First Class Train To Machu Picchu + Bus To Entrance

Venturing from Cusco to Machu Picchu is a journey many travelers dream about, and choosing a premium option truly elevates the experience. Although we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, we’ve examined its details, reviews, and offerings to give you a well-rounded picture. This First Class train to Machu Picchu with included bus transfer promises a blend of comfort, scenic beauty, and authentic Peruvian flavors.

Two standout features immediately jump out. First, the luxurious train experience with plush seats, live music, and gourmet onboard cuisine makes the journey as enjoyable as the destination itself. Second, the flexibility of the included bus ticket, which allows you to visit Machu Picchu at your own pace within a three-day window, adds impressive convenience and value.

A potential consideration is that the ticket price of around $277.18 per person, while reflecting high-end service, does not include the entrance fee or return train. Therefore, travelers should budget accordingly.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a comfortable, scenic, and culturally rich experience—perfect for those who prefer not to rush and want to indulge in style en route to one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites.

Key Points

• The journey starts with a private, air-conditioned pickup from your hotel in Cusco.
• The First Class train features spacious, plush seats, a gourmet menu, and live music, creating a luxurious travel atmosphere.
• Includes a bus transfer from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, with a flexible ticket valid for three days.
• The tour emphasizes authentic Peruvian cuisine and scenic views of the Sacred Valley.
• Does not include the entrance fee to Machu Picchu or the return train ticket.
• The overall experience is tailored for those valuing comfort and unique onboard amenities.

Your adventure kicks off with a private, air-conditioned vehicle pickup from your Cusco hotel around 07:45 am. This seamless transfer to San Pedro train station by 08:00 am sets the tone — you’re starting your day in comfort before even reaching the train. This door-to-door service ensures a smooth start, especially helpful if you’re travelling with luggage or prefer to avoid public transport hassles.

Arriving at the station, you’ll be welcomed and guided by friendly rail staff who will check you in and escort you to your First Class seat. The train departs promptly at 8:28 am. The luxury begins here: wide, plush seats with tables, ample windows, and a dedicated Observatory-Lounge wagon. If you enjoy a good view, this is a major plus — the scenery of the Sacred Valley, with its patchwork of farms and mountains, is breathtaking.

The Luxurious Onboard Experience

Onboard, the gourmet menu is a highlight. Expect traditional Andean ingredients like trout, quinoa, and aguaymanto, beautifully prepared and complemented by a selection of regional wines. The inclusion of live music adds to the relaxed, festive atmosphere, making the entire ride feel more like a cultural event than just transportation.

The train’s first-class features—such as spacious seats, gourmet dining, and an elegant lounge—encourage travelers to settle in and enjoy every moment. The onboard staff are attentive, ensuring your drinks are refreshed and your experience is smooth. The welcome cocktail sets an inviting tone, and the selection of hot and cold drinks, made from fresh local fruits and herbs, keeps you refreshed during the scenic ride.

Scenic Views: The Sacred Valley and Beyond

As the train glides through the Sacred Valley, you’ll notice the striking landscapes unfolding outside the large panoramic windows. The combination of lush greenery, terraced fields, and towering mountains provides a visual feast, making the journey itself almost as memorable as Machu Picchu.

For those who enjoy a lively ambiance, the live music and bar area in the Observatory-Lounge often host local musicians, adding a cultural touch that makes this trip distinctive.

Arrival at Machu Picchu: What’s Next?

Upon arrival at the Machu Picchu train station in Aguas Calientes, you’ll find a bus transfer waiting to take you to the entrance of the archaeological site. The included bus ticket allows you to hop on any bus during operating hours (from 5:30 am to 2 pm) for up to three days—giving you flexibility to visit Machu Picchu on the day that suits you best.

This thoughtful addition is especially useful if you’re planning a multi-day itinerary, or if your travel plans change. The bus ride itself offers additional scenic views as you ascend the steep mountains toward the lost city.

What’s Not Included and Why That Matters

While the tour offers excellent comfort and premium amenities, it’s important to note what’s not included:

• The return train ticket from Aguas Calientes back to Cusco isn’t part of the package, so you’ll need to purchase that separately.
• The entrance fee to Machu Picchu is also not included, so budget for this separately.
• There’s no guided tour of Machu Picchu, which might interest travelers eager to learn more about its history.

