Belmond Hiram Bingham Train to Machupicchu – Full Day

Imagine sitting back in plush seats, sipping fine wine, and watching the Andes roll by in comfort and style. That’s what the Belmond Hiram Bingham offers—an elegant, all-in-one day trip from Cusco to Machu Picchu. For $2,250 per person, you gain a memorable journey that combines luxury train travel, expert-guided exploration, gourmet dining, and awe-inspiring scenery. The tour runs three days a week—Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday—and is best booked well in advance, about 16 days on average, since its popularity is high.

What we love most about this experience is how it elevates a visit to Machu Picchu from a standard tour into a celebration of Peruvian craftsmanship and natural beauty. First, the train itself is a highlight—an impeccably maintained, vintage-style carriage offering panoramic windows to soak in the passing Andes vistas. Second, the guided tour of Machu Picchu is both informative and personalized, often with expert guides like “Thomas” who describe the site’s mysteries with enthusiasm.

A potential drawback? The trip's price tag is steep—likely out of reach for budget travelers—and the all-day schedule means a long, busy day. Still, if you’re someone who appreciates comfort, fine food, and exclusive access, this tour is hard to beat. It suits travelers who want to combine luxury with authentic cultural experiences and are comfortable with a full day of activity.

If you’re after a memorable, hassle-free way to visit Machu Picchu with a touch of elegance, this tour could be your ideal choice. It's especially good for those who value guided insights and gourmet meals amid stunning scenery.

Key Points

• Luxury train journey through the Andes with panoramic views.
• Skip long lines at Machu Picchu with a private guided tour.
• Gourmet meals and wine served throughout the trip, adding a special touch.
• Limited departures on select days, requiring advance booking.
• Includes all transport from Cusco and back, with VIP access at Machu Picchu.
• A full day of activity with a focus on comfort, style, and insight.

An In-Depth Look at the Belmond Hiram Bingham Experience

Traveling on the Belmond Hiram Bingham isn’t just about getting from Cusco to Machu Picchu; it’s about turning a day trip into an event. From the moment you’re picked up at your hotel, the experience exudes a sense of occasion. The transfer to the train station is smooth, with a welcome drink ready as you settle into your plush compartment. You might find the train itself reminiscent of vintage luxury, with its polished wood interiors and attentive service.

The Scenic Train Journey

The highlight is undoubtedly the train ride. As the train snakes through the Peruvian countryside, you’ll gaze out at striking mountain peaks, lush valleys, and small villages. This is a fantastic way to see a different side of Peru—less about the tourist hotspots, more about the everyday life and natural beauty of the Andes. The panoramic windows are designed for viewing, and onboard entertainment adds to the relaxed atmosphere, with live music playing in the Observation Car.

Travelers have often expressed admiration for the scenery and the comfort of the journey. One reviewer, Thomas, called it “spectacular,” highlighting how the accommodations, food, and service all contributed to an overall sense of indulgence. The train’s design and atmosphere foster a sense of adventure mixed with sophistication, making the trip feel special rather than just transportation.

The Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

Once at Machu Picchu, the tour is run by a professional guide, providing a much-needed narrative to the awe-inspiring ruins. The VIP lounge at the station helps avoid the crowds, and the guided tour allows you to explore the site in a more meaningful way. The guide's insights help you understand the history, architecture, and mysteries of this ancient site—something you might miss if exploring alone.

One reviewer mentioned that the guided tour and afternoon tea at the Sanctuary Lodge were “amazing,” emphasizing how the experience extends beyond just the ruins. The guided experience is generally considered a huge plus, especially when combined with skip-the-line access, saving you hours of waiting.

Gourmet Meals and Onboard Entertainment

Food is a central part of this experience—breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and drinks are included, with a fine selection of wines, beers, and Pisco Sours. The onboard menu aims to match the luxury environment—think gourmet dishes served with attentive service. The live band adds a festive touch during the journey, with music ranging from local tunes to international hits.

In the reviews, Thomas describes the trip as “spectacular” for the accommodations, food, service, and entertainment, confirming that the onboard amenities really enhance the journey. The afternoon tea at the Sanctuary Lodge is an added luxury, giving you time to relax before heading back.

