The Belmond Andean Explorer is South America’s first luxury sleeper train that glides between Cusco and the white city of Arequipa. This is most definitely a luxury experience and Belmond have excelled in creating a unique travel experience that combines their five-star luxury with breath-taking landscapes and authentic travel experiences in this beautiful region of Peru.
This is an overnight train with journeys ranging from one or two nights. There are four cabin types available from the fun and authentic, old-school style double bunk bed cabin where the long banquette converts into upper and lower beds at night, the twin bed cabin or the larger deluxe double bed and junior double bed cabins.
As you would expect all elements of this luxury service are impeccable from the Peruvian inspired décor including alpaca throws and Andean fabrics to the comfort of full en-suite bathrooms and in-built oxygen in every cabin to help you with the altitude. (This is one of the highest train journeys in the world after all!)
The train boasts two dining cars – Llama and Muña and you will be treated to gourmet cuisine by their team of acclaimed on-board chefs during your trip. Menus have been designed by one of Peru’s leading chefs Diego Muñoz and are inspired by the incredible variety and quality of Andean produce found in the region.
The train also has a spacious and luxurious lounge car with a bar and grand piano for evening cocktails as you enjoy the sunset and some music with friends old and new. The observatory car is also a fabulous spot to enjoy the passing landscapes. We particularly like the open-end of the observatory car where you can stand outside and watch the countryside pass by.
The Belmond Andean Explorer offers different journey options to suit all travel itineraries. These include:
- Peruvian highlands Journey 2 nights: Cusco – Puno – Arequipa
This is their signature journey and includes a visit to Puno and the majestic Lake Titicaca en-route before arriving in Arequipa.
- Andean Plains and Islands of Discovery 2 nights: Arequipa – Puno – Cusco
This is a similar journey to the Peruvian Highlands Journey except it starts from Arequipa and visits Puno and Lake Titicaca ending in the city of Cusco.
- Spirit of the Andes 1 night: Puno – Cusco
This is a great option for travellers who want to travel from Puno to Cusco. This stretch of train track is one of the highest train routes in the world and offers breath-taking scenery.
- Spirit of the Water 1 night: Cusco – Puno
This journey is like the Spirit of the Andes journey except it runs from Cusco to Puno overnight.
The Belmond Andean Explorer train is without a doubt one of the most luxurious ways to visit the iconic cities of Cusco, Puno and Arequipa, Lake Titicaca and the Colca Canyon in real style. The landscape and views are majestic, and your every need will be catered for on this exceptional, once in a lifetime train journey.
Best of Peru Travel Recommends:
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- Don’t miss out on a visit to the Picaflor Spa – one of the world’s only train spas. Enjoy one of their superb Andean rituals like the regenerating clay wrap made from local flowers and coca leaves followed by a deep tissue massage for the ultimate in relaxation after a day spent sight-seeing.
