
• Connections to southern destinations like Puno and Arequipa.
• Local train option for Peruvian citizens at a significantly reduced price.

Advantages of Choosing Inca Rail

• Earn LATAM Pass miles with every purchase.
• Exclusive The Private train for personalized group travel.
• Modern stations and VIP lounges with amenities like Wi-Fi, snacks, and music.
• Simple and secure online booking platform with instant confirmation.

What is the Bimodal Service?

Both companies offer a bimodal service: a bus ride from Cusco to Ollantaytambo or Urubamba, followed by the train to Aguas Calientes. This integrated ticket simplifies the journey and is ideal for those whose hotels are in Cusco’s city center.

Train Prices and Most Affordable Options

Peru Rail

• Expedition: From $63 USD one-way.
• Hiram Bingham: Around $482 USD per segment.

Inca Rail

• The Voyager: From $63 USD one-way.
• The Private: Custom price depending on services and group size.

Both companies update prices regularly based on seasons and availability. Booking early is recommended.

Offices and Ticket Sales Points

Peru Rail

Ticket offices located in:

• Lima and Cusco cities
• Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport
• Stations of San Pedro, Poroy, Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, Hidroeléctrica, and Aguas Calientes

Inca Rail

Ticket offices located in:

• Cusco Main Square
• Av. El Sol and Av. Cascaparo
• Velasco Astete Airport
• Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes stations

Frequently Asked Questions about Peru Rail and Inca Rail

• Which is better? Both offer excellent services. Choose Peru Rail for frequency and variety; Inca Rail for exclusivity and modern features.
• Which train is cheapest? The Voyager (Inca Rail) and Expedition (Peru Rail) are both budget-friendly options.
• Which is most luxurious? Hiram Bingham (Peru Rail) and The Private (Inca Rail) offer premium experiences.
• Do they include entertainment? Vistadome and Hiram Bingham (Peru Rail) include cultural shows and live music.
• Where to buy tickets? From official websites or local ticket offices in Peru.
• What is the local train? A basic service from Peru Rail exclusive to Peruvian nationals at reduced fares.