 As soon as the train leaves Ollantaytambo a brunch is served on board, only just before to star the adventure to Machu Picchu, the temple complex known as The Fortress, dedicated sometime in the 15th century to the many deities of the Inca pantheon, can be seen to the right above the earthwork ramp once used to drag its monolithic blocks up from the valley floor.
The railway follows the river into the Urubamba Gorge. At Coriwaynachina, known simply to the generations of hikers who have begun the Inca Trail there as Km 88, a fine staircase carved into the rock leads to a series of ruined buildings where once, it is said, Inca artisans took advantage of the constant wind that rises from the valley floor to smelt gold.
 Emerging from a short tunnel, a series of beautiful agricultural terraces marks the ruins of Qente, which in Quechua means hummingbird. In this fertile microclimate fed by a nearby waterfall, giant hummingbirds are indeed a common sight in the early morning and bright flowers bloom all year round.
Surrounded by tall ceibos and rocky outcrops hung with orchids and bromeliads, the train passes Km 104 at Chachabamba, from where the one-day trek to Machu Picchu via the magnificent ruins of Wiñay Wayna begins.
Just two km from Machu Picchu, the train arrives at Machu Picchu Town. Surrounded by the high, green mountains that cradle the famous lost city, as well as myriad other Inca remains, this small town, which is well known for its thermal baths, has blossomed into a popular overnight destination for travellers to Machu Picchu.
Guests disembark at Machu Picchu Town and are taken by bus to Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, overlooking the ancient citadel. A private guided tour of the sanctuary follows before the return transfer to the station in the early evening. A sumptuous dinner is served on the 3 ½ hour journey back to Cusco.
**Please be so kind as to read the following information concerning your trip.
Luggage
Luggage space on board the train is restricted, so we ask you please to bring with you only the Hiram Bingham travel bag we have provided you with, or a bag of equal size or smaller.
Dress
Casual, comfortable clothing is appropriate for the journey. We suggest you bring a raincoat as well as a hat and sunblock as it can become extremely hot. Insect repellant for the sandflies. You may need to have a warm coat with you for the return drive from Poroy Station into Cusco.
Smoking Policy
The Hiram Bingham has a ‘No Smoking’ policy.
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Speak with our reservations staff who will notify you of any changes in prices or schedules.
*Itineraries subject to minor changes- fuel surcharges included in trip prices where airfare is included. Not included: airport taxes, government fees and September 11th Security Fee. Prices per person based on double occupancy.
Booking form and terms/conditions being updated. Please ask for information when you book.
To book this trip please fill out our new member application if applicable and then the booking form.
E-mail us for more information: info@womenstravelclub.com
The Women's Travel Club (USA), Inc.
Phone: 800-480-4448 . Fax: 1-866-249-0411
E-Mail: info@womenstravelclub.com
300 Broadacres Drive, Bloomfield, NJ 07003
Updated:
January 10, 2011
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Trips designed by women for women