The Mayan Train Route Complete Guide

Looking for information about Mexico’s Mayan train route? Here’s what you should know!

Hi! I am Isabella and I live in Mexico in this post, I will tell you all I need to know about the Mayan Train, including the itineraries the main stops, and other interesting facts.

Tren Maya is Mexico’s brand new railway adventure that weaves through the heart of the Yucatan Peninsula. 

This railway network travels for 1554 kilometers (966 miles)  through southeastern Mexico, connecting dreamy coastal destinations, ancient Mayan wonders, gorgeous colonial cities, vibrant communities, and breathtaking natural landscapes.

In this post, you’ll get all the details we know so far about Mexico’s Mayan train Route, including route sections, train stations, and all the stops you can’t miss out on.

Get ready to embark on a journey that fuses beach fun, ancient history, culture, and natural adventure into an unforgettable experience.

Mayan Train Station
Mayan Trains

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Tren Maya Overview

💡 Mexico’s Tren Maya or Mayan Train is More Than a Train Ride

Put simply, Tren Maya is a modern railway circuit that travels for 1554 kilometers through five states in the southeastern region of Mexico.

However, Tren Maya is much more than a train ride. 

It’s a cultural journey, an opportunity for visitors to explore unseen beaches, learn about ancient Mayan wonders, and immerse themselves in Mexico’s breathtaking natural beauty like they never had before.

The Mayan train is a journey in time, as well as a fabulous opportunity to delve deeper into the Mexican jungle and to explore vibrant indigenous communities, Mayan sites that were previously hard or impossible to reach, as well as the already world-famous crystal-clear beach destinations and prehispanic ruins.

Mayan Train Station

💡 Mexico’s Mayan Train Route Travels Through Five States

The Mayan train route travels over five states in Mexico’s southeastern region, with several stations and stops in each one, thus making it easier for tourists to go from one destination to another.

The five states on the Maya train route are Quintana Roo, Yucatán, Campeche, Tabasco, and Chiapas. 

Each state on the Mayan Train route has its distinctive flavor, natural landscapes, gastronomy, and archeological wonders.

💡 Mexico’s Tren Maya Has Opened Up More Destinations and Infrastructure to the Yucatan Peninsula

Even though the Mexican Mayan Train, is, strictly speaking, a railroad circuit with its respective trains, tracks, stations, and stops, the Tren Maya project is a huge venture that is adding new infrastructure and revamping others.

Museums, hotels, parks, avenues, and bus lines have been built to enhance Mexico’s jungle train experience, while small indigenous communities have prepared to boast their crafts, food, and natural gems to the adventurous tourists who will now visit them.

Additionally, some archaeological sites have been revamped, with larger areas open to the public, while other hard-to-reach Mayan sites are now more easily accessed.

Mayan Train

Mayan Train Route: The Ride: Distance, Speed, and Traveling Time

👉🏽 Tren Maya Distance

Mexico’s Mayan Train route covers a total of 1,554 kilometers (963 miles) in a circuit route that connects five states, making it possible to easily travel from beach destinations, Mayan archeological sites, lively communities, and several natural wonders that each state has to offer.

It is important to note that the Mayan Train does not travel in a straight line. It goes along a sort of circuit. 

This makes it possible to take the train at one of the many stops and destinations, and then travel the whole route to end in the starting point, or wherever you decide.

👉🏽 Tren Maya’s Traveling Speed

Mexico’s Tren Maya travels over a 1,554-kilometer circuit route at an average speed of 160 kilometers (100 miles) per hour.

👉🏽 Tren Maya’s Traveling Time

Mexico’s Tren Maya traveling time for the whole route is calculated to be around 9 hours, without considering the time spent at train stations and tourist sites. 

Of course, it is not mandatory to travel the whole Mayan Train route, as there are many train sections or “tramos”, stations, and stops along the way.

Three green and silver trains are stationed parallel at a modern urban train station with metal and glass architecture, captured from ground level.

