Argentina is home to Latin America's first fully solar-powered luxury train, the Tren Solar de la Quebrada. This train has been running for about two years in the Jujuy province and continues to attract tourists.
The train can carry up to 388 passengers, with 72 seated. It runs on a 352-kilowatt-hour battery pack. Regenerative braking helps it complete the standard 52-mile round trip on a single charge.
Each of the six stations along the route has EV-style chargers if the train needs more power. There is no combustion engine on the vehicle. The train produces no noise or emissions.
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Start Your News DetoxA Journey Through Ancient History
The 26-mile route connects a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Starting from Volcán village, the train travels through Quebrada de Humahuaca. This area is known as one of South America’s oldest cultural corridors.
The ancient canyon is about 10,000 years old. It was once a trade route used by hunter-gatherers, Indigenous traders, Inca messengers, Spanish colonists, and railway workers. The route has been important throughout history and now combines this long heritage with modern solar power. The journey offers stunning views of rock formations and red hillsides.
UNESCO describes the valley as following the Camino Inca, a major cultural route. It runs along the Rio Grande valley, from its source in the high desert to its meeting point with the Rio Leone. The valley shows clear signs of being a major trade route for the past 10,000 years. It has traces of prehistoric communities, the Inca Empire, and the fight for independence.
Sustainable Tourism and Community Impact
The Quebrada solar train offers an eco-friendly way for locals and tourists to experience the site. It allows them to learn about the region and enjoy a scenic ride.
The train's official site highlights its social impact. About one-third of the 90,000 passengers transported in the last two years traveled through the train’s social responsibility program. This program aims to make the train accessible to the community.
The train runs daily on its 26-mile route. It departs from Volcán and stops in Tumbaya, Purmamarca, Posta de Hornillos, Maimará, and Tilcara. The trip ends at the Hill of Seven Colors, or Cerro de los Siete Colores, near Purmamarca. This "rainbow mountain" is famous for its colorful stripes.
Experience Options
The "360° Experience" is a full tour of the route. It includes an on-board guide and six stops in villages. Passengers have time to explore each town, enjoy food, and participate in activities. This experience lasts about 10 hours.
There is also a "180° Experience," which is a half-day option. Passengers choose one of two round-trip routes. It includes a 15-minute break for coffee and exploration. This trip lasts about 1.5 hours.
The 360° Experience costs $134 per person for visitors. The 180° Experience starts at $53.
The Quebrada solar train aims to promote sustainable tourism. Its website states it hopes to engage visitors with the area's history while protecting the environment. The train is a commitment to the environment and cultural heritage. It invites travelers to discover and preserve Jujuy's beauty.
