Tren Crucero, Tourist train between Quito and Guayaquil, Ecuador
Tren Crucero is a tourist train connecting Quito in the Andes to Guayaquil on the Pacific coast, traveling 440 kilometers through diverse landscapes and elevations. The route passes mountain passes, volcanic peaks, and highland plateaus before descending into tropical lowlands.
The railway line was built in 1873 under President Gabriel García Moreno to connect regions for trade and transport. In 2008, it was transformed into a tourism project, allowing passengers to experience Ecuador's landscape and heritage from the train.
Each coach displays architectural styles from different periods of Ecuadorian history, with regional artwork and furnishings reflecting the aesthetics of distinct areas and eras.
The journey lasts four days with overnight stays in traditional rural estates, local meals, and guided excursions with bilingual staff support. The train accommodates a maximum of 54 passengers, creating a more personal experience.
The Devil's Nose section features an engineering marvel where the train navigates steep mountain slopes through a series of switchbacks. This segment was specifically designed to handle the dramatic elevation changes encountered along the route.
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