Peru Rail is a train company that operates several routes in Peru, including the popular Cusco to Machu Picchu route. The Cusco to Machu Picchu route has two types of trains: the Expedition and the Vistadome.
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Differences between the Vistadome and Expedition train to Machu Picchu
The differences between the two classes of trains are distinguished by the type of service, comfort, prices and panoramic views.
Train schedule Vistadome and Expedition to Machupicchu
San Pedro Train Station in Cusco
This train station is located in the historic center of Cusco and has 2 daily departures for the outbound journey to Machupicchu.
Urubamba Train Station
This train station operates 1 single frequency from the station to Machupicchu.
Ollantaytambo Train Station
This train station is located 1 hour and 45 minutes from the city of Cusco, this station has daily departures in a number of 7 frequencies per category per day in one way and return.
| TRAIN VISTADOME | Departure | Arrival |
| San Pedro Train Station Vistadome 31 | 6.40 a.m. | 10.52 a.m. |
| San Pedro Train Station Vistadome 203 | 7.30 a.m. | 12.11 p.m. |
| Urubamba Train Station Vistadome 601 | 6:50 a.m. | 9:25 a.m. |
| Ollantaytambo Train Station Vistadome 301 | 7:05 a.m. | 8:27 a.m. |
| Ollantaytambo Train Station Vistadome 601 | 8:00 a.m. | 9:24 a.m. |
| Ollantaytambo Train Station Vistadome 501 | 8:53 a.m. | 10:29 a.m. |
| Ollantaytambo Train Station Vistadome 31 | 9:15 a.m. | 10:52 a.m. |
| Ollantaytambo Train Station Vistadome 203 | 10:32 a.m. | 12:11 p.m. |
| Ollantaytambo Train Station Vistadome 303 | 1:27 p.m. | 2:50 p.m. |
| Ollantaytambo Train Station Vistadome 603 | 3:37 p.m. | 5:02 p.m. |
| TRAIN EXPEDITION | Departure | Arrival |
| San Pedro Train Station Expedition 33 | 6.40 a.m. | 9:54 a.m. |
| Ollantaytambo Train Station Expedition 71 | 5:05 a.m. | 6:35 a.m. |
| Ollantaytambo Train Station Expedition 81 | 6:10 a.m. | 7:40 a.m. |
| Ollantaytambo Train Station Expedition 83 | 7:45 a.m. | 9:15 a.m. |
| Ollantaytambo Train Station Expedition 33 | 8:29 a.m. | 9:54 a.m. |
| Ollantaytambo Train Station Expedition 91 | 11:52 a.m. | 1:34 p.m. |
| Ollantaytambo Train Station Expedition 73 | 12:55 p.m. | 2:25 p.m. |
| Ollantaytambo Train Station Expedition 75 | 7:04 p.m. | 8:45 p.m. |
| Ollantaytambo Train Station Expedition 51 | 9:00 p.m. | 10:45 p.m. |
How is the Vistadome and Expedition train service?
Vistadome
Panoramic view: the train has large trapezoidal windows that offer a panoramic view. It also has comfortable seats and large windows.
- Free snacks: Free snacks and beverages (hot or cold, non-alcoholic) are included. There is also a vending service on board.
- Live dance a show of “Saqra” (devil) dance.
- Fashion show – the return trip includes a fashion show with alpaca and vicuña garments.
Expedition
- Large windows with Inca designs throughout the interior of the carriage.
- All seats are arranged for 2 persons and comfortable tables.
- On-board service with drinks and snacks.
How are the seats on the Vistadome and Expedition trains?
Vistadome
- The seats are leather and comfortable with more room for arms and feet than the Expedition service, distributed in rows of 2 people. It has seats grouped 4 abreast and a table in the middle.
- The carriage is equipped with heating and air conditioning with a good audio system.
Expedition
- Comfortable leather seats with footwells, arranged in rows of 2 facing each other and a table in the front.
Which one to choose: Vistadome or Expedition?
- The main difference between Vistadome and Expedition services is the level of service and comfort offered by each train.
- Vistadome trains have better service than Expedition trains. It offers more comfort, welcome snacks, live dance performances and an alpaca fashion show.
- However, the Expedition train costs less (about $64 per person each way) than the Vistadome train ($86 for the same trip).
Additional information about Peru Rail
In addition to the Cusco to Machu Picchu route, PeruRail also operates other routes such as the Belmond Hiram Bingham train, which is a luxury train that includes a gastronomic experience and live entertainment. PeruRail also offers train services to other destinations in Peru, such as Puno and Arequipa.
It is recommended to book PeruRail tickets in advance, as they tend to sell out quickly, especially in high season (June-August). Tickets can be purchased through PeruRail’s website or at various travel agencies in Cusco.
