You have various options when planning to go and see one of the seven wonders of the modern world – Machu Picchu from the 15th century – can be accessed by train, by foot or by coach. The train is the most popular so we did that and I will explain and compare the different trains we caught to MP.
RELATED: EVERY MISTAKE I MADE GOING TO MACHU PICCHU AND WHAT YOU CAN DO TO AVOID IT
THE TRAINS – Peru Rail or Inca Rail
There are two train companies: Peru rail and Inca rail. Both are very similar, use the same track and are at similar times. The costs vary depending on the type of train and the time. If I was you, I would pick the cheapest train. You will see the same view more or less and it takes the same time approximately 2 hours 30 mins. You can read more about how to get to Machu Picchu like a champion here (We gave like full detailed how to).
The Train Stations
The train stations are well organised and easy to find. Please remember to have your printed tickets and passport and arrive early to board the train. The train does not wait and if you don’t have the right documents you cannot board the train. Trains leave from Ollantaytamboo to MP. NONE of these places are easy to get to and it is fairly costly but the effort is worth it in the end. There is a great coffee shop near the station. If you want to know more let me know.
The station is Machu Picchu dominates the village and you can’t miss it but for a station dealing with 8000 passengers a day the facilities are poor as is the town (Aguas Calientes) itself but that’s for another article. I struggled to find a good restaurant in Aguas Calientes. They are ok but nothing special which is a pity and surprising considering the volume of visitors.
How Big of a Luggage Can I Bring into the Train to Machu Picchu (Baggage Limit)
The train is not big enough to carry huge luggages. But there is no hardcore strict rules like the low budget airlines. So, let’s put it this way. If you have a carry on size luggage for the plane and had no problem bringing to the plane, you are fine. But if you had to check in, you are not.
If Your Luggage is Too Big, You Will Have to Leave at the Front Desk at the Station – They Don’t Have Enough Space to Put All Big Luggages
The train is only small, and you will have to put your luggage on the overhead bin, or behind the seats where they have a little gap. So if you even want to bring your big luggage to Machu Picchu, you won’t be able to cause of limited space. You can always just store at the front desk. They are more than happy to help like the hotels.
Train
We chose Inca rail for the timings really. To Machu Picchu we got the standard voyager train and on the return the more expensive 360 train which has bigger windows and an open carriage to be closer to the view and get great pictures of the amazing scenery and glaciers and glacial river. You can watch our video comparing the 360 and voyager below.
Voyager and 360 Have Almost the Same Seat Size, but the Windows Are a Lot Smaller on Voyager
The voyager train offers comfy seats, a drink and a snack with plenty of windows to see the view. The view is restricted and you cannot move to a different carriage for a better view. The voyager train was very busy and a little cramped as there is limited luggage room. Overall once you are settled in it’s fine.
360 Incal rail Has an Observatory Which Is Nice But Not Necessary for Paying Double the Voyager
The 360 Inca Rail train on the return is a little different. The seats are larger, there is more luggage space, you are offered a sandwich and a drink but the big difference is the windows are much larger, a lot of the roof space is glass and there is an open carriage offering uninterrupted views. This train was not full so plenty of space for all I think it was because this train is more expensive ( the Peru rail trail left earlier and was full) the volume of passengers was much less.
Both trains provide comfort and a relaxing quality trip to Machu Picchu. The carriages are clean and modern. The toilets are much cleaner than any U.K. train I have ever been on and the service is pleasant and quick.
You can relax and enjoy the amazing scenery. Try and get a seat facing forward so you can see the scenery as it approaches it’s a much better view and gives you time to get the camera ready.
I Would Just Go for Voyager If You Are Considering Voyager vs. 360, Because It is Not Worth Paying the Double for Mediocre Sandwich and Small Observatory
I really enjoyed both train journeys they were on time, relaxed, clean , efficient and friendly. Passengers on trains are more relaxed than planes so chat and enjoy the experiences. The views and scenery in both directions are fantastic and you often see people on the 4 day hike to MP as you pass by. BUT the big question is the 360 train worth the extra cost?
For me the answer is NO the extra cost is not justified. As the guide told us , Bill Gates , came to MP using the Belmond train ( very expensive) but it’s the same line, the same scenery, the same coffee, the same journey time so why pay more!!!!