Most beaches meet the sea, however, this one greets the sky.
For many, the idea of a “highest beach” might sound like an oxymoron. But for intrepid travellers in Peru that like to tick off a superlative or two, a stop at Collata Beach is a must. Perched atop Taquile Island in the sparkling waters of Lake Titicaca, it claims the unique title of the world’s highest beach. At 3,900 meters above sea level, its soft sands and gently sloping shoreline may seem familiar, yet sunbathing high above the clouds is anything but ordinary.
That’s exactly the kind of delight that the Andean Explorer delivers, a luxury train that winds through Peru’s dramatic landscapes to reveal vistas that feel plucked from another world. Here, “beach” takes on a new meaning: a rare marriage of high-altitude serenity and the tactile pleasure of sand beneath your feet. Compared with the world’s lowest beach – by the shores of the Dead Sea, which is around 440 meters below sea level – this one feels almost like a mirage.
The Andean Explorer train makes this extraordinary destination part of its regular itineraries across the Peruvian Andes, but this is no ordinary beach day. On arrival, you’re welcomed with traditional local dance before sinking into a plush lounger in the shade. You can then choose to paddle in the crystal-clear water, join a yoga session or try your hand at painting the scenery, where every moment is framed by the lake and endless blue sky.
