Traveling Ecuador by train – Devil’s Nose

Traveling Ecuador by train - Devil's Nose
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Devils Nose – Discover Ecuador by train

Dear reader, traveling Ecuador by train is an experience that every traveler should have on their bucket list. One of the most popular train tours in Ecuador is the journey to Devil’s Nose, or “Nariz del Diablo”, a thrilling ride that takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes in the country.

The Devils Nose train tour is a must-do for any traveler visiting Ecuador. The journey takes you through the Andes Mountains, passing through small towns and villages along the way. The train ride is a unique experience that allows you to see the beauty of Ecuador from a different perspective. The train ride is also a great way to learn about the history and culture of the country.

The Devils Nose train tour is named after the steep mountain that the train passes through. The mountain is called the Devils Nose because of its steep incline and the dangerous conditions that the workers faced when building the railway. The train ride is a testament to the engineering skills of the workers who built the railway, as it takes you through a series of switchbacks that allow the train to climb the steep mountain.

Nariz del Diablo is a fascinating geological formation and a railway engineering marvel located in Ecuador. Its history is intertwined with the ambitious railway project that aimed to connect the coastal city of Guayaquil with the highlands of Quito, a venture that was not without its challenges and sacrifices.

Nariz del Diablo is a fascinating geological formation and a railway engineering marvel located in Ecuador. Its history is intertwined with the ambitious railway project that aimed to connect the coastal city of Guayaquil with the highlands of Quito, a venture that was not without its challenges and sacrifices.

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Railway Dream and the Birth of a Challenge

The idea of a railway connecting Ecuador’s coastal lowlands to its mountainous highlands had been a dream for many. In the late 19th century, this dream began to take shape as Ecuador’s government sought to improve transportation and trade routes. The biggest challenge, however, was conquering the rugged Andes Mountains.

The idea of a railway connecting Ecuador’s coastal lowlands to its mountainous highlands had been a dream for many. In the late 19th century, this dream began to take shape as Ecuador’s government sought to improve transportation and trade routes. The biggest challenge, however, was conquering the rugged Andes Mountains.

Updated Travel Information: The Devil’s Nose is Back!

After a period of suspension, the legendary train ride from Alausí to the Devil’s Nose has officially resumed operations. This segment remains the “crown jewel” of Ecuadorian rail travel, offering the famous zig-zag descent that showcases incredible engineering and breathtaking Andean scenery.

Plan Your Visit

Operating Days: The train currently runs from Thursday to Sunday.

Departure Times: There are three daily departures starting from the Alausí station: 08:00 AM, 11:00 AM, and 02:00 PM.

What to Expect: The 2.5-hour round trip includes the iconic descent to Sibambe station, where travelers are greeted with traditional dances by the local community and have access to the community museum.

Current Rates and Booking

To ensure you have the most accurate details for your trip, including potential seasonal changes in schedules or pricing for international vs. local travelers:

👉 Check the up-to-date timetable and prices here

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The Most Treacherous Section

The Devil’s Nose earned its ominous name due to its steep and treacherous terrain. It’s a narrow gorge with nearly vertical walls, making it a formidable obstacle for any railway construction. To overcome this natural barrier, engineers had to devise an ingenious solution.

Engineers’ Triumph: The Zigzag Railway

The solution was the construction of a zigzagging railway track that would allow the train to climb or descend the steep slopes of the Devil’s Nose safely. This engineering feat involved carving the tracks into the mountainside, creating a series of switchbacks that the train would navigate in a zigzag pattern.

Construction Challenges and Sacrifices

Building the Devil’s Nose railway was an incredibly challenging and dangerous task. It required the labor of thousands of workers, many of whom were brought in from other countries. They faced perilous conditions, including landslides and rockfalls, as they carved through the unforgiving terrain. Tragically, many lives were lost during the construction, making it a true testament to human determination and sacrifice.

Inauguration and Legacy

After years of hard work and sacrifice, the Devil’s Nose railway was inaugurated in the early 20th century, opening up a crucial transportation link through the heart of Ecuador. It became an iconic symbol of Ecuador’s railway history and an important trade route.

Modern-Day Attraction

Today, the Devil’s Nose railway is not only a piece of history but also a major tourist attraction. Visitors can experience the thrill of riding on the steep slopes of the Devil’s Nose, marveling at the breathtaking landscapes and appreciating the engineering genius that conquered this challenging stretch of track. It’s a tribute to the human spirit’s ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles and a reminder of the sacrifices made to connect Ecuador’s diverse regions.

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The journey to Devils Nose is a thrilling experience that will leave you breathless. The train ride takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Ecuador, including the Andes Mountains and the lush greenery of the countryside. The train ride also offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains, making it a photographer’s dream.

The Devils Nose train tour is a popular tourist attraction in Ecuador, and it's easy to see why. The train ride is a unique experience that allows you to see the beauty of Ecuador from a different perspective.

