Tren Crucero, Ecuador

For a unique way to experience Ecuador’s diverse natural beauty, from the shores of the Pacific Ocean to the highlands of the Andes, join a 4 night journey (from Guayaquil to Quito or Quito to Guayaquil) that follows in the footsteps of many scientists and explorers of the past. Whilst you travel on the train during the day each evening you’re transferred to a nearby hotel or estancia.  The properties have been selected for their character, charm and links with the local communities.

A modernised steam locomotive, electric-diesel (it’s still a ‘steam-train’ using diesel not coal to heat the water) has been lovingly restored. The locomotive pulls a convoy of two luxury, Colonial and Republican-style passenger cars carrying just fifty guests, which ensures a very personalized service level for all. The most memorable section of the route is a steep descent through wild mountain scenery known as the ‘Devil’s Nose’, which sees the track drop 500m in elevation over the course of only 12km.

On this journey on-board Tren Crucero you will climb (or descend) about 4,000 metres in roughly 510 kilometres, thus experiencing one of the most dramatic changes in vegetation and scenery in the world as the train travels through the fertile plains of the coast into a dense cloud forest that slowly clears before the imposing walls of the Andes.

Belmond Hiram Bingham Train to Machu Picchu

Considered one of the most beautiful routes in the world, this luxury train journey takes you from Cuzco to the base of world-famous Machu Picchu in the Peruvian Andes and vice versa. The journey can be taken as a return trip or perhaps as a special treat for the journey back from Machu Picchu to Cusco and a very fitting end to your time at Machu Picchu.  The route follows the Urabamba river passing through rural communities, farms and is overlooked by snow-capped mountains and closer to Machu Picchu lush forest.   The carriages are beautiful and the 5pm train back to Cusco offers an excellent dinner inclusive of drinks – it really is a perfect way to complete your visit to Machu Picchu.

Belmond Andean Explorer, Peru

Commencing in May 2017, the Belmond Andean Explorer is a new service offering South America’s first luxury sleeper train, taking guests from Cusco to Lake Titicaca. There are two different options one ending in Puno the other continuing on to the Colca Canyon and the city of Arequipa. Due to the altitude we would only recommend this to guests who’ve acclimatised in Cusco, as the train journey takes you over 4800 metres in altitude before dropping back down to the shores of Lake Titicaca.

Planning Your Train Journey

The Tren Crucero (4 departures per month) in Ecuador and the Andean Explorer (weekly departures) in Peru depart are on set days – so careful planning is needed to work them into your itinerary.

To book your holiday in South America contact us on 1300 784 794 or email: contact@satc.com.au.