Nariz del Diablo (Devil's Nose) Ecuador
Ride the 'Devil's Nose' train, an engineering marvel through Ecuador's dramatic Andes, offering stunning views and cultural stops.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best light for photos
Nariz del Diablo (Devil's Nose) Ecuador
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride the 'Devil's Nose' train, an engineering marvel through Ecuador's dramatic Andes, offering stunning views and cultural stops.
"A truly one-of-a-kind train trip at the mountain edge with incredible views and cultural experiences."
🎒 Pack Essentials
Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat for the journey. Comfortable shoes are a must if you plan to explore the stops.
📸 Camera Ready!
Open windows to avoid reflections and use a fast shutter speed for clear, stunning mountain shots.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Zigzag Descent
Alausí to Sibambe
Experience the engineering marvel of the train navigating steep mountain switchbacks, a truly unique Andean railway journey.
Mirador de San Pedro
First stop
A scenic viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Perfect for photos!
Sibambe Cultural Stop
Final station
Immerse yourself in local culture with traditional dancers, artisan crafts, and a glimpse into Andean life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Choose Your Seat Wisely
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎒 Pack Essentials
Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat for the journey. Comfortable shoes are a must if you plan to explore the stops.
📸 Camera Ready!
Open windows to avoid reflections and use a fast shutter speed for clear, stunning mountain shots.
💰 Budget-Friendly Souvenirs
Find unique artisan crafts and local items at affordable prices during the stops.
🚶 Hike the Tracks
For an adventurous alternative, hike the trail alongside the tracks from Alausí for incredible views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 Pack Essentials
Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat for the journey. Comfortable shoes are a must if you plan to explore the stops.
📸 Camera Ready!
Open windows to avoid reflections and use a fast shutter speed for clear, stunning mountain shots.
💰 Budget-Friendly Souvenirs
Find unique artisan crafts and local items at affordable prices during the stops.
🚶 Hike the Tracks
For an adventurous alternative, hike the trail alongside the tracks from Alausí for incredible views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Nariz del Diablo train for its unique engineering, stunning Andean scenery, and cultural stops. The experience is highly recommended for its breathtaking views and the thrill of navigating the steep mountain switchbacks. Some note that guide enthusiasm could be improved and advise on seat selection for best photos.
"Hike it! You can hike it easily from Alausi by using the Mapsme app and following the trail. Bring water and sun protection plus they will probably have an entry fee next time as the booth is setup but unmanned as of September 2020. Awesome views as you follow the tracks from above. Enjoy!"
Tim Traveler
"Excellent for children of all ages! Make sure to get a conductor hat at the nearby market. The stop is a lovey cultural experience. Make sure to take it all in. You will want to be on the right side of the train as you head out of town to get the best views and get the best photos. Make sure to open the windows to avoid reflections in you photos and shoot at a fast shutter speed. Sit in the front or back corner of the cars for the best vantage points. Best time to go is the first excursion. Bring water, sunscreen, camera, and hat. If you arrive the night before get some great photos with the train without many, if any other, people in the photos."
Bejat McCracken
"It's a great train trip with great location and views, you will see one of a kind train trip at the mountain edge , with two stops that the first contain a viewpoint for photos and the second is a station with traditional dancers and a restuarant that offers snacks, drinks, breakfast or lunch as the time is .
with some old types of houses and workshops like a museum or something like that.
and the hole trip will takes 2 hours and, 30 minutes, 30 minutes to the viewpoint and there 15 minutes then an houre at the station and a few 30 minutes to go back to the station in Alausi"
Ahmed Tesjeel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Nariz del Diablo train departs from the Alausí train station. Alausí is accessible by bus from major Ecuadorian cities like Quito and Guayaquil. The journey to Alausí itself offers scenic Andean landscapes.
While you can drive to viewpoints near the Nariz del Diablo, the iconic train experience is best enjoyed by taking the train itself from Alausí. Driving directly on the tracks is not permitted and dangerous. +1
Riobamba is the closest major city to Alausí, approximately a 1.5-hour drive away. Many travelers base themselves in Riobamba before heading to Alausí for the train journey.
Yes, buses are a common and affordable way to reach Alausí from cities like Quito, Guayaquil, and Riobamba. The bus journey offers beautiful views of the Ecuadorian highlands.
Yes, several tour operators offer packages that include transportation from cities like Guayaquil, Cuenca, or Riobamba, along with the train ticket and sometimes lunch. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but they are generally affordable. Some tours offer packages including the ticket for around $50 for adults. It's best to check current prices with official vendors or tour operators. +1
Tickets can be purchased online through authorized platforms like Ticket Éxito or directly at the Alausí train station. Booking in advance is highly recommended as tickets can sell out.