Maya Train Route Sections, Train Stations, and Stops

Mexico’s Mayan Train route is divided into seven sections called “tramos”, each one with a series of full-blown train stations (“estaciones”) and smaller train stops (“paraderos”), which makes it very easy to move from one destination to another at your own pace and will.

Take a look at the 7 sections or tramos and their respective stations and stops, as well as the Mexican states they belong to. 

This will give you an idea of how rich and fascinating the Tren Maya experience is.

All the train stations and stops were placed in strategic spots with quality services for tourists to get the most out of the Mexican jungle train experience.

1. Tramo 1: Palenque – Escárcega

The first section or Tramo 1 of Mexico’s Tren Maya begins in Palenque in the state of Chiapas, and ends in Escárcega, in the state of Campeche. 

It runs through three of Mexico´s southeastern states: Chiapas, Tabasco, and Campeche.

Tramo 1 covers a distance of 228 kilometers (140 miles), with 4 train stations and 2 smaller stops.

🚆 Tramo 1 Train Stations:

🚅 Palenque, Chiapas

🚅 Boca del Cerro, Tabasco

🚅 El Triunfo, Tabasco

🚅 Escárcega, Campeche

🚆 Tramo 1 Smaller Train Stops:

🚅 Tenosique, Tabasco

🚅 Candelaria, Campeche

2. Tramo 2: Escárcega – Calkiní

The second section of Tramo 2 of Mexico’s Tren Maya runs entirely in the beautiful state of Campeche, which is rich with stunning archaeological sites, natural wonders, and picturesque towns.

Tramo 2 covers 235 kilometers (145 miles), with 3 train stations and 4 train stops.

🚆 Tramo 2 Train Stations:

🚅 Escárcega, Campeche

🚅 Edzná, Campeche

🚅 San Francisco de Campeche, Campeche

🚆 Tramo 2 Train Stops:

🚅 Carrillo Puerto, Campeche

🚅 Tenabo, Campeche

🚅 Hecelchakán, Campeche

🚅 Calkiní, Campeche

3. Tramo 3: Calkiní – Izamal

The third section or Tramo 3 of Mexico’s Maya train route connects the states of Campeche and Yucatan, both of which offer a wide range of natural attractions and historical sites.

Tramo 3 covers 160 kilometers (100 miles), with 3 train stations and 3 train stops.

🚆 Tramo 3 Train Stations:

🚅 Mérida International Airport, Yucatán

🚅 Mérida Teya, Yucatán

🚅 Izamal, Yucatán

🚆 Tramo 3 Train Stops:

🚅 Calkiní, Campeche

🚅 Maxcanú, Yucatán

🚅 Tixkokob, Yucatán

4. Tramo 4: Calkiní – Izamal

The fourth section or Tramo 4 of Mexico’s Maya train route connects the states of Yucatan and Quintana Roo, which already are two of the most visited states in Mexico. 

This is mostly due to the world-famous Mayan archaeological sites in Yucatán and the dreamy Caribbean beaches and fantastic resorts in Quintana Roo.

Tramo 4 covers 240 kilometers (140 miles), with 4 train stations and 2 train stops.

🚆 Tramo 4 Train Stations:

🚅 Izamal, Yucatán

🚅 Chichen Itzá, Yucatán

🚅 Valladolid, Yucatán

🚅 Nuevo Xcán, Quintana Roo

🚆 Tramo 4 Train Stops:

🚅 Xibalbá, Yucatán

🚅 Leona Vicario, Yucatán

5. Tramo 5: Escárcega – Calkiní

The fifth section or Tramo 3 the Maya train route runs inside the touristy state of Quintana Roo, which is very popular because of its gorgeous crystalline turquoise beaches, picturesque coastal towns, natural adventures, seaside Mayan ruins, and party destinations.

Tramo 5 is divided into two parts, which are Tramo 5 Sur (south) and Tramo 5 Norte (north). It runs through 110 kilometers (69 miles), passing by the most popular beach destinations.

