(updated February 2026)
Hailed as one of the most luxurious train rides in the world, the Hiram Bingham provides an all-inclusive journey to Machu Picchu. However, travelers often wonder if the Hiram Bingham train is worth the price? As a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu is a spectacular bucket list destination. Yet, planning your journey to these impressive Inca ruins can be daunting. For travelers looking for an easier way to visit Machu Picchu, the Belmond Hiram Bingham train is a fabulous option. But does the convenience and opulence of the Hiram Bingham luxury train justify its cost?
At over $1100 per round trip ticket, many wonder if the Hiram Bingham train to Machu Picchu is worth it. Unlike other trains, the Hiram Bingham handles your tickets, transportation and tour guide. If you enjoy five-star service, live entertainment, and fine dining this train ride might be for you.
Our family recently visited Peru and took the Hiram Bingham from Cusco to Machu Picchu. This blog shares everything you need to know about the luxury train experience. Keep reading to find out if the Hiram Bingham train is worth it for you.
DISCLOSURE: PLEASE NOTE THAT SOME LINKS BELOW CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS. I EARN A MINIMAL COMMISSION THAT SUPPORTS MY SMALL BUSINESS AT NO ADDITIONAL COST TO YOU.
About the Belmond Hiram Bingham Train
The Belmond luxury train is aptly named after the American archaeologist, Hiram Bingham. Bingham famously led the expedition that unearthed Machu Picchu in 1911.
The Belmond Hiram Bingham was named one of the best trains in the world by Condé Nast Traveler in 2022. This blue and gold 1920’s Pullman-inspired train launched in 2003. It was formerly called “the Machu Picchu Orient Express”. Today, it is managed by Belmond, which is recognized as one of the most exclusive hotel brands.
Seeking Stamps Tip: If you are looking for another luxury train in Peru, check out the Belmond Andean Explorer train to Lake Titicaca.
Explore Hidden Challenges of Machu Picchu Before You Visit!
Advantages of the Hiram Bingham Luxury Train
In addition to the exceptional service and experience of the Hiram Bingham train, it’s important to explain the major advantage of booking this route. It takes out the guesswork and planning of your ENTIRE visit to Machu Picchu from start to finish.
Read This Blog Post for a 4 Day Itinerary in Cusco.
The Main Reasons to Take the Hiram Bingham Over Other Trains Are:
- The Hiram Bingham journey includes top notch food and alcohol in the ticket price.
- Your entrance to Machu Picchu and tour guide are included on the Hiram Bingham.
- Enjoy 5-star service aboard the Hiram Bingham Machu Picchu train.
- Hiram Bingham is the most comfortable and luxurious train to Machu Picchu.
- The convenience of your entire Machu Picchu visit handled in one all-inclusive package.
What Does the Hiram Bingham Train Ride Include?
Your ticket on the Hiram Bingham is all-inclusive. A round trip journey includes:
- a welcome drink in the Poroy Train Station
- live entertainment before you board the train
- round trip train transportation between Poroy Station in Cusco to Aguas Calientes
- brunch, cocktails, and live music during your train ride to Machu Picchu
- round trip bus between Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes without long lines
- entrance tickets to Machu Picchu
- a guide and Machu Picchu tours (with small group size)
- tea at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge Hotel after Machu Picchu
- cocktails in the Hiram Bingham exclusive lounge while waiting to board your outbound trip
- gourmet dinner, cocktails, and entertainment on your return journey to Poroy Station
- souvenirs- reusable water bottle, backpack, and scarf to take home with you
Seeking Stamps Tip: Remember, if you don’t ride the Hiram Bingham, you have to buy roundtrip train tickets, Machu Picchu entrance tickets, book your Machu Picchu guide, and secure the round trip bus ride to the citadel.
Itinerary on the Hiram Bingham Machu Picchu Journey
The journey to Machu Picchu deserves to be a memorable and luxurious adventure. From the moment you board the Hiram Bingham, the staff caters to your every need. Keep reading to learn about the itinerary on the Hiram Bingham.
Want to Know How to Manage Altitude Sickness in Cusco? Read This Blog for More!
Check In at Poroy Station
First, arrange private transportation from your Cusco hotel to the Poroy Train Station. Poroy Station opens for passengers at 8:30 am. Traffic in the city center can be cumbersome, so allow plenty of time to reach the terminal. Once you arrive, relax in the comfortable lounge until it’s time to board.
