The Hiram Bingham train is one of the world’s most luxurious rail journeys, taking passengers from Cusco to the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Named after the American explorer who introduced the world to the “Lost City of the Incas” in 1911, this train ride offers a unique combination of comfort, elegance, and history. Covering approximately 85 kilometers (53 miles) in about four hours, it travels from the Poroy station near Cusco to the town of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Tickets can be purchased online or in person in Cusco.
The Ultimate Luxury Experience
The Hiram Bingham train is not just a means of transportation; it’s an immersive luxury experience. Passengers are welcomed with a cocktail and live music at the station, setting the tone for a memorable journey. Onboard, guests can indulge in gourmet dining—lunch on the way to Machu Picchu and dinner on the return trip. The bar offers a wide selection of drinks, and a live music band provides entertainment throughout the journey. The train’s decor is refined, evoking the elegance of a bygone era with its polished wood and brass fixtures.
The Hiram Bingham experience also includes exclusive access to Machu Picchu. A private tour guide leads passengers through the ancient ruins, sharing insights into the history and significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Additionally, the package includes entrance tickets to Machu Picchu, bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to the ruins, and transportation back to Cusco.
Cost of the Experience
The price for this luxurious train journey is approximately $500 per one-way trip, or $1,000 for a round-trip experience. While the price may seem steep, it covers an all-inclusive luxury service that caters to every need and ensures a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
For those seeking another luxury option, Inca Rail offers “The Private,” a high-end service that provides a private train journey from Cusco to Machu Picchu.
The Andean Explorer: A Journey from Cusco to Arequipa via Puno
For those looking for a more extensive luxury train journey, the Andean Explorer offers a spectacular route from Cusco to Arequipa, with a stop in Puno to explore Lake Titicaca. This journey is one of the highest-altitude train routes in the world, offering breathtaking views of the Andean landscapes. The three-day, two-night journey departs on Thursdays and arrives in Arequipa on Saturdays, covering some of the most iconic destinations in Peru.
Luxury on the Rails
The Andean Explorer boasts 16 beautifully decorated carriages that combine modern luxury with Andean aesthetics. Passengers enjoy a range of amenities, including a piano bar, gourmet meals, cocktails, and canapés, as well as spacious suites with en-suite bathrooms. Each suite includes comfortable beds, a wardrobe, a living area, and modern comforts like hot showers and electric outlets.
The train stops for guided excursions at key attractions, including the Sumbay Caves, known for their ancient rock paintings, and Lake Titicaca, where passengers can visit the famous floating islands of Uros and Taquile. An optional excursion to the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, is also available.
Pricing
Prices for the Andean Explorer vary depending on the type of cabin. A double bunk bed cabin costs approximately $4,000, while a double standard cabin is around $5,000. For those seeking the ultimate luxury, a double suite costs $6,800. Solo travelers can also enjoy this journey, with prices starting at $3,500 for a single bunk bed cabin and going up to $4,550 for a single suite.
Lake Titicaca Luxury Cruises: A Journey to Bolivia
Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake, is one of Peru’s most popular tourist destinations. Located at 3,812 meters (12,507 feet) above sea level, this lake is known for its stunning beauty and rich cultural history. Travelers can explore the Uros and Taquile islands, as well as other attractions, on standard boats or opt for a more luxurious experience aboard a luxury cruise.
The Luxury Cruise Experience
Luxury cruises on Lake Titicaca typically begin in Puno, Peru, and end in La Paz, Bolivia. Along the way, passengers can visit various cultural and natural landmarks, such as the Isla del Sol, Copacabana, and the Intihuatana stone. The cruise ships are equipped with plush amenities, including carpeted floors, panoramic windows, onboard dining with gourmet meals, snacks, and a professional guide who provides insights into the lake’s history and attractions.
Pricing and Itineraries
A two-day, one-night luxury cruise on Lake Titicaca costs around 1,600 soles per person. This all-inclusive service covers meals, accommodations, and guided tours of the lake’s highlights. Cruises can be tailored to one’s preferences, with options for one-, two-, three-, or four-day itineraries.
Luxury Yacht Tours in Paracas: Exploring the Ballestas Islands
The Ballestas Islands in Paracas, located in the Ica region on Peru’s central coast, are a popular destination for tourists due to their rich marine wildlife, including sea lions, penguins, and various seabird species. Visitors can explore these islands on standard boats, but for a more intimate and exclusive experience, luxury yachts are available.
