La Trochita Historic Train

La Trochita

One of Argentina's most charming heritage attractions, the La Trochita is a narrow-gauge steam train that operates scenic journeys through the Chubut countryside. This restored 1922 railway offers a nostalgic journey through pristine Patagonian landscapes from Esquel to El Maitén.

Things to do

• Ride the Steam Train Esquel to El Maitén — Experience a full-day round-trip journey aboard the restored 1922 narrow-gauge locomotive through Patagonian valleys, forests, and mountain views.
• Visit Esquel Train Station Museum — Explore the restored station building and vintage railway equipment displays that document the history of La Trochita and regional railway heritage.
• Photograph Chubut Landscape from the Train — Capture stunning views of Patagonian steppe, lenga forests, and distant Andes peaks from the open-air carriages during the journey.
• Explore El Maitén Town Stop — Spend time in the charming mountain village at the train's terminus, browsing local shops and experiencing authentic Patagonian village culture.
• Join the Crew Experience — Some departures offer opportunities to ride in the locomotive cab with the engineer to learn about steam train operation.
• Picnic in Patagonian Countryside — Pack a lunch to enjoy during the train journey or at designated stops surrounded by native forests and mountain scenery.

Food to try

• Welsh Tea Service (Té Galés) — A traditional Patagonian afternoon tea with scones, jams, and pastries reflecting the Welsh heritage of the Chubut region, served at stations or nearby cafés.
• Cordero Patagónico — Tender slow-roasted Patagonian lamb, a regional specialty available in El Maitén and Esquel restaurants near the train stations.
• Torta Negra or Chocolate Cake — Local dark chocolate cakes and desserts made with Chubut's renowned chocolate, perfect for on-train snacks or station purchases.
• Empanadas Locales — Hand-held pastries filled with lamb, cheese, or vegetables sold at the train stations, ideal for eating during the journey.
• Trucha Ahumada — Smoked trout from local rivers, available as a prepared dish or packaged specialty at Esquel and El Maitén shops.

Local customs & good to know

• Book Well in Advance — La Trochita operates seasonally (primarily December to March and occasional weekend trips), so reservations should be made weeks ahead, especially for larger groups.
• Respect the Heritage — This is a working historical train with genuine 1922 engineering; passengers should follow crew instructions carefully and avoid leaning out of windows or climbing on equipment.
• Dress for Patagonian Weather — Bring layers and windproof jackets as temperatures can shift rapidly and wind is constant in the open-air carriages, even in summer months.
• Learn About Welsh Heritage — The Chubut region was settled by Welsh immigrants in the 1860s, and this cultural legacy remains visible in local place names, architecture, and tea traditions throughout the valley.