Belmond Andean Explorer – Peru
Belmond Andean Explorer is South America’s first luxury sleeper train, offering guests the chance to see some of Peru’s most beautiful landscapes in five-star comfort and style. Step onboard and you will discover breath-taking mountainscapes, vibrant cities and uninhabited wilderness on the world’s highest rail route. The train offers the choice of one- or two-night journeys, exploring ancient cities, the Inca empire and enjoying breath-taking vistas. On board, you’ll find modern style, exquisite food, a spa and cabins fit for royalty. Step on board this magnificent train and enjoy the view of Peru’s mighty landscapes as it soars across the Andean plains.
Prices from: US $462
Passengers: 48
Carriages: 16
Departing from: Puno and Cusco
Journey length: 1 or 2 nights
South America’s first luxury sleeper train, Belmond Andean Explorer, passes through La Raya, Peru, during its journey between Arequipa, Lake Titicaca and Cusco. The train cuts through some of the most breathtaking scenery in Peru and features 24 cabins, Peruvian cuisine by Executive Chef Diego Munoz, an elegant piano bar and outdoor observation car. Picture credit should read: Matt Crossick 
Belmond Andean Explorer journeys
The Belmond Andean Explorer offers a choice of one or two-night journeys:
One-night ‘Spirit of the Andes Tour’ – Puno to Cusco (departs every Wednesday) – Leaving Puno in south-eastern Peru, you will travel to Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. En-route you’ll get to stop at the La Raya market, where friendly locals sell colourful handicrafts and traditional ware.
Two-night ‘Peruvian Highlands Tour’ – Cusco, Puno, Arequipa (departs every Thursday). Journeying from Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, the train will take you through the highest plains of the Andes before arriving to the reflective beauty of Lake Titicaca. Visit vibrant Puno, enjoy seeing the local wildlife in the Colca Canyon before arriving in Arequipa, Peru’s second city which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Belmond Andean Explorer train
The striking midnight-blue livery of the Belmond Andean Explorer gives guests a clue to the cool and contemporary design in each of the 16 carriages. Inspired by Peruvian colours and design, on board you’ll find light, earthy tones and vibrant colours together with soft leathers and alpaca wool. Each carriage is named after the flora and fauna found along the route. On board you’ll find:
The Lounge car – this serves as the train’s hub. Housing a grand piano, it’s the perfect spot for meeting new friends and swapping life stories over expertly blended cocktails.
The Observation Bar Car – situated at the front of the train, this is the perfect open-air spot to enjoy the fresh Andean air and jaw-dropping views as the train travels through the Peruvian countryside.
The Spa Car – for a totally indulgent treat, head to the spa car for a relaxing Andean ritual and soothing massage.
Cabins on Belmond Andean Explorer
On this unique train you will be travelling up to 4,000ft, so each ensuite cabin comes with built-in oxygen for additional comfort at high altitudes. All sleeper carriages are ensuite with private showers and WCs. The beds are comfy and decorated with modern soft furnishings. The train consists of 8 Double Bed Suites; 11 Twin Bed Cabins; 5 Bunk Bed Cabins.
Bunk bed cabins – These carriages offer an authentic sleeper train experience. In the day the carriage offers guests a long banquette to sit on before transforming into comfortable upper and lower single beds at night.
Twin bed cabins – During the day these cabins are configured with a long banquette and comfy seats. At night, these are changed to two single beds.
Suite Cabins – By day, these cabins boast a seating area with two chairs and a table. By night, you’ll be treated to a cosy double bed.
Food and drink
There are two dining cars on the train – Llama and Muña. Each car has been decorated in modern hues with soft, buttery leathers, offering guests all the décor of some of the world’s best restaurants. As you’d expect from Belmond, the food offering offers a dining adventure where those on board are given the chance to enjoy some of Peru’s best flavours and dishes included ceviche and Lomo Saltado. From delicious breakfasts to midnight stacks, the highly trained on-board chefs deliver sumptuous fare.
Dress code
Whilst there is no official dress code for the Belmond Andean Explorer, this five-star train offers guests the chance to dress up for dinner so make sure you take a few smart outfits with you. You’ll also need casual wear for the daytime excursions.
Fellow passengers
Well-heeled travellers from around the world enjoy travelling on this fantastic train so expect to meet explorers from around the world. With so few guests on board, you’ll soon be swapping life stories with your fellow passengers.
What’s included
This is an all-inclusive trip, so everything is included in the fare – from your accommodation to the excursions and all meals and drinks.
Pros and cons
This is one of the world’s most luxurious train journeys and with everything included, the price of the fare is worth it. Our only niggle is that we’d like to travel on this train for more than two nights.