Machu picchu to Cusco Train

The road journey from Machu picchu to Cusco is pleasant and relaxing. At redBus, we work with different bus companies that operate on this route with well-maintained trains and experienced drivers. Although the travel time varies from one train operator to another because of traffic and climatic conditions, our continuous availability of train services between Machu picchu and Cusco reduces uncertainty and offers convenience for travelers.

You can also time-to-time redBus offers while booking your train tickets online from Machu picchu to Cusco. Follow a simple, fast and secure bus booking procedure. This helps save time and also helps to create a joyful travel experience!

Machu Picchu is one of the world’s most important archaeological wonders and Peru’s most iconic tourist destination. Built by the Inca civilization in the 15th century, this ancient citadel rises between mist-covered mountains, offering a unique landscape that blends history, engineering, and nature. Its terraced architecture, sacred temples, and precisely carved stone walls showcase the Incas’ advanced planning and deep astronomical knowledge. Visiting Machu Picchu is an experience that connects travelers with the greatness of this ancient culture and the majestic beauty of the Andean environment.

About Cusco

Cusco is the historical capital of Peru and one of South America’s most captivating cultural destinations. Once the center of the Inca Empire, the city blends colonial architecture with meticulously carved Inca stone walls, creating an atmosphere rich in tradition and mysticism. Its cobblestone streets, temples, markets, and plazas showcase centuries of living history, while its vibrant culinary and artisanal scene attracts travelers from around the world. Cusco is also the gateway to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, making it an essential stop for those exploring the Andean heritage.

The route from Machu Picchu to Cusco is an unforgettable journey linking Peru’s most iconic archaeological wonder with the historic capital of the Inca Empire. After taking the bus down from the citadel to Aguas Calientes, travelers board the train that winds through the Sacred Valley for about 3.5 hours, passing Andean landscapes, towering mountains, and the Urubamba River. Upon arriving at either Poroy or Ollantaytambo station, the trip continues by vehicle to Cusco. This route offers the perfect opportunity to experience the transition from the high jungle to the Andean highlands as you return to the region’s main city.

Weather in Cusco

Cusco has a rainy season where the weather is cloudy, the dry season does not bring so much fog and throughout the year the weather is cool. The temperature of the city can rise to 22 ° C or on the contrary, drop to -2 ° C. In general, the best months to visit this city are between the end of April until June.

Hotels in Cusco

Getting to know the city of Cusco is a great option since it is a destination full of history and culture. You have many hotel options at your disposal, this will help you have the best trip if you do it with family, friends or a partner.

Tierra Viva Hotel Cusco centro

● Calle Cruz Verde 390, Centro de Cusco, Cusco

● Price: From S/ 324.00

● Services: It has single, double and double superior rooms. Wifi. Laundry service. 24-hour reception. Minibar. Includes breakfast.

Sonesta Hotel Cusco

● Avenida el Sol 954, Centro de Cusco, Cusco

● Price: From S/ 270.00

● Services: It has single, double and executive double rooms. Wifi. Room service. Bar. Restaurant. Includes breakfast.

Inka Home

● Avenida Centenario 103, Cusco

● Price: From S/ 113.00

● Services: It has single, double, triple rooms and executive suites. Wifi. Laundry service. Free parking. Includes breakfast.

Hawka Inka Hostal

● Calle Ccocacalle 388, Centro de Cusco, Cusco

● Price: From S/ 85.00

● Services: It has single, double and family rooms. Wifi. Pets allowed. Balcony. Includes breakfast.

Restaurants and Bars in Cusco

Cusco offers not only many landscapes to explore and history to learn about. On the gastronomic side, there are also typical dishes that will make for a better experience. Try their soup dishes and learn about the history of the city reflected in their dishes.

Restaurant Inkazuela

● Plazoleta Nazarenas 167 2nd floor, Cusco

● Price: From S/ 22.00

Inti Raymi Restaurant

● Plazoleta Santo Domingo 259, Cusco

● Price: From S/ 70.00

Kusikuy

● Calle Amargura 140, Cusco

● Price: From S/ 23.00

Yaku

● Calle Huaynapata S/N, Cusco

● Price: From S/ 8.00

Rucula

● Calle Ataúd 266, Cusco

● Price: From S/ 10.00

Cusco tourist attractions

● Machu Picchu: The iconic Inca citadel, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, is Peru's most famous destination. Located on top of a mountain, it offers stunning views and a mystical experience among its ancient ruins.

● Sacred Valley of the Incas: This fertile valley is home to traditional villages and archaeological sites such as Ollantaytambo and Pisac. It is ideal for exploring Inca culture and enjoying spectacular landscapes.

● Sacsayhuamán: This Inca fortress, located on the outskirts of Cusco, is famous for its gigantic stones fitted with precision. It is a key site in the history of the Inca resistance against the Spanish conquerors.

● Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun): Ancient Inca temple that was one of the most important in the Tahuantinsuyu, dedicated to the sun god Inti. The Church of Santo Domingo was built on its foundations, an example of cultural syncretism.

● Cusco Cathedral: Located in the Plaza de Armas, this imposing cathedral is one of the main religious monuments of the city, noted for its architecture and colonial art.

● Mountain of Seven Colors (Vinicunca): This colorful mountain is a geological wonder located at high altitude. It is one of the most visited places by tourists looking for unique natural landscapes.

● Moray: An Inca archaeological site characterized by its circular agricultural terraces, believed to have been an experimental agricultural center for cultivating different microclimates.

● Salineras de Maras: A group of salt evaporation pools located on the mountainsides, used since Inca times. They offer a surreal landscape and are an interesting place to learn about traditional salt production.

● Barrio de San Blas: Known as the artisans' neighborhood, it is a bohemian and picturesque place with narrow streets, artists' workshops and a beautiful plaza overlooking the city of Cusco.

● Puka Pukara: This Inca military fortress, whose name means "red fortress" due to the color of its stones, is located on the road to Tambomachay and offers panoramic views of the Cusco Valley.

Important dates in Cusco

● February - Carnivals: On this date, fun and joy prevail as neighbors play with each other, throwing water and talcum powder, sharing food and dancing with each other. A very strong tradition of this event is the practice of yunza, where a tree that has been previously decorated is cut down.

● End of May - Festival of the Lord of Qoyllur Rit'i: This is a religious festival that has been taking place for more than 2 centuries. It consists of a pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of Sinakara, located 4,600 meters above sea level, where people dance, sing and light fireworks.

● June - Inti Raymi: Here, the Inti, the Sun God, is worshipped. Every year, a representation of the Inti Raymi is held in Incan times, an event that attracts thousands of tourists during this time.

How to get around Cusco?

To get around the city of Cusco, you have two options to choose from.

● Public bus: This is the most popular way among people who visit this city. It is the most economical option, the fare can cost you between 2 to 4 soles.

● Taxi: This is the fastest way to get around the city. It is not necessary to look for more people at bus stops, you can go to your destination from the start. To enjoy this service, you will have to pay a little more than a bus.

Gastronomy in Cusco

● Cuy al Horno: Cuy (guinea pig) is a traditional dish from the Andes, cooked in the oven and served with potatoes, corn, and peanut sauce. It is a dish that is usually enjoyed on holidays and special occasions.

● Chiriuchu: A typical dish of the Corpus Christi holiday, which includes roasted guinea pig, chicken, charqui (dried meat), fish roe, seaweed, corn, cheese, and rocoto. It is a mixture of various ingredients that represent the culinary diversity of the region.

● Adobo: A stew of pork marinated in chicha de jora (a fermented corn drink) with ají panca, garlic, and other spices. It is a typical Sunday dish, especially popular for breakfast.

● Quinoa: Quinoa is an ancient grain that is used in a variety of dishes, from soups to salads. In Cusco, it is common to find it in stews and side dishes that highlight its nutritional value.

● Choclo con Queso: A simple and delicious dish consisting of tender corn (choclo) served with fresh cheese. It is a popular choice for a snack or side dish.

● Olluquito con Charqui: This stew combines ollucos (an Andean tuber) with charqui (dried meat), creating a dish with a unique texture and flavor.

What to Buy in Cusco

Cusco offers a wide variety of products that reflect its rich cultural heritage, making it the ideal place to purchase authentic and unique souvenirs.

● Andean Textiles: Sweaters, blankets, ponchos, and scarves handmade from alpaca or vicuña wool, which are soft, warm, and represent the traditional textile art of the Andes.

● Stone and Ceramic Crafts: Cusco is famous for its stone and ceramic sculptures, many of which depict Inca figures and motifs from Andean culture.

● Silver Jewelry: Silver work is a tradition in Cusco, and you can find beautiful pieces of handmade jewelry, often adorned with precious or semi-precious stones.

● Coca and Derived Products: The coca leaf is sacred in Andean culture. In Cusco, you can buy coca tea, coca candy, and other derived products that are known for their energizing properties and for combating altitude sickness.

● Hats and Chullos: Chullos (Andean caps) and wool or felt hats are traditional garments that you can find in various styles and colors, ideal as souvenirs or to keep warm in cold weather.

● Retablos: Small boxes or altars that contain sculpted figures that represent religious or traditional scenes. They are an example of the rich artistic tradition of the region.

Train operators on the route Machu Picchu to Cusco 

● Inca Rail

In Conclusion:

Cusco is a city that you should definitely visit. It is home to one of the 7 wonders of the world and there is no reason not to see it live and in person. You will be able to discover a city rich in culture and with a varied gastronomy.