Imagine traveling on a luxury train Cusco – Puno – Arequipa or Arequipa – Puno – Cusco and discovering remote places in the Andes of southern Peru, living great moments in the company of tourists and people who live in local communities and contemplating the most impressive natural landscapes with a Pisco sour, it seems like a dream come true.
You can enjoy these magical and incredible experiences through the most exclusive ride on rails that Peru has and that unites, for 3 days and 2 nights, the regions of Cusco, Puno and Arequipa. It is an unprecedented adventure that will captivate you from start to finish with everything it has to offer.
A journey Through The Heart of the Andes of Peru
The trip of the Belmond Andean Explorer Train has as its starting point the city of Cusco. Upon departure, you will have time to settle into your assigned compartment -with capacity for 6 people- and then enjoy the welcome cocktail in the company of the crew and other travelers.
Two hours later, the first stop to visit is the archaeological complex of Raqchi; an ancient enclosure where the Incas built emblematic large constructions, such as extensive canals, underground tombs and a large number of temples.
Later, you will get to know the charming indigenous community of Suttoc Paccha, where you will discover the lifestyle of its inhabitants who are dedicated to the recovery and conservation of agricultural land and pastures. Be sure to try their exquisite Andean cheeses.
The walk continues through the viewpoint of La Raya, located between the border of Cusco and Puno. With more than 4 thousand meters of height, this place offers a privileged view of the impressive Andean landscape surrounded by majestic snow-capped mountains. The day concludes with a toast and a gala dinner in the carriage, accompanied by live music by a pianist.
The next day, Lake Titicaca welcomes travelers with all its scenic beauty. The experience includes a walk through its placid waters and a visit to the famous Uros Islands: an artificial archipelago where more than 300 Aymara families live, dedicated to artisanal fishing and textiles.
It is an ancient indigenous community that maintains to this day the tradition of building rafts based on reeds – a plant native to the area -, which they use to travel to other places. The day ends at sunset with a stop at the Sara Cocha lagoon, located between the border of Arequipa and Puno.
The last day of the trip has the city of Arequipa as its arrival point. After crossing the Andes Mountain Range all night, travelers will wake up accompanied by the magnificent view of the Chachani, Misti and Pichu Pichu volcanoes that surround the White City.
The journey continues towards the Colca Canyon -one of the most important tourist destinations in all of Peru- where there will be time to take pictures and admire the wonderful Andean condor up close.
This place not only conquers for the spectacular landscape that makes up its deep valley, but also because it is the habitat of this bird, one of the most representative in the country. The majestic flight that it offers in the sky in which its enormous wings and its white and dark plumage predominate, produce a fascinating spectacle worth admiring.
The trip concludes, three hours later, with the arrival in the historic center of Arequipa. And what better way to close this incredible experience enjoying the delicious and varied cuisine of Arequipa. Indulge yourself and go ahead and try its exquisite dishes in one of the many restaurants located in the Plaza de Armas.
Dare to Live This Unique Experience
If you’re planning on taking this fascinating journey, keep in mind that prices range from $1,000 to $5,500 per person, depending on the package chosen. Do not miss the opportunity to be part of this magical adventure, specially designed for tourists to spend great moments that will be remembered forever.
Enjoy the magic of the luxury train Cusco – Puno – Arequipa!