The Hiram Bingham is Belmond's iconic luxury train connecting Cusco to the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu, carrying fewer than 85 guests in the opulent style of 1920s Pullman travel. Distinctive blue-and-gold carriages, gourmet dining, live Peruvian music and a fully guided tour of one of the world's great wonders make this one of the most celebrated day journeys on earth. Whether you are planning your first visit to Machu Picchu or returning to see it in new splendour, the Hiram Bingham transforms the journey itself into an unforgettable part of the adventure.
At a Glance
| Region | South America · Peru |
| Countries | Peru |
| Journey length | 1 night (2 days) |
| Itineraries | Belmond Hiram Bingham plus Belmond Sanctuary Lodge |
| Upcoming departures | 539 dates, Jun 2026 – Dec 2027 · view dates → |
| Reservations | 1-800-724-5120 · travel@palacetours.com |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Hiram Bingham and where does it travel?+
The Hiram Bingham is Belmond's legendary luxury train running between Cusco and Machu Picchu in the Peruvian highlands of South America. Departing from Poroy station, just outside Cusco, the train winds alongside the Urubamba River through the Sacred Valley before arriving at Aguas Calientes, the gateway to the Machu Picchu citadel. It is named after the American explorer Hiram Bingham, who brought Machu Picchu to the world's attention in 1911.
What journeys and itineraries are available, and how long do they take?+
The signature itinerary is a two-day, one-night journey — Belmond Hiram Bingham plus Belmond Sanctuary Lodge — running Cusco to Machu Picchu and back. The train departs Poroy at 09:05 and arrives in Aguas Calientes at 12:42; the return departs at 17:50 and arrives back at Poroy at 21:15, with dinner and live music on board. The overnight package includes a stay at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, giving guests both an afternoon and a morning to explore the citadel.
How much does the Hiram Bingham cost?+
Pricing varies by cabin type, season and party size; we do not currently list a published starting fare for this train. Contact Palace Trains for a personalised quote: call us toll-free at 1-800-724-5120, reach us internationally or on WhatsApp at +1-786-408-0610, or email travel@palacetours.com.
What accommodation and carriage types are on board?+
All passenger carriages are furnished in the 1920s Pullman tradition — polished wood panelling, gleaming brass fittings and spacious chairs designed for watching the Andean landscape unfold. Two dedicated dining cars seat up to 42 guests each and are laid with crystal glassware and polished cutlery. The lively bar car is the social heart of the train, perfect for a Pisco Sour and live Peruvian music, while the open-sided Observation Car at the rear offers unobstructed mountain and river views.
What is included in the fare?+
The Hiram Bingham experience includes a three-course brunch served on the outward journey and a four-course fine dining dinner with curated wines on the return, accompanied throughout by live traditional Peruvian music. A guided tour of the Machu Picchu citadel and Afternoon Tea at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge are also part of the hosted experience. For the overnight itinerary, accommodation at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge is included; exact inclusions can vary by package, so we recommend confirming all details with Palace Trains before booking.
When does the Hiram Bingham operate, and when can I travel?+
The Hiram Bingham runs year-round, with departures available in every month from January through December. We currently show 539 upcoming departures, with availability from late June 2026 through to the end of 2027. Please check the train's departure table on our website or contact Palace Trains to find dates that suit your travel plans.
Who operates the Hiram Bingham and what makes it special?+
The Hiram Bingham is operated by Belmond, one of the world's leading luxury travel companies, and is widely regarded as among the finest train journeys on earth. What sets it apart is the combination of intimate scale — fewer than 85 guests per journey — iconic 1920s Pullman styling in striking blue and gold, genuinely gourmet cuisine, and the seamless, door-to-door experience of travelling to Machu Picchu in fully hosted luxury.
How do I book or check availability?+
Palace Trains can book the Hiram Bingham for you with personalised guidance on dates, itineraries and pricing. Call us toll-free at 1-800-724-5120, reach us internationally or on WhatsApp at +1-786-408-0610, or email travel@palacetours.com. You can also browse upcoming departures directly on the train's page on our website.
Does the journey include a guided tour of Machu Picchu?+
Yes — a guided tour of the Machu Picchu citadel is part of the hosted experience. On arrival at Aguas Calientes, guests transfer by bus directly to the citadel for an expert-led tour. On the overnight itinerary, the citadel also opens at 06:00 the following morning, giving guests the magical opportunity to explore before the day-visitor crowds arrive.
What is the Observation Car, and is there a bar on board?+
At the rear of the train, the open-sided Observation Car provides unobstructed views of the Andean mountains and the rushing Urubamba River below, furnished with dark wood, polished brass and deep cushioned seats — the perfect vantage point for the Sacred Valley scenery. The bar car, the social heart of the train, is where live traditional Peruvian music plays throughout the journey and guests can enjoy cocktails including the classic Pisco Sour.