A 10-hour luxury train ride through the Andes is already an adventure, but what if there were only eight passengers on board? That’s exactly what happened on Kara and Nate’s journey from Cusco to Puno, the gateway to Lake Titicaca. With stunning scenery, gourmet dining, and a cocktail-making class, this was one for the books!
A VIP Train Experience
Most train rides are packed with passengers, but this one felt like a private charter. With only eight guests on board, their experience was intimate and exclusive. This was the first day the train had resumed service since January, making it a unique opportunity to enjoy South America’s landscapes without any major crowds.
Views That Are Tough To Beat
This train ride offers much more than mountain views. The train departs straight through the heart of Cusco, allowing passengers to get a feel for the city. From bustling city streets to remote villages, the train gives you a glimpse into Peru’s culture. And at one point, it even reaches an altitude of over 14,000 feet, making it one of the highest rail journeys in the world. 🤯
A Moving Five-Star Restaurant
A three-course meal on a train? Yes, please! The train includes a gourmet dining experience, featuring Peruvian flavors like potato soup with Andean spices, quinoa risotto, and insaaane chocolate dessert (see video for proof). The wine selection, including Peruvian and Chilean varieties, pairs perfectly with the meal, and the attention to detail—like a beautifully presented breadbasket—adds to the fine dining experience.
Entertainment and Unexpected Wins
Music and culture are woven into the experience, with live performances and a Pisco Sour cocktail-making class for passengers. Even simple moments, like passing through small towns where locals wave at the train just add to the whole trip!
The Best Seat in the House
While assigned seating is available, the real magic happens in the observation car at the back of the train. With open-air windows, this space allows for uninterrupted views of the mountains, rivers, and wildlife. It’s the perfect place to soak in the fresh Andean air and capture once-in-a-lifetime pictures.
The Best Way to Book This Journey for Free
Luxury train travel doesn’t have to break the bank! This exact journey can be booked using Capital One miles, making it an incredible redemption opportunity. Simply use a Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card or Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card to pay for the tickets, then redeem miles at a rate of 1 cent per mile to offset the travel purchase. It’s a straightforward way to turn points into an amazing experience.
For those new to miles and points, this is just one example of how they can be used beyond flights and hotels. Whether it’s a train ride through the Andes or a cruise through the Greek islands, there are endless ways to use rewards for unique travel experiences.
Final Thoughts
This luxury train journey exceeded all expectations (for Kara and Nate 😉). Between the stunning scenery, top-tier service, and unexpected cultural immersion, it’s an experience that’s tough to beat. For anyone considering a trip through Peru, this is an absolute must. And with the ability to book it using points, there’s even more reason to add it to the bucket list.
