Belmond Hiram Bingham vs First Class Trains
The ultimate comparison for an unforgettable journey to the lost city of the Incas.
The Journey is as
Magnificent as the Destination
Traveling to Machu Picchu is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But choosing how to get there defines the tone of your entire adventure.
For the discerning traveler, the standard tourist trains are out of the question. You are looking for exclusivity, gourmet dining, and absolute comfort. The decision usually narrows down to two elite options: The legendary Belmond Hiram Bingham and the premium First Class Train. Here is our insider guide to help you choose your perfect carriage.
The Belmond Hiram Bingham Experience
Stepping onto the Belmond Hiram Bingham is like stepping back into the golden age of travel. Inspired by the 1920s Pullman cars, this train is the epitome of classic romance and ultra-luxury.
What to expect: An opulent dining car, a dedicated bar car with live Peruvian music, and an open-air observation car. The ticket includes a gourmet welcome cocktail, a multi-course Andean-inspired lunch paired with excellent wines, and an exclusive afternoon tea at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge located right at the citadel's entrance.
Perfect for: Travelers celebrating a honeymoon, an anniversary, or those who demand the absolute highest standard of traditional luxury and personalized service.
The First Class Train Experience
If the Hiram Bingham is about classic romance, the First Class train is about modern comfort and breathtaking landscape immersion. Designed for those who want to absorb every detail of the Sacred Valley's changing geography.
What to expect: Plush, oversized seating with massive panoramic windows and roof panels. You'll enjoy an exquisitely prepared 3-course tasting menu using local ingredients, a dedicated observatory-lounge car, and an outdoor balcony to take unobstructed photos of the Andean mountains and the Amazon cloud forest.
Perfect for: Photography enthusiasts, modern luxury seekers, and travelers who want spectacular views with premium comfort and a slightly more relaxed atmosphere.