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[Okay, this is the beginning of a great FEATURE article.  We will have Victoria do an illustration and make a map of the hemisphere with the 15 or so routes denoted.  Good job.  Now,  I think we want to continue to develop this with more information, travel accounts and advice, pricing, seasons, etc.  We can discuss.]

Tour the Hemisphere by Rail
The means of transportation for traveling in Latin America are not limited to bus, car, and plane. We want to introduce you to the completely unique and enjoyable alternative of train transportation in Latin America. This popular means of transportation is used in several countries in the region to transport cargo and passengers alike, making it one of the best means of transportation for its speed and economy.
In fact, in some Latin American countries, locals prefer the train system as their means of transportation, even if it doesn't connect every corner that the bus system would. For example, using the train entirely, you can get from Buenos Aires to Bariloche in Argentina. By train you can reach many popular tourist sites, and enjoy watching wildlife as the railroad passes through more remote areas away from the noise of constant traffic.
Train from Santiago to Chillan, Chile 
Currently, the Santiago to Chillan train system in Chile transports at least 230 thousand passengers a year on a 398-kilometer route that separates one Chilean region from the other, and is the fastest means of land transportation to move between these areas.
Traveling by train from Santiago to Chillan saves at least an hour of travel, compared to service by bus or private vehicle. Once in Chillan, you will have the option of daily excursions such as climbing the Chillan volcano, or visiting the longest ski slope in the country called Las Tres Marías. For your convenience, you can book your train tickets on the AndesTransit platform for this and other train routes, as well as get quotes for traveling around Chile, acquire information for getting around, and make connections for the different destinations you want to reach.
The passenger train system in Chile continues to grow as the government works through a list of expansion projects, so we expect more passenger routes and new destinations. The State Railway Company of Chile is managing the development of the project that will connect Santiago with the ports of Valparaíso and San Antonio, known as the "Santiago - Valparaíso Train".
Train from Buenos Aires to Bariloche, Argentina Living the experience of traveling on the Patagonian Train is something you should not miss, as this is an unforgettable experience in which you will be able to see how the landscapes change through the window accompanied by all the comfort and class that the train service offers, from cabins to first class services with comfortable, spacious and air-conditioned spaces and cafeteria service on board. All these options are available to book on Andestransit.
Discounts.  Another advantage of this mode of transport is its special schedules and fares that can save you money. For example, train tickets to Bahía Blanca (southern Argentina) have seasonal discounts, which will be helpful for you to stretch your budget to include seeing other nearby sights.
To travel by train from Buenos Aires to Bariloche, there is now a project to link two passenger trains that are in operation, giving the possibility to thousands more tourists who travel by this route to choose the railway as their most economical way to move around Argentina.
Train from Bogotá to Zipaquirá, Colombia
Traveling by train in Bogotá is designed more as a tourist attraction that takes you on a vintage experience from the capital of more than 10 million inhabitants to a nearby wonder of nature, the largest salt reserves in the country. The train ride to Zipaquira is characterized not only by the comfort offered by the transport units, but also by the experience that awaits you, as you leave the concrete jungle and start to see the imposing plains of the Bogotá savannah, while the mountains of Santander grow larger as excited travelers approach the destination.
But, although the view is great, the real prize is in Zipaquira itself, as there you will encounter the spectacular Salt Cathedral and the Nemocon mine, where you can enter another world of bright natural colors and underground worship sanctuaries, ride the subway into the mines, and leave the modern world behind you.
To learn about these stunning destinations, use AndesTransit's search tool to find out the rates and itineraries for train travel from Bogotá to Zipaquira, and book your train ticket according to your preferences. This will save you from the long lines you will encounter at the station on the day of your trip, and above all, you will have enough peace to enjoy this spectacular Colombian route.
Train from Cusco to Machu Picchu, Peru
Traveling by train to Machu Picchu, one of the seven wonders of the world, is entirely possible. There are two stations from which you can travel by train to Machu Picchu from Cusco: from Poroy, or from Ollantaytambo. Whichever route you take, you will arrive in Aguas Calientes, a small town where all travelers arrive and from where you can reach the Inca ruins. Both options offer different packages and prices depending on your budget, especially for those who prefer the comfort and convenience of the bus. Remember that getting to Cusco from Lima is not a challenge, as you can go to AndesTransit and book departures for both day and night trips.
It should be noted that this destination is one of the most sought after, in fact everyone who goes to Peru wants to visit this place so rich in knowledge, history and culture. Therefore, train tickets in Peru often sell out weeks or even months in advance. To avoid the hassle, or being forced to make the journey on foot for three days, we recommend booking your train ticket a few months before your trip. If you look early, you can find your train ticket to Machu Picchu at lower prices, as there are usually discounts at certain times of the year.
Cusco is the favorite destination of millions of tourists and travelers from all over the world, and for many of them, AndesTransit is the favorite tool to plan their trip, book tickets and above all make the most of their visit to the Inca territory. If you want personalized help and discounts for your trip, subscribe to the BusClub and then simply enjoy the trip while AndesTransit takes care of the travel hassles.

