Devils nose train ride from Alausí

One of Alausi’s – and Ecuador’s – most revered wonders is the Devil’s Nose Train, a truly unique and awe-provoking work of engineering. The train’s zigzag path brings you down into the foothills alongside the Chanchan river gorge, and brings you back up 500 meters in only 12 kilometers. Don’t let the name fool you – what may sound scary turns out to be one of the most beautiful train rides in South America.

During our dry season you will witness the many different shades of brown that our mountains have to offer, and during our rainy season, the plush green will be the theme of your train ride! Once you come to the bottom of the train ride you will be at the Sibamba train station, a place where you will be greeted by a typical

Ecuadorian dance group dressed in the indigenous clothing of the region and a small market to buy souvenirs. Historically the Devil’s Nose train ride acquired its name from the shape of the mountain and the thousands of slaves that died while building the railroad. When you visit Community Hostel Alausi you will see many pictures of how the train ride was before, when you were able to ride on top of the train and all the typical vendors of the area came onboard to sell different types of snacks and souvenirs. You can also talk to our staff about how the train brought life to the town of Alausi, through commerce, food, and trade. Making Alausi the heart of Ecuador connecting both the coast and the andes and exchanging products from each region.

With our hostel located along the train tracks and steps away from the station, tickets are a short walk away!