Uncovering more of Peru’s Wonders
Are your clients changing interests and looking for an adventure in Peru that lies beyond the well-trodden path to Machu Picchu, and are now asking: What’s next? It is time to introduce them to the charm of southern Peru, where the “White City” of Arequipa and the majestic Colca Canyon await. This is a journey best experienced aboard the elegant Andean Explorer train.
Crafting a Fresh Itinerary in Peru
Moving between regions in the Andes can be an off-the-beaten-path option to add a new experience for your clients. Southern Peru offers a less-crowded and slower travel alternative, allowing travelers to immerse themselves fully in the region’s culture and landscape.
Arequipa, The Perfect Beginning
Nestled under the watch of three towering volcanoes, Arequipa is a city that radiates a unique brilliance. Known as the “White City,” its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built from a stunning white volcanic stone called sillar. Imagine your clients strolling through the vibrant Plaza de Armas, exploring the Santa Catalina Monastery, or delving into Inca history at the Museum of Andean Sanctuaries. Arequipa is also a culinary hotspot, famous for its picanterías, which serve up bold local dishes like rocoto relleno and chupe de camarones.
Colca Canyon’s Majesty
From Arequipa, the adventure deepens with a journey to the Colca Canyon—one of the world’s deepest canyons, nearly twice as deep as the Grand Canyon. This is where nature’s grandeur is on full display. The ultimate highlight for many is a visit to the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, where the majestic Andean condors soar right before your eyes. Beyond this unforgettable spectacle, the region offers incredible hiking trails, visits to traditional villages, and the chance to relax in natural hot springs like those at La Calera.
The Andean Explorer Train: Exclusivity in Every Tour
As South America’s first luxury sleeper train with a capacity of 48 guests, it connects Cusco, Titicaca Lake, and Arequipa effortlessly. This is more than just a journey; it is an all-inclusive experience in itself. Travelers will glide through the vast, dramatic landscapes of the Andes in unparalleled comfort. The journey includes gourmet dining inspired by local ingredients, cocktails in the panoramic observatory car, and elegant private cabins in 3 categories, with their bathrooms, ensuring a truly exclusive and restful adventure.
Also, travelers can join specially crafted excursions to astounding highlights such as Raqchi Archaeological Site, Titicaca Lake Islands, and Sumbay caves. Additionally, the train offers wow moments to surprise travelers during the journey to celebrate special moments such as birthdays, anniversaries, or honeymoons. Or if travelers want more intimacy for an even memorable experience or a corporate event, you can reserve the train for a private journey.
Expert Tips for the Ideal Trip to Arequipa & Colca
- How to get there? Travelers can take a quick flight from Lima or Cusco. For land travel, comfortable buses are available, including a scenic 6-hour journey from Puno, a 10-hour overnight trip from Cusco, or a Lima 15–17 hours long-distance buses. For a more luxurious option, the Belmond Andean Explorer train offers an upscale, scenic journey connecting Arequipa with both Cusco and Puno.
- Best Time to Travel: Book during the dry season (May to October) for clear skies ideal for sightseeing and condor viewing.
- What to pack? Pack versatile, layered clothing, including a warm jacket for cool nights and comfortable walking shoes, high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. A day pack is useful for carrying daily essentials, personal medications, travel documents, and local currency. Also, pack one slightly formal outfit if you are joining the Andean Explorer train journey.
- It is recommended to have a minimum of 3 days and 2 nights onboard the Andean Explorer to enjoy a full exploration from Cusco to Arequipa and proper acclimatization.
- You can extend your visit in Arequipa to explore its surroundings, such as the Colca Canyon, the Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve, hiking to Misti Volcano, and joining the Sillar route that showcases the unique white volcanic stone known as sillar, which is used in many buildings in Arequipa.
- The region offers a range of accommodations for all types of budgets, from luxury hotels to standard accommodations in Arequipa and Colca Valley.
A journey that stands apart awaits in Peru! We can help you design seamless itineraries that will impress even your most seasoned travelers. Contact us to access exclusive insights and best experiences in southern Peru.
Published in August 2025