Both parts of Tren Maya’s Section or Tramo 5 have a total of 5 train stations and 3 train stops.

🚆 Tramo 5 Train Stations:

🚅 Cancún International Airport, Quintana Roo

🚅 Puerto Morelos, Quintana Roo

🚅 Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo

🚅 Tulum, Quintana Roo

🚅 Tulum International Airport, Quintana Roo

🚆 Tramo 5 Train Stops:

🚅 Xcaret, Quintana Roo

🚅 Puerto Aventuras, Quintana Roo

🚅 Akumal, Quintana Roo

6. Tramo 6: Tulum – Bacalar

The sixth section or Tramo 6 of Mexico’s Maya train route is a relatively long run within the state of Quintana Roo, taking visitors to Chetumal, the state’s capital, with a stop at the beautiful Magic Town of Bacalar. 

This charming town harbors the beautiful Bacalar Lagoon, also known as the 7-Color Lagoon because of the different shades of its waters.

Tramo 6 covers 245 kilometers (158 miles), with 4 train stations and 1 train stop.

🚆 Tramo 6 Train Stations:

🚅 Tulum, Quintana Roo

🚅 Felipe Carrillo Puerto, Quintana Roo

🚅 Bacalar, Quintana Roo

🚅 Chetumal, Quintana Roo

🚆 Tramo 6 Train Stop:

🚅 Limones, Othón P. Blanco, Quintana Roo

7. Tramo 7: Bacalar – Escárcega

The seventh section or Tramo 7 is another relatively long run that connects Quintana Roo with the state of Campeche. 

It parts from Chetumal, Quintana Roo’s capital city, and ends in Escárcega. Campeche, which is the ending point of the first section or Tramo 1.

This means that those traveling the whole circuit come almost full circle at this point, with the option of riding toward Palenque or Cancún, both of which have international airports. 

Tramo 6 covers 287 kilometers (180 miles), with 3 train stations and 2 train stops.

🚆 Tramo 7 Train Stations:

🚅 Bacalar, Quintana Roo

🚅 Xpujil, Campeche

🚅 Escárcega, Campeche

🚆 Tramo 7 Train Stops:

🚅 Conhuas, Campeche

🚅 Centenario, Campeche

Beaches, Inland Cities, Archaeological Sites, Towns, and Natural Attractions on the Maya Train Route

It is not an exaggeration to say that the Mexican Mayan Train will change the way travelers can explore Mexico. 

Although it will travel through beloved tourist destinations, it makes it easier to explore further and deeper into Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, as well as the adjoining states of Tabasco and Chiapas.

This ambitious railroad project allows visitors to explore more destinations in less time, making it possible to unveil more secrets in this marvelous country rich in culture, history, and natural beauty.

That is not to say you can’t still get to the airport and dive straight into a cool luxury resort and remain there for your whole stay, but the Maya train route does open a myriad of new attractions to conveniently explore, including beautiful cities, beach destinations, breathtaking Mayan archaeological sites, and indigenous communities full of culture.

You will also be able to access more natural attractions and adventures.

Keep reading to get an idea of the destinations and attractions that you can see along the Maya Train route.

👍🏼 Beach Destinations Along the Tren Maya Route

Mexico’s Mayan Train route will stop at the popular beach destinations that attract visitors from all over the world. 

Whether you want a bustling, noisy beach hotspot or prefer a serene coastal town, the Maya Train route has you covered. 

🌊 Tulum

Tulum is a small seaside paradise that is a perfect fusion of stunning beaches, amazing archaeological ruins, naturally protected areas, ecotourism, and a relaxed and bohemian party vibe.

Tulum’s archaeological site is perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, while the nearby Parque Jaguar and Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve offer a good dose of natural adventures. 

The lively, relaxed nightlife scene adds to the enchantment for a well-rounded beach escape.

Thanks to the Tren Maya project, a brand new international airport was recently inaugurated in Tulum, so visitors can now fly directly to this popular beach spot.

The aerial view of Tulum under a clear sky.
Tulum

🌊 Cancún

This is the perfect beach destination if you´re aiming for a combination of pristine beaches, exciting water adventures, and a large city nightlife, dining, and shopping scene.

Beyond its lively hotel and resort zone you’ll find a city steeped in rich Mexican culture, with the opportunity to explore local markets and authentic Mexican cuisine.

Drone view of Punta Cancun.
Cancun

🌊 Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen, or “Playa”, is a vibrant coastal town famous for its stunning beaches, bustling shopping scene, and lively atmosphere, while still managing to maintain some of the quaint fishing town vibes from a few decades ago. 

Bustling Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue) still preserves some of the craft stands and small shops that opened shop when the town was hardly known, while killer shopping, dining options, and bars have been cropped up around them. 

Besides being a super fun beach destination, Playa del Carmen serves as a gateway to the Riviera Maya.

The lifeguard tower in Playa del Carmen.
Playa del Carmen

🌊 Puerto Aventuras

Puerto Aventuras is somewhat of a hidden gem nestled between Tulum and Playa del Carmen. 

It is an exclusive community perfect for those times when you seek relaxation and fewer crowds.

Boasting gorgeous pristine Caribbean beaches and fine shopping and dining options, Puerto Aventuras also offers a marina and several small attractions.

🌊 Akumal

Translating to the “place of turtles” from Mayan, Akumal is famous for its resident sea turtles. 

Snorkeling in this lazy seaside town’s crystalline waters provides the opportunity to swim alongside these gentle creatures, which is an unforgettable experience.

The nearby Yal-Ku Lagoons is another attraction with great opportunities for snorkeling amid incredible marine life.

View of the Akumal Beach near Playa Xcacel.
Akumal

🌊 Puerto Morelos

Puerto Morelos offers a quieter alternative to its neighboring beach destinations, making it the ideal spot if you’re aiming for a serene coastal experience, authentic Mexican culture, fabulous snorkeling, and stunning beaches. 

Here, you can experience small-town markets, small seaside restaurants serving fresh seafood, and a relaxing laid-back atmosphere.

Even though it has grown somewhat in the last decade, it still offers a respite from busier tourist hubs in the region. 

The Puerto Morelos Reef, part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, makes this charming coastal town a haven for divers and snorkelers.

Puerto Morelos lighthouse
Puerto Morelos

👍🏼 Archaeological Sites Along the Tren Maya Route

The Maya Train route brings visitors closer to several prominent Mayan archaeological sites, as well as some lesser-known wonders that belong to the legacy of that fascinating ancient civilization.

Here are some of the most famous Mayan sites that can be found on or very near the Mayan Train circuit.

✔️ Palenque

The ancient city of Palenque is a standing testament to the glory of the ancient Mayan civilization. It is famous for its impressive pyramids, palaces, and temples nestled deep in the lush Chiapas jungle.

One of Palenque’s most stunning spots is the Temple of the Inscriptions, which harbors the tomb of the powerful Mayan ruler Pakal.

✔️ Edzná

Sitting in the middle of Campeche’s dense forest, Edzná is one of the lesser-known archaeological sites on the Yucatan Peninsula. 

This ancient city stands as a testament to the sophisticated engineering skills of the Mayan civilization, as well as their cultural and religious practices.

Edzná flourished during the Classic period. Its remarkable structures include the iconic Pyramid of the Five Floors. 

Among its remarkable features is the well-preserved acropolis with ceremonial temples, plazas, and palaces, as well as the intricate carvings that adorn its structures. 

Other distinctive features are the use of arches and the advanced use of water management systems, which include the impressive Great Reservoir.

✔️ Calakmul

Previously visited by the more adventurous travelers, the Calakmul Mayan archaeological site is a gem nestled in the remote Campeche jungle. 

This ancient city that was once a powerful Mayan Center is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The addition of Calakmul to the Mexican Mayan Train route makes it a lot easier to visit this hard-to-reach site that beckons history buffs and nature adventurers alike.

✔️ Chichen Itzá

No trip to the Yucatan Peninsula would be complete without including the wonderful Chichen Itzá. 

The Tren Maya project’s inclusion of a train station near this UNESCO World Heritage Site makes it more easily accessible to travelers.

Chichen Itzá is a fascinating archaeological marvel that is a standing testimony to the Mayan achievements in mathematics, engineering, astronomy, and more. 

The iconic El Castillo Pyramid and the surrounding buildings are also the scenario for stunning night-time light shows.

Chichen Itza El Castillo
Chichen Itza

✔️ Tulum

Tulum was an important port city during the Mayan golden era. 

Its strategic location made it a hub for maritime trade, which contributed to the flourishing of the Mayan civilization.

The most outstanding structures in Tulum are the Castillo, a castle situated on the edge of the cliff, and the Temple of Frescoes, which showcases sophisticated murals and offers clues to Mayan astronomy and calendar knowledge.

These days, Tulum is a trendy destination filled with beach clubs, high-end restaurants, and more, but it’s also a great base for exploring cenotes and other natural wonders in the region.

The Mayan Ruins in Tulum under a clear sky.
Tulum

✔️ Uxmal

Although Uxmal is not exactly on the Tren Maya route, it is located close to the Calkiní train stop, which makes it easily accessible for explorers of the area.

This Mayan jewel in the middle of the jungle stands out as a testimony to the Puuc architecture.

Elaborate facades adorned with detailed sculptures and intricate buildings make Uxmal pure eye candy for architecture enthusiasts.

In addition to those sites, the Mexican jungle train will take visitors closer to many more archaeological gems. 

These include Moral Reforma in the state of Tabasco; El Tigre, Xcalumkin. and Kohunlich in the state of Campeche, as well as Kabah, Dzibilchaltun, and Ek B’alam in the state of Yucatan.

Mayan archaeological wonders in the state of Quintana Roo that will be easier to access thanks to Mexico’s Tren Maya include El Meco, Cobá, Muyil, Paamul, Oxtankah, Ichkabal, Chacchobén, Dzibanché, and Kinichná.

Uxmal Yucatan.

✔️ Cobá

Nestled within the jungle, Coba served as a vital Mayan city and is famous for its extensive network of sacbes, which are ancient roads. These linked various structures and human settlements.

One of the most remarkable structures in Coba is the Nohoch Mul pyramid, one of the highest Mayan pyramids in the region. 

Coba’s sprawling complex is made up of several pyramids, ball courts, and residential areas, providing insights into the city’s social and religious life during the Mayan golden era. 

Coba temple of the coba group
Coba

Inland Cities and Towns Along the Tren Maya Route

The Maya Train route has stations in several inland cities in Mexico’s southeastern states.

These cities are worth visiting because of their charm, colonial history, and natural attractions.

Even though inland cities don’t boast beaches, they are not lacking in natural and cultural attractions.

Don’t be surprised to find “cenotes” or natural sinkholes right in the middle of a restaurant or urban park!

🌆 Palenque

The town of Palenque in Chiapas seems to revolve entirely around the stunning Mayan ruins with the same name, although it does have its quaint charm.

In addition to the Mayan pyramids, temples, and the jungle that surrounds them, there are nearby natural attractions, including fantastic waterfalls.

Due to its inclusion on Mexico’s Maya Train route, an international airport is being conditioned in Palenque. 

Lodging and dining options are less expensive than the more popular tourist hubs, which makes it a great option as a starting point for the new Maya Train route.

🌆 Campeche

Campeche is a charming colonial city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

The capital city of the state of Campeche boasts colorful facades and well-preserved forts that defended its inhabitants from pirates in times gone by.

Campeche provides a glimpse into Mexico’s colonial days, while nearby ancient Mayan sites like Edzná offer a deep insight into the region’s prehispanic past.

Campeche town in Mexico.
Campeche

🌆 Xpujil

Xpujil is a small city in Campeche inhabited by many indigenous people that serves as a gateway to several important archaeological sites, including the lesser-known Calakmul.

This is a fascinating Mayan site that is surrounded by the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, and probably the only one with a 360-degree view of uninterrupted lush jungle as far as the eye can see.

🌆 Merida

The state of Yucatán’s capital city, Merida is known as the “White City” because of its beautiful architecture made of white limestone. 

This charming city is a cultural hub filled with art, culinary delights, and warm hospitality.

While in Merida, be sure to explore the city markets, museums, and the charming Montejo Avenue to get a grasp at why Merida is a favorite with many national and international visitors.

Yucatan is famous for having world-renowned delicious cuisine, and Merida is the perfect place to enjoy its scrumptious, spicy dishes. 

Don’t miss the Cochinita Pibil, Panuchos, Salbutes, Muvi Pollo, and lime soup.

Merida parque Hidalgo
Merida

🌆 Valladolid

This is among the larger cities in Yucatán and one that exudes colonial charm. 

With its cobblestone streets and pastel-colored buildings, it provides a glimpse into the area’s history. 

It is a great place to explore on foot and to savor some of Yucatan’s legendary dishes.

Valladolid has served as a gateway to several attractions, including the famous pink lake as well as several cenotes like Ik Kil.

Valladolid San Gervasio church of Yucatan in Mexico
Valladolid

🌆 Chetumal

As the capital city of Quintana Roo, Chetumal boasts a perfect blend of history, culture, and warm hospitality, as well as natural beauty. 

Although it is a seaside city, barely touching the end of the Caribbean, it is not a beach destination, although it does have a waterfront and a pleasant pier.

Colonial architecture, great food, Zazil Park, and the Museum of Mayan Culture are the biggest offers in Chetumal. 

Nearby natural attractions include the 7-color Lagoon in Bacalar and Calderitas Beach, both easily accessible from the city.

Moreover, you can also hop over to Belize from here if you want to continue your journey to Central America!

🌆 Bacalar

This serene town sits by the captivating Bacalar Lagoon. 

Its relaxing charm is perfect for relaxing kayaking on the lagoon, chilling on hammocks that hover over its waters, exploring the San Felipe Fort, or swimming in the Cenote Azul.

Although the town is small and quaint, with the traditional kiosk in the downtown plaza, Bacalar has a respectable dining, lodging, and nightlife offer.

Kin Ha Colors Xul Ha bacalar
Bacalar

Tren Maya: Train Options

Mexico’s Maya Train is more than a transportation mode to travel from one place to another. 

It was carefully planned to offer different types of experiences to accommodate the needs and wishes of different types of travelers.

While some people simply want to travel comfortably from one destination to another, other visitors prefer to take a long journey, while others want to dig into Mexico’s delicious Mexican cuisine while traveling through the jungle.

With that in mind, three different train options are available. 

All options have the necessary amenities for an enjoyable ride, including a restaurant wagon, panoramic windows, short-circuit TVs, wi-fi, air-conditioning, and restrooms.

Additionally, all trains have the installations to accommodate travelers with limited mobility.

🚊 Xinbal (Mayan Word for “Walking”)

Xinbal is the standard Tren Maya experience, with different seating options and prices.

As mentioned, it has all the amenities for an enjoyable ride. 

This means comfortable seating, a restaurant, wi-fi, panoramic windows, wi-fi, restrooms, and more.

🚊 Janal (Mayan Word for “Eating”)

Janal is the culinary Tren Maya experience. 

In addition to the amenities in the Xinbal train, Janal offers the opportunity to leisurely taste local gastronomy and drinks while admiring the lush jungle from the panoramic windows.

🚊 P’atal (Mayan Word for “Staying”)

Pátal is the Mayan Train experience for long distances.

Besides offering the amenities present in the Xinbal trains, this train model includes wider reclinable seating and a few sleeping cabins.

The three train models in the Maya train experience have different seating options and pricing to accommodate different traveler needs and budgets.

