There’s something mystical about the Andean Highlands of Peru. Its towering, snow-capped mountain ranges and lush, high plateaus were once the preserve of the mighty Incan Empire, a civilisation that has long since gone, but whose legacy and spiritual traditions are still seen and experienced in this corner of the world. Nature takes precedence here, with the giant Andean Condor commanding the skies, the Andean Bear roaming the ground and where cloud forests interchange with tablelands and piercingly blue lakes. It’s fresh, bold and wild, and for those aboard the Andean Explorer, A Belmond Train, sprinkled with Peruvian-inspired luxury.
Softy clacking its way through this vast territory, Belmond’s Andean Explorer offers passengers a ticket to delve into contemporary opulence while snaking their way through the Andes. Enjoying 35 cabins that span 20 carriages, it was South America’s first luxury sleeper train when it first took to the rails in 2017 and now whisks guests across Peru through a series of six train journeys that cover majestic sites such as the spellbinding Lake Titicaca, Cusco—a designated World Heritage Site by UNESCO and gateway to Machu Picchu—and the colonial-era capital of Arequipa, which is framed by three volcanoes.
Showcasing a silky, midnight blue livery that shimmers in the moonlight, guests have the choice to spend the night in Twin Bed or Suite Cabins. Spread out over 13.1 square metres, the Suite Cabin is the more lavish of the pair, with a plush double bed complemented by a cosy, leather seating area with two chairs and a table. There’s also an en suite bathroom, fashioned from local stone, for those who wish to luxuriate at 1,200 metres above sea level. Interior design pays homage to the local culture with colourful Peruvian accents, sublime timber finishing and walls adorned by linen. Exquisite touches include a bottle of Champagne and a vibrant bouquet of flowers greeting guests on arrival, and the services of a dedicated team ready to cater for any whim or want.
Peru’s culinary heritage and excellence is showcased in the two beautiful carriages, Llama and Muña, named after a soothing Andean herb. Welcoming passengers into a space that is bathed in natural light thanks to panoramic windows, mealtimes are a feast for the eyes as well as the palate with artisanal millwork mingling with muted hues and luscious leathers. When appetites are sated, guests can relax on grey, tweed sofas in the Lounge Car as they indulge in a tasty cocktail accompanied by the gentle tinkle of a grand piano. For a more alfresco approach, passengers are invited to take their place at the Observation Bar Car and sip on a Pisco Sour while breathing in the crisp air as the train rumbles through the beautiful scenery.
In the gorgeous spa car, Picaflor, travellers can get in touch with their spiritual side while indulging in a divine treatment. Named after the delicate hummingbird and sporting the ancient Chakana cross—an Incan motif that represents the marriage of the earth, underworld and heavens—the spa car’s signature experiences include the Altitude Acclimatization experience that promises to ward off the effects of the rarefied air with a combination of aromatherapy, regional herbal essences and a massage.
Of course, the luxury extends beyond life onboard. Take the Highlands Journey experience: priced from US $5,114 per person, double occupancy, the six-day/five-night journey incorporates stays in a Junior Suite at the spectacular Palacio Nazarenas, A Belmond Hotel in Cusco and the idyllic retreat of Las Casitas, A Belmond Hotel in Colca Canyon (Garden View Suite). The adventure also includes visits to Lake Titicaca, the floating islands of the Uros, Sumbay Caves and its 3,000-year-old paintings and the bustling market of La Raya. Andean Explorer, A Belmond Train’s journeys run throughout the year and can be booked online.
Belmond.com
