The 7 best train journeys in Brazil

Discover the grandeur and beauty of our country with 7 train journeys through Brazil

Who doesn’t love to travel differently, right? Train journeys through Brazil are a unique way to explore our country, with breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable experiences. That’s why today, let’s explore together the 7 best routes you need to know.

Traveling by train through Brazil is the perfect chance to slow down, appreciate every detail of the landscape, and connect with the history and culture of our country in a completely different way.

And the best part? Train journeys through Brazil are for everyone! It doesn’t matter if you’re an experienced traveler or just looking for a different way to spend your vacation. There’s an option for everyone: from short and charming trips to long journeys full of surprises. So, how about embarking on this journey with us? Pack your bags and let’s go!

Read in this post

• ATM24h across Brazil
• 7 train journeys through Brazil
• Why travel by train in Brazil?
• Discover Brasil ATM (A Todo Momento)
• FAQ

ATM24h pelo Brasil

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7 train journeys through Brazil

Train journeys through Brazil offer a unique way to explore stunning landscapes, experience local culture, and relive a bit of our history. From north to south, we have options that will please all types of travelers. Discover with us the 7 best train journeys through Brazil below:

1. Trem da Vale: Vitória a Minas Gerais

We start our list with a classic of train journeys in Brazil! The Trem da Vale connects Vitória (ES) to Belo Horizonte (MG), passing through the breathtaking landscapes of the Atlantic Forest and historic mining towns. It’s 664 km of pure contemplation!

What’s great about this trip is that you can choose between the day or night train. During the day, you can enjoy every detail of the scenery. At night, you sleep rocked by the train’s motion and wake up in Minas Gerais.

Speaking of Minas, get ready to see super charming historic towns along the way. You’ll feel like getting off at every station! Oh, and don’t forget to try a warm cheese bread during the journey. After all, we are heading to the land of cheese, right?

Useful information:

• Travel duration: Approximately 13 hours
• Frequency: Daily
• Available classes: Economy and Executive
• Tip: Book in advance, especially for holiday travel
• Bring: A camera to capture the landscapes and a light jacket (the air conditioning can be strong)
• Don’t forget: To try the famous Minas Gerais cheese bread during the stops

2. Serra Verde Express: Curitiba a Morretes

This is one of the train journeys in Brazil that is a true spectacle! The route between Curitiba and Morretes, in Paraná, crosses the Serra do Mar with jaw-dropping views. The highlight? The stop in Morretes to savor a delicious barreado!

The train departs from Curitiba, a city known for its modernity, and descends the Serra do Mar until it reaches Morretes. It’s 110 km of stunning beauty and diverse scenery. You will pass through 30 tunnels and 55 bridges.

And when you arrive in Morretes, the barreado, a typical dish of the region, awaits you. It’s super tender meat cooked for hours, served with flour and banana.

Useful informations:

• Travel duration: Approximately 4 hours (one way)
• Departures: Daily, except on Mondays
• Available classes: Tourist, Executive, and Luxury Litorina
• Best time: All year round, but the view is especially beautiful on sunny days
• Tip: Sit on the left side of the train (towards Morretes) for the best views
• Bring: A waterproof jacket, as the weather can change quickly in the mountains
• Don’t forget: To book a restaurant in Morretes to try the barreado

3. Trem do Corcovado: Rio de Janeiro

It’s impossible to talk about train journeys in Brazil without mentioning the iconic Trem do Corcovado! Ascending to the Christ the Redeemer, this short trip offers incredible panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro. Get your camera ready!

The journey begins in the Cosme Velho neighborhood and climbs 3.8 km through the Tijuca Forest until reaching the top of Corcovado. During the ascent, you’ll marvel at the view of the Marvelous City unfolding at your feet. It’s a unique experience that combines nature, engineering, and the best views of Rio.

Upon reaching the top, prepare to be awestruck by the 360° view of the city and, of course, by the close-up of Christ the Redeemer. It’s breathtaking!

Useful informations:

• Bring: Sunscreen, water, and a fully charged camera
• Travel duration: About 20 minutes (one way)
• Frequency: Trains depart every 30 minutes
• Best time: Early morning to avoid lines and catch the best light for photos
• Tip: Buy tickets online in advance to avoid queues

4. Maria Fumaça: Gramado a Carlos Barbosa

In the heart of the Serra Gaúcha, this train journey in Brazil is pure nostalgia! The Maria Fumaça connects Gramado to Carlos Barbosa, passing through Bento Gonçalves. The ride includes wine tasting and typical Gaúcho performances. Tchê!

This journey is like stepping back in time! The steam locomotive, affectionately known as Maria Fumaça, travels 23 km through the stunning landscapes of the Serra Gaúcha. The best part? Besides the views, you’ll enjoy a true cultural show on board, featuring music, dance, and typical food.

