1. Overview of Train Travel in Peru
2. Southern Network (Ferrocarril del Sur)
3. Lima to Huancayo (Ferrocarril Central Andino)
4. Train from Tacna to Arica (Ferrocarril Tacna-Arica)
5. The Tren Eléctrico in Lima
Trains are rare in Peru, with rail networks limited to only a few lines in distinct sections of the country. However, the existing train lines provide travelers with a compelling and spectacular alternative to domestic flights and long-distance bus travel.
Southern Network (Ferrocarril del Sur)
The Southern Network is Peru’s largest train network, operated by PeruRail. This network connects major tourist destinations, including Cusco, Machu Picchu (Aguas Calientes), and Puno.
Cusco/Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu:
PeruRail, Machu Picchu Train, and Inca Rail operate trains to Machu Picchu station in Aguas Calientes. PeruRail offers three classes of train services, ranging from budget to luxury, with multiple departures daily from Poroy (about 20 minutes from Cusco) to Machu Picchu. Meanwhile, Inca Rail and Machu Picchu Train run services between Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu.
Cusco to Puno:
PeruRail’s Andean Explorer embarks from Cusco’s Wanchaq station, heading south to Puno and Lake Titicaca. This journey spans approximately 10 hours, showcasing breathtaking scenery and climbing as it departs Cusco, ultimately reaching the vast plateaus of the Peruvian altiplano. There are three weekly departures from November to March and four weekly from April to October.
Lima to Huancayo (Ferrocarril Central Andino)
The Ferrocarril Central operates from the port of Callao, passing through Lima and extending to La Oroya in the central Andes, where it diverges into two branches: one north to Cerro de Pasco and one south to Huancayo.
The Lima to Huancayo route is regarded as one of the most breathtaking train journeys in Peru. Notably, this train traverses 69 tunnels, crosses 58 bridges, and maneuvers through six zigzag switchbacks, ultimately reaching a staggering height of 15,689 feet (4,782 m) above sea level, ranking it as the second highest train route globally.
However, passenger services are exceedingly limited, with only one or two departures monthly. It is vital to check the schedules provided on the Ferrocarril Central Andino website, as advance planning is crucial. The tourist train departs from Desamparados station in Lima, with the journey to Huancayo lasting approximately 12 hours.
The Train from Tacna to Arica (Ferrocarril Tacna-Arica)
Situated in the far south of Peru and isolated from other lines, the Tacna to Arica rail service offers passengers a scenic crossing over the Peru-Chile border. This 37-mile (60 km) route from Tacna to Arica takes just over one hour, providing a more leisurely alternative to the conventional road crossing.
Typically, there are two departures each day from Monday to Saturday: one in the early morning and another in the late afternoon. Train enthusiasts should also consider visiting the Museo del Ferrocarril (Rail Museum) located at the Tacna station.
The Tren Eléctrico in Lima
The Tren Eléctrico (Electric Train) represents an extensive and often debated transportation project in Lima. The ultimate goal is to create five interconnected train lines that will hypothetically ease congestion in the city’s crowded and polluted roadways.
Currently, Line 2 is under construction, while Line 1 operates with 26 fully functional stations, stretching across the city. It’s important to note that infrastructure projects in the capital often encounter delays, so the completion of all five lines may take longer than anticipated.
