Nariz del Diablo, Mountain railway formation in Alausí Canton, Ecuador
Nariz del Diablo is a mountain railway in Alausí Canyon featuring switchbacks along steep slopes. The line uses a specialized track system to navigate the challenging terrain between two stations.
This railway section was built in the early 1900s to connect remote mountain communities and transport goods through the Andes. The construction marked a turning point in how the region developed and remained in use for over a century.
Local performers at Sibambe Station share traditional Ecuadorian dances with train passengers during scheduled journeys. These presentations offer travelers a chance to experience the region's cultural expressions firsthand.
Train service between Alausí and Sibambe runs multiple times daily with departures taking about an hour. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for changing weather conditions at altitude.
The track layout follows a zigzag pattern where the train must reverse direction on steeper sections. This engineering solution allows passage without needing tunnels through the rock formations.
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