Full day: Luxury train from Cusco to Puno

Travelling on the Titicaca luxury train is a great antidote to the stress of daily life.  A journey on this luxury train requires us to slow down and enjoy this unique window on Peru. This is a slow and contemplative journey from the Andean peaks to the Altiplano in absolute comfort.

The cars are elegant and cozy. Large armchairs, tables covered with white tablecloths, dark brown panelled wood and copper finishes are inspired by “Pullman Style” decoration from the 1920’s. The staff is friendly and the service guarantees an excellent experience throughout the ride.

We start our journey with your pickup from your hotel in Cusco and take you to the train station. The train departures at 07:10am starting slowly moves along the first meters of the track towards Puno. The bell sounds and continues to do so for a good half hour as we make our way through Cusco’s early morning traffic.  The contrast is all the more striking when we leave the chaotic city behind and head into the heart of the Andean countryside. The beauty of the surrounding mountains, mud-brick houses and busy silhouettes in the fields inspires us as we travel along the banks of the Vilcanota River.

The train service has a bar car and an open-air observation car at the back of the train. This is the perfect place to sit with a coffee and enjoy the magic of this journey. There is a permanent sense of tranquility as the train keeps rolling, unhurried onwards. This rolling motion soothes me and my dreamers’ spirit is lost in the splendor of the scenery that unfolds to the sound of a charango and a flute.

Two groups perform during the journey to introduce us to the traditional music and dances of the Cusco and Puno regions. These are social moments that also allow us to meet some of our fellow travellers.

By early afternoon, the train slows down, gasping for breath to reach the station of La Raya at 4300m (14,107 feet). This is the official border between the regions of Puno and Cusco where we make a stop and stretch our legs at a small market selling local textiles.

The train is definitely one of Peruvian highlights and it is well worth it for a unique travel experience.

We will reach the city of Puno around 6pm. Where our driver will be waiting for you to take you to your accommodation in Puno.