Lima to Cusco from $14: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

• On your train trip from Lima to Cusco, consider traveling with Inca Rail or PeruRail. Both operators offer catering services on board, which include a selection of light snacks and beverages. You can expect options like sandwiches, local Peruvian dishes, and refreshing drinks. Make sure to check their websites in advance for the menu on your specific train.

• The train lines between Lima and Cusco provide various seating options. PeruRail offers First Class with spacious seats, complimentary meals, and stunning panoramic windows; Business Class has comfortable seating and meal services, while Economy Class features more basic seating but still a comfortable journey. Inca Rail similarly provides First Class with luxury seating, a gourmet meal service, and Business Class with a good level of comfort. Check their respective websites for more details: Inca Rail and PeruRail.

• Upon arrival at the San Pedro Train Station in Cusco, you can expect to find luggage storage facilities available, allowing you to explore the city without your bags. The station also has restroom facilities for your convenience. To get to the city center quickly, take a taxi or the local bus #23, which runs directly to the Plaza de Armas. The fare for the bus is around S/1.00, while taxis might range from S/10 to S/30 depending on traffic conditions.

• Expect relatively low cabin pressure and possible ear discomfort on the flight from Lima to Cusco, as the altitude difference (from 154 feet in Lima to 11,152 feet in Cusco) can affect some travelers; consider bringing gum or similar to help with ear pressure.

• Upon arrival at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco, be prepared for a small and busy airport; follow the signs for baggage claim, and keep an eye out for authorized taxi stands which offer safe transportation options into the city.

• Taxi fares from the Cusco airport to the city center typically range from 25 to 50 soles (approximately $6 to $13); it's advisable to agree on a price before starting your journey and to use recognized taxi services such as 'Colegio de Choferes' or 'Cusco Taxis' for safety.

• Book your bus ticket in advance through reputable operators like Cruz del Sur (cruzdelsur.com.pe), Oltursa (oltursa.pe), and Civa (civa.com.pe) to secure the best prices, especially if you are traveling during peak tourist seasons.

• Bring snacks and water for the journey, as there are limited stops along the way, and the bus may not always offer substantial meals during this lengthy 22h 15m trip.

• Upon arriving at Cusco Station, expect to navigate a bustling environment; pre-arrange an airport transfer or have the contact of a local taxi service handy to make your way to your accommodation smoothly, as taxis can be plentiful but may not have consistent rates.