Seeking Stamps Tip: The interior of the lounge has heat lamps, but it was very chilly inside when we visited. Bring a warm jacket and dress in layers as the temperature rises throughout the day at the ruins.
Make Sure to Visit Sacsayhuaman Ruins in Cusco.
Boarding The Luxury Train to Machu Picchu
After waiting for passengers to arrive, it’s time to gather for boarding at 9:00 am. Guests are treated to a lively performance that sets the tone for the adventure ahead.
The train to Machu Picchu consists of several carriages. There are two dining cars, each with up to 42 passengers. In addition, there is a kitchen car for staff, a bar car, and observation car with an open air space in the back of the train.
Relax in the Comfortable Interior of the Hiram Bingham Train
Once aboard, you can’t help but notice the classic interior. The train is wrapped in rich wood and brass, reminiscent of times past. Details such as fresh flowers, gleaming dinnerware, and crisp cream-colored linens adorn the tables.
Passengers get escorted to their assigned quad or double seats in the dining cars. Seats have ample padding to keep you comfortable for the long journey. As someone with tall family members, we appreciated the spacious seating arrangements. Comfortable seating is one of the Hiram Bingham amenities that enhance your train experience!
Unlimited Drinks Along your Train Route
As the voyage is underway, make your way to the bar carriage. There you can find comfortable lounge seating and a prominent main bar. Choose from a wide assortment of wine, Peruvian beer and top shelf liquor. Remember, other than a few selections of wine, unlimited drinks are included. If you haven’t tried a Pisco Sour in Peru, now’s the time!
Entertainment Aboard the Luxury Train to Machu Picchu
Lively Peruvian music enhances the jovial vibe, flowing drinks and gorgeous scenery. The band plays tasteful local music as well as favorites you will recognize. We appreciated the well balanced music volume that allows you to have a conversation while listening.
Enjoy Gorgeous Scenery in the Observation Car
One of the highlights of the train ride to Machu Picchu is watching the Andean landscapes from the open-air observation car. Floor to ceiling windows give an amazing panorama of the Sacred Valley of Peru. Step out to the small balcony and feel the breeze as you soak up views of the mountains and rushing Urubamba river. The scenery along the journey is absolutely breathtaking.
Next, the train makes a quick stop from 10:45-10:53 am to get additional passengers in Ollantaytambo. Here I especially loved watching smiling children wave as the train went by.
For More Gorgeous Scenery of the Sacred Valley Read This Post About Visiting Moray, Peru!
Meals Along the Hiram Bingham Train Route
Along your route, you are served two meals. In the mid-morning you receive a delicious three course brunch. On the return trip, enjoy a four-course dinner with wine pairings. Every meal is beautifully plated and delicious. The Hiram Bingham Peru train is worth the cost for the amazing food and wine!
Seeking Stamps Tip: There are vegetarian options and accommodations for dietary restrictions, if needed.
Arrival in Aguas Calientes
You arrive at the Machu Picchu Train Station in Aguas Calientes at 12:24 pm. Next, board the private bus to the top of the ruins. Once loaded on the bus, you drive up the steep and winding hill to the citadel. The bus ride takes about 25 minutes from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu. At 13:10 begin your tour of the fabulous ruins.
Seeking Stamps Tip: Belmond passengers are promptly loaded on the private bus. I couldn’t help but notice the long bus queue for passengers on other trains.
Travel Time on the Hiram Bingham Train from Cusco to Machu Picchu
The train ride from Poroy Station to Machu Picchu Station is 3 hours 19 minutes. Then the bus to the entrance of Machu Picchu takes 25 minutes. In total, it takes approximately 3 hours 50 minutes from Poroy Train Station in Cusco to the entrance of Machu Picchu on the Hiram Bingham train.
Explore Machu Picchu
Prepare to be awestruck as you see Machu Picchu for the first time. Despite seeing images of the Inca Empire countless times, the experience in person took my breath away. Tour Machu Picchu with your guide until 4:00 pm. Then you can either stay within the citadel on your own, or proceed to the tea at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge.
Learn About The Diverse Wildlife At Machu Picchu In This Blog!
