The First Class Machu Picchu Train by Inca Rail

Traveling to Machu Picchu is often the highlight of a trip to Peru, and choosing the right way to get there matters. The First Class Machu Picchu Train by Inca Rail offers a luxurious and hassle-free way to reach the archaeological wonder from Cusco. Priced at around $244 per person and lasting roughly 2 to 4 hours, this experience isn’t just about transportation—it’s about making the journey as memorable as the destination.

What we find most appealing about this tour is the luxury train ride that features special observatory carriages with spectacular views of Inca landscapes, and the inclusive package of meals, drinks, and VIP amenities. These thoughtful touches turn a simple train trip into a true journey of comfort and culture.

However, it’s worth noting that some travelers have expressed concerns about cost-value balance, or how the service compares to other options like Peru Rail. If you’re after a straightforward, premium experience with well-organized logistics, this could be a good fit. It’s especially suitable for travelers eager for a comfortable, guided, all-inclusive trip that minimizes planning stress and maximizes the scenery and local insights.

If you value guided tours of Machu Picchu, enjoy gourmet meals on the move, and want to avoid the hassles of booking transfers and tickets separately, this experience is designed with you in mind. But if your focus is on exploring independently or seeking the absolute cheapest option, you might want to compare.

• Luxury and Convenience: All-inclusive package including tickets, transfers, meals, drinks, and VIP amenities.
• Spectacular Views: Observator carriage offers the best scenery of Inca landscapes during the ride.
• Guided Experience: Includes a tour of Machu Picchu with a certified guide, adding depth to your visit.
• Hassle-Free Logistics: Door-to-door pickup, transfers, and VIP waiting rooms reduce stress.
• Value for Money: The comprehensive service might be worth the price for travelers seeking comfort and simplicity.
• Mixed Reviews: Some travelers find the service worthwhile; others feel it’s overpriced compared to alternatives.

Traveling to Machu Picchu is an adventure in itself, and doing it in a first-class train adds a layer of comfort many travelers appreciate. The Inca Rail First Class experience starts with seamless pickup from your Cusco hotel, an essential detail that many reviews highlight as a time-saver and stress reducer. From there, you’re whisked away in an air-conditioned vehicle to Ollantaytambo station, where your journey officially begins.

Once onboard, the train’s interior is modern and well-maintained, with some passengers noting the friendly and attentive staff. The observatory carriage is a highlight for many, offering panoramic windows that give you a front-row seat to lush valleys, dramatic mountains, and Inca terraces. The views are definitely a selling point; many reviews mention the “spectacle” of the scenery unfolding outside.

The onboard amenities provide a comfortable environment for the roughly 2-hour ride. You can enjoy live music, which several travelers appreciated as creating a festive atmosphere. The gourmet meals, included in the package, are served with a three-course lunch and dinner, and the drinks menu features soft drinks, bottled water, coffee, tea, and even alcoholic beverages like wine and Pisco Sour. Multiple reviewers comment positively on the quality of the food and drinks—some say it elevates the entire experience.

Stop 1: Ollantaytambo Station and VIP Lounge
Your journey begins with a VIP waiting room access in Cusco, offering a comfortable space to relax before departure. The private bus then transports you to Ollantaytambo station—this included transfer saves time and hassle, a feature many travelers praise.

The Train Ride
The train itself, labeled as First Class, offers a smooth, scenic ride. Several reviews mention the lively onboard entertainment, including live music and sometimes even show performances with dancers, making the trip enjoyable beyond just the scenery. The observation carriage is widely appreciated, giving travelers the best vantage point for capturing Machu Picchu’s surroundings during the journey.

Arrival at Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu Tour
Once at Aguas Calientes, the included private bus takes you up to the ruins. The admission ticket to Machu Picchu is part of the package, with confirmation required at least 45 days in advance. A certified guide provides a comprehensive tour of the site, highlighting the most significant structures like the Intihuatana stone, terraces, and temples.

