The Belmond Andean Explorer: A Luxury Hotel on Wheels With World-Class Views (14 photos)
Everyone has heard of five-star hotels, and many have experienced their top-tier service and comfort firsthand. But a five-star hotel on wheels is an exotic treat even for seasoned travelers. The Belmond Andean Explorer is a unique sleeper train featuring VIP luxury carriages that you simply won't want to leave at the end of your journey. 
The luxurious Belmond Andean Explorer sleeper train runs between the Peruvian cities of Arequipa and Cusco. 
However, this isn't your standard commuter or charter rail—it operates as a premier sightseeing tour, allowing guests to explore Peru without having to worry about meals or accommodation. 
The cabins aboard the Belmond Andean Explorer are exceptionally cozy 
No two suites on the train are identical 
The five-star dining car rivals the finest hotel restaurants 
And alongside delicious food, guests can soak in stunning views
Depending on the itinerary, the journey takes two or three days. The train stops at Peru's most iconic landmarks, offering passengers guided excursions along the way. Highlights include must-see destinations such as Machu Picchu, the Colca Canyon, the ancient ruins of Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and the historic center of Arequipa with its remarkable colonial architecture. 
The ruins of Machu Picchu
En route, passengers can take in breathtaking vistas of the Andean mountains and the Pacific coastline. The tracks wind through valleys and tunnels, cross dizzying bridges over rushing mountain streams, and hug sheer cliffside drop-offs. At its highest point, the train reaches a staggering altitude of 4,800 meters (15,750 feet) above sea level! 
Part of the route winds along the coastline's picturesque bays 
The majestic snow-capped peaks of the Andes 
High-altitude desert
The train itself is just as fascinating as its route. The Belmond Andean Explorer features just 24 cabins accommodating up to 48 passengers, offering what might be the most luxurious train travel experience available. The train features an exquisite dining car serving fine vintage wines, fresh oysters, lobster, and premium marbled beef steaks. 
The Belmond Andean Explorer staff delivers world-class service
Yet guests don't even need to leave their spacious suites—each bed is equipped with a butler call button, and room service is available around the clock.
Entertainment options abound as well. Alongside modern amenities like Wi-Fi and satellite TV, travelers can enjoy live music, variety performances, and evening cocktail hours in the shared lounge. 
The lounge car, perfect for unwinding with friends over a cocktail
While the large carriage windows offer sweeping views, guests seeking an even more immersive experience can step onto the open-air observation deck at the rear of the train to take in breathtaking mountain panoramas beneath Peru's endless skies. 
The observation deck
Unsurprisingly, a journey aboard this luxury train comes with a hefty price tag. An all-inclusive day trip starts at around $460 USD per passenger.
