Aboard the Andean Explorer

“Step aboard the Andean Explorer and experience one of the most luxurious trains in Peru. This remarkable Peruvian railway odyssey offers unforgettable journeys, from the ancient Inca capital of Cusco to the shimmering Lake Titicaca floating islands and beyond.” That is how Belmond describes the train — South America’s first luxury sleeper.

The Andean Explorer runs with 35 sleeper cabins, full-board dining and bar, an open-air observation car, a spa carriage, and guided off-board excursions. It departs from Cusco (Wanchaq Station), Puno (Lago Titicaca Station), or Arequipa (Arequipa Station). On board: two dining cars serving Peruvian cuisine, a piano bar car, live entertainment, and oxygen enrichment. Cabins come as suites (double bed and seating), twins (a banquette that converts to two ground-level singles), or bunks (upper and lower berths). Each has a private en-suite.

The published journeys include Peruvian Highlands, two nights from Cusco to Arequipa via Lake Titicaca; Andean Plains and Islands of Discovery, from Arequipa to the floating islands of Uros and on to Cusco; Spirit of the Water, leaving Cusco through the La Raya range toward a sunrise over Lake Titicaca; Spirit of the Valley, Puno to Arequipa, with stargazing at Saracocha and the Sumbay caves; Spirit of the Islands, Arequipa to Lake Titicaca via Lake Saracocha; and Spirit of the Andes, Puno to Cusco. Belmond also lists a Wellness Journey Above Peru, co-created with yoga expert Annie Moves, and a New Year’s Eve journey of three days and two nights through the Peruvian Andes.

Photograph: Belmond Peru.