The reactivated route, an engineering marvel of the Andes, promises to revitalize tourism in the region and offer a unique adventure for travelers and residents.
The unmistakable sound of a train whistle is once again echoing through the dramatic canyons of the Ecuadorian Andes. After a five-year hiatus that left a noticeable void in the country’s tourism landscape, the iconic “Nariz del Diablo” (Devil’s Nose) train has officially resumed regular operations. The reopening, celebrated with a ceremony attended by Vice-President María José Pinto and other officials, marks the return of what is often called the “World’s Toughest Route”—a breathtaking journey that is as much a feat of engineering as it is a premier travel experience.
The train’s revival is a significant and hopeful development for Ecuador, signaling a renewed investment in preserving and promoting its unique cultural and historical assets for a global audience. For residents and international visitors alike, the journey offers a singular opportunity to traverse one of the most spectacular and challenging railway sections ever built.
The Unforgettable Journey: What to Expect on the Revitalized Route
The Devil’s Nose experience is a masterclass in adventure, history, and natural beauty. The 12-kilometer trip begins at the charming mountain station of Alausí in Chimborazo province. From there, the train embarks on a slow, deliberate descent down the near-vertical face of a mountain, navigating a series of thrilling switchbacks that were the ingenious solution to an otherwise impassable geographical challenge.
The revitalized journey has been thoughtfully curated to maximize the experience for passengers:
- Dramatic Vistas: The train makes a 10-minute stop at the Devil’s Nose Lookout, a purpose-built viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the sheer cliffs, the winding Alausí River far below, and the vast Andean landscape.
- Cultural Immersion: The journey includes a 45-minute stop at the remote Sibambe Station. Here, passengers are greeted by members of the local community who perform traditional dances, sell intricate handicrafts, and offer a taste of authentic Ecuadorian cuisine, providing a direct and meaningful cultural exchange.
- A Living Museum: The route itself is a monument to the immense human effort and sacrifice required to build it in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a project that claimed the lives of an estimated 2,500 workers. Along the tracks, passengers can spot the haunting remnants of abandoned railroad cars, a stark testament to the railway’s perilous history and a poignant reminder of the challenges overcome to connect the coast with the highlands.
More Than a Train Ride: Economic and Sustainable Impact
The reactivation of the Devil’s Nose train is far more than a nostalgic exercise; it is a strategic investment in the future of Ecuador’s tourism sector. The decision to bring this historic route back to life, a project that had remained dormant since the COVID-19 pandemic, reflects a commitment to developing a more sustainable, high-value tourism model. Unlike resource-extraction projects, which often come at a high environmental cost, this initiative leverages the country’s existing heritage to create an authentic, world-class attraction. This type of experience-based travel is particularly appealing to the expatriate community and international tourists who increasingly seek out unique cultural and adventure travel.
Moreover, the train serves as a vital economic engine for the rural Andean communities it serves. The influx of tourists to Alausí and Sibambe creates a direct and immediate demand for local services, from lodging and restaurants to guides and artisan goods. Every ticket sold injects revenue into the local economy, supporting small businesses and providing sustainable livelihoods that help preserve the region’s unique cultural fabric. According to the Ministry of Tourism, the train is a key component of a broader strategy to strengthen the tourism corridor throughout southern Ecuador, distributing economic benefits beyond the major urban centers. By offering a cleaner alternative to cars, the train also promotes a more environmentally friendly way to explore the country’s stunning landscapes.
A New Chapter for an Old Legend
The return of the Devil’s Nose train is a powerful story of national resilience and a testament to the enduring allure of Ecuador’s history and natural beauty. It represents a forward-looking commitment to a tourism model that is both economically beneficial and culturally sensitive. For expats looking for an unforgettable weekend adventure and for international travelers seeking one of South America’s most legendary journeys, the whistle is blowing once again. This is a must-do experience that not only offers a thrill but also supports the vibrant communities that are the heart and soul of the Andes.
We took this train years ago before it shut down. We were living in Europe at the time; I could not get the online reservations to work. We bussed to Alausí the day before the scheduled train to get tickets in person.
When we went to the ticket office, we were informed they were sold out. I begged and pleaded explaining how far we can come for this special train.
The manager was called and booked us each in separate cars. My husband was in the Spanish only car and I scored the English language car.
One of the other passengers was exceptionally good-willed and translated for my husband.
This was a sensational trip that will live in our memories forever. We have done another of the train trips in EC; it was lovely, but not as exceptional as this one.