In the heart of Patagonia, a narrow-gauge train known affectionately as La Trochita invites travelers to step into a bygone era. Officially called the Old Patagonian Express, this historic steam train is one of Argentina’s most iconic and nostalgic experiences—made famous internationally by Paul Theroux’s travel writing, and beloved locally for its enduring charm.
With its wooden coaches, coal-fired locomotives, and dramatic backdrop of open steppes and distant mountains, La Trochita offers more than a ride—it offers a story.
A Moving Museum on Rails
Originally built in the early 20th century to help populate and connect remote Patagonian communities, La Trochita ran over 400 km of track between Ingeniero Jacobacci and Esquel. Today, only segments of the route remain active as a tourist attraction, but its cultural legacy is alive and well.
Features of the ride:
- Vintage British and German-built steam locomotives from the 1920s
- Handcrafted wooden interiors and cast-iron stoves for warmth
- Slow pace (~30 km/h) ideal for appreciating the landscape and photography
- Authentic anecdotes shared by guides and railway staff
Popular Routes
- Esquel to Nahuel Pan (Chubut)
- Duration: ~2.5 hours round-trip
- Includes a cultural stop at the Mapuche artisan community in Nahuel Pan
- El Maitén to Desvío Thomae (available seasonally)
- Deeper into railway history with restored workshops and museums
Road Trip Tip: A Detour Through Patagonian Heritage
Though La Trochita is an attraction in itself, it’s also well integrated into road trip itineraries through the Andean corridor of Chubut province.
Getting There
- From Esquel: The main boarding station, with easy access via Ruta Nacional 259
- From Trevelin: Only ~25 km (15 mi) away—a short hop by car
- From El Maitén: A more remote option for deeper rail history, reachable via scenic backroads
Combine With
- Parque Nacional Los Alerces: For stunning lakes and native forests near Esquel
- Trevelin: A Welsh-heritage village with tea houses and wildflower fields
- El Bolsón and Lago Puelo: Easily accessible to the north via RN40
Tips
- Book in advance, especially in summer or during Argentine holidays
- Check the schedule: La Trochita does not run daily
- Pair the ride with local museums to deepen the historical context
La Trochita isn’t about speed—it’s about connection: to history, to landscapes, and to the quiet rhythms of Patagonian life. Whether you’re a rail enthusiast, a romantic traveler, or a family with kids, this train ride is a memory in the making.
We’re a local tour operator based in Buenos Aires, which offers custom tours in Patagonia and other regions of Argentina and Chile. We invite you to contact us, and start planning your next incredible journey to South America!
Get inspired by some of our travel ideas, listed below:
Argentina and Chile Border Crossing
Mendoza to Bariloche Self Drive
Patagonia Road Trip: From El Calafate to Ushuaia
Best Family Road Trips in Argentina
0
