Belmond Hiram Bingham

Really beautiful, luxury experience! We took the train both ways, and each was its own unique journey. The way there was lively and fun with people dancing and enjoying the scenery. On the way back it had a more candle light dinner and speakeasy lounge ambiance. I’m really glad we booked in both directions. After a long day, it was really nice to have a comfortable place to unwind. The staff was extraordinary. They offered appetizers and cocktails before the meal, complimentary branded backpacks and water bottles full ready to take on the tour, and provided table service drinks throughout the whole ride. I was one the fence at first about booking this train or a more economical ride, but this definitely is the way to go. Loved it!

Magical experience from start to finish. Five star luxury hospitality with the ultimate attention to guests. Above and beyond.

Visited Machu Picchu in late April 2024 for my birthday so I wanted to take the best train possible to Aguas Calientes as the only way to get to the town beneath Machu Picchu is by train. You basically have three options. The nicest is this Hiram Bingham train, the second best is the new Peru Rail, and the worst option is the Inka Rail. This Hiram Bingham train is designed with 1920 European aesthetics and they serve a three course meal on the way to Machu Picchu, and also on the way back. They have live music, a full bar, and a view car at the caboose of the train. The seats were very comfortable, and the train was a lot smoother than the other train that we took back. Our ticket for this train also included a ticket to Machu Picchu and a private guide. We also got in a bus that was also covered that took us directly to the entrance of Machu Picchu. This train ride through the Sacred Valley was probably one of the highlights of my trip. In certain months you can take the train all the way from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, but April is the rainy season so we had to board the train in the Sacred Valley and ride it about three hours to get to Aguas Calientes due to landslide safety precautions. This is a first class train and you will receive first class service, which includes help with your bags and they can accommodate any dietary restrictions that you may have. Honestly, I wish the train ride was twice as long because we really enjoyed our trip and the whole staff was extremely polite. The seats were quite large and comfortable, and every person is sat at a table, which is extremely convenient. By far the best, and most expensive, train option to get to Machu Picchu. All the others are a downgrade. It’s worth the cost for the special experience.

Updated review post train trip Cusco to Puno. We had a wonderful experience today on our 10 hour train trip from Cusco to Puno! So Peru Rail does understand great service. This could not have been more polarising than our 1st trip to Machu Picchu (see review below). We had breakfast, 3 course lunch and an afternoon snack on the train as well as music, pisco sour making and a welcome cocktail. All with impeccable service and the most wonderful views. We paid $250 each but for the experience and thinking of the cost per hour I feel it was worth it. Compared to $80 for 90min train and 2 hour bus to Machu Picchu. Almost forgiven Peru Rail but I still think pay for the cheapest train to Machu Picchu and put that money toward this trip or something else. This review is for Peru Rail Vistadome. Very disappointed. They changed our trip to a bus - train service and there was no notice. Even when we bought the ticket in the Peru rail centre in Cusco the day before travel they sold us the full train version - apparently it’s not been running since Sept? When trying to work out why the change the staff that we asked at the station all told a different story. Rocks on the tracks or the train was not running from June to Dec from Puroy. Strange that they still selling those tickets? Although funny enough the Belmond train $$$ is still able to run on the same tracks so perhaps it’s not rocks after all? Definitely felt taken advantage but perhaps it’s because it was the part of our trip that we were looking most forward to. My advice is book the cheapest possible ticket and expect the least and then perhaps you won’t be disappointed. On a positive note the train station was very clean, clean toilets and place to buy coffee but I suspect thats the benefits of the high end train service departing from that location. Had time to write this on our 2 hour bus journey. Thanks Peru rail. Let’s hope our trip to Puno is less eventful.

Peru Trail's exceptional service and punctuality have left an indelible mark on my journey from Poroy to Machu Picchu. From the moment I embarked on this adventure, the commitment to excellence was evident. The seamless coordination and efficiency demonstrated by Peru Trail's team ensured that every aspect of the experience exceeded expectations. The attention to detail was impeccable, from the well-maintained trail to the knowledgeable guides who provided insightful commentary along the way. The trek unfolded with a perfect balance of challenge and enjoyment, allowing me to immerse myself in the breathtaking landscapes without feeling overwhelmed. The guides not only navigated the trail with expertise but also shared captivating stories about the rich history and culture of the region, adding a layer of depth to the entire journey. What truly sets Peru Trail apart is their unwavering commitment to timeliness. Every aspect of the itinerary was meticulously planned and executed, ensuring that I reached Machu Picchu as scheduled. This reliability enhanced the overall experience, allowing me to focus on the awe-inspiring surroundings without any concerns about delays or disruptions. In conclusion, Peru Trail's dedication to providing a seamless, informative, and punctual trek from Poroy to Machu Picchu is commendable. This adventure has been a testament to their commitment to delivering an unforgettable experience, and I wholeheartedly recommend Peru Trail to anyone seeking a memorable journey through the awe-inspiring landscapes of Peru.

An exceptional ride and experience. Peru knows luxury and they cater it very well.

Amazing trip since the welcoming at the station trough the whole experience of being in the train, the lunch, drinks and the good bye. The views are spectacular and worth the time you pass inside the train. The service is always kind and helpful. The food is good, well prepared and the drinks are delicious. Definitely the best way to come and go to Machu Picchu.

Hiram Bingham is the ultimate experience to round up a visit to Machu Picchu! Can it get any better? NO! The Hiram Bingham Train is the ultimate transportation to and from Machu Picchu. At the Poroy train station (near Cusco) we had a warm welcomed by the train staff as well as a traditional Peruvian band and dancers. After a glass of sparkling wine, just before the train was leaving the passengers made a short Pacha Mama (Mother Earth) ceremony. Then the train staff showed us our table in the dining waggon where we left all the things we didn't want to carry around. Then we went to the saloon waggon with its view deck and enjoyed the excellent life music. Pisco sour, sparkling wine, beer and any other kind of – also non-alcoholic - drinks were served (free of course). After some drinks went to our table where a wonderful lunch was served. Very good white and red Peruvian wines as well as beer etc. was served with the food. If you wish, there is a wine list with some well-known brands, but these are not included in the package. We were very happy with the Peruvian wines that we included. After arrival in Aguas Calientes a guide led us to the bus up to Machu Picchu and then guide us through the historical site. The tour ends at about 16:00 with a high tea at the Sanctuary Lodge. You then have the option of staying for the night at the Sanctuary Lodge which located next to the entrance of the parc or you can take the bus down to Aguas Calientes and stay there for one night. Or maybe you choose the option to catch the train back to Cusco which is leaving around 17:50.