Visiting the new Seven Wonders of the World is a life-changing adventure, so don’t settle for a mundane travel experience. Step aboard the Hiram Bingham Train and immerse yourself in Peruvian culture and world-class dining from the opulence of this first-class railway. From the moment you set foot on the Rio Sagrado Station in Cusco to your arrival at Machu Picchu, the Hiram Bingham surrounds you in luxury. Your ticket aboard this one-of-a-kind train includes a three-course meal, locally produced wine, and plenty of authentic Peruvian culture.
Phote courtesy of Belmond/Genivs Loci. Why travel by ordinary train thru beautiful countryside when you can enjoy the experience of an extraordinary journey on the Hiram Bingham.
When you arrive, a concierge greets you, dressed in a blue and gold uniform to match the train’s aesthetic. I recommend slowly enjoying the sparkling wine they hand you; it’s locally sourced and said to be delicious. The interior of the Hiram Bingham is adorned in polished wood and glistening brass, meant to invoke the decor from the 1920s. The seats and curtains are upholstered in velvet, giving the train a rich warmth.
Photo courtesy Belmond/Adrian Houston; The Hiram Bingham’s staff make yourjourney memorable.
Your three-hour trip takes you through the Andes Mountains and the Urubamba Valley, locally known as the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The train runs alongside and crosses over the Urubamba River, which is crystal clear with icy mountain runoff and helps to nourish the valley. As you wind through the Peruvian countryside, rolling mountains and local villages are dotted throughout, many containing traditional stone and adobo homes. There are two dining cars and an observation car with an open
deck where you can take in the scenery and smell the fresh air. I highly recommend spending some time on the open deck observation car, taking in the smells and seeing the views up close and personal.
When it’s time to eat, head to one of the dining cars and get ready for a local taste sensation. All the ingredients used in your meal are traditional to the region, and many are locally sourced. An example menu of your three-course meal includes an appetizer of smoked trout with a Peruvian corn tamale. The main dish features Peruvian beef with fresh vegetables and local wine, and for a delicious finish, you’ll receive corn cheesecake with cloud forest coffee. Wine and non-premium beverages
Photo courtesy of Belmond/Matt Hind. Atmosphere befitting the magnificence of the destination are hallmarks of the Hiram Bingham.
come with your ticket purchase, so you can continue to enjoy their full-bodied flavors throughout your journey.
After you’ve eaten, I recommend heading back to the observation deck where live music features the Peruvian Cajon, a box-shaped percussion instrument. In Peru, it’s common to see traditional musical styles merged with modern instruments like guitars, creating a sound unique to the region.
Photo courtesy of Belmond/Matt Hind. Musicians ensure you experience local culture during your journey.
Many passengers say the music onboard is one of the highlights of their trip! It’s not uncommon for a dance party to emerge, so make sure you wear your dancing shoes on the train and bring those walking shoes for later.
Discovering the new Seven Wonders of the World is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Your trip doesn’t start once you get there; it begins aboard the Hiram Bingham Train. Surround yourself in luxury while eating locally sourced cuisine, admiring the
impeccable decor, and dancing to traditional live music unlike anywhere else on earth. For a travel experience worthy of the destination, I highly recommend traveling aboard the Hiram Bingham Train; you’ll be glad you did!
Ready for this journey like no other to a place like no other? Give me a call today!
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