An incredible rail project is slowly coming to an end in Mexico and it is set to transform travel across the Yucatan Peninsula, linking major tourist destinations with ancient Mayan sites along 1,000 miles of track.
The Maya Train, or Tren Maya, is a £23 billion megaproject that promises to improve tourism and the local economy while also giving passengers a modern and comfortable travel experience.
The railway connects seven key cities: Cancun, Tulum, Merida, Playa del Carmen, Palenque, Escárcega, and Chetumal.
The new trains are equipped with reclining seats, multifunctional cabins that convert into sleeping bunks, and onboard dining options, including a restaurant and cafeteria.
With space for up to 260 passengers, the service is designed to provide safety, comfort, and modern amenities for both day and night travel.
Travel times on the Maya Train vary depending on the route. For example, the journey from Cancun to Tulum takes approximately two hours, while the full loop around the Yucatan Peninsula can take up to 13 hours.
Ticket prices start at £25 for short trips, making it a competitive and efficient alternative to buses.
Maite Ramos, the Managing Director of Alstom Mexico, said: “We are creating a milestone in Mexico’s mobility with the Tren Maya, a project that reflects Alstom’s ability to lead the future of transportation.”
However, the project has sparked some controversy. While it aims to improve connectivity and economic opportunities in southern Mexico, critics have raised concerns about its environmental and social impact.
The railway passes through the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, a fragile ecosystem home to endangered species like jaguars and tapirs.
Environmentalists have previously warned of habitat fragmentation, water pollution, and deforestation caused by the construction.
Valdivia Navarro, an environmental advocate, said: “Economic development can and must be balanced with environmental conservation.”
There are also doubts about the train’s appeal to tourists. Sergio González Rubiera, a local tourism expert, suggested the service may primarily cater to local passengers and freight rather than tourists.
