The Voyager Machu Picchu Train by Inca Rail

The Voyager 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 can make all the difference. The Voyager train offered by Inca Rail for around $203 per person promises a scenic, comfortable ride with roughly 2 to 4 hours of travel time, depending on your connection. Departing from the historic city of Cusco or nearby Ollantaytambo, this journey takes you through the Andean landscape toward the legendary Inca citadel.

Two aspects immediately stand out about this experience. First, the air-conditioned onboard comfort and private transportation make for a relaxing start or finish to your day. Second, the stunning vistas you’ll see from the train are genuinely memorable — rolling mountains, lush valleys, and the anticipation of Machu Picchu itself.

However, a word of caution: some reviews point to occasional service inconsistencies and logistical hiccups, like ticketing issues or crowded buses. This means it’s wise to prepare for these possibilities and stay flexible.

This tour is well-suited for travelers who value a comfortable, scenic journey and are okay with some variability in service quality. It’s perfect if you want to combine convenience with authentic views, especially if you’re traveling with family or looking for a straightforward way to reach Machu Picchu without the hassle of planning multiple transport links.

Key Points

• Comfortable journey with air-conditioning and private transport options.
• Scenic views of the Andean landscape, enhancing your anticipation of Machu Picchu.
• Flexible starting points from Cusco, Poroy, Ollantaytambo, or via the Bimodal service.
• Potential service issues have been noted, so travelers should stay prepared.
• Includes amenities like onboard restrooms, but tickets and entry to Machu Picchu are not included.
• Booking in advance (about 6 days) ensures availability but review your ticket details carefully.

In-Depth Review of The Voyager Machu Picchu Train Experience

Setting Out: The Journey Begins

The trip kicks off early, with a departure from Machu Picchu station in Aguas Calientes at 6:40 am. Since this journey is quite short — around 2 to 4 hours depending on your connection — you’ll want to arrive relaxed and ready for the scenic ride. The departure from the station marks the start of your adventure, with the expectation of comfortable travel and stunning views.

Departure Points and Travel Options

Inca Rail offers three primary starting points: Cusco’s San Pedro station, Poroy, and Ollantaytambo. All are well-connected, and the choice often depends on where you’re staying or your travel schedule.

A noteworthy alternative is their Bimodal service, which combines a bus ride from near Plaza de Armas in Cusco to Ollantaytambo, followed by the train. This option is especially recommended from January to April due to weather conditions that can disrupt other departures. The bus portion begins at Av. El Sol 843, near the main square, providing a smooth transition to the train.

The Onboard Experience

The Voyager train is marketed as a premium service, and many travelers appreciate the air-conditioned cabins and restroom onboard — details that add comfort after a long day of sightseeing. The onboard environment is generally described as clean and well-maintained, although some reviews mention that the train feels a bit dated, with seats that are less spacious compared to competitors.

One reviewer noted, “The carriage felt dated,” but appreciated the good views during the ride. The panoramic windows are a real highlight, allowing you to enjoy the rolling green hills, terraced mountains, and remote villages passing by.

The Views and Photo Opportunities

The scenery along the route is undeniably a major selling point. Expect to see the lush Andean landscape, with terraced hillsides reminiscent of the Incas’ own agricultural ingenuity. For many, the views are worth the ticket price alone, providing a peaceful, contemplative prelude to Machu Picchu.

Service and Crew

Reviews range from glowing praise for helpful staff to frustration over miscommunications. Several travelers praised the kind and helpful staff, mentioning employees like Jazmín and Anthony, who were described as “friendly” and “always showing a beautiful smile.” These personal touches can make a difference, especially in a long journey.

However, there are also negative reports, such as the infamous train breakdown at Chilca and poor crisis management during a train accident, which left some passengers waiting for hours with little information. Some travelers also complained about crowded buses, uncomfortable seats, and the onboard entertainment, which they found excessive or distracting.

Ticketing and Entrance to Machu Picchu

One of the more significant caveats is that the train ticket is only for the journey — it does not include the entry ticket to Machu Picchu. This is a crucial detail because a reviewer recounted arriving and discovering their tickets were for a different date, leading to a frustrating reroute.

This highlights the importance of double-checking your ticket details and being aware of your entry date if you plan to visit the citadel. Inca Rail does not control the site entrance, so travelers must handle their Machu Picchu tickets separately.

The Return Journey

The return trip can be via the same train service or the bimodal combination — train to Ollantaytambo then bus to Cusco. Travelers who opt for the bimodal service often appreciate the flexibility, especially during the rainy season, but it’s worth noting that some reviews describe the bus ride as cramped and less comfortable.

Overall Value and Cost

At $203 per person, the price for this train ride is fairly competitive, especially considering the scenic value and comfort features. The experience is about more than just transportation; it’s a chance to absorb the stunning landscapes of the Sacred Valley while traveling in relative comfort.

Yet, the value can be diminished by service hiccups and the lack of included entrance tickets. For many, this service offers a good balance of comfort and scenery but may not be the best option during peak seasons or if strict punctuality and smooth logistics are essential.

Who Would Enjoy This?

This tour suits travelers who prioritize a relaxing journey with beautiful scenery over a fully guided experience. If you’re comfortable managing your tickets and expectations for occasional service hiccups, you’ll find this a worthwhile option. It’s also great for families or those who want a straightforward, comfortable transport link without the hassle of multiple transfers.

Final Thoughts

The Voyager train by Inca Rail offers a comfortable, scenic ride to Machu Picchu, with stunning views of the Andean landscape. With onboard amenities like air conditioning and restrooms, it’s a solid choice for travelers seeking convenience and a touch of luxury on their way to one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites.

While the experience is generally positive, potential passengers should be aware of possible service issues and the need to purchase separate entry tickets to Machu Picchu. The reviews show that staff can be helpful and friendly, but reliability can vary, especially during busy or unpredictable seasons.

If you value a relaxing journey with memorable scenery, this train is worth considering — especially if you book in advance and keep your expectations aligned with the occasional hiccup. For those seeking a smooth, scenic start to their Machu Picchu adventure, the Voyager can deliver a practical and enjoyable experience.

FAQ

• Does the tour include the entrance ticket to Machu Picchu? No, the train ticket does not include the entrance fee. You must buy your entry separately.
• What is the duration of the train ride? The trip lasts approximately 2 to 4 hours, depending on your starting point and connections.
• Where does the train depart from? The main departure points are Cusco’s San Pedro station, Poroy, and Ollantaytambo, with an option to use the Bimodal service from Cusco.
• Is the onboard environment comfortable? Yes, the train offers air-conditioned cabins and restrooms onboard, although some reviews mention seats feeling dated.
• Can I book last-minute? It’s best to book about 6 days in advance to secure your spot; the train is popular.
• What are the main drawbacks? Service inconsistencies, occasional delays, and crowded buses can be issues; also, tickets are for the train only.
• Is the scenery worth it? Absolutely — travelers often mention the beautiful views of terraced hillsides and mountains.
• Are the staff helpful? Many travelers report friendly staff, though experiences can vary, and some reviews mention less satisfactory crisis handling.
• What’s the environment like during the journey? Expect panoramic windows, with opportunities to take photos of lush landscapes and mountain vistas.
• Who is this tour best suited for? Travelers seeking a comfortable, scenic, and straightforward way to reach Machu Picchu without added guided experiences.

Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned trekker, the Voyager train by Inca Rail offers a practical, scenic link to the wonder of Machu Picchu — just stay alert to the details and be ready for some surprises along the way.