Renovations of Ecuador's Historic Tren Crucero Now Complete

Renovations of the Tren Crucero have now been completed, offering visitors the opportunity to experience the fascinating culture, diversity and flavors of Ecuador.

The train itself comprises a reconditioned, authentic steam engine and four carefully restored carriages, built in Spanish Baroque style. Passengers also have the option to stay overnight in carefully selected hacienda style hotels along the route.

Dubbed as the "Most Difficult Train in the World", the construction in the late 1800s of the Tren Crucero was an engineering marvel. The route crosses dramatic and challenging landscapes as it advances from Guayaquil, at sea level, to the cloud forests at the heights of the Andes. Its highest point reaches almost 12,000 feet (3,600 meters) on the slopes of Chimborazo, the highest mountain in Ecuador, and continues through valleys, rivers and mountains, through the Avenue of the Volcanoes, with over ten volcanoes, and ends in Quito, Ecuador's capital, which was the first city declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, in 1978.

The three-day/four-night train journey travels 280 miles (450 km). Throughout the journey, guests will overnight in traditional haciendas and be accompanied by knowledgeable bi-lingual guides who will share the secrets of this ancient land.

The route can be taken in either direction - from Guayaquil to Quito or from the Andes to the Pacific Coast. It is also possible to select segments of the trip, which could include visits to incomparable sites for outdoor activities and natural wonders such as El Boliche Station near Cotopaxi National Park.

The trip enables each guest to absorb the cultural diversity of Ecuador. In addition to the passing scenery, each station, hacienda stay or stroll through indigenous markets brings visitors close to the Ecuadorian culture and its people. The renowned Devil's Nose is the route's most exciting moment and an engineering masterpiece. To pass through the craggy mountains near Alausi, the train travels in reverse along the cliffs, stopping in the middle of the steep slope and zigzagging for three miles (two km) with a drop of 1,300 feet (400 meters) before continuing with the journey.