Chile’s state-owned railway company, EFE Trenes de Chile, is significantly expanding its summer tourism program, offering increased service and new routes designed to connect destinations across the country. The initiative, launched this month, aims to solidify rail travel as a sustainable and attractive option for both domestic and international tourists during peak season. This expansion includes enhanced regular services alongside specialized tourist routes, such as wine-tasting excursions and heritage tours, reflecting a commitment to accessibility and regional development.
The expanded network provides travelers with more options for exploring Chile’s diverse landscapes, from the arid north to the lush south. According to EFE President Eric Martin, these routes are “major milestones” that not only connect cities but also boost tourism, local development, and more sustainable travel practices throughout Chile. The summer program represents a substantial investment in the country’s rail infrastructure and a renewed focus on tourism as a key economic driver.
The program’s offerings are diverse, catering to a range of interests. New and returning routes include heritage lines, wine-focused excursions, and increased frequency on popular regional routes. EFE Trenes de Chile is presenting a special offer that combines wine tours, strengthening of heritage routes, and reinforcement of regular services in various regions of the country, connecting destinations from north to south.
Exploring Chile by Rail: New Tourist Routes
Several new and returning tourist train services will be available throughout the summer. The Tren Arica–Poconchile, a heritage route, began service on January 10th, highlighting the cultural and scenic beauty of the Lluta Valley in the Arica and Parinacota Region. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, the Tren del Recuerdo Limache offers three routes with included lunches: the Ruta del Tren del Viento–Viento, Ruta Huellas del Tren, and Ruta Tren y Viñedos del Viento.
A Taste of Chile: Enotourism Options
For wine enthusiasts, EFE Trenes de Chile is offering specialized “Sabores” (Flavors) trains. The Tren “Sabores” Alto de Colchagua combines onboard entertainment, a welcome snack, visits to vineyards, wine tastings, and lunch. Similarly, the Tren “Sabores” del Maule focuses on vitivinicultural tourism, with visits to Viña Balduzzi and Viña Casa Donoso in Talca and San Javier.
Enhanced Regional Connectivity
Beyond tourism, EFE is reinforcing regional connectivity with increased service on key routes. The Buscarril Talca–Constitución operates daily with morning departures from both Talca and Constitución, and returns in the afternoon. The Tren Santiago–Chillán has increased operations to 10 frequencies daily, five in each direction, utilizing modern trains capable of speeds up to 160 km/h.
Long-Distance Routes Return for Summer Travel
Popular long-distance routes are also returning for the summer season. The Tren Santiago–Temuco resumed service with weekend trips, departing Santiago on Fridays and returning from Temuco on Sundays, starting January 9th. The Tren Llanquihue–Puerto Montt has increased its frequency by 25% on weekdays and added Saturday services, offering a total of 14 frequencies geared towards tourism in the Llanquihue Lake region.
The Tren del Recuerdo San Antonio, a traditional service to the central coast, is also increasing its frequency from two to four monthly departures during the summer months. More information on all routes and schedules can be found on the EFE website.
Looking ahead, EFE Trenes de Chile will continue to monitor passenger demand and adjust services accordingly. The company plans to release data on ridership and economic impact following the summer season, providing further insight into the success of the expanded program. Updates on future service expansions and route additions will be posted on the EFE website.
What are your thoughts on the expanded rail service in Chile? Share your comments below and let us know how you plan to explore the country this summer.
