La Trochita

La Trochita, also known as the Old Patagonian Express, is a historic narrow-gauge railway that chugs through the rugged landscapes of Argentine Patagonia. This steam-powered train, with its tiny locomotives and wooden carriages, offers a journey back in time, winding through the steppe, past lakes, and into the Andes foothills. For travellers seeking an authentic and offbeat adventure, riding La Trochita is a must-do experience, blending heritage rail travel with Patagonia's raw beauty.

Highlights & What to See

• Steam Train Ride: Hop aboard the vintage steam train for a memorable ride between Esquel and El Maitén (or vice versa). The 4-hour journey crosses trestle bridges, skirts turquoise lakes, and offers panoramic views of the Patagonian steppe.
• El Maitén Railway Museum: Before or after your ride, explore the small museum in El Maitén, which showcases the railway's history, original locomotives, and artifacts from the early 20th century.
• Esquel Town: The charming town of Esquel is the main hub, with a lively main square, artisan markets, and the nearby La Hoya ski resort. It's a great base for exploring the region.
• Los Alerces National Park: Just a short drive from Esquel, this UNESCO-listed park protects ancient alerce trees (some over 3,000 years old) and offers hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting.
• Futaleufú River: For adrenaline seekers, the turquoise waters of the Futaleufú River, near the Chilean border, provide world-class whitewater rafting.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors allocate a full day for the La Trochita train journey itself, including travel to and from the stations. To fully appreciate the region, plan for at least two to three days: one day for the train ride, a day to explore Esquel and its surroundings, and an extra day for Los Alerces National Park or other outdoor activities. If you're short on time, a single day can still give you the essence of the experience by taking the train one way and returning by road.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Los Alerces National Park – Ancient forests and crystal-clear lakes, perfect for hiking and camping.
• El Bolsón – A bohemian mountain town known for its craft beer, artisan markets, and hiking trails.
• Bariloche – The gateway to the Argentine Lake District, with Swiss-style architecture, chocolate shops, and stunning lake views.
• Chile's Futaleufú – Cross the border for world-class whitewater rafting and outdoor adventures on the Futaleufú River.
• Península Valdés – A UNESCO World Heritage site on the Atlantic coast, famous for whale watching (seasonal) and penguin colonies.

Please check official sources for current details.