Tour Ecuador By Train With Exclusive Train Tours By LANDED Travel

Touring Ecuador by Train

Linking the capital city of Quito to the key port of Guayaquil, the Southern Railway, was undoubtedly Ecuador’s most costly and time-consuming national enterprise. Construction began in 1872, but major links were not completed until 1965. After decades of toil and sacrifice, the railway survived in its full form for less than ten years—before succumbing to natural, political, and fiscal tumult.

Though the full line no longer operates, select segments have been carefully restored and now serve as scenic, cultural journeys through some of the country’s most striking landscapes. The operating entity, Tren Ecuador, showcases numerous meticulously-restored historic stations and coaches.

From narrow-gauge descents through misty canyons to high-altitude routes between snowcapped volcanoes, these train journeys highlight the engineering ambition and regional diversity that define Ecuador’s geography.

Popular Railway Routes

LANDED arranges private rail experiences paired with curated overland travel, guided exploration, and cultural immersion. Popular railway routes include the following:

Quito – Machachi:
Departing from the Chimbacalle train station, day-trippers from Quito can visit the cool mountain valley of Machachi (10,134 FASL) for volcano hiking, horseback riding, and tours of rose plantations. The 25-mile journey takes just under two hours. The departure time is approximately 8:15 AM and the service operates from Thursday to Sunday.

Quito – Boliche:

Continuing the journey 12 miles past Machachi, the track climbs to 11,637 FASL at Boliche, the northern gateway to the Avenue of the Volcanoes. The Cotopaxi and Rumiñahui volcanoes dominate this region’s landscape. Hiking, horseback, and mountain bike tours can all be arranged on their slopes. Guests can hike highland trails, explore Pasochoa Reserve, or stay at nearby haciendas for active adventures. The journey from Quito to Boliche takes 2.5 hours on average. Departures are usually at 8:15 AM and service operates from Thursday to Sunday.

Quito – Latacunga:
A longer segment of roughly four hours connects Quito with the plateau town of Latacunga, near the emerald-green Lake Quilotoa and traditional markets of Pujili (Wednesdays and Sundays) and Saquisilí (Thursdays). This route offers broad highland views and access to cultural and natural highlights. Departures are usually at 8:15 AM, with service operating from Thursday to Sunday.

Devil’s Nose:
This iconic segment descends more than 1,700 feet in 7.5 miles down the sheer face of a mountain known as El Nariz del Diablo, and is perhaps the steepest, zig-zaggiest section of adhesion railway ever created. The journey lasts about an hour and delivers thrilling views of canyons and cliffs—an enduring symbol of Ecuador’s rail legacy. The service usually operates Tuesday to Sunday, with departures at 8:00 AM, 11:00 AM, and 3:00 PM.

Each route can be seamlessly integrated into a custom LANDED itinerary with private transfers, regional flights, and lodge stays.

What is the Weather Like?

These rail routes traverse Ecuador’s central Andean corridor, where elevation ranges from 6,000 to over 11,500 feet. Days are generally clear and mild, with average highs in the 50s to low 60s °F. Nights can be cold, dipping near freezing—especially at higher elevations.

June through September is typically the driest season, with clear skies and crisp air. Rain is more common from October through April, especially in the afternoons.

These averages are changing. Please check extended weather forecasts using your favorite weather app prior to departure.

Getting There

Ecuador’s railway routes connect naturally with Quito, the Avenue of the Volcanoes, and Coastal Ecuador. These segments travel through some of the country’s most iconic landscapes and serve as scenic links between the highlands and the coast.

Start your journey today

LANDED delivers the finest in custom, private travel to Central America, South America, and Antarctica. These regions are our passion; we know them first-hand and by heart. Speak with one of our travel designers and let us create a tailored itinerary for you in Ecuador’s Train Journeys.