A Firsthand Review of Belmond’s Hiram Bingham Train: Luxury Rail to Machu Picchu
The Belmond Hiram Bingham train offers an unparalleled luxury experience for travelers seeking to reach Machu Picchu in style. Named after the American explorer who rediscovered the Inca citadel in 1911, this train journey embodies the essence of elegance and adventure. The train’s meticulously restored 1920s-style carriages evoke the golden age of rail travel, complete with polished brass, velvet banquettes, and gleaming wood panels. Each element is designed to transport passengers back to a bygone era of sophistication and refinement.
Introduction to the Belmond Hiram Bingham Train
The journey begins at Poroy train station, just outside Cusco, where guests are greeted with a welcome drink and treated to onboard meals featuring Peruvian, Argentinian, and Chilean cuisine, complemented by local wines and drinks. The train’s limited capacity ensures a personalized experience, with only 42 seats available in the dining carriage. Passengers can enjoy their journey in privacy, with tables allocated for couples or groups, never shared with strangers.
Key Highlights of the Journey
The Belmond Hiram Bingham train offers a range of exclusive inclusions that make the journey truly memorable:
- Welcome Drink and Onboard Meals: Enjoy a lunch service featuring local delicacies and an open bar offering Pisco Sour, wines, and beers.
- Onboard Entertainment: Live music performances in the observation car add to the train’s charm, allowing passengers to enjoy local tunes while taking in breathtaking views.
- Private Bus Transfers: Guests are whisked away to Machu Picchu via private buses, bypassing long lines at the citadel.
- Guided Tours: Professional guides accompany guests to ensure an enriching experience at the Machu Picchu sanctuary.
- Afternoon Tea: Savor a delightful afternoon tea at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, overlooking the majestic Andean landscape.
- Exclusive Amenities: Each guest receives a Hiram Bingham branded suede-effect backpack and aluminum water bottle as souvenirs.
These inclusions not only enhance the journey but also provide a hassle-free experience, allowing travelers to focus on the scenery and cultural immersion.
The Luxurious Ambiance Onboard
The train’s interior is a testament to luxury, with plush seats, mahogany wood paneling, and polished brass fixtures. Passengers can enjoy the Observation Car with its panoramic roof, perfect for capturing the stunning Andean landscapes. The train’s vintage charm is enhanced by waiters dressed in bow ties and vests, reminiscent of Agatha Christie novels.
Boarding the Hiram Bingham train feels like stepping into a classic era of elegance and refinement, where every detail is meticulously designed to transport passengers to a bygone age of luxury travel. ??
Practical Information for Travelers
For those considering this luxurious adventure, here are some practical details to keep in mind:
Detail | Description |
---|---|
Departure Time | 9:05 AM from Poroy station (20 minutes from Cusco) |
Arrival Time | 12:25 PM at Aguas Calientes station |
Return Journey | Departure at 5:50 PM from Aguas Calientes, arrival at 9:15 PM in Poroy |
Ticket Prices | Around $500 one way, depending on the season and time of booking |
The cost, while significant, offers an all-inclusive experience that includes luxury amenities, meals, drinks, and guided tours, making it a valuable choice for those seeking a premium experience.
Is It Worth the Investment?
The Belmond Hiram Bingham train is certainly an investment, but for those who value luxury and convenience, it is well worth the cost. Not only does it offer a unique travel experience, but it also streamlines the often complex process of visiting Machu Picchu by providing private bus transfers and guided tours, eliminating long waits and logistical hassles.
Moreover, the train’s nostalgic charm and exceptional service create lasting memories, making it a standout among other travel options to Machu Picchu. For travelers seeking an adventure that combines history, culture, and luxury, the Hiram Bingham train is an unbeatable choice.
The overall experience is not just about reaching Machu Picchu; it’s about the journey itself, which is as memorable as the destination ??. The train’s ability to merge luxury with adventure ensures that every moment of the trip feels special and exclusive.