Belmond Andean Explorer Sleeper Train

The Belmond Andean Explorer in Peru is renowned for being the first luxury sleeper train in South America. It is train travel at its finest, traversing one of the highest rail routes in the world through the Andean plateau. The Belmond train was brought over from Australia in 2016, when the carriages were fully refurbished, ready to make the first journey from Cusco to Lake Titicaca in May 2017.

"I have now made the journey between Cusco and Puno by coach, on the PeruRail Titicaca train and the Belmond Andean Explorer train. Whilst I have enjoyed all the trips, I found the Belmond Andean Explorer to be by far the most enjoyable, combining glamour, romance, luxury and service.” – Luca Newbold, Llama Travel.

Read a full account of his trip here.

About the Belmond Andean Explorer

Travelling from Cusco to Lake Titicaca, the Belmond train carves its path at 4800 metres on the Altiplano, past archaeological sites, snowy landscapes and local communities. There are two dining cars on board, as well as an observation car and a lounge car, complete with baby grand piano.

Accommodation

The train can accommodate up to 48 guests at a time in a variety of cabins.

Bunk Bed Cabin

Cabin size: 2.7m x 2.05m

Two single bunk-style beds, one on upper and one on lower berth

Beds are 1.86m x 0.67m

During the day the bunks fold so there is one banquette

Wardrobe

En-suite shower, washbasin & WC

Twin Bed Cabin (available for a supplement)

Cabin size: 3.6m x 2.05 m

Two single beds side by side

Beds are 1.86m x 0.67m

During the day, one folds into a seat so there is a seat and a banquette

Wardrobe

En-suite shower, washbasin & WC

Junior Suite (available for a supplement)

Cabin size: 6.4m x 2.05m

Double bed is 2m x 1.35m

Small sitting area with 2 chairs and a table

Long wardrobe

A small en-suite with shower, washbasin, WC, pedestal & vanity

Deluxe Suite (available for a supplement)

Cabin size: 6.4m x 2.05m

Double bed is 2m x 1.35m

Small sitting area with 2 chairs and a table

Long wardrobe

A larger en-suite with shower, washbasin, WC, pedestal & vanity 

(Please note that while the en-suite is slightly larger in the Deluxe suite, the room itself is slightly smaller than in the Junior suite)

Dining

There are two dining cars, where meals are served. Many of the ingredients come from the surrounding region, with a good range of traditional dishes to choose from. 

Breakfast, afternoon tea (finger sandwiches, pastries, biscuits and a selection of teas) and three-course lunch and dinner are included.

“All the food was good, with a clear consommé followed by sea bass. The chocolate dessert rounded things off nicely, and the accompanying Chilean Sauvignon Blanc was excellent.” – Luca Newbold

Other Amenities

The train comprises of 24 en-suite cabins, two dining cars, lounge car, glass-walled observation car and spa car. The spa offers relaxing treatments and massages. Between excursions there is time to admire the scenery from the observation car or have a drink at the bar. The lounge car features large windows, comfortable seating and a baby grand piano for evening entertainment.

Luggage

Due to space restrictions in the cabins, please only take an overnight bag up to 5kg. Your main luggage (one piece per passenger) will be stowed in the luggage car, which you can access by requesting it from the crew on board during the trip. Your luggage will be taken to your hotel when you arrive in Puno.

Belmond Train Itinerary: Cusco to Puno

The Belmond train journey begins in Cusco, setting off for Puno, on the shore of Lake Titicaca, in the morning. There is an excursion to the Inca site of Raqchi, after lunch, before continuing on to Puno. The train arrives at Lake Titicaca after dark, and passengers retire to their cabins after dinner for a night spent on the train, beside the lake. After a scenic breakfast the following morning, disembark the train to visit the islands of Uros and Taquile.

This is a great alternative way to experience some of Peru’s beautiful scenery while enjoying the service onboard the luxury train. You can read a first-hand account of a stay on the Belmond Andean Explorer on our blog here.