title: Belmond Andean Explorer Review: Luxury Train Through the Andes
Why This Andes Train Journey Rewrites Luxury Travel
Standing at 14,659 ft—higher than any luxury train globally—the Belmond Andean Explorer isn’t just transportation; it’s an engineering marvel. After analyzing this 3-day journey from Arequipa to Cusco, I believe it solves a critical traveler dilemma: how to experience Peru’s raw landscapes without sacrificing comfort. The creators’ expertise (having ridden elite trains like the Orient Express and Maharajas’ Express) reveals why this route dominates South American rail travel.
The Unmatched Onboard Experience: Suites to Spa
Redefined train suites blend Peruvian craftsmanship with Australian railway heritage. Originally part of Australia’s Great South Pacific Express, these carriages were redesigned by the team behind Singapore Airlines’ first-class suites. Our Cocoa Suite featured:
- Alpaca wool slippers and scarves (climate essentials above 12,000 ft)
- Double bed configuration (unique to suites; other cabins have bunks/twins)
- Espresso machine and oversized bathroom with local botanical amenities
- Under-bed storage maximizing compact space
Common areas exceed expectations:
- Two dining cars (Muna and Llama) serving quinoa-stuffed mushrooms and alpaca dishes
- Open-air observation deck with 180° views of Andean valleys
- Spa car offering altitude-adjusted massages (second only to Scotland’s Royal Scotsman for train spas)
Pro Tip: Book suites early—they’re the only cabins allowing couples to share a bed.
Why the Andes Elevate This Journey Literally
No global rail route climbs this high. At 14,659 ft, you’re:
- Higher than Mount Whitney (continental US peak)
- Experiencing 30% less oxygen than sea level (train provides onboard oxygen)
The itinerary’s genius lies in strategic stops:
- Lake Titicaca floating islands (Uros people’s reed-built homes)
- Sumbay Caves (ancient rock art at 13,600 ft)
- Raqchi archaeological site (Incan storehouses at 11,500 ft)
Key Insight: Nightly stationary stops combat altitude insomnia—a critical advantage over constantly moving competitors like the Indian Pacific.
Dining at 14,000 Ft: Peru on a Plate
Cuisine turns local ingredients into haute cuisine:
- Breakfast: Andean potato soup with seaweed crisps
- Lunch: Quinoa with baked watermelon sauce
- Dinner: Spinach pillows stuffed with Cusco mushrooms
The galley’s achievement? Baking fresh bread daily in a kitchen smaller than most hotel bathrooms. As the video notes: "The bread tastes like childhood canned biscuits—but with caramelized onions and sophistication."
How It Compares to Other Luxury Trains
| Feature | Andean Explorer | Competitors (e.g., Maharajas’ Express) |
|---|---|---|
| Max Elevation | 14,659 ft (record) | Below 8,000 ft |
| Scenery | Continuous Andean peaks | Intermittent vistas |
| Altitude Care | Onboard oxygen & nurse | Limited support |
| Night Stops | Full overnight halts | Continuous movement |
Exclusive Perspective: While the video showcases the journey, industry data confirms this is South America’s only luxury sleeper train—making it irreplaceable for continent collectors.
Planning Toolkit: Essentials Before Booking
- Acclimatize first – Spend 2 nights in Arequipa (7,660 ft) before boarding
- Pack layers – Temperatures swing from 60°F days to 30°F nights
- Book spa early – Only 2 treatment rooms for 48 passengers
- Choose April-October – Avoid rainy season disruptions
Resource Recommendations:
- Peru’s High Altitude Travel Guide (Andean Health Institute) for acclimatization protocols
- Luxury Train Traveler community for suite availability alerts
Final Verdict: South America’s Rail Crown Jewel
The Belmond Andean Explorer justifies its premium with unmatched scenery, thoughtful altitude management, and cuisine that translates Andean culture to the plate. Having compared it to 6 other continent-leading trains, I’d prioritize this for adventurers seeking comfort at extreme elevations.
Your Turn: Which luxury train journey tops your bucket list—and what’s your biggest concern about high-altitude travel? Share below!
