La Trochita (Old Patagonian Express)
La Trochita
A 750 mm narrow-gauge steam train that has run since 1945, from Esquel to the Mapuche community of Nahuel Pan. Paul Theroux wrote a book about it.
La Trochita is one of the few narrow-gauge steam railways still in operation in the world. Its wooden carriages have wood-burning stoves, and the track gauge is only 75 cm. The tourist train departs from Esquel station for Nahuel Pan station, about 20 km away. The one-way trip takes about an hour. The train stops in Nahuel Pan for about an hour, giving you time to visit the Mapuche handicraft market and a small museum, before returning the same way. The full round trip takes about 3 hours. Travel writer Paul Theroux made it famous with his book The Old Patagonian Express. It runs daily in high season and several times a week in low season. Check the official website for ticket prices, and buy tickets in advance.
Opening hours
Runs by timetable; usually departs at 10:00
Nearby sights
- Laguna La Zeta
- La Hoya Ski Resort
- Trevelin
- Los Alerces National Park
- Nant y Fall Waterfalls
- Lago Futalaufquen
- Molino Nant Fach
- Futaleufú Dam