Tren Histórico Nariz del Diablo | Salida Riobamba, Cultura y Paisajes Andinos

Discover one of the most iconic travel experiences in Ecuador with this Devil’s Nose Train Tour from Riobamba, a journey that combines historic railway engineering, Andean culture, and breathtakingmountain landscapes.

The tour begins with a scenic drive to Alausí, where you will board the famous train that descends along the legendary Devil’s Nose (Nariz del Diablo), widely recognized as one of the most challengingrailway engineering feats in the world. Through a unique zig-zag system, the train descends approximately 500 meters / 1,640 feet over a stretch of 12.5 km / 7.7 miles, offering spectacular views ofthe Chanchán River Canyon.

In Sibambe, the experience continues with a cultural encounter hosted by Puruhá indigenous communities, featuring traditional dance performances, handicrafts, and local gastronomy.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a scenic, cultural, and accessible experience in the Ecuadorian Andes, and works perfectly as a complement to high-altitude adventures like Chimborazo.

NOTE

Departure time is scheduled according to train ticket availability. 
Operating schedules: 08:00 / 11:00 / 14:00 
Available in private or shared service.

GENERAL TOUR INFORMATION

Duration: Full Day (6 – 8 hours) 
Tour type: Cultural – historical – railway – scenic 
Mode: Private or shared 
Location: Riobamba – Alausí – Sibambe – Ecuadorian Andes 
Starting point: Riobamba

Total distance: 160 km / 99 miles (round trip) 
Elevation range: 2,300 – 2,850 m / 7,546 – 9,350 ft

Difficulty level: Easy (1/5) 
Minimum age: 3 years

Average temperature: 
10 – 20 °C / 50 – 68 °F

Operating days: Thursday to Sunday and holidays

DETAILED ITINERARY 

RIOBAMBA – ALAUSÍ – DEVIL’S NOSE TRAIN – SIBAMBE – RETURN

Distance: 160 km / 99 miles 
Elevation: 2,300 – 2,850 m / 7,546 – 9,350 ft 
Temperature: 10 – 20 °C / 50 – 68 °F

Departure from Riobamba is coordinated according to the selected train schedule. The tour is carefully planned to match train availability and ensure a smooth experience. 

TRANSFER RIOBAMBA – ALAUSÍ

Scenic drive of approximately 2 hours (80 km / 50 miles) through Andean highlands, rural communities, and traditional farmlands.

Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of the Ecuadorian Andes and local daily life. 

ARRIVAL AT ALAUSÍ TRAIN STATION

Arrival and check-in at the train station (recommended 30 minutes before departure).

Ticket validation, passenger organization, and coach assignment.

Free time for photos and preparation before boarding.

BOARDING AND TRAIN DEPARTURE

Boarding begins 10 minutes before departure.

Start of the train journey from Alausí to Sibambe (approx. 45 minutes).

DESCENT THROUGH THE DEVIL’S NOSE

The most iconic section of the route, where the train performs zig-zag maneuvers to descend approximately 500 m / 1,640 ft through steep Andean terrain.

Enjoy breathtaking views of the Chanchán Canyon, rocky cliffs, and one of South America’s most famous railway systems. 

STOP AT DEVIL’S NOSE VIEWPOINT

Technical stop of approximately 10 minutes.

Opportunity for photography, landscape observation, and understanding the engineering behind the railway.

ARRIVAL IN SIBAMBE

Welcome by local communities (Nizag, Tolte, Sibambe).

First cultural interaction with the Andean region.

CULTURAL EXPERIENCE IN SIBAMBE

Traditional dance performance (approx. 20 minutes) showcasing the heritage of the Puruhá people.

Cultural interpretation and insight into local traditions.

FREE TIME IN SIBAMBE

Approximate duration: 25 minutes

Recommended activities: 
Visit local handicraft stands 
Taste traditional snacks or coffee 
Interact with community members 
Explore the surroundings

BOARDING FOR RETURN 

Re-boarding the train (5 minutes before departure).

Preparation for the return journey.

RETURN TRAIN SIBAMBE – ALAUSÍ

Approximate duration: 30 minutes.

Ascend the same railway route with different scenic perspectives.

ARRIVAL IN ALAUSÍ AND LUNCH

Transfer to a local restaurant.

Lunch included featuring traditional Andean cuisine.

Short rest time.

RETURN TO RIOBAMBA

Drive back to Riobamba (approx. 2 hours / 80 km / 50 miles).

Arrival in the afternoon.

OPERATION NOTE

The itinerary may vary slightly depending on train schedules, weather conditions, and operational logistics, while always maintaining the full experience.