Historical Railway Reopened in Cruzeiro (SP) Resumes Operations After 30 Years with Tourist Train, 1958 Locomotive, and Regional Railroad Modeling Event.
The Expresso da Mantiqueira will resume the tracks of the old Minas e Rio Railway, deactivated since 1991, with inaugural trips scheduled for July 5 and 6, 2025 in Cruzeiro, in the Paraíba Valley, São Paulo countryside.
The initiative by the Brazilian Association of Railroad Preservation (ABPF), in partnership with the Cruzeiro City Hall and support from agencies like CPTM, aims to attract tourists and enthusiasts of historical trains.
The Alco RSD‑8 No. 3507, manufactured in the USA in 1958 and restored between 2017 and 2024 at the ABPF workshops in Cruzeiro, will pull a car with a capacity of 52 passengers on a round trip of 12 km — about 6.5 km each way.
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The route begins at the Cruzeiro Central Station (km 0), passes through a brief tunnel, and continues to the Rufino de Almeida Station (km 6), at the foot of the Mantiqueira Mountain Range.
The return completes the journey, which offers views of the mountain and revives a railway of historical value.
As of now, the ticket prices have not been officially disclosed.
During the pre-opening days, tickets will be sold at a promotional price directly at the central station counter, with the expectation of monthly trips after this initial phase.
Railway Tourism and Historical Heritage
The railway line has historical significance: it was inaugurated on June 22, 1884, with the presence of Emperor Dom Pedro II.
It was also the site of battles during the Constitutional Revolution of 1932, especially at the Mantiqueira Tunnel and nearby areas.
The recovery project includes, in addition to the train, the restoration of the Cruzeiro Central Station and the Mantiqueira Tunnel.
There is also the creation of a Railroad Museum and the future reconstruction and extension of the line to the border with Minas Gerais.
The goal is to integrate it into the future Intercity Train – East Axis (São Paulo–São José dos Campos).

Regional Impact and Tourism Development
The initiative seeks to expand regional tourism, benefiting around 12 municipalities in the Paraíba Valley and North Coast, with an estimated population of 469,000.
It is expected that Cruzeiro will stand out as a historical-cultural route, reinforcing its title of “Capital of the Constitutional Revolution of 1932.”
Local tourism experts suggest that the project could boost the economy of Cruzeiro and neighboring regions through cultural tourism.
The strengthening of historical identity and stimulation of accommodation, dining, and commerce services are some of the expected impacts.
Engagement with railroad heritage and the realization of traveling events are seen as foundations to promote responsible tourism and value the railroad history of the Paraíba Valley.
Railroad Modeling Meeting Expands Programming
Alongside the train’s debut, the 1st Railroad Modeling Meeting of Cruzeiro will take place on the same days (July 5 and 6), from 9 AM to 5 PM, with free admission.
The event will gather dozens of exhibitors displaying models, trams, railcars, themed scenarios, as well as specialized shops and a food court.
The schedule aims to attract both collectors and the general public.
The combination of a historic train ride and the railroad modeling meeting will allow a complete immersion in railway culture, encompassing both real heritage and miniature replicas.
Technical Details of the Expresso da Mantiqueira
- Locomotive: Alco RSD‑8 No. 3507, diesel-electric, manufactured in 1958 in the USA, restored by the ABPF and operated until 1999.
- Car: capacity for 52 passengers, also restored.
- Line: restored section from Cruzeiro to Rufino de Almeida; future extension planned to Minas Gerais and integration into intermunicipal axes.

Next Steps of the Railway Revival
After the trips in July, the ABPF plans to conduct at least one monthly trip on the initial section.
The frequency is expected to increase on holidays and special dates.
The progress of infrastructure works, especially the renovation of the tunnel and the continuation of the tracks, will determine the feasibility of extending to Passa Quatro.
Phase II of the project awaits the release of funds and involvement from other agencies, with support from CPTM, MRS, the Ministry of Tourism, and state governments.
Did you already know the story of the reopened railway section? What sparks your curiosity the most: the tourist train ride, the railroad modeling meeting, or the recovery of historical heritage?

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