Train routes through Peru: Scenic trips for landscape lovers

If you are a traveler who enjoys impressive landscapes, traveling through Peru by train is one of the most unforgettable experiences you can have. From snow-capped mountains to green valleys and rushing rivers, the country's tourist trains offer unique routes to discover its natural and cultural beauty in a comfortable and fascinating way.

Here we present the most spectacular routes:

1. Train to Machu Picchu: A magical journey through the Sacred Valley

Route: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
Duration: 1.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on the starting point
Operators: PeruRail and Inca Rail

The train to Machu Picchu is the most popular in Peru and offers stunning views of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. During the tour, you will be able to see imposing mountains, Inca agricultural terraces, and the Urubamba River winding through the landscape.

Featured options:

• Hiram Bingham (deluxe): A train inspired by the golden age of train travel, with live music, gourmet lunch and cocktails.
• Vistadome: With panoramic windows on the roof so you don't miss any detail of the landscape.
• Expedition: A more accessible option, but with the same incredible view.

2. Andean Explorer: From Cusco to Lake Titicaca and Arequipa

Route: Cusco – Puno (Lake Titicaca) – Arequipa
Duration: 1 to 3 days (depending on the route chosen)
Operator: Belmond

Considered one of the most luxurious trains in the world, the Andean Explorer Cross the majestic Peruvian Andes on a trip full of unforgettable landscapes. You will pass through highlands, snow-capped mountains and small Andean communities.

Highlights:

• Lake Titicaca: A stop to explore the floating islands of the Uros and the island of Taquile.
• The Stripe: The highest point of the route (4,319 meters above sea level), with spectacular views of the Andes.
• Colca Canyon: If you take the route to Arequipa, you can explore one of the deepest canyons in the world.

The train has private cabins, an observatory car and a spa car for an unparalleled experience.

3. Central Andino Railway: The second highest train in the world

Route: Lima – Huancayo
Duration: Approximately 12 hours
Operator: Andean Central Railway

This is one of the most impressive train trips in South America. Starting in Lima, the train ascends to 4,782 m.a.s.l. in Ticlio, the highest railway point in America. Along the way, it crosses impressive tunnels, bridges and zigzags as it travels through the country's central mountain range.

Highlights:

• Infiernillo Bridge: An impressive railway structure suspended between two mountains.
• La Oroya: An important mining center with a unique Andean landscape.
• Huancayo: Known for its artisan market and the beautiful Laguna de Paca.

This train operates on special dates, so it is advisable to book in advance.

4. Tacna – Arica Train: A historic journey between Peru and Chile

Route: Tacna (Peru) – Arica (Chile)
Duration: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Operator: Chilean State Railway Company

This train is a historical gem, as it has operated since 1856 and is the last international passenger railway in Peru. It is a short, but very picturesque, route, passing through the desert and old railway stations.

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