The trains that run through the most beautiful landscapes in Latin America
There are train routes in Latin America that offer unforgettable experiences and that you should experience at least once. With the boom in travel after the pandemic, it is normal for people to look for innovative ways to discover new destinations. One of the alternatives that has gained popularity for its magic is traveling by train, since taking a trip in which you contemplate unparalleled views and explore places from a relaxed and, often, glamorous environment sounds fascinating.
That's why we made a list of seven trains in Latin America that offer memorable trips, since there are multiple railway routes on the continent that allow you to visit various tourist sites in the most special way.
Train to Machu Picchu
Peru
A great way to get to Machu Picchu—one of the Seven Wonders of the World—is by train. Peru has two of the best train companies in South America: Inca Rail and PeruRail, so the experience of visiting these wonderful ruins begins with arriving by train. During the journey you can enjoy views of the Peruvian jungle and the landscapes of the Sacred Valley, taste traditional Peruvian food and even enjoy a fashion show of clothes made from alpaca fabric. There are different types of trains: some resemble the British Pullmans of the 1920s and offer a gourmet buffet experience, others have panoramic windows to contemplate nature and some offer private trips, in short, there are many options. Train to the Clouds
Argentina
The Train to the Clouds is located in the province of Salta, Argentina, and runs a 217-kilometer route from Salta to La Puna. The route passes over the La Polvorilla viaduct, a metal bridge more than 60 meters high that is a great tourist attraction in the area, and is located more than 4,000 meters above sea level. This makes it one of the highest train journeys in the world. During the journey, valleys, canyons and ravines are crossed, and some stops are made along the way to take some photographs at panoramic points and then in towns where there are museums, restaurants with local cuisine and shops and people selling crafts from the region.
Oruro Train
Bolivia
The Oruro train allows you to delve into surreal landscapes, as it crosses the Bolivian desert and crosses important tourist destinations such as Tupiza and the Salar de Uyuni, which is located in the middle of the Andes. Linking Oruro and Villazón on a 500 km journey, this train trip is a great alternative for tourists to travel around the country in a relaxed and comfortable way, as well as unconventional in our days.
El Chepe connects Sinaloa and Chihuahua on a spectacular route. Alan Lara / Unsplash
El Chepe
Mexico
The Chihuahua-Pacific train, better known as El Chepe (for its initials Ch. P.) travels a route of almost 700 km, linking Los Mochis in Sinaloa and the magical town of Creel in Chihuahua. It is the only passenger train in Mexico and the unparalleled views offer an incredible journey as it crosses the Sierra Tarahumara and the Copper Canyons. It also passes through a series of impressive canyons that are four times larger than the Grand Canyon in Colorado. With a staff that caters to your every need and offers you delicious regional food designed specifically for the Chepe Express, the experience is memorable.
Serra Verde Express Train
Brazil
This famous tourist train in southwestern Brazil runs from Curitiba to Moretes, a journey that takes approximately three hours to complete. One of the most impressive moments is when the train passes the Viaduto do Carvalho and immediately appears to float as it wraps around the mountainside – it’s breathtaking! During the journey, it passes over several viaducts, bridges and tunnels, and you can also admire the lush rainforest and mountains of the Serra do Mar.
End of the World Train
Argentina
In Patagonia, Argentina, one of the most beautiful journeys in the world is made, all aboard the End of the World Train. The station is located 7km from the city of Ushuaia, and recreates the path that the train used when it was used to transport prisoners from Ushuaia to Monte Susana. They were taken there to collect construction materials as part of their sentence. The train was discontinued in 1947 and it was not until 1994 that it was reopened, but this time for tourism. You can visit an inaccessible part of the Tierra del Fuego park thanks to the train route, while enjoying the beautiful views and listening to the history of Ushuaia.
Tren Crucero and Nariz del Diablo
Ecuador
The Nariz del Diablo train was built over 100 years ago and connects Ecuador's capital, Quito, with one of its most famous regions: Guayaquil. The route can take from four to 12 days depending on the itinerary you choose. It includes various scenic stops and excursions lasting several minutes. Overnight accommodation is in boutique hotels located at important stops, but life on board the train is what makes it so unique, as it has different types of cars for different needs. During the journey you pass by volcanoes, hills, valleys and gorges that can only be seen by train. But the most important point is Nariz del Diablo, which you can go to without having to get on the train and take the entire route. This is an impressive piece of engineering from the 20th century, built in a zigzag pattern to travel 500 km in less space, that is, in 12.5 km
