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A Unique Journey! Discover the Most Charming Train Ride in Brazil, Voted by Lonely Planet as One of the Best in the World. Stories of Emperors, Exuberant Landscapes of the Atlantic Forest, and a Dive into History Await You.
Imagine embarking on a journey that combines history, breathtaking landscapes, and a unique experience in Brazil.
It sounds like a movie scene, but this is the reality of the Serra do Mar Paranaense train ride, one of the country’s most enchanting attractions.
With landscapes that look hand-painted and a railroad full of stories, this ride has captured the hearts of tourists from all over the world.
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But what makes this journey so special? Discover why the route operated by Serra Verde Express deserves a spot on your wish list.
One of the Best Train Rides in the World
Voted by Lonely Planet as one of the 15 most amazing train rides on the planet, the Serra do Mar Paranaense ride ranks 14th in the “Amazing Train Journeys” list.
In addition, it has been recognized by renowned media outlets, such as the British newspaper The Guardian in 2010 and the American The Wall Street Journal in 2018, reinforcing its position among the most captivating rail experiences in the world.
Operated since 1997 by Serra Verde Express, the route connects Curitiba to Morretes and is considered a must-do trip for those who love nature and history.
The entire journey takes about eight hours, but many tourists prefer to take just one stretch of the train and return by van, reducing the time to approximately four hours.
A Spectacle for the Eyes
The train ride offers spectacular views of the Serra do Mar, highlighting mountains, rivers, waterfalls, and cliffs.
Along the way, it’s possible to admire the Atlantic Forest in its most preserved form, in addition to crossing 41 bridges and 13 tunnels.
Among the highlights are the Carvalho Viaduct and the São João bridge, which stands 113 meters tall, ensuring a breathtaking view.
Moreover, the train passes through the Marumbi State Park, one of the region’s postcards, and offers passengers a chance to reconnect with nature while learning more about Brazil’s history.
History on Rails
The journey takes place on the Paranaguá-Curitiba Railroad, inaugurated in 1885, one of the oldest railroads in Brazil still in operation.
This railway line was designed by the Rebouças brothers, the first black engineers in the country, and was built without the use of enslaved labor, a remarkable feat for the time.
During the journey, the guides accompanying the cars narrate fascinating stories of figures such as Princess Isabel, Dom Pedro II, and Baron of Cerro Azul, who once traveled on these very tracks.
What to Expect from the Ride
The train operated by Serra Verde Express accommodates about 1,200 passengers per trip, divided into three categories of carriages: tourist, boutique, and luxury.
Each of them offers a different level of comfort and services:
Tourist Carriages: more traditional, with upholstered seats arranged like in buses. Passengers receive a box with snacks and a drink.
Boutique Carriages: themed and more comfortable, with side tables and balconies to enjoy the scenery. There are pet-friendly and inclusive options. In this category, passengers enjoy snacks, water, soft drinks, juices, coffee, and unlimited beer.
Luxury Carriages: known as litorinas, these are self-contained cars with air conditioning and vintage decor. Passengers are entitled to sparkling wine, as well as snacks and drinks throughout the journey.
Upon arriving in Morretes, tourists have free time to explore the historic center, buy local crafts, and, if they wish, arrange for lunch to savor traditional barreado, a typical dish of the region.
Back to the Past
According to Lonely Planet, one of the great attractions of this journey is diving into the past.
“In addition to the captivating scenery, the ride offers a fascinating glimpse of history, passing through small railway stations dating back to the late 19th century,” the publication describes.
For the more adventurous, the return by van via the Graciosa Road, an old drover’s route, is an opportunity to explore even more of the region’s beauty.
How to Ensure Your Experience
If you are enchanted by what the ride offers, it’s worth planning your trip in advance. Serra Verde Express offers package options to cater to different audiences.
And you, have you had the chance to embark on this amazing journey? If so, share your experiences in the comments! If you haven’t gone yet, what are you waiting for to live this unique adventure?
Em 1990 eu fiz esse trajeto ia até Paranaguá.