Tea at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge Hotel
Once your tour of Machu Picchu is complete, your guide leads you to the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge for an afternoon tea experience. The Belmond (formerly Orient Express Hotels, LTD) is synonymous with luxury. It is a welcome reprieve after an arduous day at the ruins.
We were parched, hungry and tired when we entered the Belmond lobby. Tea, fruit, finger sandwiches and pastries tasted amazing after a day in Machu Picchu. Rest and enjoy the tea until 4:45 pm when it’s time to take the return bus to the train terminal.
Seeking Stamps Tip: The Belmond Sanctuary Lodge is the only hotel within Machu Picchu. This is the best place to stay if you want to be close to Machu Picchu and enter first thing in the morning.
Return Bus from Machu Picchu Ruins to Aguas Calientes
Another noticeable advantage of riding the Hiram Bingham, is not having to wait in line for the bus back down to Aguas Calientes. The last thing you want to do after an exhausting day is wait in line!
As soon as we departed the Belmond, we loaded onto the bus. In town, spend a few minutes shopping for souvenirs in Aguas Calientes. Then, you are escorted to the private waiting area with refreshing cool towels and champagne.
Train Ride from Machu Picchu Station to Poroy Station
On the return trip, you depart from Machu Picchu Station at 5:50 pm. We took full advantage of the unlimited cocktails on our way (as you can see from the photos). Perhaps the Hiram Bingham train is worth the price, simply for the cocktails! The energy on the return voyage was lively with music, dancing, conga lines and laughter. Then an elegant dinner is served at 7:00 pm. Finally, you arrive back in Cusco at 9:16 pm.
Hiram Bingham Train Price
Hiram Bingham Train Cost
While the Hiram Bingham is convenient and luxurious, it comes at a hefty price tag. The price of Hiram Bingham tickets depends on route, season, and whether you book one way or round trip. To save money, ride the Hiram Bingham one way and take a less expensive train on the other half of the trip.
For our family, the price of Hiram Bingham train tickets was almost as much as our roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles! In fact, the Hiram Bingham ticket price is almost four times the price of tickets on the Vistadome train.
Price of a round trip adult ticket on the Hiram Bingham costs:
- $1,120.00 for adults (during peak season)
- $560 for Children ages 2-11 years old
- Under age 2 in laps, FREE
- Groups of 12 or more may receive discounted tickets through this Peru Rail group booking form
Seeking Stamps Tip: Less expensive train tickets to Machu Picchu are available on Peru Rail and Inca Rail if you need budget-friendly options. Check here for occasional special offers on Hiram Bingham tickets.
Tipping on the Hiram Bingham Train
Remember to factor in gratuity on your luxury train ride aboard the Hiram Bingham. When you make your reservation, it is specified that tip is not included in your ticket price. In Peru, 10% is the expected tip in high end restaurants, so base the Hiram Bingham gratuity on that figure.
How to Buy Peru Luxury Train Tickets
You can buy tickets for the Hiram Bingham train online with Peru Rail or the Belmond website. It is also possible to buy Hiram Bingham tickets on Viator or with your travel agent.
If you prefer, you can make your reservation by phone. The Hiram Bingham phone number is +51 1 625 4848. Have your credit card ready to purchase your train tickets.
To guarantee entrance tickets into Machu Picchu, you must purchase your Hiram Bingham tickets 30 days in advance. In peak season, it is recommended to purchase tickets a minimum of three months in advance.
Hiram Bingham Train Schedule and Station Options
Currently the Hiram Bingham train is running daily excluding Mondays and Fridays. Routes vary by season. Low travel season is January-April and high season is May-December. During the rainy season, Urubamba Train Station is used instead of Poroy Station. Check the Peru Rail website to confirm route options.
The Hiram Bingham Train is available from these stations:
- Poroy Station in Cusco
- Urubamba at the Belmond Rio Sagrado (rainy season)
- Ollantaytambo
- Machu Picchu Pueblo Station in Aguas Calientes
Seeking Stamps Tip: I recommend having some flexibility in your itinerary in case of last minute train changes. Our departure was canceled with only two weeks’ notice. Fortunately, we were staying in Cusco for several days and switched our itinerary.
Read This Post if You Are Continuing Your Journey to the Amazon in Puerto Maldonado, Peru.
Travel Tips for the Hiram Bingham Train
- Book your reservation early- tickets sell out (especially in peak season).