In Bento Gonçalves, there’s also a stop to taste wines and sparkling wines from the region. It’s a lesson in history, culture, and gastronomy, all in one trip!

Useful information:

• Don’t forget: Extra cash to buy local products at the stops
• Total duration: About 3 hours (round trip)
• Departures: Usually on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays (check the schedule)
• What’s included: Wine tasting and cultural performances
• Tip: Book in advance, especially during the high season
• Bring: A light sweater (the weather can change quickly in the mountains)

5. Trem das Águas: São Lourenço a Soledade de Minas

Looking to relax? This train journey in Brazil is perfect! The Trem das Águas departs from São Lourenço, a famous city known for its mineral waters in Minas Gerais, to Soledade de Minas. The 10 km route is short but full of charm!

This ride is ideal for those seeking a peaceful and picturesque experience. The steam locomotive, built in 1949, travels a path surrounded by beautiful landscapes of southern Minas Gerais. Along the way, you’ll cross bridges over the Rio Verde and enjoy views of the Serra da Mantiqueira.

The highlight of the trip is the stop at Soledade de Minas station, where you can learn a bit about the local history and take the opportunity to buy typical products from the region.

Useful information:

• Don’t forget: To try the mineral waters of São Lourenço before or after the ride
• Duration: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes (round trip)
• Departures: On Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays
• Tip: Arrive early to secure a good seat
• Bring: A camera to capture the beautiful landscapes

6. Estrada de Ferro Campos do Jordão

Who says train journeys in Brazil only happen in the summer? In Campos do Jordão, you can enjoy a charming train ride even in winter! The route connects the city center to Parque Capivari, with stops at scenic viewpoints.

This ride is a true postcard of Campos do Jordão. On board a charming tram, you’ll travel through the city’s streets, passing famous tourist spots and enjoying stunning views of the Serra da Mantiqueira.

The route includes strategic stops at viewpoints, where you can get off to take photos and appreciate the scenery. It’s a unique way to experience the “Brazilian Switzerland”!

Useful informations:

• Bring: Warm clothing in winter, as the temperature can drop significantly
• Duration: About 30 minutes (one way)
• Operation: Daily, with higher frequency on weekends
• Best time: Winter offers incredible landscapes, but the ride is great all year round
• Tip: Combine the ride with a visit to Parque Capivari

7. Trem do Pantanal: Miranda a Aquidauana

This ride, unfortunately, is no longer active! However, it was one of the most famous train journeys in Brazil and is worth mentioning as there are rumors it might resume operations. So, keep an eye on the news and discover this Brazilian paradise in a unique way.

The Trem do Pantanal connected Miranda to Aquidauana in Mato Grosso do Sul, traversing the world’s most preserved biome. It offered sightings of alligators and capybaras along the tracks! Throughout the 37 km journey, one could marvel at the richness of the Pantanal’s fauna and flora.

The train made a stop at the historic Eurico Gaspar Dutra Bridge over the Aquidauana River, where you could get off to take photos and enjoy the panoramic view of the Pantanal.

Useful information:

• Best time: Between July and November, when the water levels are lower
• Tip: Bring binoculars for better wildlife observation
• Don’t forget: Insect repellent and sunscreen
• Bring: Water and snacks, as the ride does not include meals

Why travel by train in Brazil?

Traveling by train in Brazil is a unique experience that combines comfort, history, and natural beauty. Train journeys in Brazil offer a different perspective on Brazilian landscapes, often inaccessible by other means. Thus, travelers can appreciate the country’s diversity in a relaxed manner, without the worries associated with driving or dealing with airports.

Moreover, Brazilian railways carry rich historical value, providing an immersion into the culture and past of the country. Train travel is also a more sustainable option compared to cars or planes, addressing the growing concern over the environmental impact of travel.

With options ranging from short trips to long journeys, train travel caters to various traveler profiles and budgets. It offers a unique opportunity to explore Brazil in a more leisurely and reflective way, creating lasting memories and providing a new perspective on the destinations visited. It’s a way of traveling that combines adventure, culture, and convenience in a single experience.

Discover Brasil ATM (A Todo Momento)

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We offer accurate, up-to-date, and inspiring information in three languages, ensuring that you have everything you need to plan your trip with confidence. From comprehensive travel guides and detailed itineraries to planning tips, our content covers all travelers’ needs.

We aim to provide unforgettable experiences by revealing the natural and cultural beauties of Brazil. Whether exploring popular destinations like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo or discovering hidden treasures like Lençóis Maranhenses and Fernando de Noronha, we are here to help you make the most of your journey.

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