21 Apr 2015
Specialist tour operator Journey Latin America is pleased to announce the return to service of the Train to the Clouds in northern Argentina. In repairs since September 2014, the train is now back on track operating every Saturday from April to December and also Wednesdays from July onwards.
One of the highest railways in the world, this monumental engineering work was built between 1921 and 1941 by the American engineer Richard Fontaine Maury. Starting in Salta, it goes as far as La Polvorilla Viaduct, the highest point on the line at 4,220m, which swings in a delicate single-track, narrow-gauge curve across the gorge - the train seemingly floats on air. Meanwhile, the railway meanders through dramatic arid canyons - bridges, tunnels, viaducts, two sets of switchbacks and two 360° loops. The line, carrying freight only after the viaduct, continues for another 353 km to the Chilean border.
This excursion can be included with any of Journey Latin America's itineraries visiting the Salta and the north –west region.
An alternative journey- Train to Huancayo, PERU
If you like high altitude railways, you can also try the Train to Huancayo in Peru. With one departure a month on random days between May and October (excluding September) this is a once in a lifetime adventure. The track is not for the faint-hearted: includes 69 tunnels, 58 bridges, 6 switchbacks and 1 turn-table and it also boasts the world's highest railway station at 4,781m. To take your mind away from this alarming figure, though, the journey includes a complimentary pisco sour which you can sip on your comfortable reclining seat in a panoramic carriage. Breakfast and lunch are also included and in case you get a bit dizzy with so many turnings and lack of oxygen, there is also a nurse on board. And a bar in the observation wagon in case you decide that a stiff drink is the answer!
This is a 12-hour journey, and it can be booked as a 2 night package from Lima with any of our private journeys to Peru.
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Further Information:
For more information on Journey Latin America and to see our full range of holidays, please visit www.journeylatinamerica.co.uk or telephone: 020 8600 1881
For press information or images please contact press@journeylatinamerica.co.uk
