Comparison between Peru Rail and Inca Rail:

If you are planning to visit Machu Picchu, it is very likely that one of the most important aspects of your trip is how to get to this wonderful site. For this, the most popular transportation options are the trains operated by Peru Rail and Inca Rail, two companies that offer trips from the city of Cusco to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Both companies offer comfortable and convenient services, but which one is the best option in terms of price and comfort? Below, we analyze both options to help you make an informed decision.

Peru Rail and Inca Rail

Peru Rail and Inca Rail are the two main railway companies operating on the route to Machu Picchu. Both companies offer different types of trains with different levels of comfort, services and prices, which allows them to adapt to different budgets and expectations. Although both companies provide high quality service, there are some notable differences that may influence your choice depending on what you are looking for.

2. Rutas y frecuencias

Perú Rail

Perú Rail ofrece varias rutas hacia Aguas Calientes, y las más populares son las que parten desde la estación de Poroy (cerca de Cusco) y desde Ollantaytambo. Además, la compañía tiene un servicio regular y frecuente, lo que te da la flexibilidad de elegir entre varios horarios. Si viajas desde Ollantaytambo, el trayecto es más corto, aproximadamente 1.5 horas, mientras que desde Poroy, el viaje dura unas 3.5 horas.

La empresa también ofrece trenes en diferentes categorías, desde las más económicas hasta las más lujosas, como el famoso Belmond Hiram Bingham.

Inca Rail

Inca Rail también ofrece salidas desde Ollantaytambo y Cusco, con un servicio principalmente enfocado en la comodidad y la experiencia de viaje. Los trenes de Inca Rail ofrecen distintos tipos de clases, con opciones que van desde un servicio más asequible hasta una experiencia premium. Los viajes desde Ollantaytambo suelen durar unas 2 horas, mientras que desde Cusco el trayecto puede durar entre 3.5 y 4 horas, dependiendo del servicio elegido.

3. Types of services and amenities

Both companies offer different types of trains with features and services that can be decisive when choosing. Below, we will compare the categories and amenities of each one.

Peru Rail

1. Expreso Machu Picchu (Economic): This is the most affordable option of Peru Rail, ideal for those looking for a basic service. The train is comfortable, with padded seats and panoramic windows, but does not have additional services such as food or drinks.

2. Vistadome (Intermediate): The Vistadome service is one of the most popular. With large panoramic windows, passengers can enjoy spectacular views of the Andean landscape during the trip. In addition, a small catering service is offered, such as drinks and snacks, as well as onboard entertainment with traditional dances and music.

Belmond Hiram Bingham (Luxury): If you are looking for a luxury experience, the Belmond Hiram Bingham is Peru Rail’s most exclusive option. This luxury train offers five-star service with gourmet menus, cocktails, entertainment and, of course, an extremely comfortable atmosphere. Undoubtedly, it is a unique experience that goes beyond simple transportation.

Inca Rail

1. Executive Class (Económico): La clase Executive de Inca Rail ofrece una experiencia cómoda y agradable. Con asientos cómodos y ventanas panorámicas, es una opción ideal para quienes buscan un buen nivel de confort a un precio moderado. También se incluye un servicio de snacks y bebidas a bordo.

2. First Class (Intermedio): La clase First Class de Inca Rail es muy similar a la clase Vistadome de Perú Rail, con asientos más amplios, ventanas panorámicas y un servicio de catering que incluye bebidas, aperitivos y entretenimiento a bordo. La diferencia principal radica en la atmósfera más íntima y privada del servicio.

3. The 360° Train (Lujo): Este es el tren de lujo de Inca Rail, similar al Hiram Bingham de Perú Rail, pero con un toque distintivo. El tren tiene un diseño único, con ventanas panorámicas en el techo que ofrecen vistas impresionantes. Los servicios incluyen una comida gourmet, música en vivo, y un ambiente elegante y relajante. Ideal para quienes buscan una experiencia más sofisticada y exclusiva.

4. Prices

Ticket prices vary considerably depending on the category you choose, how far in advance you book and the time of year. However, in general terms:

Peru Rail

Expreso Machu Picchu: From about $60 USD each way.
Vistadome: From about $80 USD to $120 USD.
Belmond Hiram Bingham: From $400 USD per person.

Inca Rail

Executive Class: From approximately $60 USD each way.
First Class: From about $90 USD to $150 USD.
The 360° Train: From $250 USD per person.
Onboard experience and views
Both Peru Rail and Inca Rail stand out for offering spectacular panoramic views of the Andean landscapes. Both trains have large windows, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful scenery during the trip. However, the main difference lies in the atmosphere on board. Peru Rail, especially with its Vistadome and Belmond Hiram Bingham service, offers a more lively experience with entertainment and dances, while Inca Rail, in its First Class and 360° Train version, focuses more on exclusivity and luxury.

6. Conclusion: Which is the best option?

The choice between Peru Rail and Inca Rail depends mainly on your personal priorities in terms of price and comfort. If your goal is to save money and have a simple but comfortable trip, both Inca Rail’s Executive Class and Peru Rail’s Expreso Machu Picchu are suitable options, as they offer a good balance between price and comfort.

If you prefer a more premium experience, Peru Rail’s Vistadome and Inca Rail’s First Class are very similar, both with large windows and basic catering, but Peru Rail may have a slight advantage in terms of entertainment during the journey.