Few places on earth stir the imagination like Machu Picchu. Cradled among the emerald peaks of the Peruvian Andes, the lost city of the Incas rises from the clouds in a spectacle of terraced stone that has captivated travelers for more than a century. Add the golden light of the Sacred Valley, the cobbled charm of Cusco, and a train that treats the ride itself as an occasion, and you have one of the world’s most transporting luxury journeys.
Places to See
Your adventure begins in Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire and a UNESCO World Heritage city. Here, baroque Spanish churches rise atop Inca foundations, and the Plaza de Armas hums with life beneath the surrounding hills. Wander the artisan lanes of the San Blas quarter, marvel at the mortarless masonry of Qorikancha, and acclimatize gently to the mountain air.
From Cusco, the landscape unfolds into the fabled Sacred Valley of the Incas, a fertile ribbon carved by the Urubamba River. The valley’s crown jewel is Ollantaytambo, a living Inca town whose steep ceremonial terraces and original street grid remain remarkably intact. It is a place where daily life still follows rhythms set five centuries ago.
And then there is Machu Picchu itself, the Inca citadel that needs no introduction. Explore the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana ritual stone, and the agricultural terraces that seem to defy gravity, all framed by the dramatic silhouette of Huayna Picchu. Whether you first glimpse it wreathed in morning mist or bathed in afternoon sun, the encounter is unforgettable.
Getting There by Luxury Train
The most gracious way to reach the citadel is aboard the Belmond Hiram Bingham, a luxury day train named for the explorer who brought Machu Picchu to the world’s attention in 1911. Departing from Cusco, it glides through the Sacred Valley and past Ollantaytambo before arriving at the foot of the mountain.
This is rail travel as celebration. On board, guests savor a gourmet brunch on the outbound leg and elegant fine dining on the return, all served amid polished wood, gleaming brass, and the warm glow of the 1920s-inspired carriages. Pisco Sours flow at the bar car, live Peruvian music fills the air, and floor-to-ceiling windows turn every mile of Andean scenery into a moving painting. For travelers who wish to greet the citadel at first light, the journey can be combined with a stay at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, the only hotel beside the ruins, offering early access before the day’s crowds arrive. The Hiram Bingham operates year-round.
For specific departure schedules, guided-tour inclusions, and the latest on combining your rail journey with a lodge stay, our specialists are glad to help, simply contact us.
Best Time to Visit
Peru’s highlands enjoy two broad seasons. The dry season, from May through September, brings clear skies, crisp mornings, and the most reliable mountain views, making it the classic window for exploring Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. The shoulder months of April and October offer lush green landscapes with fewer visitors, while the wetter season from November to March is quieter still, though afternoon showers are common. Whenever you travel, allowing a day or two in Cusco to acclimatize to the altitude will make the whole experience more comfortable.
Plan Your Peruvian Rail Adventure
Machu Picchu deserves an arrival worthy of its legend. Let our luxury-rail specialists design a seamless journey through Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and the Inca citadel aboard the Belmond Hiram Bingham. Explore more Peru inspiration in our Peru travel journal, discover the globe’s finest rail experiences in our guide to the world’s most iconic luxury train journeys, or browse our full collection of luxury trains.
When you are ready to begin, visit our bookings page, email bookings@luxurytrainvacations.com, or call us toll-free at (866) 484-7882. The city in the clouds is waiting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What destinations are included in the Luxury Train Vacations' Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley experience?
Our luxury travel experience to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley includes visits to the historic city of Cusco, the scenic Sacred Valley (featuring Ollantaytambo), and the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. You will travel to Machu Picchu aboard the luxurious Belmond Hiram Bingham day train, departing from Cusco.
When is the best time to visit Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley?
The Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley luxury travel experience is available year-round. While you can visit at any time, the dry season, which runs from May to October, is particularly popular among travelers. For specific departure dates and to plan your ideal trip, please contact us for details.
How do travelers reach Machu Picchu as part of the Luxury Train Vacations experience?
Travelers journey to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu aboard the luxurious Belmond Hiram Bingham day train. This exclusive train departs from Cusco, offering an elegant and scenic route to the ancient site. It provides a comfortable and distinguished way to experience the stunning Peruvian landscape.
