Chile Trains 2026: Routes, Schedules & Tourist Experiences

by Emily Johnson - News Editor
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Chile’s state-owned railway company, EFE Trenes de Chile, is expanding its summer tourism program with new routes and increased service, aiming to boost tourism and provide a sustainable travel option across the country. The initiative, which began this month, will connect destinations from the arid north to the lush south.

The expanded network includes enhanced regular services and specialized tourist routes, such as wine-tasting excursions and heritage tours. EFE President Eric Martin stated the program demonstrates the company’s commitment to making train travel accessible to more people. “These routes, which allow us to reconnect Santiago with Temuco or expand the offer on Saturdays in Puerto Montt, are major milestones,” Martin said. “They not only connect cities but also boost tourism, local development, and a more sustainable way to travel, from north to south of Chile.”

Several new and returning routes will be available throughout the summer. The Tren Arica–Poconchile, a heritage route, will begin service on January 10th, showcasing the cultural and scenic beauty of the Lluta Valley in the Arica and Parinacota Region. More information is available on the EFE website.

Available Tourist Train Services for Summer 2026

The summer program includes a variety of services and destinations:

  • Tren Arica–Poconchile
    A heritage route highlighting the cultural, historical, and scenic beauty of the Lluta Valley in the Arica and Parinacota Region. First departure: January 10th. Click here for more information.

  • Tren del Recuerdo Limache
    Three routes with included lunches:

    • Ruta del Tren del Viento–Viento

    • Ruta Huellas del Tren

    • Ruta Tren y Viñedos del Viento

    • For more information, click here.
  • Tren del Recuerdo San Antonio
    This traditional service to the central coast is increasing its frequency from two to four departures per month during the summer. Click here for more information.

Wine Tourism Options

  • Tren “Sabores” Alto de Colchagua
    This experience combines onboard entertainment, a welcome snack, visits to wineries, wine tastings, and lunch. Click here for more information.

  • Tren “Sabores” del Maule
    A service focused on wine tourism, with visits to Viña Balduzzi and Viña Casa Donoso in Talca and San Javier. Click here for more information.

Regional Connectivity Enhancements

  • Buscarril Talca–Constitución
    Daily operation with morning departures from Talca and Constitución, and afternoon returns. Click here for more information.

  • Tren Santiago–Chillán
    Service is being increased to 10 daily frequencies, five in each direction, using next-generation trains capable of speeds up to 160 km/h. Click here for more information.

Long-Distance Routes Returning This Summer

  • Tren Santiago–Temuco
    The summer service will return with weekend trips, departing from Santiago on Fridays and returning from Temuco on Sundays. Service begins Friday, January 9th. Click here for more information.

  • Tren Llanquihue–Puerto Montt
    Frequencies are increasing by 25% between Monday and Friday, with the addition of Saturday services, totaling 14 frequencies geared toward tourism in the Llanquihue Lake basin. Click here for more information.

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