Andean Explorer, As Seen By Colin Dodgson
In the latest instalment of Belmond’s ‘As Seen By’ photography series, Colin Dodgson embarks on a Peruvian odyssey through natural wonders aboard the Andean Explorer train.
One of the highest-altitude train journeys in the world, Andean Explorer takes passengers between Cusco, Lake Titicaca and Arequipa. But it’s more than just a means of transportation through the Peruvian heartlands: it is a journey of elevated excellence that aligns you to a deeper connection with Peru’s diverse landscapes and the beauty of the natural world that passes by outside your cabin’s windows. As your horizons expand, your perception evolves as over the course of a day, the colours outside undergo an almost sacred metamorphosis. It was from this everchanging vantage point that acclaimed photographer Colin Dodgson embarked on a mission to capture the unique majesty of Peru.
As the train departs, Cusco slowly fades into the distance. The Andean Explorer steadily ascends, climbing higher with each turn. As it winds toward the sky, it chases the sun, a pivotal element in Peruvian culture. Along the way, encounters with alpacas, the native inhabitants and silent guardians of the Andes, offer an intimate connection with the authentic heart of the Andean world.
Dodgson, who was born in the United States and has lived in New York, London and California, is recognised for his analogue approach to image-making, creating a signature style marked by tranquillity and composure. Appearing in Vogue, i-D, Dazed and the British Journal of Photography, as well publishing several photography books, he is as adept with portraiture as he is landscapes. Known for his thoughtful choice of subjects and settings, Dodgson's work brings a sense of calm and natural beauty to his images, reflecting a careful attention to both environment and detail.
Dodgson's photographic style is well-suited to the Andean Explorer, an experience centred around slowing down and embracing a new pace of travel. His work, typified by a sense of serenity, often explores the delicate balance between past and future, stillness and motion. Through his lens, Dodgson captures the essence of the legendary train; the profound sense of transformation that guests experience and connection to place that this extraordinary voyage inspires.
Let the layers of Peru unfold before your eyes. From the prehistoric art of the Sumbay caves to the sparkling waters of Lake Titicaca and the sacred cultures of the Quechua and Aymara people, journey at a relaxed pace and absorb the enchanting layers of the land in refined comfort.
You might also enjoy
Peru: An Odyssey Across a Time-Honoured Land
In this extract from “Peru: An Odyssey Across a Time-Honoured Land,” a new book published by Assouline in collaboration with Belmond, journalist Catherine Contreras reveals a Peru travel guide, inviting readers to explore one of the planet’s most captivating destinations and showcasing the beauty of the locations where Belmond’s hotels and trains are found throughout Peru.
Splendido: The Radiant Stage of Portofino
For the new Belmond Assouline travel book, British journalist Matthew Bell dives into the history of Splendido to tell us the tales of the gem of the Italian Riviera. The hotel, which has entered a new chapter on the radiant stage of Portofino after a painstaking renovation, transforms into a mythical legend in the new Assouline travel book – discover an excerpt from the guide and read about the secret stories behind the iconic destination.
Go with the Slow: The Rise of Train Travel
Belmond continues to shape the future of luxury train travel, marked this year by the arrival of the Britannic Explorer, the first train of its kind in England and Wales. Monisha Rajesh – author of four travel books including ‘Moonlight Express: Around the World by Night Train’ – discovers why slow travel is having a resurgence.
Quite the Site: Luxury Travel to UNESCO World Wonders
As proud custodians of historic properties near cultural and natural wonders, Belmond’s hotels and trains are the perfect choice for travellers with a historical hankering. Whether you’re marvelling at the ingenuity of the ancient Romans in Britain or the wonders of the Mayas in Mexico, our properties are your gateway to the past.
Belmond Legends: Copacabana Palace
Welcome to Copa, the legendary stage for the most glamorous encounters and iconic revellers. This is the place where Rio entertains and enchants. The place where Rio starts.
La Samanna: The Sanctuary of St. Martin
Perched above Baie Longue, La Samanna is a place where elegance and tranquillity mingle in perfect harmony. Step inside our legendary hotel, in the heart of Terres Basses.
In the Dog House
Finding the perfect luxury hotel that is dog-friendly can be a ruff task. Discover the Belmond hotels that allow pets and their stylish globetrotting owners, from pet-friendly hotels in Italy to luxurious doggy havens in the English countryside.