Argentina by Train: 10 Scenic and Tourist Rail Journeys

Argentina is a vast country, so flying is often the quickest way to connect major destinations—a two-hour flight can replace a 12-hour road journey. But getting around is only part of the adventure.…

Argentina by Train: 10 Scenic and Tourist Rail JourneysLa Trochita steam train at Esquel station with snow-capped mountains behindCerro de los Siete Colores - Purmamarca, Argentina

Historic and Scenic Rail Journeys

Argentina is a vast country, so flying is often the quickest way to connect major destinations—a two-hour flight can replace a 12-hour road journey. But getting around is only part of the adventure. Argentina by train offers a memorable way to experience the country’s landscapes and railway heritage, from historic steam trains to scenic routes through the Andes, the Sierras, and Patagonia. Add a train ride to your itinerary for a slower, more immersive way to explore Argentina and connect with its local history.

Here are some of the country’s most memorable train journeys to consider during your visit to Buenos Aires, Patagonia, Northwest Argentina and Iguazú Falls.

Línea A Subway — Buenos Aires

Step aboard a piece of the city’s railway history on Línea A, the first subway line in Latin America, opened in 1913. The original La Brugeoise wooden carriages, with their polished timber interiors and vintage details, offer a sense of what urban travel once felt like in Buenos Aires. On select weekends and holidays, these historic cars return to the tracks for special rides, making this a memorable historic train experience in Buenos Aires. Check the schedule before your visit, as the heritage service doesn’t run every day.

Caballito Tram — Buenos Aires

Climb aboard a beautifully restored tram and travel through the streets of Caballito, one of Buenos Aires’ traditional neighborhoods. This free, short journey is a charming way to experience the city’s transport history and see the neighborhood at a relaxed pace. The tram usually runs on weekends and public holidays, subject to availability, so check the schedule before you go.

Tren de las Sierras — Córdoba

For a memorable Argentina by train experience, the Tren de las Sierras from Córdoba into the Punilla Valley is a great option. The route winds past mountain scenery, rivers, and small towns, including La Calera, Cosquín, and Capilla del Monte. You can enjoy part of the journey as a day trip or hop off to explore a town along the way. Since it’s a regional passenger service, check the current route and schedule before traveling.

Tren Ecológico de la Selva (Jungle Ecological Train) — Iguazú

As part of your Argentina by train adventure, ride this open-sided train through the lush rainforest of Iguazú National Park. It connects the park’s main visitor areas and provides access to trails and viewpoints overlooking the falls, including the route to Devil’s Throat. The ride is included with park admission and offers a convenient way to move through the reserve while enjoying the surrounding forest.

Vintage blue and cream Line A subway car at Perú station in Buenos AiresTren de las Sierras running along a river between green hills in CórdobaGreen open-sided Tren Ecológico de la Selva carrying visitors through the forest at Iguazú

Tren A Las Nubes (Train to the Clouds) — Salta

One of the most iconic train experiences in Argentina, the Train to the Clouds climbs high into the Andes, reaching around 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) above sea level. The journey crosses dramatic mountain landscapes and culminates at the striking La Polvorilla Viaduct, a remarkable feat of railway engineering. With its high-altitude scenery and unforgettable views, it’s a must for travelers exploring Salta. Check the official schedule and itinerary before your visit, as services and excursions may vary.

Tren Solar de la Quebrada de Humahuaca (Solar Train) — Jujuy

This modern, solar-powered train offers a relaxed way to explore the spectacular Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The route connects Volcán, Tumbaya, Purmamarca, Maimará, and Tilcara, passing colorful mountains and historic villages along the way. With flexible hop-on, hop-off tickets, you can pause to explore the towns and continue your journey later.

La Trochita — Esquel

Ride the Old Patagonian Express, one of Argentina’s most charming historic railway experiences. Known locally as La Trochita, this narrow-gauge steam train travels through the Patagonian steppe, with tourist departures from Esquel and El Maitén. Some Esquel journeys stop at Nahuel Pan, where you can learn about Indigenous culture and browse local crafts. Departure days and schedules vary from year to year, so check the calendar and book your ride in advance.

Blue Tren a las Nubes crossing a steel viaduct over a dry mountain ravine in SaltaTren Solar de la Quebrada running on tracks between colorful hills in the Quebrada de HumahuacaSteam locomotive of the Tren del Fin del Mundo pulling green carriages across a bridge near Ushuaia

Tren Patagónico — Río Negro

For a longer Argentina by train adventure, travel across the Patagonian steppe between Viedma and San Carlos de Bariloche. The journey passes through small towns, vast open landscapes, and changing scenery on its way from the Atlantic coast toward the Andes. It’s a long-distance passenger service, so plan for an extended journey rather than a short excursion, and check the operator’s current schedule when organizing your trip.

Tren del Fin del Mundo (the End of the World Train) — Ushuaia

Add a memorable rail journey to your visit to Tierra del Fuego National Park aboard the End of the World Train, one of the southernmost tourist railways on the planet. The scenic route follows part of the historic line once used to transport timber from the forest, winding through forests, rivers, and mountain landscapes. You can choose between Tourist Class and Premium Class, with different onboard comforts and services. It’s a lovely way to experience the region’s history and natural beauty in one trip.

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