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Ride the Devil's NoseAlausi, Ecuador

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For the engineers tasked with building a train line between Quito and Guayaquil at the beginning of the 20th century, the mountainous terrain of the Andes presented a challenge. The completed route traverses gorges, rivers, forests and a particularly harrowing mountainside descent known as the Devil's Nose, where more than 2,000 workers died during construction. The train winds down a sheer, rocky slope, travelling more than 500 vertical metres in a 12-kilometre journey, during which passengers are treated to breathtaking views of what is known as the Condor's Aerie.

In case the idea of riding a century-old train route down what is essentially a cliff makes you shudder, don't panic – the tracks and carriages have been refurbished, so you can white-knuckle your way down the mountain in comfort.

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not sure?

Sticking your head out the window and watching the train curve around the hillside
Learning about the history of one of the greatest railroad feats in the world

It can seem a little too touristy when traditionally dressed locals dance for you at the platform

price guide

A three-day tour of Cotopaxi Volcano, Devil’s Nose and Cuenca costs US$765.

difficulty

As far as train rides go, this is pretty intense, so hold on tight!

contact

Ecuador Rail
www.ecuadorrail.net

need to know

Ask for a seat on the right hand side of the train for the best views.

Ready to go?

Tags: andes, Devil's Nose, ecuador, Quito, south america, train journey, unusual experience

been here? what did you think?

love

Sticking your head out the window and watching the train curve around the hillside
Learning about the history of one of the greatest railroad feats in the world