PeruRail: Where Scenic Beauty Meets Incan History
To buy PeruRail tickets, you have a few options:
- Online: The easiest way to purchase PeruRail tickets is through their official website. You can select your route, travel dates, and seat preferences, and then pay using a credit or debit card. After booking, you’ll receive an e-ticket that you can either print or show on your mobile device.
- PeruRail Office: If you prefer to buy tickets in person, you can visit one of PeruRail’s offices. They have locations in major cities like Cusco and Ollantaytambo. This can be a good option if you need assistance or have specific questions about your journey.
- Authorized Travel Agents: Several travel agencies in Peru are authorized to sell PeruRail tickets. These agencies can offer personalized service and might also provide additional travel advice or packages.
- Train Stations: You can also buy tickets at the train stations where PeruRail operates, such as the stations in Cusco, Ollantaytambo, or Puno. However, it’s advisable to purchase tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, as trains can sell out quickly.
Experience the Majestic Route to Machu Picchu
I woke up at 2:30 in the morning to prepare all my gear for the journey to Aguas Calientes. After making sure I had everything, I grabbed a taxi and arrived at the Wanchaq Bus Station at 5:00 am. I was taking the Bimodal service, which included both a bus and train ride to Aguas Calientes. The bus was packed, and we set off for Ollantaytambo, a ride that took about an hour and a half.
PeruRail has a strict policy regarding luggage—large or bulky items are not accepted on their trains. Since my home base is Cusco, I had packed light for the trip. I brought just a few changes of clothes, two cameras to capture the stunning landscapes, and my laptop. This made things a bit easier when navigating the journey. With my compact luggage in tow, I managed to board the PeruRail Vistadome Observatory train without any issues.
Your Path to History Begins on the Rail
When we reached Ollantaytambo, the adventure took a bit of a turn due to a language barrier. When I retrieved my luggage from the bus, the lady in charge motioned for me to stop, so I assumed they would handle my luggage and load it onto the train for me. But just before boarding the train, I realized something was wrong. When I asked her where my bags were, she told me they were still in the bus compartment! I immediately ran back, grabbed my luggage, and made it onto the train just in time. Phew, that was close! It would have been a disaster to leave my things behind.
Once settled, I boarded the PeruRail Vistadome Observatory train, which would take me the rest of the way to Aguas Calientes. That journey was also around an hour and a half, and the views were stunning.
All Aboard for a Legendary Adventure to Machu Picchu
While waiting for the train in Ollantaytambo, the atmosphere was lively and engaging thanks to some talented performers. To keep passengers entertained and prevent boredom, a group of performers took to the area, showcasing their skills in traditional Peruvian dance and music.
Dressed in vibrant, traditional clothing, they danced gracefully, their movements reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Peru. Their colorful costumes, adorned with intricate patterns, caught the eye of every onlooker. Accompanying the dances were musicians playing traditional instruments, filling the air with lively, rhythmic melodies.
Luxury and Adventure on the Road to Machu Picchu
As the train departed from Ollantaytambo, we began riding along the beautiful Urubamba River, its waters rushing by, reflecting the early morning light. I had been assigned a seat number, but as I glanced out the window, I realized that the views from the other side were even more breathtaking.
I noticed that the seat on the opposite side was unoccupied, so I politely asked for permission to transfer. Thankfully, they allowed me to switch seats, and I settled in with a perfect view of the river and the surrounding lush landscape. The scenery was absolutely stunning—the towering mountains, the winding river below, and the occasional village that seemed to blend seamlessly with the nature around it.
It felt like a scene straight out of a postcard, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of peace as we traveled deeper into the heart of the Sacred Valley.
Where Scenic Beauty Meets Incan History
Shortly after we settled in, the staff began serving snacks. We were treated to quinoa chips, a quinoa cereal bar, some chocolates, and coca candies, all of which reflected the local flavors of Peru. As we enjoyed the snacks, an announcement came over the speakers, letting us know that a mini show was about to start.
I gathered my belongings and followed the other passengers down the narrow aisle to the designated coach. Once we arrived, we found a lively atmosphere waiting for us. The space was rearranged to accommodate a small performance area.
Two performers dressed in vibrant traditional costumes began dancing a Peruvian folk dance, with live music playing in the background. The performers’ energy was contagious, and soon many of us were clapping along to the rhythm. The train staff also served alcoholic drinks, beers, and sodas to add to the festive mood.
It wasn’t long before some of the passengers joined in, dancing with the performers, laughing, and enjoying the unique cultural experience. The entire carriage felt alive with celebration, and it was a perfect way to enjoy the scenic ride to Aguas Calientes.
Ride the Rails to the Lost City of the Incas
The PeruRail Vistadome Observatory train is designed to make the journey to Machu Picchu as scenic as possible. Inside, the carriage feels spacious and modern, with large, panoramic windows that extend up to the ceiling, offering uninterrupted views of the majestic Andes mountains and the winding Urubamba River below. The interior is bright, thanks to natural light streaming in from every angle, creating an open, airy atmosphere that perfectly complements the breathtaking landscapes outside. The seating is comfortable and arranged to allow passengers plenty of room to relax and enjoy the ride.
The glass ceiling provides an incredible view of the towering peaks and lush greenery overhead, making every part of the journey feel like you’re traveling through a living postcard. The windows are designed to make photography easy, and many passengers took full advantage, capturing shots of the ever-changing landscape as we passed by.