The train ride to Machu Picchu is already part of the trip. The route crosses the Sacred Valley and drops toward the high jungle (the so-called ceja de selva), with scenery as beautiful as the destination itself.
The hard part is choosing between PeruRail and Inca Rail and their many classes (Expedition, Vistadome, 360°, First Class). That’s where a lot of people get confused. Here’s a comparison to help you pick the train that fits your budget and your expectations.
1. Two companies, several services
Both companies leave from the same stations (Poroy, Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes) and follow the same safety standards. The difference is the experience on board, the comfort and the services included (food, entertainment).
| Feature | PeruRail (mid-range to luxury) | Inca Rail (mid-range to luxury) |
|---|---|---|
| Budget option | Expedition | The Voyager |
| Panoramic option | Vistadome | The 360° |
| Exclusive option | Hiram Bingham (full luxury) | The First Class |
| Observation car | Vistadome / Hiram Bingham | The 360° / First Class |
2. PeruRail: the panoramic-window experience
PeruRail is the longest-running company, with options that range from basic to full luxury.
- Expedition. The most basic and cheapest option, for travelers who put price first. It has comfortable seats and a window, but few extra services.
- Vistadome. The most popular class. The panoramic windows in the roof give you a great view of the Andean scenery and turn the ride into a sightseeing trip. A light snack is served on board.
- Hiram Bingham. The full-luxury service. It’s a full-day experience, with a gourmet lunch or dinner, a bar car and an observation car, and the bus and Machu Picchu ticket are included.
3. Inca Rail: comfort and technology (The 360° and First Class)
Inca Rail is a more modern company, focused on comfort and on the look of its trains.
- The Voyager. Inca Rail’s budget option. Similar to PeruRail’s Expedition, with comfortable seats.
- The 360°. The direct rival of the Vistadome. It has large panoramic windows, and what sets it apart is the idea of seeing the scenery in 360°. Andean music on board and a snack are included.
- The First Class. Inca Rail’s premium service. Wider seats and a gourmet menu on board, with more personal service, though it doesn’t reach the luxury level of the Hiram Bingham.
4. Which train should you book?
The best choice depends on what matters most to you: price, views or exclusivity.
- If price matters most. Choose the Expedition (PeruRail) or The Voyager (Inca Rail). Both take you to the same place.
- If you want views (at good value). Choose the Vistadome (PeruRail) or The 360° (Inca Rail). Both have glass roofs; the 360° may give you a slightly more complete view.
- If you want exclusivity. Choose the Hiram Bingham (PeruRail). It’s the option for a special celebration or a luxury trip.
Tari Tours’ recommendation. To balance price and experience, the Vistadome or The 360° is the best investment. The ride is long (1.5 to 4 hours, depending on the station), and a panoramic train makes every minute count.
Want the best train time for your date?
We’re a local agency in Cusco, registered with MINCETUR since 2003, with English-speaking guides. We check availability and the best train times for your date and arrange the rest of your Machu Picchu visit.