Andean Explorer, A Belmond Train

Often overshadowed by its more buzzed about sister train, the Belmond Venice Simplon-Orient- Express, the Belmond Andean Explorer is Peru’s answer to the European classic.

• The open-air section of the viewing car that provides unparalleled views of the Andes
• The live piano during cocktail hour that transports travelers back to the romantic heyday of train travel
• The onboard cocktail class that adds a few new Pisco drinks to participants’ repertoires

Long gone are the times when the journey to the destination was just as enjoyable as the trip itself (no more glamorous air travel or celebrity filled transatlantic crossings), but nostalgic train travel is still within reach in Peru. The Belmond Andean Explorer is South America’s first luxury sleeper train that offers travelers two train itineraries: a one night journey between Cusco and Puno (on the shores of Lake Titicaca) or a two night journey between Cusco, Puno and Arequipa. Both of which are offered in either direction.

With an onboard baby grand piano, two bars, two dining cars, a spa car and activities like cooking and cocktail classes available, the Belmond Andean Explorer is by far the most comfortable way to travel for those visiting Lake Titicaca. While the rooms are well appointed with neutral colors and accented with Peruvian textiles (think soft Alpaca fabrics) and art, the constraints of the train cars result in small accommodations. (Note: We recommend the suites as they are surprisingly spacious for a train and offer the only double beds on board.) Each of the 35 cabins is equipped with an ensuite bathroom, robes, air conditioning and oxygen tanks to make the high altitude more comfortable.

For those wary of sleeping on a moving train, consider the one night journey between Cusco and Puno because the train stops overnight so that passengers can sleep.

For anyone who wants to experience the dying art of train travel, this unique experience is sure to delight.