There are two different train providers to get to Machu Picchu if you aren’t hiking: Inca Rail and Peru Rail. I chose Inca Rail because kids travel at half price. When I originally booked my tickets, I paid for roundtrip on the 360 train. A couple of weeks prior to my trip, I was downgraded to the Voyager for the outbound. I was notified in advance and received a refund about 12 days after my trip. Upon arrival to the train station in Ollantaytambo, there is a nice waiting area. When we moved to where you board the train, there were some locals who are dressed up. On board they do a special dance about a princess and an Inca Warrior. Note that the waiting area is different for Inca Rail versus Peru Rail and there are more waiting areas for Peru Rail. There were also significantly more Peru Rail trains. Once on the train, it was evident why you could only bring backpacks. There was very little room and we felt packed in like sardines.

When we arrived in Aguas Calientes, I was baffled (and jealous) that people had brought suitcases, some of which were large. Our return was on the 360, which had far more space, including luggage racks. Lesson learned: if you get downgraded, change your train time if you care at all about comfort!