These exclusions are typical for high-end, flexible tours, emphasizing personalized timing over bundled packages. If you prefer a guided experience, you might consider booking an additional guided tour.

Is the Price Worth It?

At $277.18 per person, this experience is certainly a splurge compared to standard train options. However, considering the luxury onboard service, gourmet dining, scenic views, and the flexibility of the bus ticket, many travelers find the value matches the cost. The onboard experience turns a long, sometimes tiring train ride into a highlight of your trip — a true taste of Peruvian hospitality and culture.

Plus, the quiet comfort and elegant ambiance provide a stark contrast to more basic train journeys. If you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply appreciate traveling in style, this tour makes a memorable journey.

The Authentic and Cultural Touches

From the local ingredients in the gourmet menu to the live music, there’s a subtle emphasis on Peruvian culture throughout the trip. Many reviews mention the quality of the local food and the enjoyable musical performances, which add a layer of authenticity often missing from more utilitarian transport options.

The flexibility of the bus ticket also reflects a thoughtful approach to travel planning, giving you the freedom to explore Machu Picchu at your own pace over multiple days.

This First Class train experience suits travelers who prioritize comfort and scenic beauty over a budget-friendly trip. It’s ideal for those celebrating a special occasion, or anyone who values onboard amenities like gourmet food, live music, and luxurious seating.

It’s also well-suited for travelers who prefer a stress-free transfer from Cusco to Machu Picchu, with the convenience of door-to-door pickup and flexible entry options.

On the flip side, if you’re on a tighter budget or want a guided tour of Machu Picchu itself, you might want to explore other options or combine this luxury journey with additional services.

Traveling to Machu Picchu aboard this First Class train with included bus transfer offers a combination of luxury, scenic beauty, and cultural authenticity. The onboard experience is thoughtfully designed to provide comfort, gourmet dining, and a touch of local music, making the journey as memorable as the destination.

While the cost is higher than standard options, the value lies in the quality of service, the flexibility, and the immersive atmosphere onboard. This tour is perfect for those who want to make their Machu Picchu adventure special and stress-free, with plenty of room to relax and soak in the scenery.

For travelers seeking a smooth, elegant, and culturally enriched trip, this experience delivers on all fronts, transforming a train ride into a highlight of your Peruvian journey.

Is the pickup from my Cusco hotel included?
Yes, the tour includes a private, air-conditioned pickup from any hotel in Cusco’s city center, making your start seamless and comfortable.

What time does the tour start?
Your pickup occurs around 07:45 am, and you’ll arrive at the train station by 08:00 am. The train departs at 8:28 am.

Does the tour include the entrance fee to Machu Picchu?
No, the entrance ticket to Machu Picchu is not included. You need to purchase it separately.

Is there a guided tour of Machu Picchu?
This tour does not include a guided tour of Machu Picchu itself. You can explore on your own or arrange a guide separately.

What amenities are available onboard the train?
Expect spacious, plush seats, a gourmet menu using Andean ingredients, live music, and a bar with a selection of drinks, including regional wines and fresh fruit beverages.

Can I travel back to Cusco with this ticket?
No, the return train ticket is not part of this package. You’ll need to buy your return ticket separately.

How flexible is the bus transfer?
Your bus ticket is valid for any bus during operating hours from 5:30 am to 2 pm within a three-day window, giving you flexibility to visit Machu Picchu whenever it suits you.

What is the overall duration of the trip?
The entire experience from pickup to arriving at Machu Picchu takes about 5 hours, including the train ride and bus transfer.

Is this experience suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, especially those valuing comfort and scenic travel. However, travelers with mobility issues should confirm accessibility options beforehand.

This luxurious journey to Machu Picchu turns an ordinary train ride into an extraordinary experience, perfectly suited for those who wish to indulge in comfort, culture, and scenic beauty. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a more refined way to visit one of the world’s most iconic sites, this tour offers a compelling blend of style and authenticity.