The train journey to Machu Picchu is fascinating and magical. Why take the train?
Traveling by train is the best! As the old camp song said, and quite rightly so, this statement rings true. Traveling by train to Machu Picchu is a unique experience, comparable to the majestic attractions of the world. However, it is worth considering why traveling by train to Machu Picchu is recommended. We must point out that this is a question that has been repeatedly overlooked. Indeed, it has been concluded that the question does not seem to exist, as if it were an irrefutable fact. The train route has existed since the last century, specifically since 1978. The main objective of our governments' project was to link the city of Cusco with the city of Quillabamba, located in the jungle and known for its intense production of coffee, cocoa, annatto, and fruits. In addition, this route connects small towns along the way and runs through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, passing through the cities of Pisaq, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo. When the road enters the Andes mountains, which merge with the jungle, it reaches Aguas Calientes, a town built for the sole purpose of supporting visits by our tourist friends and the maintenance of Machu Picchu. Subsequently, there was an extensive journey through vast areas of jungle to reach Quillabamba. It is worth mentioning that this route has now been discontinued.
Do you know why it's better to travel to Machu Picchu by train? Because the route was part of a larger project, and since so many people started arriving at the Inca citadel, it was the best option!"Machu Picchu ALT"
In other words, Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu were just a pleasant stop on a trip that lasted between eight and ten hours. I had that experience as a child, because we spent our vacations in Quillabamba, a beautiful resort in the middle of the lush jungle. In 1998, most of the route was damaged by persistent rains and excessive landslides typical of the jungle, which posed a challenge for travelers seeking to enjoy this beautiful place. The section to Quillabamba is no longer operational for public service due to lack of investment and road competition.
Today, we want to offer you an unparalleled experience, which is why we use the improved tourist train route. The train journey to Machu Picchu is undoubtedly one of the best routes in the world. The landscapes are incredibly beautiful, with the capricious Andes blending with the lush jungle that takes over huge peaks and mountains. It is as if the jungle is swallowing up the Andes. Let me tell you about the route. The mighty Vilcanota River has been carving its way for millions of years so that the Inter-Andean train can reach Machu Picchu. Incredible, right?!
The Incas did not use the banks of the Vilcanota to reach their protected city. Instead, they built another road from Cusco called the Inca Trail, which goes around other mountains and away from the train route.
"Machu Picchu ALT"
Is there no bus or highway route to Machu Picchu?
Of course, and it's an alternative for those who want a little adventure without enjoying the comforts I described. It's called Cusco-Hidroeléctrica, and the route starts in Cusco and goes to Santa Teresa. It's about a four-hour trip on the highway, which also goes from the Andes into the jungle. After Santa Teresa, you can take the train to Machu Picchu; it's called the Hidroeléctrica train and takes about 35 minutes. You can also do it on foot; it's a great adventure following the railroad tracks through the Inca jungle.
We are delighted to offer you our exclusive train service, where you can enjoy the best services from Inca Rail and Peru Rail. Remember that to guarantee your trip, don't forget to make your reservation in advance! We are here to make your experience unforgettable! Don't sit idly by! Tickets to Machu Picchu sell out quickly, so don't miss out!