- Make sure to leave large backpacks behind when you are packing for Peru. Machu Picchu has restrictions on what size you can bring. Fortunately, they give out souvenir backpacks on the train ride.
- The train is MUCH bouncier than we expected. If you are prone to motion sickness, take medication for the trip.
- Consider taking the train and staying overnight at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge. It’s a LONG journey to visit Machu Picchu in one day. We left our hotel about 7:00 am and returned about 11:00 pm. If I do the trip again, I will stay overnight closer to Machu Picchu.
- For passengers with impaired mobility, the train might be difficult. The aisles are narrow and the train cars sway. Walking to and from the carriages is a bit of a balancing act (especially after a few pisco sours).
Is the Hiram Bingham Train Worth It: FAQ’s
1. What Is the Easiest Way to Get to Machu Picchu?
The easiest way to get to Machu Picchu is to book a round trip ticket on the Belmond Hiram Bingham train. The ticket price includes round trip transportation by train and bus, meals, drinks, entertainment, entrance into Machu Picchu and a tour guide.
2. Is There a Train to the Top of Machu Picchu?
There is not a train that takes you all the way to the entrance of Machu Picchu. The closest train station to the ruins is Machu Picchu Train station in Aguas Calientes. Once you reach that location, you must take a 25 minute bus ride up the hill to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
3. How Long Is the Hiram Bingham Train Ride?
In total, it takes 3 hours 50 minutes on the Hiram Bingham train and bus to reach Machu Picchu. The train ride is 3 hours 19 minutes from Poroy Station in Cusco to Machu Picchu Train Station in Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival, passengers must take a 25 minute bus ride to the Machu Picchu citadel.
4. Where Does the Train Drop You Off for Machu Picchu?
The train for Machu Picchu drops you off at the closest train station, called Machu Picchu Station. Machu Picchu Station in Aguas Calientes is approximately 5 miles from the entrance to the ruins.
5. Can You Go to Machu Picchu in One Day?
You can go to Machu Picchu for one day. The train from Cusco takes 3 hours 20 minutes each way. From Ollantaytambo it takes 1 hour 30 minutes to Aguas Calientes. Then ride the bus for 25 minutes to the ruins. Spending 3 hours is sufficient for travelers to explore the site with a guided tour.
6. Is the Hiram Bingham Train Worth the Money?
Although costly, the Belmond Hiram Bingham is worth the money. If you want to have an unforgettable bucket list trip to Machu Picchu, take one of the most luxurious train rides in the world. It provides 5-star service, fun, gourmet meals, and expertly handles your entire voyage to Machu Picchu.
7. What Is the Best Train to Machu Picchu?
For exceptional service, luxurious surroundings, fine dining, unlimited craft cocktails and quality entertainment the Hiram Bingham is the best train to Machu Picchu. Importantly, booking a ticket on the Hiram Bingham takes the guesswork out of planning your entire trip to the ruins.
8. Is the Orient Express Cusco the Same As the Hiram Bingham Train?
Peru’s luxury train ride to Machu Picchu is sometimes referred to as the “Orient Express Cusco” or the “Orient Express to Machu Picchu”. The correct name is the Belmond Hiram Bingham train.
9. Are Special Services Available on the Hiram Bingham Luxury Train?
Staff aboard the Hiram Bingham can assist you with special services. Private parties, birthday celebrations and proposals are just a few of them. Contact Belmond for further assistance.
10. Can You Buy Gift Cards for the Hiram Bingham Train?
Belmond gift cards are available for purchase and can be applied towards a trip on the Hiram Bingham train.
Keep Reading More- Learn About Eating Piranha in the Amazon Rainforest!
Is The Hiram Bingham Worth It: Finals Thoughts
Without a doubt visiting Machu Picchu is a once in a lifetime experience. While there are less expensive trains, the unique experience of taking the Hiram Bingham train to Machu Picchu is worth the price tag. From the impeccable service, luxurious train cars, fine dining, unlimited craft cocktails and quality entertainment, this is one of the most opulent train rides in the world. Importantly, booking a ticket on the Hiram Bingham takes the guesswork out of planning your trip. Your voyage to Machu Picchu is completely handled- all you have to do is hop aboard. This is why the Hiram Bingham train is not only worth the price, but is the best train to Machu Picchu. I hope this Hiram Bingham train review helps you plan your South American and Peru travel.
