Ecuador Train Routes

Tren del Hielo I Train | Half Day Tour

Embark on a captivating 6.5-hour train journey from Riobamba to the highlands of Urbina and La Moya, where nature, culture, and history converge. The Tren del Hielo  takes you through the breathtaking landscapes surrounding Chimborazo Volcano and the páramo ecosystem, while sharing the ancient traditions of the Chimborazo “Hieleros” — guardians of the ice. 

Highlights Tren del Hielo: 

• Travel by train along the slopes of Chimborazo, Ecuador’s highest volcano. 
• Discover the wild beauty of Urbina’s páramo and views of the Altar Volcano. 
• Learn about the ancestral ice-harvesting tradition from the legendary “Hieleros.” 
• Participate in eco-tourism activities that connect you with local culture and nature. 

Tren de los Volcanes | Full Day Train Tour

Climb aboard the Tren de los Volcanes and experience one of Ecuador’s most scenic railway journeys. This full-day tour takes you through the legendary Avenue of the Volcanoes, with panoramic views of towering peaks and a deep immersion into the diverse Andean páramo ecosystem. 

Highlights Tren de los Volcanes: 

• Ride across the Avenue of the Volcanoes with views of Pichincha, Cotopaxi, Rumiñahui, and more. 
• Explore El Boliche, a protected area nestled at the foot of Cotopaxi. 
• Discover Ecuador’s cloud forests and Andean ecosystems with short guided hikes. 
• Enjoy the charm of rural towns like Tambillo and Machachi, rich in culture and tradition. 

Tren de la Libertad | Full Day Train Tour

Step aboard the Tren de la Libertad and uncover the rich cultural legacy of northern Ecuador. This half-day tour departs from Ibarra, the “White City,” and descends through dramatic landscapes shaped by seven hand-carved tunnels and towering bridges. The destination is Salinas, a vibrant Afro-Ecuadorian town where travelers are welcomed with traditional music, colorful murals, and warm hospitality. 

Highlights Tren de la Libertad: 

• Ride through tunnels and over deep ravines on a historic Andean rail line. 
• Visit Salinas, home to Afro-Ecuadorian heritage, music, and street art. 
• Discover local culture through museums, artisan initiatives, and gastronomy. 
• Enjoy scenic views and cultural storytelling with onboard bilingual guides. 

Tren de la Dulzura | Full Day Tour

Discover the tropical charm of Ecuador’s coastal region aboard the Tren de la Dulzura. This full-day journey departs from Durán and takes you through lush agricultural landscapes filled with rice paddies, sugarcane fields, and cocoa plantations. Along the way, you’ll experience vibrant coastal culture, taste traditional cuisine, and enjoy local biodiversity guided by experts in both Spanish and English. 

Highlights Tren de la Dulzura: 

• Travel through Ecuador’s green coastal landscapes aboard a historic train. 
• Visit traditional cocoa and sugarcane farms and learn about rural life. 
• Taste regional cuisine and immerse yourself in Afro-Ecuadorian and Montubio traditions. 
• Cross one of Ecuador’s major ecological transitions, from the coast to the Andean foothills. 

Tren del Hielo II Train | Full Day Tour

Set off on a spectacular journey through Ecuador’s highland heart with the Tren del Hielo II, a full-day tour that blends natural wonder with cultural heritage. Departing from Ambato, this route passes through the Andean páramo and offers panoramic views of Ecuador’s most iconic volcanoes: Tungurahua, Chimborazo, Altar, and Carihuayrazo. 

Highlights Tren del Hielo: 

• Ride across classic páramo landscapes with views of multiple volcanoes. 
• Visit Cevallos and discover the local shoemaking tradition in action. 
• Learn about highland customs, crafts, and rural life in Mocha and Urbina. 
• Enjoy a cultural and scenic experience guided by local experts. 

Nariz del Diablo Train | Devil’s Nose train

Ride one of the most thrilling and iconic railroads in the world aboard the Devil’s Nose Train. Departing from the picturesque Andean town of Alausí, this 2.5-hour round trip takes you down a steep, zigzagging descent along dramatic cliffs and into the Chan Chan Valley, showcasing Ecuador’s remarkable railway engineering and breathtaking mountain scenery. 

Highlights Devil´s Nose Train: 

• Zigzag down the Devil’s Nose cliff, a masterpiece of railway engineering. 
• Enjoy panoramic views of the Ecuadorian Highlands and Chan Chan Valley. 
• Explore the peaceful town of Alausí and visit El Cóndor Museum in Sibambe. 
• Ideal for day trippers, photographers, and history lovers seeking a unique adventure. 

• Book in advance: Seats are limited and popular routes like the Devil’s Nose can sell out quickly, especially during weekends or holidays. 
• Dress in layers: The weather can shift dramatically throughout the day. Mornings may be cold in the Andes, while midday sun can be intense. 
• Bring cash: At most train stops, you’ll find local vendors selling snacks, crafts, or souvenirs, and many do not accept credit cards. 
• Pack essentials: Sunscreen, a water bottle, a light jacket, and your camera are must-haves. Also, carry your ID or passport, especially if traveling between provinces. 
• Be respectful: Many of these tours pass through indigenous and rural communities. Support local artisans, ask before taking photos, and be mindful of local customs. 

Why Plan Your Ecuador Train Tour?

Discover Ecuador in a way like no other: aboard its legendary trains. Journey through the Andes, from dramatic mountain passes to vibrant indigenous towns, and experience a blend of breathtaking landscapes and rich culture on every mile of the ride.