Post-Visit
After exploring Machu Picchu, you return via the same comfortable transfer. The return trip on the train includes options for more entertainment and meals, and the VIP lounge access on the way back in Cusco wraps up the experience in style.

While many travelers are enthusiastic about the scenic views and professional guides, a few reviews reveal some disappointments. One reviewer pointed out that the show with dancers might seem overly touristy for some, and others mention that the service quality can be inconsistent—highlighting the importance of managing expectations and researching alternatives.

There are also complaints about value for money, with some feeling that the train’s condition and seating arrangements don’t quite match the price paid. Some reviews mention older trains and seating issues, which could be a concern if you’re expecting the most luxurious or modern carriages.

On the positive side, several guests praise Jasmine and Lino, the staff on board, for their friendly and attentive service, and others appreciate the spectacular views and lively onboard atmosphere. The dining experience also receives favorable comments, with travelers noting the quality of the meals and drinks.

At about $244, this tour isn’t the cheapest way to visit Machu Picchu. But the all-inclusive nature—covering tickets, transfers, meals, drinks, and VIP amenities—might justify the price for travelers who prioritize comfort and simplicity.

However, some travelers feel it’s not worth the premium, especially if they compare it to other options like Peru Rail, which some say offers a more lively or better-maintained service. The reviews suggest that service consistency can vary, so it’s worth considering whether the luxury matches your expectations.

This experience suits travelers who value convenience, comfort, and a guided, all-inclusive day. It’s ideal if you want to avoid stress, especially with arrangements like tickets and transfers all taken care of. If you enjoy luxury train travel, live music, and gourmet meals while observing breathtaking scenery, this is a compelling choice.

On the other hand, if your focus is budget travel or independent exploration, you might prefer to look into other options that could be more affordable or offer different kinds of onboard entertainment. The mixed reviews about service quality remind us that this is a premium experience that doesn’t always match the highest expectations, so read carefully.

The First Class Machu Picchu Train by Inca Rail provides a comfortable, scenic, and well-organized way to reach one of the world’s most iconic sites. Its luxury amenities, including VIP lounges, gourmet meals, and lively onboard entertainment, make the journey special for those who appreciate a bit of style and ease. The spectacular views from the observatory carriage are often a highlight, giving you a front-row seat to Peru’s stunning landscapes.

While the tour’s price point might seem steep, many travelers find value in the all-inclusive service that minimizes hassle and maximizes comfort. The guided tour at Machu Picchu adds depth, transforming what could be a rushed visit into an enlightening experience.

This tour is particularly well-suited for first-time visitors or those seeking a luxurious, guided experience that takes care of all logistics. It’s less ideal for budget travelers or those wanting to explore independently. Overall, if you’re looking to combine scenic train travel, easy logistics, and professional guidance, this trip offers a compelling option.

Is transportation from Cusco to the train station included?
Yes, the tour includes a VIP waiting room in Cusco and a private bus transfer to Ollantaytambo station, making logistics straightforward.

How long does the train ride last?
The train journey lasts approximately 2 hours, during which you’ll enjoy scenic views from the observatory carriage.

Are meals included?
Yes, you’ll be served a three-course lunch and dinner, along with drinks including soft drinks, bottled water, coffee, tea, and alcohol.

Is the entrance to Machu Picchu included?
Yes, your ticket to Machu Picchu is included, but it must be confirmed at least 45 days in advance.

What amenities does the train offer?
The train features air conditioning, restrooms, live music, and an onboard activity book for children. Some reviews mention live entertainment onboard.

What should I consider before booking?
Evaluate whether the price matches your expectations for service and train condition. Some travelers note the trains are older with seating issues.

Is the experience suitable for children?
Yes, as an all-ages experience, especially with activity books provided for traveling children.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure.

In short, the First Class Machu Picchu Train offers a well-rounded, comfortable way to make your way to Peru’s most famous site. It is best suited for those who want a luxurious, hassle-free journey filled with scenic views and guided insights, making your visit to Machu Picchu even more memorable.