Cusco Hiram Bingham Train to Machu Picchu: Full Review

Thinking about taking a special trip to Machu Picchu? A terrific option that people discuss often is the Cusco Hiram Bingham Round Trip Luxury Train. So, what’s this train all about? It’s thought to be more than just a way to reach the well-known Inca citadel; very possibly, it gives a memorable, high-end experience. Is that the case though? We’re taking an in-depth look in this article to assist you in determining if it lives up to the excitement. Is it actually worth spending extra money on? Let’s explore this subject in greater depth together, looking at everything from the amenities and service to the whole atmosphere of traveling.

What Makes the Hiram Bingham Train Unique?

You might be asking, what sets the Hiram Bingham train apart from just a standard train? To be clear, it aims for a certain level of pampering. A nod to the explorer who brought Machu Picchu into the limelight, this train, therefore, attempts to recreate the glitz of the 1920s traveling lifestyle. Picture polished wood, classy accents, plus attentive service that is believed to transport people back in time as they pass across some pretty incredible landscape.

So, there is, reportedly, a welcome drink waiting for you the minute you step aboard, establishing the atmosphere for the remainder of the day. The carriages, very artfully decorated, provide enough seating and windows to see the landscape clearly. But the experience is supposed to go beyond the seats. With meals, amusement, and other details included, it’s really an effort to provide passengers with a full, first-rate experience.

The All-Inclusive Experience

How comprehensive is it truly? The all-inclusive component of the Hiram Bingham train stands out a bit, very likely. It begins even before you get on the train, it is said. A personal bus trip out of Cusco to the train station in the Sacred Valley, therefore, attempts to let you see the sights. Drinks and food are provided on the train in order to guarantee constant pampering.

There’s said to be more, though. Dinner on board is supposedly not just about gratifying hunger. Supposedly, cooks have created a meal that blends Peruvian tastes using ingredients that are obtained locally. Live music that is often local is then added, very likely turning the train trip into something like a cultural performance as much as it is transportation.

Something that is quite cool too, a guided tour of Machu Picchu after arrival is scheduled. This could take the stress out of having to figure everything out on your own because experts can provide insights on the ruins, something that could prove particularly handy.

A Typical Itinerary: What to Expect

What happens when you book this trip, so basically? The journey typically starts really early in the morning at Cusco, where you are escorted by bus through the lovely Sacred Valley. This will allow you to relax as you travel to the train station and take in the surrounds.

After boarding, a welcome drink is often offered as you make yourself at home in the extravagant surroundings. The train is planned to then gradually meander through the Andes, offering breathtaking views that could surely make picture opportunities memorable.

The on-train lunch that is offered is frequently hailed as a feature. Peruvian food is apparently highlighted, so you’re very likely in for a culinary delight that displays the flavors of the area.

You may, of course, expect a professionally guided tour of Machu Picchu upon arrival. Supposedly, this will make sure you don’t miss anything significant and will give you historical and cultural setting to what you are seeing. Lastly, the train often takes you back to Cusco in the evening, when you can very possibly remember on the day’s adventures as you travel. Very likely, the evening travel offers the possibility to unwind, savor a more scrumptious meal, as well as take in more live music.

The Cost Factor: Is It Worth It?

So, let’s discuss expenses. The Hiram Bingham is believed to be a somewhat expensive choice, so, the big thing is this: does the practice align with the pricing? You’ll want to balance what you value: if first-rate service and comfort are really important to you, then, so likely, it might seem pretty reasonable. On the other hand, cheaper solutions get you to Machu Picchu if all you actually worry about is getting to your goal.

When contemplating the cost, something to think about is the extra bonuses you receive. It seems very neat that you get meals and guided tours; you are said to not have to stress as much over making plans on your own. Given the comfort, individualized care, including comfort included, a lot of tourists often decide that investing even a little bit further makes sense.

Alternatives to Consider

What if the Hiram Bingham is not doable with your budget? The fact remains: more accessible ways do exist. Trains for the PeruRail Expedition or the Inca Rail Voyager give routes which might have you arrive to Aguas Calientes, the town closest to Machu Picchu, in order to supply more affordable prices.

Such options often give fairly cozy chairs as well as big window views, but expect a little reduced facilities and amenities. Should you like to watch the landscape without sacrificing an excessive amount of money on excess facilities, these can surely serve you perfectly. So, make sure that you really are weighing what suits your budget plus how relaxed you would like your traveling day to unfold. What you sacrifice in facilities you’re saving in resources that can allow further activities in Machu Picchu itself.

Making the Most of Your Trip

How could we make your excursion a bit special? Regardless if you use the Hiram Bingham choice or take a totally different way to get to Machu Picchu, these few pieces of advice can greatly impact the fun you are gonna experience:

1. Schedule Ahead: Machu Picchu passes, including train seat reservations, are more or less essential, notably in peak seasons. Ensure, in a way, you make reservations ahead of time so you aren’t disappointed at all.
2. Take weather Into account: As climates here will change drastically, layered clothes turn out to be really appropriate. So it is to be fully equipped and also all ready whatever conditions prevail will improve your travel, overall.
3. Acclimatize to Altitude: Cusco, really pretty at 11,000 feet higher up, it makes it necessary, for some, to acclimatize well ahead of visiting Machu Picchu for you to lower down risks that occur out of altitude illness. Make the day well beforehand drinking heaps of fluids and also taking easy tasks that you could carry on.
4. Have Small Bills As well As Coins On The Ready: While large spots recognize credits as well as debit, particularly that on smaller shops it may really be really vital to bear extra dough to deal for various miscellaneous expense items plus, perhaps, tippings too.
5. Keep Hydrated As Well As Energized: Keep drinking to a bare minimum but have food. When your excursion gets underway continue being extremely highly loaded by always hydrating well together along with consuming snacks as might maintain to get stamina all the way across the checkouts.