Choose a different form of transportation and see South America in a truly special way, by train! Do you want us to list the numerous advantages of traveling by train or shall we start with presenting your our favorite South America train journeys? With multiple luxury train options, you won’t have to sacrifice your comfort level. Check out these fantastic routes, you won’t want to miss on your trip to South America – these top trains are sure to make your visit unforgettable.
Hiram Bingham
To see Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, you’ve got to ride aboard the best. This high end train will let you travel between Cusco and Machu Picchu in style. The Hiram Bingham has a little something for everyone. Performances and music keep riders entertained, while the food provides a delicious local taste of Peru. This is the only train journey on which your welcome drink is a Pisco Sour!
The best part, though, are the views! Enjoy the breathtaking mountain scenery from the observation car, with its large windows on the sides and up top. You’ll be sure not to miss a thing with such a perfect panorama from every angle while traveling through the Sacred Valley, past ancient villages and with the Andes Mountains in the background. Enjoy a truly fantastic ambiance during your top notch train ride on the Hiram Bingham.
Andean Explorer
Another Peruvian luxury train ride! You could fly from Cusco to Lake Titicaca to make the transfer from Machu Picchu to Lake Titicaca, but then you’d be missing out on this incredible Andean Explorer trip. With breathtaking landscapes, from mountains to the green highlands this is the perfect opportunity to once again enjoy the incredible Andean scenery. This unique ten hour journey ends at Lake Titicaca, world’s highest navigable lake.
These wagons dating from the 1920’s pull you through the mountains in style, all style decorated in the style of the great Pullman trains of the twenties. Upscale dining experiences, on board activities and a special back viewing wagon with an open back that allow you to really feel the magic of the Andes make this train journey complete. The Andean Explorer is one of the most luxurious journeys in between Cusco and Lake Titicaca.
Train to the Clouds
At over 1,400 feet above sea level, you’ll really feel like you’re flying high in this one of a kind train. The Train to the Clouds as you can imagine is one of the highest railways in the world. Located in Northwestern Argentina, you can take this 16 hour ride ride from Salta to La Polvorilla Viaduct, winding around 29 bridges, 21 tunnels, 13 viaducts, 2 spirals and 2 zigzags. It’s an engineering wonder and a feast for the eyes.
Within these 16 hours you will stop twice and visit local villages. One of these towns is San Antonio de los Cobres, here you will be able to explorer the beautiful handicraft items made by locals, clothes and other regional products.
It’s quite the adventure, but totally worth the ride as the views along the whole route are not describable in words!
Other interesting train journeys in Brazil and Argentina which are not that common, but as unique as the others are the Great Brazil Express and the End of the World Train. Both journeys are not included in Class Adventure Travel’s classic tours, but can be presented in a completely customized itinerary!
Great Brazil Express
If you’re really in to trains and want to make a whole trip out of it, consider the Great Brazil Express. This one offers itineraries for 7 days or more. This ride is super lux and super exclusive. Only a handful of passengers get the privilege of making the journey each trip. You’ll enjoy plush interiors and white glove service as you glide past the beautiful countryside. The train visits popular destinations, such as Rio de Janeiro, Iguassu and Curitiba so you’ll be able to catch the highlights as well.
The End of the World Train
It’s the southernmost functioning train in the world. This adorable old fashioned steamer looks like it was plucked straight from your antique toy train collection and guarantees a fun time. You’ll tour a sub Antarctic forest, dotted with mountains and lakes. It’s like riding through a postcard. If you make it all the way down here, it’s a must.
Contact one of Class Adventure Travels Destination Specialist for a customized itinerary that includes any of the South American train journeys through the most beautiful landscapes.
Photo credits
Hiram Bingham – Peru Rail
Andean Explorer – Peru Rail
Train to the Clouds – Tren a las Nubes
