09 Oct Muza Lab Creates a Uniquely Designed Train Experience

In need of a luxurious travel experience? Muza Lab has exquisitely re-imagined the experience of slow travel with their design of South America’s first luxury sleeper train, Belmond Andean Explorer in Peru. They worked closely with Belmond to complement the brand’s heritage for properties that sit at one with nature. By harmoniously weaving cultural connections with inspirations from the idyllic surroundings, they have created a gorgeous backdrop for the breathtaking landscape of the Peruvian Andes.

A New Train Experience

Soft, neutral tones create an open, airy feel that allows the amazing vistas to take centre stage. Drawing upon the palettes and textures of the majestic terrain, as well as Peruvian crafts and artistry, Muza has developed an understated concept of timeless luxury. Select nostalgic elements of the original train, Great South Pacific Express, have been restored or added as emblems of the golden age of train travel. Now, the 16 carriages have been contemporised with a refined, pared-back aesthetic suited to the preferences of today’s travellers. Beautifully crafted furnishings reflect Peru’s heritage and natural bounty to form a welcoming spirit that feels real and honest, from timber floors to linen roman blinds and colourful woven textiles, nearly everything has been locally sourced. Timber wall panels have been painted in muted shades of linen. Muza was also involved in the exterior palette, with the carriages’ original colouration of maroon and ivory updated to glossy blue livery in a nod to Belmond’s 50/50 partnership with PeruRail, whose day train locomotives are also vibrant blue.

The Piano Bar Car

The train’s “indoor” social hub, the elegant Piano Bar Car named after the herb Maca, offers a different, more formal ambience where guests gather ‘round the glossy black grand piano and the bar to trade stories about their Peruvian adventures. Here, a sophisticated palette of refined grey tweed on the sofas and lounge chairs comes to life with splashes of cornflower blue and golden yellow in the cushion fringe, lampshades and delicate paintings reminiscent of patterns seen in butterfly wings. Smartly detailed roman blinds complete the clean, streamlined look.

The Observation Car

Belmond in Peru Photo by Matt Crossick

Belmond in Peru Photo by Matt Crossick

Passengers are offered an up-close immersion in the vibrant landscape from the outdoor deck of the Observation Car, named Ichu after the tall grasses dotted across the plains. Either leaning against the scrolled balcony rails or relaxing in the round seat covered in fabrics from traditional dresses sourced by Muza at a Cusco market, guests can enjoy nearly 360-degree views. The sensory thrill of the brisk wind rushing by as the train climbs 4,900 metres into the clouds makes for an unforgettable experience.

Inside, guests can enjoy a tipple from the bar and unwind on cosy sofas to soak up the view. Decorative cushions upholstered in assorted tapestry patterns woven in different regions of Peru are offset by the deep teal colour of ceramic table lamps. Embossed leather chairs with nail heads affixed to chunky timber frames inject the spirit of traditional craft and a casual, laid-back style.


About Muza Lab

Our spaces are where people go to share special moments with those most precious to them. Our aim is simple: to make these moments rich with feelings that can’t be shaken; to create settings for stories that are held close to the heart, and told again and again. Click here to learn more.

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