Getting around Peru by bus and train
Use long-distance luxury buses like Cruz del Sur or Peru Hop for most of the country, and book the PeruRail or Inca Rail train specifically for the Cusco to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu) route. Buses are the primary way to navigate the Andes and the coast, while trains are reserved for scenic tourist routes.
- Choose your bus class. Opt for 'Cama' or 'Semi-Cama' seats for long journeys. These seats recline 160–180 degrees. Never book the cheapest 'budget' buses, as they lack safety standards and frequent mechanical checks.
- Book bus tickets online. Use platforms like RedBus.pe or the official websites of major carriers like Cruz del Sur or Tepsa. Print your ticket or keep a clear digital copy; you will need to present your passport to board.
- Navigate the train system. Trains in Peru are not for general transit; they are for tourists. Book your ticket for the Cusco–Aguas Calientes route at least 4 weeks in advance on the PeruRail or Inca Rail websites. You cannot buy these tickets at the station on the day of travel.
- Plan for altitude. When traveling by bus through the Andes, account for slow transit times due to winding roads. A distance that takes 2 hours on a flat map can take 6 hours by bus. Always carry water and travel sickness medication.
- Is it safe to travel by bus in Peru?
- Yes, provided you choose reputable companies. Stick to 'bus de lujo' operators that have enclosed terminals. Avoid street-side bus stops after dark.
- How do I get from Lima to Cusco?
- Most people fly (1 hour), but if you take the bus, it takes approximately 22–24 hours. If you choose the bus, break it up with a stop in Ica or Arequipa.