The Andes offer a natural and cultural experience like no other place in South America, and Peru gives you all the options so you can get fully immersed in its everlasting energy while also getting to know beautiful places and ancient traditions.
The Belmond Andean Explorer grants that and much more on a magical train ride through the scenic routes between Arequipa, Puno, and Cusco, allowing you to travel in comfort and style through the Andean mountains.
In case you didn’t know, this is South America’s first luxury sleeper train and though train travel isn’t as fast as the ones in Europe, the speed is perfect enough to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of the region, without missing any detail of it.
Likewise, as this train ride crosses the main destination of the southern Peruvian Andes, it is one of the highest railways in the world, reaching up to 4,500 meters above sea level on its highest point.
Luxury travel has been redefined in Peru and if you’re eager to join this experience, here you’ll learn everything you can expect from this outstanding train ride!
About the Belmond Andean Explorer
The famous luxury sleeper train of Peru was launched in May 2017 on a joint venture between Belmond and Lorenzo Sousa, founder of PeruRail S.A. The Belmond Andean Explorer accommodates 70 passengers in double or twin en-suite cabins.
It has 16 elegant carriages that were thoughtfully designed by Inge Moor, chief designer of the renowned London interior design firm Hirsch Bedner Associates. Each carriage is inspired by the subtle colors of the Andes, including the vivid artisan accents of handwoven textiles.
However, these wagons weren’t specifically made for this train since they belonged to the Australian train Great South Pacific Express that operated between 1999 and 2003. Later on, the carriages were shipped to Peru in 2016, where they were refurbished for this railway experience.
The trainset accommodation levels of the GSPE were all kept, as well as the two dining and bar cars, and the last car having an open-air observation deck.
Currently, the Belmond Andean Explorer operates 4 routes: Cusco – Puno, Puno – Cusco, Arequipa – Puno – Cusco, and Cusco – Puno – Arequipa.
Accommodation Options
The Belmond Andean Explorer comprises 14 suites, 16 twin cabins, and 5 bunk bed cabins, each thoughtfully designed to frame the awe-inspiring Andean landscape harmoniously.
Bunk Bed Cabins
This private suite features a long banquette that transforms into comfortable upper and lower single beds. Each cabin has an area of 5.5 m2
Twin Bed Cabins
This spacious cabin has an area of 7.4m2, featuring a long seating area that converts into two ground-level single beds. It also comprises an en-suite bathroom.
Suite Cabins
These cabins are configured with a double bed and a cozy seating area with two chairs and a table. It has an area of 13.1 m2 and includes a compact wardrobe, en-suite with shower, washbasin, and WC.
Each room counts with 24/7 call buttons, air conditioning, oxygen tanks and masks, robe and slippers, medical assistance on board, and 220v electrical outlets.
The Onboard Experience
The Belmond Andean Explorer resonates with the energy and culture of the Andes, making echoes of the very essence of the region in each of its wagons. Here’s what you can expect:
Dining Cars
The Llama and Muña carriages offer an authentic gastronomic experience, where you’ll sample the best of the Peruvian culinary art with fresh local ingredients and innovative dishes that will delight your palate in each breakfast, lunch, and dinner. All meals and beverages, including alcohol, are included.
Lounge Car
Named after the Maca root, it is an indoor hub for passengers to connect, and enjoy the scenery and soothing piano music while sampling freshly blended cocktails. This piano bar car is perfect for every mood, allowing you to connect with your friends, family or other passengers.
Observation Bar Car
This beautiful carriage will allow you to immerse yourself in the natural setting of the route while sipping on a refreshing beverage from the bar. The Observation Car is the best spot to unwind and contemplate the surrounding landscape as you take in the fresh Andean air from the open deck.
Spa Car
The Picaflor Spa Car offers luxurious treatments as you glide through spectacular Andean landscapes. Spa treatments aboard Belmond Andean Explorer feature products by Germaine de Capuccini, renowned as a specialist in rejuvenating skincare.
Excursions Included
If you’re taking the Belmond Andean Explorer from Cusco to Puno and Arequipa or on the way back, the journey includes some tours and stops where you’ll get to visit several spots along the route to enjoy the beautiful natural setting of the regions and its culture.
1. Uros Floating Islands
The main attraction in Puno is Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. This special spot in the Andes highlands is home to the floating Uros island, which comprises several man-made islands and an ancient cultural expression.
The tour will take you to these totora reed islands so you can learn about their history, maintenance, and the culture of its inhabitants, while also experiencing the natural beauty of the lake.
2. Sumbay Caves
On the way from Puno to Arequipa, you’ll be able to spot different natural wonders such as Lake Lagunillas to later explore the Sumbay caves, home to fascinating cave paintings estimated to be over 8,000 years old.
However, if visiting the Colca Canyon is on your bucket list, you can choose to disembark early at Cañahuaz town and continue to explore one of the world’s deepest canyons.
3. La Raya
Whether you’re coming from Puno to Cusco or vice versa, the train will make a stop at La Raya Pass, located over 4,000 meters above sea level. This will be a short stop so you can appreciate the beauty of the Andes mountain range and its flourishing valleys.
As you can see, the Belmond Andean Explorer offers the most comfortable, luxurious, and complete experience in the Andes. Allowing you to be one with nature and unwind to the rhythm of its everlasting energy.
If you’d like to know more about this experience, we invite you to check out our Peru by Belmond Andean Explorer package and start planning the perfect adventure through our country in total style and comfort.