The Peruvian Andes aboard a luxury train

When we talk about Peru, the first thing that comes to mind is its emblematic citadel, Machu Picchu, but Peru is much more...it is gastronomy, infinite landscapes, adventure, trains, and above all, its history.

Lima was my first contact with the country, and how could it be otherwise, the ceviche was my first taste to the palate. A few hours in the capital, but enough to realize that the journey had already begun...

It is on arrival in Cuzco, that the famous altitude sickness makes its presence known, because yes, it is true and as real as the 3,400 meters at which the ancient capital of the Inca Empire is located. It is difficult to define the so-called "navel of the world", which is what Cuzco means in Quechua, but without being pretentious, it is simply magical.

Strolling through its ancient cobblestone streets, discovering its baroque churches, and soaking up Andean history by learning about the remains of Inca temples, this city will captivate you from the very first moment.

All roads lead to the Plaza de Armas, where we find its famous baroque cathedral (one of the best examples of colonial architecture) and the nerve center of daily life in the city, which invites you to stroll and walk slowly, as we are still acclimatizing to the altitude. If your lung capacity is on your side, a visit to the charismatic Barrio de San Blas is a must, as the views of Cuzco from its vantage point are unbeatable.

Life aboard the train starts from Cuzco, specifically from the Poroy station, at km 18, a scenic journey of approximately three hours, contemplating a fantastic landscape and waiting impatiently for the arrival at Machu Picchu. 

During the journey on the exclusive Hiram Bingham train, named after the American explorer who discovered the ruins of Machu Picchu in the early twentieth century, you will have a unique experience. The service is unsurpassed and the culinary offer goes along with the tour, taking care of every detail. The carriages are painted blue and gold with an elegant decoration in the style of the Pullman trains of the 1920s, - a real trip back in time!

For the more intrepid the observatory car provides the opportunity to dance to the rhythm of the Peruvian cajon with live traditional music and of course a pisco sour, or two.

What awaits at Machu Picchu is indescribable. This Inca citadel, which was discovered in the early twentieth century, stands amidst ruins. Its green terraces with the backdrop of the Andean mountain ranges make up a spectacle that exceeds expectations. To say more about Machu Picchu would not be objective. Therefore ... I can only invite you to discover it for yourself.

The experience in Hiram Bingham was only the prelude to what was to come. How would it be to travel the Peruvian highlands without getting off the train or even to sleep? I was ready to find out. At the Cuzco station I was waiting for what was to be my home for the next few days, Belmond Andean Explorer, South America's first luxury overnight train that glides from Cuzco, the capital of the Inca Empire, across the high Andean plains to the white city of Arequipa.

A three-day, two-night adventure where reaching the top of Peru was once unimaginable. I am not exaggerating if I say that this experience remains in my memory, from the reception in this peculiar train hotel, through its refined and contemporary culinary offerings, to the experiences on board, all in an environment where the crew is part of the trip, giving a sense of family and comfort. 

In contrast to the striking landscape that the Andean Explorer travels through, each twin or double cabin offers a relaxing blend of Peruvian details and built-in oxygen to ensure the utmost comfort at these altitudes.

La Raya, at more than 4,000 meters above sea level, marks the border between the Cuzco and Puno regions. The train makes its first stop at this point as the sun sets among the Andes, possibly one of the best sunsets to be seen in all of Peru.

On the way back, and while the train heads to the Lago Titicaca station, dinner is the perfect moment to continue enjoying exquisite local products.

But it is when the sunrise peaks through the window, that you truly realize where you are. It is often said that a beach destination resembles a paradise for its crystal clear waters, etc. But what about mountain paradise? - Without a doubt, it is here.

It is after breakfast that the exploration of Lake Titicaca and the islands of the Uros, peculiar artificial islands created from carefully woven reeds and constantly renewed by their population.

On the way back to the train, the Saracocha Lagoon is the next stop for the night. A journey of winding curves enjoying, again, an innovative cuisine and stunning scenery. When the train stops, you assume that you have reached your destination, but it is not until the next sunrise that you see this immense lagoon.

From Lake Titicaca, the train heads to Arequipa where this extraordinary journey on wheels through the fascinating landscapes of this impressive country that is Peru ends.