Travelling by train through America
A train journey has the charm of the dreamlike scenes we see in films, such as the fantastic 2004 film, The Polar Express, travelling through those snowy landscapes, where the journey is as important as the destination, or even more so; that time we spend inside is the authentic place where everything happens. We are referring to those vintage trains, where the setting, the leisure and the gastronomy enjoyed on board are so spectacular that we need nothing more.
We invite you to discover and marvel at the train routes that run along the tracks of America, which you cannot miss on any of your trips across the length and breadth of this continent.
NORTH AMERICA
1.-Royal Canadian Pacific (Canada)
This is the most luxurious train in North America. To travel on it you must hire it in full, as a charter, with capacity for 30 passengers.
On its route it crosses some of the steepest, most inaccessible and spectacular terrain in the world along the historic lines of the Canadian Pacific Railway. An experience that, in addition to providing spectacular landscapes, gives you the opportunity to feel like a member of royalty.
2.- Rocky Mountaineer (Canada)
The Rocky Mountaineer is a luxury train that travels through the majestic Canadian Rocky Mountains, Banff, Jasper and Lake Louise, aboard domed carriages that create the illusion of being outdoors while admiring the spectacular and enchanting landscapes.
This train makes 4 different routes: Vancouver to Banff and Lake Louise; Vancouver to Jasper via Kamloops; Vancouver to Jasper via Whistler and Quesnel, and Vancouver to Seattle. Depending on the route chosen, the journey lasts between two and four days
3.- Canadian (Canada)
This VIA Rail Canada flagship train links the cities of Toronto and Vancouver on a journey of almost 4,500 kilometres. Over the course of the four-day journey, you can see the lush boreal forest, the lakes of northern Ontario, the prairies of the west, and the magnificent Rocky Mountains from its interior. This train is so famous that it appears on the Bank of Canada's 10-dollar Canadian bill.
4.- Coast Starlight (United States)
This train links the cities of San Francisco with Seattle, the closest city in the United States to the border with Canada, and runs along the North American west coast passing through Santa Barbara, San Francisco, Sacramento, and Portland. The landscapes seen from the huge windows include the spectacular snow-capped peaks of the Cascade Range and Mount Shasta, lush forests, fertile valleys, and wide stretches of Pacific Ocean coastline. The journey takes 35 hours.
5.- Grand Canyon Railway, Arizona (United States)
Daily tours of the Grand Canyon's South Rim take you along a route lined with golden aspens and rows of pines, firs and spruces in and around the Kaibab National Forest. Book a one- or two-day trip, or a special Halloween trip during the month of October that will take you to a pumpkin patch that can only be reached by train.
6.- Sunset Limited (United States)
This train crosses the western United States on a journey between cacti, cowboys on horseback and ranches. Its route starts in Los Angeles and heads south to the Mexican border in El Paso, then continues the journey through the lands of Arizona, Texas and Tucson, including several national parks. The entire journey lasts 48 hours and is a unique experience and a different way to get to know the American "wild west."
7.- El Chepe, Mexico
Its real name is the Chihuahua-Pacific Railway, but it is also known as Chepe. It runs through 37 bridges and 86 tunnels from one end of the Sierra Tarahumara to the other in a journey lasting 16 hours (in its regional service) or 9 hours (the express service, specially adapted for tourism).
The Copper Canyon (four times larger in area and almost twice as deep as the Grand Canyon in Colorado) is one of the main tourist attractions of the tour, in addition to the ecotourism experiences and the possibility of getting to know more deeply the different communities and cultures of those who live in the mountains.
8.- Tijuana – Tecate Train
This train that connects the cities of Tijuana and Tecate in Baja California, aims to show tourists everything from food to locally produced craft beer, as well as other options that Baja California offers.
The train takes a two-and-a-half-hour trip, during which time you will have the opportunity to take photos at the stop at the Abelardo L. Rodríguez Dam in Tijuana.
9.- José Cuervo Express Train
This train leaves every Saturday from 8:00 a.m. from the Ferromex station in Guadalajara and takes you to the place where the quintessential Mexican drink is made.