The train typically operates from Wednesday to Sunday, with multiple departures throughout the day, usually at 8:00 AM, 11:00 AM, and 2:00 PM. Always confirm the schedule as it can change. +1
While hiking the tracks is an alternative, there might be an entry fee at certain points, as a booth has been observed. It's advisable to be prepared for potential fees if you choose to hike.
If tickets are sold out online, it's unlikely you'll be able to purchase more at the ticket counter. It's crucial to book in advance to avoid disappointment.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
For the most dramatic views and photo opportunities, sit on the right side of the train as you depart from Alausí. This side offers the best vantage points of the mountain scenery.
To get clear photos without reflections, open the train windows. This allows for unobstructed shots of the stunning Andean landscapes.
Yes, both the Mirador de San Pedro and the Sibambe station offer excellent opportunities for photography, with unique perspectives of the train and the surrounding environment.
Morning departures often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and clearer skies, enhancing the beauty of the mountain vistas.
You are allowed to stand, but it can get crowded as everyone tries to capture the same iconic shots. Sitting in the front or back corners of the cars can offer better vantage points.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the train itself may not have extensive dining options, snacks and drinks are often available for purchase at the stops. Many tours include a traditional lunch.
At the Sibambe station, you can find restaurants offering snacks, drinks, breakfast, or lunch, often featuring traditional Ecuadorian cuisine.
Alausí has several restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy local dishes before or after your train journey. It's a good place to have a meal before boarding.
It's generally acceptable to bring your own water and snacks, especially for the duration of the train ride. This can be a cost-effective option.
You might find dishes like 'locro de papa' (potato soup), 'hornado' (roasted pork), or 'llapingachos' (potato patties) in the region.
🎫 💡 Onsite Experience
The entire trip, including stops, typically lasts about 2 hours and 30 minutes. This includes travel time to the viewpoint, time at the station, and the return journey.
Legends surrounding the Nariz del Diablo often involve mysterious figures, hidden treasures, and even ghosts, adding an element of intrigue to the area's history. +1
Yes, the train is considered excellent for children of all ages. They can enjoy the unique ride, the cultural stops, and even get conductor hats from local markets.
The terrain is mountainous and steep, characterized by dramatic cliffs and deep valleys. The train's route is a testament to the engineering required to navigate this challenging landscape.
At Sibambe, you'll find traditional dancers, artisan shops selling local crafts, and a restaurant/cafe. It's a pleasant stop to experience local culture and rest.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the most of the trip with kids, aim for morning departures for better light and potentially fewer crowds. Ensure everyone stays hydrated and protected from the sun. The cultural performances at Sibambe are usually a hit with younger travelers.
🚶 Adventurous Hikers
Be sure to use a reliable navigation app like Maps.me and bring plenty of water, sun protection, and sturdy footwear. While the trails offer incredible views, be aware that there might be an entry fee at certain points.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider arriving the evening before to photograph the train in the golden hour light without the daytime crowds. The stops at Mirador de San Pedro and Sibambe provide diverse backdrops, from sweeping panoramas to cultural scenes.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Engineering Marvel: The Nariz del Diablo Railway
Travelers often express awe at the sheer audacity of the construction. The train's ability to navigate these tight curves and steep gradients is a testament to the vision and perseverance of its builders. The experience is not just about the destination but the journey itself, as the train meticulously maneuvers through the dramatic Andean landscape.
While the full historic route has seen periods of rehabilitation and partial operation, the Alausí-Sibambe segment remains a popular tourist attraction. It offers a tangible connection to Ecuador's railway history and a thrilling ride through some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the Andes.
Legends and Lore of the Devil's Nose
These stories contribute to the allure of the Nariz del Diablo, transforming it from just a scenic train ride into an experience steeped in local lore. Some believe that the devil himself appears at night, guarding hidden riches or the souls of those who perished during the railway's construction.
While these tales are part of the region's cultural fabric, they also serve as a reminder of the challenging and sometimes perilous history associated with building such an ambitious railway through the Andes. The mystique enhances the overall adventure for visitors seeking more than just a picturesque journey.
Experiencing the Nariz del Diablo: A Traveler's Perspective
Some visitors suggest arriving the night before to capture photos of the train in a less crowded setting. The Sibambe stop, with its traditional dancers and artisan markets, is often described as a pleasant cultural immersion. The train journey itself is noted for its comfortable ride, though some reviewers mention that the historical information provided by guides could be more engaging.
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, hiking alongside the tracks from Alausí is an option, offering a different perspective of the landscape and the engineering marvel. Regardless of how you choose to experience it, the Nariz del Diablo promises a memorable journey through the heart of the Ecuadorian Andes.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit