Mexican Government Announces Official Start Date For The Mayan Train

Mexican Government Announces Official Start Date For The Mayan Train

It’s official: The Mayan Train is now happening. Director General of Tren Maya, Óscar Lozano, claimed that “we are committed to starting operations on December 1, 2023, that is the fulfillment of the mission”. during President López Obrador’s press conference on Monday, February 27.

This massive infrastructure project is expected to be completed by September 24, 2023. Test runs of the railroad will begin in September, covering a distance of 15,000 kilometers on its maiden trip.

With 42 trains running on the tracks, the train covers 1,554 kilometers, stopping in five different Mexican states: Tabasco, Chiapas, Campeche, Yucatán and Quintana Roo. Along the way, you’ll pass 34 train stations, near seven airports and 26 archeological zones.

Blas Andrés Núñez Jordán, the head of Sedena’s operations, also announced that six hotels for the Mayan train will be built near these historic sites: Palenque, Edzná, Nuevo Uxmal, Chichén Itzá, Tulum and Calakmul.

The Mayan Railroad is one of Mexico’s most important projects, and for good reason. Yet there is criticism of the project because of its environmental impact. More than 60% of Section 5’s route would consist of an elevated viaduct, according to a recent press conference, which not only offers breathtaking views but also protects nearby rivers, caves and cenotes.

“To guarantee a safe and calm travel experience for all passengers wanting to enjoy the Mayan Train, the route will have surveillance by land and air; on board the wagons, patrols on tracks, and overflights of drones and aircraft, in addition to surveillance at stations, plus the archaeological zones and airports,” he stated.

Tickets can be purchased at any station along the route, as well as through the app and website. Although fares have not yet been announced, they will vary depending on the type of passenger, such as locals, the elderly, foreign visitors and national tourists.

The train not only connects all major transport hubs and tourist destinations, but also contributes to the preservation of regional nature reserves, ancient monuments and the environment.