The Vistadome Train To Machu Picchu (Your Expert Guide)
Are you looking to take the Vistadome Train to Machu Picchu?
The most famous ancient site in all of South America, Machu Picchu is located deep within the remote cloudforests of Peru – however various train options make the visit from Cusco to the sacred site much easier. The Vistadome Train is one of the options available, and has its own specific advantages for travelers who want to reach Machu Picchu in style without spending too much on budget or travel times.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Vistadome Train Peru. This includes what you can expect from this service and its boarding locations, the unique advantages, as well as how to book your train with ease. Later we’ll also answer your most frequently asked questions in our FAQ section.
Everything You Need To Know About The Vistadome Train
What Is The Vistadome Train?
The Vistadome Train is the entry-level train service option for travelers looking to head from Cusco to Machu Picchu – offering an inexpensive yet comfortable way of reaching the ancient Inca archaeological site. Operated exclusively by PeruRail, there are dozens of departures to and from Machu Picchu daily, along with several stations both in Cusco city and within the Sacred Valley that serve the Vistadome Train.
The Advantages Of The Vistadome Train:
- The More Inexpensive Train Option
- Complimentary Food And Beverages Included
- Multiple Boarding Stations Within Cusco And The Sacred Valley
The Disadvantages Of The Vistadome Train:
- It’s The Most Popular Train So Can Sell-Out Quickly
- Lacks Luxury Amenities Like Other Trains Such As The Hiram Bingham
How Does The Vistadome Compare To Other Trains And Transport Options?
The Vistadome Train is essentially the most simple and straightforward way of getting to Machu Picchu from Cusco. Here you will have a reserved seat, complimentary snacks and drinks included, as well as panoramic views for a 360° viewing experience. For this reason it’s often preferred by travelers who want to arrive in a comfortable way without breaking the bank on the other more expensive train options.
There are various other Machu Picchu train options which cost more but include more comfort and unique advantages. For example the Vistadome Observatory includes a bar and outdoor balcony, while IncaRail’s First Class Train has more luxurious decor and a gourmet three-course meal included. Then there’s the ultra luxury Hiram Bingham Train – which goes even further and includes an open bar, a 4-course fine dining meal as well as the famous 1920’s Pullman style carriage.
How To Book Your Vistadome Train For The Most Comfortable Trip
Choosing The Right Train Station Locations
The Vistadome Train has several pick-up and drop-off locations, making a trip much more flexible for those who want to visit several regions of Cusco during their trip.
Within Cusco city itself, there are three different train station options for boarding the Vistadome Train. The San Pedro Station is usually the most popular given it’s located right within the Historic Center – while Wánchaq Station is also a short walk for those based here. It’s important to know that Wánchaq only offers bimodal transport rather than direct trains, and is the only option for those traveling to Machu Picchu between January and April. There is also Poroy Station located in the outskirts of Cusco, which offers direct trains just like San Pedro.
There are also a couple of stations that serve the Vistadome Train within the Sacred Valley region, which are en-route to Aguas Calientes. Firstly we have Ollantaytambo Station, the biggest of which all trains pass through from Cusco. If you’re heading from Wánchaq, your bus will drop you here to board the train to Machu Picchu. Alternatively there is the Urubamba Station – however there is only one departure per day, and the location inside the luxury Tambo del Inka Hotel makes it ideal for those who are staying there.
Book Well In Advance With CuscoTransport To Guarantee Your Preferred Dates
The Vistadome Train is one of the most popular train options for travelers heading from Cusco to Machu Picchu, and as a result can often sell-out. This is most likely in the high season months between June and September, so if traveling during these times then be sure to book at least 5 months in advance for your desired dates. For any other month of the year, we still recommend booking 3+ months in advance to avoid any potential issues.
Here at CuscoTransport, we specialise in all train travel and luxury services for our guests who come to explore the incredible Cusco region. Get in touch with our expert team now, who can completely customize your departure and return trips to Machu Picchu, while also providing expert tour guides who will teach you everything you need to know as you explore the ancient Inca citadel.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Vistadome Train
In this section we’ll now explore the most frequent questions we get about the Vistadome Train Peru, as well as anything else you need to know.
Is The Vistadome Train To Machu Picchu Worth It?
Yes, the Vistadome Train is an excellent way of reaching Machu Picchu while remaining affordable for travelers. While other trains like the Hiram Bingham are more exclusive and are much higher priced, the Vistadome Train is ideal for all budgets and remains one of the best ways of getting from Cusco to Machu Picchu. Taking just 3/4 hours, your ticket will also include a complimentary snack and drink as you enjoy the landscapes from your reserved seat.
What Does The PeruRail Vistadome Include?
The Vistadome Train includes a complimentary snack along with warm or cool beverages, as well as a cultural performance during the train ride. PeruRail’s Vistadome Train is also renowned for its 360° views with multiple large panel windows, meaning guests can enjoy the changing scenery from the tall Andean peaks of Cusco to the green jungle and crashing rivers found within the lower elevations of the Sacred Valley region.
What Are The Differences Between The Vistadome And Vistadome Observatory Trains On PeruRail?
While both the Vistadome and Vistadome Observatory are PeruRail’s entry-level train options that head to Machu Picchu, the Vistadome Observatory has some noticeable upgrades. While seating and food remain similar, the observatory car has an open-air balcony and also features traditional Andean dance performances. There is also an on-board bar, which the Vistadome does not include in the standard ticket.
Overview Of The Vistadome Train To Machu Picchu
And that’s all for this guide on the Vistadome Train.
The entry-level and most popular option for travelers to reach Machu Picchu from Cusco, the Vistadome is an excellent method for reaching the ancient citadel in style. Including a complimentary snack and beverage, you’ll enjoy scenic views from the large panel windows and even cultural performances inside your carriage during the journey.
Are you ready to book your Machu Picchu vacation? Here at CuscoTransport, we have years of experience helping our guests enjoy the most comfortable and private trips across the Cusco region. Start booking your trip and trains now with us, where you will relax in style as we handle all of the logistics and fine details for you.