The Train
The Belmond Andean Explorer launched in 2017 as South America's first luxury sleeper train — a fleet of restored Pullman-style carriages refurbished in a design inspired by Peruvian textiles and Art Deco elegance, operating on the world's highest railway at altitudes up to 4,316m. The train runs the Cusco–Puno–Arequipa route (and reverse) over 2 days and 1 night, covering some of the most dramatic Andean scenery in Peru: the ascent through the Sacred Valley, the crossing of the altiplano, the shore of Lake Titicaca, and the descent through the volcanic landscape to Arequipa.
The Most Scenic Train South America: The Route
Day 1 (Cusco to Puno, 10 hours): Departing Cusco at 8am, the train climbs through the Sacred Valley, passing Andean villages and agricultural terraces before ascending to the altiplano at 3,800m. The La Raya Pass (4,321m) — the highest point on the route — delivers a panoramic view of the Andean backbone stretching in both directions. The altiplano section (3–4 hours of open grassland with herds of alpaca and isolated communities) is meditative and beautiful in a way that photographs struggle to convey. Arrival at Puno (Lake Titicaca shore) at 6pm. Dinner on board as the train sits at Puno station, with optional evening visits to Puno town. Day 2 (Puno to Arequipa, 8 hours): Early morning departure along the Lake Titicaca shore before climbing through the volcanic landscape of southern Peru. The descent to Arequipa (2,335m) passes through canyons and lava fields created by Misti volcano's eruption history.
Andean Explorer Cusco Puno Arequipa: Onboard
The train carries 48 guests in 24 twin cabins — small but beautifully designed, with fold-down beds, panoramic windows, and private bathrooms. The observation car at the rear of the train has an open-air platform (the finest position for photography) and lounge seating inside. The dining car serves Peruvian cuisine from a menu designed by executive chef Virgilio Martínez (owner of Central, the world's highest-ranked restaurant) — a genuine fine dining experience at altitude. A spa car offers massage treatments. The bar car has an excellent pisco sour programme.
Cost and Booking
The Andean Explorer operates Saturdays (Cusco–Puno–Arequipa) and Fridays (Arequipa–Puno–Cusco) from April to November. Rates: from $2,100/person for a 2-day journey including all meals, wine, and onboard activities. A 3-night 'Inca Discovery' extension including a Uros floating island excursion on Lake Titicaca adds $800/person. Book through belmond.com, typically 2–4 months ahead for prime season dates. The rate is high by South American standards but competitive with equivalent luxury train experiences in Europe (Venice Simplon-Orient-Express) for the experience delivered. Many travelers combine this journey with a visit to Machu Picchu, making it an excellent addition to a broader Peru itinerary.