The Return Trip and Practicalities

The return trip follows a similar high-end experience, with the Observation Car providing scenic views as you head back to Cusco. The entire day is well-paced but busy, starting early at 8 a.m. and returning late in the evening. The tour includes airport-style transfer services, bottled water, coffee, and tea, so your comfort is a priority.

What to Expect and How to Prepare

Timing is crucial. The train departs in the morning, and the whole day revolves around making the most of your time at Machu Picchu without feeling rushed. The tour’s physical demands are moderate—comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a small day pack are recommended. The included guide ensures you get the most out of your visit, but you’ll still want to take photos, enjoy the scenery, and absorb the atmosphere.

The experience is capped at 9 travelers, which helps maintain an intimate, personalized feel. This small group size means more tailored attention and easier interaction.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Booking well in advance is essential, as the tour runs only three days a week.
• The price reflects the luxury experience, but many reviewers feel it offers good value considering the quality of service, scenery, and exclusivity.
• The tour does not include tickets to Huaynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, so if you want to climb those, you’ll need to purchase additional tickets.
• Prepare for a full day, with early start and late return, so plan your accommodations in Cusco accordingly.

Authentic Traveler Experiences

Reviews paint a picture of a luxurious, well-organized experience. Thomas H described it as “spectacular,” praising the accommodations, food, service, and entertainment. He emphasized that the guided tour and afternoon tea made the trip unforgettable, reinforcing how the premium elements elevate the visit.

On the flip side, Jean Luc L expressed some frustration with logistical details, particularly regarding transportation and timing. He noted that the tour’s price, when booked through Viator, was higher than booking directly with Belmond, and the pickup times and locations weren’t clearly communicated. Still, he confirmed that the Belmond service itself is “perfect” and worth the cost if booked directly.

These reviews highlight the importance of understanding the logistics and potential costs involved—an upfront investment of time and money for a truly memorable journey.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

The Belmond Hiram Bingham is ideal for travelers who want to indulge in a luxurious, all-inclusive experience with a focus on comfort, style, and expert-guided exploration. It’s perfect for those celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to add a touch of elegance to their Machu Picchu visit. If you value gourmet meals, stunning scenery from a vintage train, and personalized guides, this trip will meet—and likely exceed—your expectations.

However, it’s important to remember that this is a premium experience at a premium price. It’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind splurging for a seamless, high-quality adventure and are comfortable with the day-long schedule. Budget travelers or those seeking a more independent visit might prefer to arrange transportation and tours separately, perhaps saving some money but losing the luxury touch.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour involves a full day of activity with some walking around Machu Picchu, but the physical demands are moderate. Travelers should have a reasonable level of mobility and wear comfortable shoes.

What is included in the price?
The ticket price covers the train journey, guided tour of Machu Picchu, gourmet meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), onboard entertainment, VIP lounge access, and transportation from Cusco. Alcoholic beverages, additional souvenirs, and special tickets like Huaynapicchu are extra.

How far in advance should I book?
Given its popularity, especially with only three departures per week, booking approximately 16 days in advance is recommended to secure your spot.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, the physical and mental stamina required suggests that travelers should be comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and travel. Children’s age restrictions aren’t specified but generally, older children and teens adapt well.

What should I bring?
Bring a small day pack, comfortable shoes, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), raincoat or poncho, camera, and some extra money for souvenirs or snacks not included in the meal.

Is this experience worth the cost?
Most reviews suggest it offers excellent value for those seeking luxury, comfort, and expert-guided tours. The quality of the service, scenic journey, and exclusivity make it a memorable splurge.

Can I customize or extend the experience?
The standard tour is fixed in its schedule, but additional tickets or arrangements for climbing Machu Picchu’s peaks would need separate planning.

In the end, the Belmond Hiram Bingham offers a distinctive way to experience one of the world’s most iconic sites. If you’re craving a blend of comfort, culture, and breathtaking scenery, this journey delivers—making your trip to Machu Picchu truly special.