The beautiful tour shows you landscapes where the agave is the king, since it is the plant from which the jimador extracts the pineapple to produce this delicious drink, which of course you will have available on board.
Once at the Mundo Cuervo house, you will enjoy a tasting to learn how to taste this virtuous drink, between the aged, rested and white tequila, you can “lose the thread” so take it easy. Then you will take a tour of the Distillery where they show you the production process and there is even a demonstration of jima, which is quite a Mexican spectacle (which could not be missed) and time to get to know the magical town. Without a doubt, a tour that you must do and even more obligatory if you are a tequila lover. Cheers!
10.- Casa Herradura Train
This is the newest train tour in Mexico, and covers the route from Guadalajara to Amatitlán in Jalisco. It offers three types of service: Premium car, designed for families; Club car, only for adults; Finally, the First Class carriage, which offers the maximum possible luxury. Its route includes a visit to the distillery located at the Hacienda San José del Refugio, as well as a spectacular meal with folk music and dances.
SOUTH AMERICA
11.- Train to the Clouds (Argentina)
This route is located in the province of Salta in Argentina and is one of the most important tourist attractions in the area. The train to the clouds is one of the three highest railways in the world, making it a unique work of engineering. Its route covers 22 kilometers, linking the town of San Antonio de los Cobres with the La Polvorilla viaduct.
This winding route through the Andes Mountains ascends to 4,200 meters above sea level, through canyons, ravines and valleys, to reach the magical Puna. This railway is one of the most impressive in South America and one of the must-do activities in northern Argentina.
12.- Train from Oruro to Villazón (Bolivia)
One of the most beautiful ways to travel through the desert is by train. From the city of Oruro, you can take one of the most impressive routes in Bolivia through the desert. The trip between Oruro and Villazón takes place through 500 kilometers of desert, in 4 stations, with the main attraction being transportation to the famous Salar de Uyuni.
With reasonable prices and the promise of a safe, comfortable and relaxing trip, this railway has become an unrepeatable panorama.
13.- Tren de La Sabana (Colombia)
Leaving only on weekends, this train runs through the beautiful savannah of Bogotá and its surroundings. The last steam locomotive in Colombia begins its journey in Bogotá and extends to Zipaquirá, a mining town that has one of the most beautiful architectural attractions in Colombia: the Salt Cathedral.
The Turistren offers day tours that run through the savannah offering typical food and native music to travelers. Traveling through this area of Colombia by train is an experience that you must do and enjoy if you visit the coffee-growing country.
14.- Tren del Fin del Mundo (Argentina)
Located in Argentine Patagonia, the Tren del Fin del Mundo is one of the most beautiful routes in the world. This railroad seeks to recreate the last 7 km of the old train route of the prisoners of the Ushuaia prison, to collect materials. On board this railroad you can hear the history of the area and see magnificent landscapes. This steam locomotive travels through an inaccessible part of Tierra del Fuego National Park, and enchants you with postcard-style photos of the meandering Pipo River, Macarena Waterfall, the tree cemetery, and the majestic Southern World Forest.
15.- Serra Verde Express Train (Brazil)
The Serra Verde Express connects Curitiba and Morretes, in the south of Brazil, with a 110 km route between tropical forests and cliffs, even showing the Atlantic Ocean, delivering one of the most impressive scenic routes in Brazil.
With daily departures and a variety of prices, this train has become a very good option to get around and get to know the south of Brazil. This trip should definitely be on your itinerary.
16.- Memory Train (Chile)
As its name suggests, this route seeks to recapture the magic of the train trip in Chile. Leaving from the Central Station in Santiago, this trip runs through the country from the mountains to the sea, to reach the port of San Antonio.
On a 110-kilometer trip, this railroad crosses the central valleys of Chile, ending in the Pacific Ocean. Although the departure dates are sporadic, it is worth booking a trip in advance to marvel at its landscapes.
17.- Train from Cusco to Machu Picchu (Peru)
This is one of the most famous routes in the world, as it is one of the preferred options to reach the sacred city of Machu Picchu. On a journey along the high forested mountains, cliffs and rivers, this means of transport carries thousands of tourists per season.
As it is a tourist attraction, the train offer has different prices and amenities. If you are going to this ancient city, it is the most comfortable option.