A Private Yacht Adventure
Luxury yacht tours in Paracas offer a more personalized and comfortable way to explore the Ballestas Islands. These private yachts typically depart from the Paracas Luxury Collection Resort’s private dock and accommodate up to 12 passengers. The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes and provides a unique opportunity to experience the local wildlife up close, without the crowds typically associated with standard boat tours.
The yachts are equipped with life jackets, snacks, bottled water, and ample space to relax and enjoy the scenery. Tours are conducted in both Spanish and English, making it accessible to a wide range of visitors.
Cost and Logistics
A luxury yacht tour in Paracas costs around 400 soles per person. Visitors must first travel to Paracas, which is about 259 kilometers (161 miles) from Lima by road. The yacht tour is a fantastic way to see the wildlife and natural beauty of the region in style and comfort.
The Aria Amazon: A Luxury Cruise on the Amazon River
The Amazon River is the largest river in the world by discharge, and it flows through some of the most pristine and biodiverse rainforests on Earth. A luxury cruise on the Amazon is the perfect way to explore the wonders of this region. One of the most luxurious options is the Aria, a high-end river cruise that offers an unforgettable journey through the Peruvian Amazon.
Onboard the Aria
The Aria features 16 luxury suites, each measuring 22 square meters (236 square feet) and equipped with panoramic windows, hot showers, air conditioning, king-sized beds, and elegant decor. Guests can enjoy gourmet meals prepared with local ingredients, as well as guided excursions into the heart of the rainforest.
During the cruise, passengers will visit the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, the Ucayali, Marañón, and Amazon rivers, and more. Wildlife enthusiasts can expect to see pink river dolphins, black caimans, monkeys, jaguars, and a variety of exotic birds.
Pricing and Itineraries
The Aria Amazon offers three, four, and seven-night itineraries, with prices starting at $3,840 for a three-night stay, $5,120 for four nights, and $8,960 for seven nights. The temperature on board remains a comfortable 23°C (73°F), while outside temperatures in the rainforest can exceed 30°C (86°F). The experience is all-inclusive, covering meals, excursions, entrance fees, and guides.
The Delfin Amazon Cruise: Exploring the Loreto Region
The Delfin Amazon Cruises offer another luxurious way to explore the Amazon River. With three different ships—Delfin I, Delfin II, and Delfin III—these cruises provide a unique combination of comfort and adventure in the Peruvian Amazon.
Life Aboard the Delfin Ships
The Delfin fleet offers 22 luxury suites, each with floor-to-ceiling windows that provide stunning views of the river. The suites are equipped with king-sized beds, hot showers, and tasteful decor. Guests can relax in the ship’s lounge, sunbathe on the deck, or take a dip in the onboard swimming pool. Other amenities include a gym, spa, boutique, and gourmet dining room.
During the cruise, passengers will explore the Amazon National Park, the city of Iquitos, and local communities along the river. The journey provides a deep dive into the rich cultural and natural diversity of the region.
Pricing
Prices for the Delfin Amazon Cruises range from $3,600 for a three-night stay to $4,800 for four nights. All cruises depart from Iquitos, which is accessible only by plane from Lima.
Private Yacht to the Palomino Islands: A Marine Adventure Near Lima
The Palomino Islands, located off the coast of Lima, are known for their vibrant marine life, including sea lions and Humboldt penguins. A visit to these islands offers a chance to swim with sea lions in their natural habitat—a unique and thrilling experience.
The Private Yacht Experience
For those looking for an exclusive way to explore the Palomino Islands, private yacht charters are available. These yachts can accommodate up to 12 passengers and include visits to nearby islands such as Lorenzo, Frontón, Cavinzas, and the historic island of San Lorenzo. The yachts are equipped with modern amenities, including snacks, drinks, and comfortable seating areas, making the journey both enjoyable and luxurious.
Cost and Accessibility
A private yacht tour to the Palomino Islands costs around 1,500 soles per person. Tours typically last between 3 and 4 hours and depart from Callao, a major port near Lima.
Whether exploring the Amazon, the high Andes, or the Pacific coast, Peru offers a range of luxury travel experiences that cater to different interests and preferences. From opulent train journeys to private yacht tours, these adventures provide a unique way to explore the country’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty.
