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São Paulo Invests Heavily in Railway Tourism! The State Will Create the Largest Network of Tourist Trains in Brazil, Recapturing Historical Tracks, Building Thematic Museums, and Connecting Routes Amid Nature and Iconic Cities. With a Billion-Dollar Investment, This Initiative Promises to Revolutionize the Sector and Attract Travelers from All Over the Country.
In a scenario where sustainable tourism and the appreciation of historical heritage are gaining strength, an ambitious project promises to revolutionize the sector in Brazil.
The proposal led by the Government of São Paulo seeks to recapture the glories of the national railway while boosting regional tourism.
But what is the secret behind this plan that is already attracting the attention of experts and travelers? The answer involves over a thousand kilometers of tracks, a billion-dollar investment, and a direct connection with the history and nature of the country.
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At the heart of this initiative is the Railway Tourism Program, which integrates the state project SP nos Trilhos.
Launched recently, it aims to revitalize 23 railway circuits, including the restoration of stations, the construction of thematic museums, and integration with the Intercity Train (TIC), connecting existing routes and new sections.
The expectation is that the program will inject up to R$ 1.8 billion into the São Paulo economy over the next 10 years.
Trem da Mantiqueira: A Journey Between History and Nature
Among the most promising projects is the Trem da Mantiqueira, which will connect São Paulo and Minas Gerais on a 35 km route, starting from Cruzeiro to Passa Quatro.
The plan includes the restoration of the Cruzeiro railway station and the creation of a museum dedicated to the 1932 Constitutional Revolution, one of the most significant passages in São Paulo’s history.
According to the Government of São Paulo, the circuit will benefit 12 municipalities in the Vale do Paraíba and the North Coast.
Currently, the Brazilian Association of Railway Preservation (ABPF) operates 10 km of this route, known for its stunning landscapes and historical relevance.
Santos and the Railway Museum: Culture and Accessibility on the Paulista Coast
Another highlight is the project that will revitalize the Cais do Valongo in Santos, with the creation of a railway circuit connected to the City Railway Museum.
According to the Government, the initiative aims to facilitate access for tourists coming from the capital through integration with the Intercity Train.
The proposal is to ensure that the museum becomes a strategic point on the tourist route, promoting the appreciation of Brazilian railway history and offering a rich cultural experience for visitors.
Tourist Train of the Atlantic Forest: Immersion in Biodiversity
For nature lovers, the Tourist Train of the Atlantic Forest promises to be a true attraction.
The route, which extends 198 km from Santos to the Vale do Ribeira, will pass through municipalities such as Praia Grande, Mongaguá, and Itanhaém, using the old Santos-Cajati railway.
According to the project leaders, while the railway network is planned, some sections require restoration.
The route offers a unique experience amidst the lush vegetation of the Atlantic Forest, one of the richest biomes in the world.
Campos do Jordão Railway: A Renewed Classic
Created in 1914, the Campos do Jordão Railway (EFCJ) is one of the icons of São Paulo’s railway tourism.
Today, only 7 km of its total 47 km are in operation. However, the program plans to reactivate another 9 km up to Santo Antônio do Pinhal, with completion expected by 2025.
The investment will not only restore an important historical heritage but also pave the way for a future concession.
The railway is famous for its mountainous landscapes and the charm of the Serra da Mantiqueira.
Train of the Pilgrims: Religiosity on Tracks
Focused on religious tourism, the Train of the Pilgrims promises to enhance the Faith Route and the connection with the city of Aparecida, an important pilgrimage destination in Brazil.
The route will start in Cachoeira Paulista and reach São José dos Campos, utilizing part of the Intercity Train line.
According to the Government, this project is one of the most strategic and promising for railway tourism in the state, thanks to the region’s religious and cultural appeal.
Other Highlighting Routes
In addition to the mentioned projects, the program includes circuits such as the Roots of the Interior Train, linking Boituva to Laranjal Paulista; the Ipanema Train, between Sorocaba and Iperó; and a route connecting Ribeirão Preto to Franca.
Each of these initiatives reflects the commitment of the Government of São Paulo to the revival of railways as a means of transportation and tourist attraction.
The largest railway tourism network in Brazil is about to become a reality.
Focusing on history, nature, and religiosity, the state of São Paulo invests heavily to transform abandoned tracks into pathways of culture and development.
And you, which of these routes would you like to explore? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Uma rota de trem da cidade de Taubaté sp para a cidade de São Paulo
Neste país aqui isso se chama sonho das noites de verão, isso não vai pra frente sou ex ferroviário e acabaram com as ferrovias lamentável
Paranapiacaba até Santos e Santos até Peruíbe, seria maravilhoso, espero viver pra ver e passear 😍