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By rail! The oldest tour in Brazil is 140 years old and takes you by train to historic Brazilian sites

Written by Alisson Ficher
Published 16/01/2025 às 21:00
At 140 years old, the Corcovado Train connects tourists to Christ the Redeemer, uniting history, culture and unique landscapes in Rio de Janeiro.
At 140 years old, the Corcovado Train connects tourists to Christ the Redeemer, uniting history, culture and unique landscapes in Rio de Janeiro.

The Corcovado Train, with 140 years of history, is the oldest electrified railway in Brazil. Connecting tourists to the iconic Christ the Redeemer, this tour offers a scenic journey through Tijuca National Park.

140 years ago, a visionary project changed the tourism in Brazil, creating a legacy that has spanned generations and established itself as one of the country’s most fascinating attractions.

Without knowing it, Brazil was inaugurating what would be the oldest tourist attraction still in operation.

The connection between history, culture and engineering makes this tour a unique experience full of meaning.

The Corcovado Train, inaugurated in 1884 by the then emperor Dom Pedro II, is still active and has transported millions of passengers throughout its more than 14 decades of operation.

This is the first electrified railway in Brazil., a work that marked an era and continues to connect visitors to the famous Christ the Redeemer, in Rio de Janeiro.

A work of engineering and culture

The Corcovado Railway was born as an innovative feat. Almost 4 thousand meters long, the route cuts through the Tijuca National Park and challenges steep terrain, reaching an altitude of 710 meters.

At the time of its inauguration, the carriages were powered by steam, a technology that remained in use until 1910, when they were replaced by electric machines.

Already in 1979, new Swiss models arrived, updating the system and increasing its efficiency.

In addition to connecting tourists to Christ the Redeemer, the train also played a key role in the construction of the monument.

Between 1927 and 1931, the railway transported parts of the statue, consolidating its historical and logistical relevance.

Christ the Redeemer: national symbol

Inaugurated on October 12, 1931, Christ the Redeemer is considered the largest art deco monument in the world.

38 meters tall and weighing 30 tons just on the head, the statue impresses both for its size and its symbolism.

The base of Christ was built with soapstone, an abundant and erosion-resistant material, as proposed by engineer Heitor da Silva Costa.

The construction was financed by donations and led by a Catholic mobilization of more than 20 thousand women, led by the writer Laurita Lacerda.

Thanks to popular support, the cost of the work was kept at 2.500 contos de réis — around R$9,5 million in updated values.

This amount, relatively low for a work of this magnitude, contrasts with the 60 thousand contos de réis spent on the Statue of Liberty, in New York.

How to get to Corcovado

Visitors can access the monument in a number of ways. By car or van, the journey is comfortable and direct.

Vans, which depart from points such as Largo do Machado and Barra da Tijuca, cost an average of R$84. However, the most scenic and historic way is the Corcovado Train, with tickets costing R$128.

The train ride lasts about 20 minutes and provides a privileged view of the Atlantic Forest.

During the tour, it is possible to contemplate the rich biodiversity of the Tijuca National Park, making the experience even more memorable.

What's new in Tijuca National Park

Tijuca National Park continues to surprise visitors with new options. Recently, the “Paineiras-Corcovado” trail was opened, with free entry.

The 1,15 km route is of moderate difficulty due to the 260 meter elevation gain. The walk lasts about 45 minutes and is open from 8am to 18pm.

One of the highlights of the trail is the Mirante Cartão Postal, made of glass and located 600 meters above sea level.

From there, you can admire panoramic views of iconic spots such as Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas, the beaches of the South Zone and Pedra da Gávea.

A historical legacy

The Corcovado Train is more than a means of transport; it is a testament to evolution of tourism and engineering in Brazil.

Its 140-year history reflects the human effort to unite culture, faith and technology into an unforgettable experience.

With Christ the Redeemer at the end of the route, the tour becomes a true immersion in the history and landscape of Rio de Janeiro.

The legacy of this railway lives on, enchanting Brazilians and foreigners who wish to explore one of the most emblematic landscapes in the world.

Have you already embarked on this journey full of history and beauty? How about planning your next trip on the Corcovado Train? Tell us in the comments what your experience would be like or share memories of those who have already experienced this tourist landmark in Brazil!

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Alisson Ficher

Journalist graduated in 2017 and working in the field since 2015, with six years of experience in print magazines, stints on broadcast TV channels and over 12 online publications. Specialist in politics, jobs, economics, courses, among other topics. Professional registration: 0087134/SP. If you have any questions, want to report an error or suggest a topic on the topics covered on the site, please contact us by email: alisson.hficher@outlook.com. We do not accept resumes!

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