The Tren Maya, a groundbreaking railway project in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, is set to revolutionise tourism and connectivity in the region. This ambitious undertaking promises to provide a seamless and comfortable journey through some of Mexico’s most iconic destinations. In this blog post, we’ll share our personal experience of travelling on the Tren Maya, exploring its route, stations, amenities, and offering practical tips for your own journey.
Our Experience
We embarked on our Tren Maya adventure in August 2024, starting our journey in Cancún and travelling to Valladolid, then onward to Campeche. While we had heard great things about the Tren Maya, we were still pleasantly surprised by the quality of the service. The train offered spacious and comfortable seating, air conditioning, and some food options. The stations along the route were clean, well staffed if not completely finished!
While the Tren Maya offers a convenient way to travel through the Yucatán Peninsula, it’s important to plan ahead for your onward connections. Here are some key points to remember:
- Book in Advance: Train tickets for the Tren Maya can sell out quickly, especially during peak travel seasons. It’s advisable to book your tickets well in advance to secure your preferred departure times and seats. They are super easy to book on the Tren May website
- Plan Your Connections: The Tren Maya stations are often located outside of city centers, so it’s essential to research bus or taxi options in advance to ensure a smooth transfer. ADO buses are being set up all the time but are not well advertised or known about. We recommend checking with the ADO station for the latest information on available routes and schedules. This will help you plan your onward journey efficiently.
Train or bus?
We traveled the Yucatán Peninsula using both bus, train and minivans. We loved the train but it does lack some of the joys of the buses. whether to travel by train or bus, consider the following factors:
Speed: The train is generally faster and smoother than the bus, with fewer stops along the way.
Comfort: Both train and bus offer comfortable seating and air conditioning. However, we found the train to to be more spacious and relaxing, being able to walk around
Cost: The train is typically more expensive than the bus.
Scenery: While the train offers a comfortable journey, it may not provide the same scenic views as a bus. If you’re eager to experience the Yucatán Peninsula’s landscapes, taking a bus might be a better option. The photos below is basically what you get the whole way!
Our experience with the Tren Maya was thoroughly enjoyable, providing a comfortable and convenient way to explore the Yucatán Peninsula. If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful region, we highly recommend considering the Tren Maya as a means of transportation. With its stunning scenery, ancient Mayan ruins, and vibrant cities, the Yucatán Peninsula offers a truly unforgettable experience.