What kind of experience does the Belmond Hiram Bingham train offer?
The Belmond Hiram Bingham is a luxury day train that provides an elegant journey to Machu Picchu from Cusco. This premium travel experience ensures comfort and style as you traverse the stunning Andean landscapes. Contact us for further details about specific amenities or current departure schedules.
What is the significance of Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley itinerary?
Ollantaytambo is a key location within Peru's Sacred Valley, part of the overall itinerary. This ancient town offers a significant glimpse into Inca history and architecture. Contact us for comprehensive itinerary specifics, including what you'll experience at Ollantaytambo.
What type of train transports guests to Machu Picchu on this journey?
Your journey to Machu Picchu is made aboard the Belmond Hiram Bingham, a distinguished luxury day train. This service departs from Cusco, offering a comfortable and elegant travel experience. It ensures that the scenic route is an integral and memorable part of your Luxury Train Vacations adventure.
Is the Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley experience available all year?
Yes, the Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley experience is available for booking throughout the entire year. While the dry season, running from May to October, is particularly popular, you can plan your trip during any month. Please contact us for specifics.
From which city does the Belmond Hiram Bingham train depart for Machu Picchu?
The Belmond Hiram Bingham luxury day train, which transports guests to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, departs directly from Cusco, Peru. This historic city serves as the gateway for your luxurious journey to one of the world's most iconic ancient sites. For specific departure times and booking information, please contact us.
How can I inquire about specific dates and prices for the Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley experience?
To learn about specific departure dates, current prices, and availability for the Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley experience, please contact us.
Where do travelers begin their full journey to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley with Luxury Train Vacations?
The immersive journey to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley typically commences in Cusco, Peru. This historic city serves as the gateway, from which guests board the Belmond Hiram Bingham luxury day train. The itinerary then unfolds to include sites such as the Sacred Valley, featuring Ollantaytambo, culminating at the magnificent Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
What is the characteristic travel mode for reaching Machu Picchu within this luxury experience?
Travelers reach the revered Inca citadel of Machu Picchu aboard the Belmond Hiram Bingham, a luxurious day train. This exclusive service departs from Cusco, offering a refined and scenic journey through the stunning Peruvian landscape. It provides an exceptional travel experience designed for comfort and elegance during daylight hours.
What types of historical and cultural sites are explored on the Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley journey?
This luxury journey takes you through significant historical and cultural sites in Peru, including the ancient city of Cusco, the scenic Sacred Valley with its notable town of Ollantaytambo, and the breathtaking Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. These sites offer a deep dive into the rich Incan heritage.
Which city serves as the primary starting point and hub for the Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley luxury experience?
The historic city of Cusco serves as the primary starting point and central hub for this luxury experience. From Cusco, you'll embark on your journey to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu aboard the Belmond Hiram Bingham luxury day train.
Does the Belmond Hiram Bingham luxury train experience to Machu Picchu include an overnight stay on the train?
No, the Belmond Hiram Bingham is exclusively a luxury day train. It provides a round-trip journey from Cusco, allowing travelers to experience the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu during the day. Contact us for specific itinerary details and timings.
Does the Belmond Hiram Bingham luxury train visit all the destinations listed for the Luxury Train Vacations' Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley experience?
The Belmond Hiram Bingham luxury day train specifically transports guests from Cusco to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. While the Luxury Train Vacations' experience encompasses Peru's Cusco, the Sacred Valley (Ollantaytambo), and Machu Picchu, the train itself is dedicated to the journey between Cusco and Machu Picchu.
In which country are Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley located?
The magnificent Inca citadel of Machu Picchu and the historic Sacred Valley, including Cusco and Ollantaytambo, are all located in Peru. This South American nation offers a deep dive into ancient Inca civilization and stunning Andean scenery.
What is the significance of Machu Picchu within this luxury journey?
Machu Picchu is the awe-inspiring centerpiece of this luxury journey, renowned as an ancient Inca citadel. Guests travel to this historical marvel via the Belmond Hiram Bingham luxury day train, experiencing its grandeur as a preserved testament to Inca ingenuity and culture.