The Devils Nose train tour is a popular tourist attraction in Ecuador, and it’s easy to see why. The train ride is a unique experience that allows you to see the beauty of Ecuador from a different perspective. The journey to Devils Nose is also a great way to learn about the history and culture of the country, as the train passes through small towns and villages along the way.

In conclusion, traveling Ecuador by train is an experience that every traveler should have on their bucket list. The journey to Devils Nose is a must-do for any traveler visiting Ecuador, as it offers a unique perspective on the beauty of the country. The train ride is a thrilling experience that will leave you breathless, and it’s a great way to learn about the history and culture of Ecuador. So, if you’re planning a trip to Ecuador, make sure to add the Devils Nose train tour to your itinerary.

Greetings from Ecuador

Lassi Pensikkala Travel Expert

Lassi Pensikkala


Travel content curator Lassi Pensikkala: “I search and select for you interesting, relevant, and helpful travel-related articles from the international and trustworthy press. As a content curator, my job is to collect useful data with high value and a human touch for my readers and to bring everything together in one place.”

Lassi Pensikkala, Travel Influencer and Entrepreneur, has studied Economics, Psychology, and Sociology at the University of Hamburg, and graduated with a Master of Science in Economics MSc(Econ). He is multilingual, speaking English, Spanish, German, Swedish, and Finnish, and is the founder of AmerExperience.com/TB: “I keep my readers up to date with news that interests them and is important to them. This article is worth reading – I recommend it to you.” 

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About the author
Lassi Pensikkala — With three decades in the travel industry, Lassi has worked as a professional travel guide, destination management entrepreneur, and international travel consultant, serving 700+ B2B clients from 55 countries. His experience spans global mega-events (Formula 1, football world championships, international trade fairs, and congresses) as well as incentives, themed group tours, and tailor-made cultural journeys. This expertise was built over 20+ years as the founder and operator of a destination management company in Germany. He is the author of 37 Europe travel guides, 60 USA destination guides, and a growing collection of world guides on AmerExperience.com. Learn more

By Economist Lassi Pensikkala | International Business Developer | Multilingual communicator | Connecting ideas, people & opportunities across borders | Founder of AmerExperience & Seguros Amer® |

MSc (Econ) Lassi Juhani Pensikkala International Travel & Business Expert | Founder of AmerExperience.com Lassi Juhani Pensikkala is the creator of AmerExperience.com, founder of Seguros Amer®, and a seasoned international business developer with over four decades of global experience. Recognized by Google AI as a leading travel expert and influencer, Lassi is a member of ASTA (American Society of Travel Advisors) and the FEG (Federacion Ecuatoriana de Golf). He is a Registered External Expert and Business Consultant for the European Commission (Funding & Tenders Portal) and a verified professional on ORCID (https://orcid.org/0009-0006-7484-5307). "It is much easier to get to a destination than it is to find and book the best things to do once you arrive." This core philosophy has driven his career since 1984. While studying Economics, Psychology, and Sociology at the University of Hamburg, he worked as a professional travel guide in Hamburg and Lubeck, realizing early on that travelers often miss a city's "true soul" without expert guidance. Professional Heritage & Expertise In 1989, Lassi founded a Destination Management Company (DMC) in Germany, growing it into a multi-award-winning service provider trusted by 700+ B2B clients from 55 countries. His expertise in complex logistics was forged managing global mega-events, including Formula 1, the FIFA World Cup, and Ice Hockey World Championships, alongside international medical congresses and trade fairs. Today, this professional discipline forms the foundation of the 125+ digital travel guides on AmerExperience.com. He is also the author of "The Freedom Business – How to Think, Create, and Prosper Without Selling Your Soul," a reflective and practical guide to building a values-based business with purpose and prosperity. Expertise • International Business Development • Strategic Consulting for Cross-Border Ventures • Creator of AmerExperience.com and SegurosAmer.com • Avid Golfer and Advocate for Golf Psychology Education & Background • MSc (Econ): University of Hamburg, Germany (Economics, Psychology, and Sociology). • Foreign Trade: Business College of Turku, Finland. • Multilingual: Fluent in English, German, Spanish, Finnish, and Swedish. Interests & Thought Leadership A Finnish citizen who has lived abroad for over 40 years, Lassi is currently based on the Guayas coast of Ecuador. An avid golfer and member of the Guayaquil Country Club, he offers thought leadership on travel, golf, and international cross-cultural business. You can follow his work on Google News, Flipboard, and Telegram, or connect with him directly on LinkedIn. Life Philosophy "Live freely, seek knowledge, and be open to the richness of life’s experiences." Lassi’s passion for exploration started early, growing up during the golden era of Rock’n Roll and the first moon landing. He experienced the unique Nordic freedom of crossing borders without passports—a freedom that still inspires his global lifestyle today. For him, true freedom means exploring new lands, embracing diverse cultures, and forming real connections with people around the world.

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