Train Cusco–Ollantaytambo:
How to get there, timetables, and the best option for you

Better organise your trip through the Sacred Valley with a route designed for those wanting to visit Ollantaytambo, spend a night there, or continue onwards to Machu Picchu.

Departures
from Cusco

Ideal for day trips or overnight stays in Ollantaytambo

Perfect for seamlessly connecting your route to Machu Picchu

Timetables for the new Cusco–Ollantaytambo route

Check the available timetables and choose the option that best suits your itinerary, whether it is for a day trip, an overnight stay in Ollantaytambo, or connecting onward to Machu Picchu.

Route: Cusco - Ollantaytambo

Train	Service	Departure from Cusco	Intermediate Station	Arrival in Ollantaytambo
33*	Expedition	Wanchaq 05:40	Poroy 06:40	8:22
203	Expedition	San Pedro 07:30	Poroy 08:25	10:22

Route: Ollantaytambo - Cusco

Train	Service	Departure from Ollantaytambo	Arrival at Poroy	Arrival at San Pedro
604	Expedition	19:08	20:52	21:52

* For services departing from Wanchaq, the first leg is completed by bus to the indicated intermediate station. From there, the journey continues by train to Ollantaytambo.

Which timetable suits your trip best?

The best way to get to Ollantaytambo depends on how you are organising your journey. These are the most common scenarios:

If you want to visit Ollantaytambo in one day

You should take train 33 (05:40) or 203 (07:30) outbound, and 604 (19:08) for your return. Setting off early is key to making the most of the day in Ollantaytambo without feeling rushed.

If you want to sleep in Ollantaytambo

Take any of the morning departures (05:40 or 07:30). You will arrive with plenty of time to settle in calmly, explore the historic centre, and enjoy the Sacred Valley at your own pace.

If you are continuing to Machu Picchu afterwards

Choosing this route helps you decentralise your trip from Cusco, better manage your time, and make your connection to the Inca citadel far more streamlined.

Travel aboard the Expedition service

All journeys on this route operate using the PeruRail Expedition service, specifically designed so you can enjoy the trip in total comfort and begin experiencing the magic of the destination from the very first mile:

Wide panoramic windows

To take in the Andean landscapes of the Sacred Valley.

Interiors inspired by Inca culture

Creating a warm, welcoming, and authentic atmosphere.

An onboard interpretive audio tour

Perfect for learning about the history and fascinating facts of the route.

Ambient background music

Gently accompanies your entire journey.

Why include Ollantaytambo in your itinerary?

Ollantaytambo is not just a transit point. Its archaeological site, historic centre, and setting within the Sacred Valley make it a highly worthwhile stop, both for a day trip and as part of a broader tour of the region.

Furthermore, for many travellers, its true value lies in how it helps structure the trip better, allowing for a calmer connection between the different stages of the journey.

Should I go to Ollantaytambo before Machu Picchu?

For many itineraries, yes, it can be a very smart decision. For those looking for a more staggered trip, with better time distribution and a less rushed experience, including Ollantaytambo before continuing to Machu Picchu makes perfect sense.

It is not a universal rule, but it is certainly an option worth considering if you want to better organise your route and travel at a more relaxed pace.

Why you should book your train to Ollantaytambo in advance

Organising the leg between Cusco and Ollantaytambo independently gives you total control over your itinerary, but it requires logistical planning. Securing your transport in advance offers key advantages:

By integrating the new train route directly from Cusco to the Sacred Valley, you eliminate the need for informal road transport or unnecessary stops, gaining valuable hours to explore the destination calmly.

Planning ahead allows you to confidently decide whether a day trip suits you best or if you should break the traditional mould by sleeping in the town, preventing you from backtracking and letting your trip flow naturally.

Ollantaytambo is the gateway to the Inca citadel. By securing your train connection in advance, you perfectly align your Sacred Valley timings with your Machu Picchu entry slots, avoiding last-minute rushing.

Morning trains (like the 05:40 and 07:30 departures) are the most highly sought after because they allow you to arrive at dawn and maximise your day. Booking early guarantees your seat in the time slots that genuinely work for your route.

FAQ

How do I get from Cusco to Ollantaytambo?

If you are planning this journey, the best approach is to check the available route, its timetables, and the service conditions to choose the option that best fits your itinerary. The ideal alternative will depend on whether you are doing a day trip, staying overnight, or continuing to Machu Picchu.

Which stations does the Cusco–Ollantaytambo route depart from?

The route offers departures from Wanchaq and San Pedro, depending on the chosen service. For services departing from Wanchaq, the first leg is a bus transfer to the indicated intermediate station. From there, the journey continues by train to Ollantaytambo.

Which service operates this route?

The route is operated by the PeruRail Expedition service, an option designed for those who want to organise their trip through the Sacred Valley practically and comfortably, enjoying panoramic windows and an atmosphere inspired by Inca culture.

How long does the train journey from Cusco to Ollantaytambo take?

The exact duration depends on the service and the combination of legs for each departure. We highly recommend checking the latest information before booking to accurately plan the rest of your trip.

Can I visit Ollantaytambo and return to Cusco on the same day?

Yes, for many travellers this is a completely viable option. The morning services allow you to arrive with enough time to explore the destination, and the return departure from Ollantaytambo helps you wrap up the day by heading back to Cusco.

Is it worth staying overnight in Ollantaytambo?

For many travellers, yes. It can be a practical way to break up the itinerary, enjoy the destination calmly, and more comfortably organise the next stage of the journey.

Is it worth including Ollantaytambo if I am going to Machu Picchu afterwards?

Yes. In many cases, Ollantaytambo fits perfectly into the trip and can help make the route towards Machu Picchu feel much more structured. Additionally, it holds its own value as a destination and deserves more than just a quick stop.

Where can I see the timetables for the Cusco–Ollantaytambo train?

You can check the timetables for the new route directly on this page and review availability before booking. If you are organising your trip, it is advisable to confirm departures, conditions, and seat availability well in advance.