The countdown has begun: a few days away from December, the inauguration of the Mayan Train is just around the corner and with it, a journey that promises discoveries, adventures and the connection of amazing destinations.
Before entering this experience, it’s essential to be prepared and have all the details in order to enjoy your next getaway to the fullest. To make your job easier, in this guide you will find the answers to all your questions!
All you need to know about the Mayan Train
1. When will the Mayan Train be inaugurated?
According to the president, the grand opening of the Mayan Train is scheduled for December 15th, starting with the Campeche – Cancun route.
And gradually more sections will be enabled, for example, so far it is expected that on December 31st the section that goes from Cancun to Palenque will be inaugurated, and that the entire system of the Mayan Train will be operating from February 29th, 2024.
Certainly, it will be a historic milestone that will mark the beginning of a new era in the region’s connectivity.
2. Where to buy tickets for the Mayan Train?
Thanks to the press conference held on October 6th, it is known that on December 1st tickets for the first ride of the Mayan Train will be available for sale.
So, if you are eager to be among the first to experience this journey, be sure to keep an eye on the designated platforms for ticket sales. That is; the physical ticket offices at the stations or stops, the official website or the Mayan Train App.
Para obtener la información cien por ciento actualizada te recomendamos visitar la página oficial de Facebook o Twitter.
3. How much will it cost to travel on the Mayan Train?
Although specific prices have not yet been disclosed, President López Obrador has assured that tickets will remain affordable so that more people can enjoy this transportation.
So far, It is estimated that it will cost 10% less than what it costs to travel by bus. So you can be sure to find different options available for all budgets.
4. Who gets a discount or travels for free?
At the same time, Fonatur announced that Mexicans will have a preferential rate and that some of them are even exempt from paying.
This is the case of people with disabilities, seniors with valid INSEN card, retirees and pensioners, just to mention a few. To see the complete list, we invite you to consult the latest rates revealed by Fonatur.
5. What does the ticket include?
By purchasing a ticket for the Mayan Train, passengers will not only get a seat on this modern form of transportation, but also, depending on the type of wagon they board, they will have access to a unique experience.
The route offers panoramic views of the region’s rich biodiversity and fascinating culture. In addition, the stations are expected to be equipped with amenities to make the trip as pleasant as possible.
6. Wagon types, amenities and services
According to details announced on the Mayan Train’s official Facebook page, in its final stage, the project will have 42 trains for its services of excellence: 31 standard passenger cars; 8 Restaurant cars; and 3 Long Distance cars.
Its three categories are divided as follows
Wagons with excellent services. Photo retrieved from Fonatur (https://www.gob.mx/fonatur/)
- Xiinbal or Standard: This will allow you to enjoy the beautiful views of the southeast of Mexico, as it has panoramic windows, spacious and reclining seats. It is also equipped with power outlets and offers additional space to store suitcases and bags.
- Janal or Restaurant: In addition to all the basic amenities, this type of wagon will allow travelers to enjoy typical dishes and beverages from the regions through which the Mayan Train passes.
- P’atal or Long Journeys: As the most complete category, the long distance wagons are designed to provide the most comfortable travel possible. Therefore, they have been equipped with access to comfortable bunks, restrooms and showers.
7. Where does the route of the Mayan Train start?
This new form of transportation runs approximately 1,500 kilometers through five Mexican states: Chiapas, Tabasco, Campeche, Yucatán and Quintana Roo.
Its entire route is divided into 7 sections with more than 20 stations and 14 stops strategically distributed among tourist and cultural attractions. It departs from Chiapas to Campeche.
To learn more about each of them, we invite you to explore the complete route of the Mayan Train.
8. How long will the trip last?
The duration of the trip on the Mayan Train will depend on the route you choose. However, one of its advantages is that it will significantly shorten travel times.
For example, from Palenque, Chiapas, to Cancun, Quintana Roo, the trip on the Mayan Train will take approximately 9 hours. This represents a notable reduction compared to the up to 15 hours that the same trip could take by bus.
9. What attractions can you see with the Mayan Train?
Along the route, passengers will be able to enjoy strategic stops at key tourist destinations. Actually, it is estimated that it will link up to 145 points of interest.
Tourist attractions along the Mayan Train route
Including around 17 Magical Towns, 6 World Heritage Sites, 38 indigenous communities and more than 25 archaeological sites, making it a complete experience!
Like Valladolid, Bacalar, the Pre-Hispanic City of Palenque, the colonial city of Campeche, the archaeological zone of Chichen Itza and the majestic archaeological site of Tulum and Coba, just to name a few.
10. Archaeological sites you can't miss
One of the main attractions of the Mayan Train is the opportunity to explore the fascinating archaeological sites along the route. As, its trip gives you access to some of Mexico’s most outstanding archaeological jewels.
Among them are the most famous, such as:
- Palenque (in Chiapas): An ancient Mayan city located in the middle of the jungle. Its temples, pyramids and reliefs will transport you to an era full of mystery and splendor.
- Comalcalco, Pomoná and Malpasito (in Tabasco): Explore the ruins of Comalcalco, known for its baked brick structures, unique in Mayan architecture. Pomoná and Malpasito also offer an intriguing glimpse of Mayan influence in the Tabasco region.
- El Tigre (in Campeche): Dive into the Campeche jungle to discover El Tigre, a lesser-known but equally impressive archaeological site. With temples and plazas full of splendor.
- Chichén Itzá, Uxmal, Kabáh and Dzibilchaltún (in Yucatán): From the imposing pyramid of Chichén Itzá to the grandeur of Uxmal and the serenity of Dzibilchaltún, each site offers a unique perspective of Mayan culture.
- Tulum and Coba (in Quintana Roo): Explore the impressive ruins of Tulum, located in front of the Caribbean Sea, and marvel at Cobá, home of Nohoch Mul, the tallest pyramid on the Yucatán Peninsula.
Tips to plan your trip in the Mayan Train
Finally, before embarking on your trip on the Mayan Train, so that everything goes according to the plan, it is important that you keep in mind the following tips.
- Check ticket availability: Make sure tickets are available for the dates you plan to travel. High demand may affect availability, so book early.
- Pack light: Consider that you could explore several areas in a single day, so take the essentials.
- Book excursions in advance: To make the most of your time at the sites of interest, book your excursions in advance.
- Review the stops along the route: Each destination has something unique to offer, so plan your itinerary to include the stops that interest you most.
- Consider the length of the trip: As you plan your schedule, take into account the length of the trip and make sure you have enough time to explore each destination without rushing.
- Explore local communities: Take a break from your trip to interact with local communities and discover their traditions and customs.
Bungalows and Villas to enjoy with your favorite people
- Consider nearby accommodations: If you want to enjoy a complete experience, we recommend staying at Aldea Cobá, a boutique hotel near the archaeological site of Cobá. With dream villas and bungalows, wellness experiences and activities in the Mayan world.
To learn more about it, we invite you to consult how to live an escape experience in Aldea Coba, or receive more information through our direct line 998 324 0198, or if you prefer, our website.
Now, with these tips and details, you will be more than ready to enjoy your trip on the Mayan Train to the fullest. Simply prepare to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of southeastern Mexico!