ACCORDING IA

North America: United States and Canada

1. United States

Amtrak Network: The U.S. national rail service, Amtrak, offers multiple long-distance routes across the country, connecting major cities and allowing travelers to explore diverse landscapes. Notable routes include:

California Zephyr: Runs from Chicago to San Francisco, crossing the Rocky Mountains and the Sierra Nevada. It’s considered one of the most scenic train routes in the U.S.

Empire Builder: From Chicago to Seattle or Portland, this train travels through Glacier National Park and the Rockies.

Coast Starlight: Connects Seattle and Los Angeles along the Pacific Coast, offering views of the ocean and mountains.

Texas Eagle: Passes from Chicago to San Antonio, going through the Ozarks, the closest route to the Ozarks region.


Scenic Trains: The U.S. also has trains designed for panoramic experiences, like the Grand Canyon Railway in Arizona and the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad in Colorado, focusing on historic routes and landscapes.


2. Canada

VIA Rail: This is Canada’s primary long-distance rail service, offering routes that span vast areas. Key routes include:

The Canadian: Connects Toronto and Vancouver over four days, crossing the Prairies and the Rockies. Its glass-domed cars provide panoramic views.

The Ocean: A 24-hour trip from Montreal to Halifax, with views of the Atlantic coast.


Rocky Mountaineer: A luxury scenic train that travels through the Rockies on several routes between Vancouver and Banff, Jasper, or Calgary, emphasizing high-quality service and views of the Canadian Alps.


Central America

Train travel for passengers is limited in Central America, with most rail lines replaced by bus services. However, a few tourist trains remain operational.

1. Panama

Panama Canal Railway: The only passenger train in operation, connecting Panama City to Colón. This train primarily serves cargo but offers a limited passenger service with a one-hour journey parallel to the Panama Canal. It’s a scenic option to view the tropical rainforest and the canal.


2. Costa Rica

Incofer (Costa Rican Railroad Institute): While Costa Rica has some rail lines, they focus on urban and tourist routes around San José. There are plans to expand the rail system for passenger travel across the country, but there are currently no long-distance tourist routes available.


South America

South America has limited long-distance rail options, but scenic and luxury routes offer unique experiences through mountainous and jungle landscapes.

1. Peru

Belmond Andean Explorer: This luxury train is one of the few to cross the Andes, connecting Cusco, Puno, and Arequipa in a three-day journey, passing Lake Titicaca and the Andean highlands. With glass-domed cars, restaurants, and luxury cabins, it stands out as a premier rail tourism experience.

Trains to Machu Picchu: PeruRail and Inca Rail provide service from Cusco or the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu). The routes offer views of the Andes and the Urubamba River, making it a unique tourist experience and a gateway to an iconic site.


2. Ecuador

Tren Crucero: This luxury option travels from Quito to Guayaquil, passing through the Nariz del Diablo, a steep section of the Andes. Known for its zigzag maneuvers and stunning mountainous landscapes, this route includes stops at indigenous communities and offers cultural activities.

Nariz del Diablo: Apart from being part of Tren Crucero, it is also offered as a standalone trip. This short, scenic stretch is famous for its challenging mountain curves and is a unique tourist attraction in Ecuador.


3. Argentina

Tren a las Nubes: This tourist train departs from Salta to the La Polvorilla viaduct at 4,200 meters above sea level. One of the highest trains in the world, it traverses valleys, mountains, and the highlands. It operates during the peak tourism season.

La Trochita (Old Patagonian Express): A narrow-gauge train in Patagonia, running between Esquel and El Maitén. This nostalgic experience crosses Patagonian landscapes and is often used for tourism.


4. Chile

EFE Trenes de Chile: Chile does not have extensive long-distance train routes like Argentina or Peru, but the TerraSur train connects Santiago with Chillán, offering a comfortable and scenic trip. The rail network is being expanded, and future connections are planned.

Rail Tourism: The La Trochita train in southern Chile runs through the Magallanes region. In O'Higgins, some trains also offer tourist routes.


5. Bolivia

Ferrocarril Andino: Connects Oruro and Uyuni, near the famous Uyuni Salt Flats. Although it mainly serves cargo, tourists can use this route to access Uyuni, making it an affordable and scenic option.



Comparative Summary

North America (U.S. and Canada) has the most extensive and complete passenger rail networks, allowing coast-to-coast journeys and rich panoramic experiences through diverse geography.

Central America has very limited train services, focusing mainly on railway tourism, such as the Panama train, with no long-distance routes.

South America offers exclusive luxury and scenic routes like Peru’s Belmond Andean Explorer and Argentina’s Tren a las Nubes, allowing travelers to experience the Andes and Patagonia’s iconic landscapes.


Conclusion

Train travel in the Americas varies significantly by region, with more developed, comfortable options in North America, and a focus on scenic and luxury routes in South America. South America’s lines, although limited in coverage, provide extraordinary journeys through emblematic areas like the Andes and Machu Picchu. These rail experiences not only attract tourists but also offer a unique glimpse into the geography and culture of each country

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