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Little-Known Tourist Route in Southern Brazil Takes Passengers on a Century-Old Railroad, with Hand-Dug Tunnels, Bridges Over Valleys, and Preserved Landscapes of the Serra Catarinense, on Board a Steam Locomotive from the 1920s.
The Maria Fumaça tourist route that connects Rio Negrinho to Mafra, in Santa Catarina, offers a unique experience of railway tourism in Brazil, featuring landscapes in environmental conservation areas, hand-dug tunnels, and bridges that reach over 1,100 meters in altitude.
Located in the North Plateau of Santa Catarina, the route is part of the former São Paulo-Rio Grande Railroad, one of the highest railways still operating in the country.
In addition to being a historical rescue, the ride provides direct contact with Brazil’s railway cultural heritage, attracting families, tourists, and steam train enthusiasts.
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Century-Old Railway of the Serra Catarinense
The railway that serves as the basis for the route was built starting in 1903, completed in stages over the first decades of the 20th century.
Originally created for the transportation of wood, grains, and mate herb, the line played an important role in the logistical development of the South region.
Today, part of this route is operated by the Brazilian Association for Railway Preservation (ABPF), with the support of the Rio Negrinho city hall and the government of Santa Catarina.
The entity’s goal is not only to keep tourist trains running but also to extend the route to the city of Lages (RS), restoring the entire stretch of over 150 km in length.
Currently, the ride covers approximately 70 kilometers between Rio Negrinho and the Volta Grande district in the municipality of Mafra.
Along the route, the train traverses areas of preserved Atlantic Forest, escarpment zones, deep valleys, and rural properties at over 1,000 meters above sea level.
Steam Train, Mountain Landscapes, and Vintage Cars
The train that operates the route is pulled by an American Baldwin steam locomotive, manufactured in the 1920s.
Restored by the ABPF itself, the machine represents a classic model of railway transportation from the early 20th century.
The cars are original or faithful replicas, equipped with wooden benches, large windows, soft lighting, and retro finishes.
During the journey, which lasts about 3 hours, the train crosses three hand-dug tunnels, five metal bridges, and curving sections with panoramic views of the Serra Catarinense.
The average speed does not exceed 20 km/h, allowing passengers to enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace.
In videos published on the association’s social media, visitors describe the experience as immersive and nostalgic.
“The smell of the smoke and the whistle echoing in the valleys take us back in time,” says one of the tourists.
Accessible Railway Tourism Valued Locally
The tourist ride has scheduled departures on weekends and holidays, with tickets starting at R$ 70 for the conventional option.
There are also options for executive and panoramic cars, which offer additional comfort and a privileged view of the route.
The boarding station in Rio Negrinho has been revitalized and now houses the Railway Museum, featuring exhibitions of old photographs, uniforms, historical pieces, and objects used in the original railway operations.
The site also hosts cultural activities, such as artistic performances and regional fairs.
According to the ABPF, the project has been growing with the support of public authorities.
The Rio Negrinho city hall has integrated the ride into local tourist itineraries and promoted the experience at regional tourism events.
The state government also recognizes the potential of railway tourism as an alternative for diversifying the economy in small towns in the countryside.
Expansion to Lages and Complete Reactivation of the Line
Technical and environmental feasibility studies are underway to reactivate the entire railway stretch to Lages, in the state of Rio Grande do Sul.
The route would include passages through locations such as Papanduva, Monte Castelo, and Campo do Tenente, expanding the route’s reach and further valuing the region’s natural landscape.
In 2024, the ABPF established a partnership with Rumo Logística and DNIT (National Department of Transport Infrastructure) to analyze the remaining infrastructure.
According to the association’s technicians, many sections of tracks and metal structures are still preserved and can be reused at low cost.
If approved, the project could become the largest tourist railway route at altitude in Brazil, crossing three different biomes: Atlantic Forest, high-altitude grasslands, and araucaria forests.
The expectation is that the reactivation will generate direct and indirect jobs focused on sustainable tourism.
Thematic Events and Nostalgic Appeal
In addition to the regular ride, the railway also offers thematic events throughout the year, such as the Santa Claus Train, with Christmas decorations, and the Wine Train, aimed at adults.
There are also special trips on commemorative dates, such as Children’s Day and regional festivals.
These actions aim to increase the audience and attract visitors outside the high season, contributing to keeping the operation viable throughout the year.
According to the organization, the number of passengers has been growing since the post-pandemic recovery, driven mainly by promotions on social media and travel blogs.
Historical Rescue and Heritage Preservation
The ABPF initiative is part of a national movement for railway preservation.
With headquarters in various regions of the country, the association seeks to reactivate historic stretches of railway lines that were part of Brazil’s development between the 19th and 20th centuries.
The railway between Rio Negrinho and Mafra, besides being a successful example of restoration and tourist use, serves as an educational platform.
Schools in the region organize educational visits to the station and the museum, promoting knowledge about the railway past and its influence on local culture.
Few Brazilians know that it is still possible to travel on an original Maria Fumaça, operating regularly, and even fewer know that this ride takes place amidst the mountains of Santa Catarina for less than R$ 100.
Would you dare to take a 3-hour journey on a steam train, crossing bridges a thousand meters high and tunnels carved over 100 years ago?
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