Tren Maya Inauguration Dates

Mexico’s Tren Maya began partial operations on December 15th, 2023, with the first journey going from Cancun to Merida and back.

Furthermore, travel routes from Cancun to Palenque and back have been working since December 31st.

Full operations are expected to start on February 29th, 2024, so it should be completely operational in the spring.

Mayan Train Traveling Tips

📌 Plan your itinerary. There are so many attractions on or near the Maya Train route that it is virtually impossible to explore them all. Prioritize and plan accordingly.

📌 Use adequate sun protection, including sunblock, a cap or beach hat, and sunglasses

📌 Wear comfortable walking shoes or sneakers

📌 Carry bug repellent – remember you´ll be in the jungle.

📌 Wear adequate attire for tropical weather

📌 Keep yourself hydrated at all times

📌 Make it a point to carry cash – you are sure to find artisan and food vendors that will only take cash.

Portal Maya Sculpture in Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Playa del Carmen

Frequently Asked Questions About the Mayan Train Route and Journey

What is the Tren Maya?
Mexico’s Tren Maya is a railway project that connects five different states, as well as their respective beach destinations, inland cities and towns, indigenous communities, archaeological sites, and natural wonders.
The Tren Maya project aims to make it easier for visitors to the southeastern region of Mexico to travel from one place to another, and to explore further into the Yucatán Peninsula and nearby states.

What Does the Tren Maya Project Include?
The Tren Maya project consists of 1,554 kilometers (966 miles) of railways, three types of trains, 19 train stations, and 14 stops.
Additionally, 6 hotels are under construction at key Tren Maya points: Palenque, Uxmal, Tulum, Chichen Itzá, Calakmul, and Edzná.
Three new museums are also in development to showcase Mayan artifacts found during excavation — located in Chichen Itzá, Parque Jaguar (Tulum), and Calakmul.
Other museums are being renovated, and 46 archaeological sites are being maintained and restored, with visitor centers (CATVIS) and small markets being added.

What Natural Wonders are Located Close to the Tren Maya Route?
The route passes near many natural attractions that travelers can now access more easily, including:
👍🏼 Agua Azul Waterfalls
👍🏼 Palenque National Park
👍🏼 Centla Swamps Biosphere Reserve
👍🏼 Usumacinta River Canyon
👍🏼 Hacienda La Luz Cacao Ranch
👍🏼 Kolemjá Caves
👍🏼 Terminos Lagoon
👍🏼 Xtacumbilxunaan Caverns
👍🏼 Candelaria River
👍🏼 Pacchen Lagoon
👍🏼 Jaguar Cenote
👍🏼 El Cedral Lagoons
👍🏼 Nuevo Durango Caverns

What Mexican States Does the Tren Maya Route Go Over?
The train runs through five southeastern states: Chiapas, Tabasco, Campeche, Yucatán, and Quintana Roo.

Does the Tren Maya Stop at Beach Destinations?
Yes. The train stops at several popular beach towns including Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Puerto Aventuras, Akumal, and Puerto Morelos.

Is the Tren Maya Safe?
Yes, it’s considered safe. The trains, stations, and stops are secured by the Mexican armed forces and the National Guard, with drones and other surveillance technology in use along the route.

How Long Does the Complete Tren Maya Route Take?
The full route takes about 9 hours, not counting time spent at stops or exploring.
Driving the same route would take around 22 hours (not including gas or food stops).


Maya Train Route: Final Thoughts
The Mayan Train is one of Mexico’s major infrastructure projects, connecting key cultural, historic, and natural sites to make travel across the region easier.

The goal is also to boost tourism and economic development in more remote communities.
Each destination brings something different — from ruins and nature to beach towns and indigenous culture.

Whether you want adventure, history, beaches, or a bit of everything, the Tren Maya route offers a unique way to experience southern Mexico.

Chcihen Itza temples
Chichen Itza
Aerial view of Cancun, Mexico hotel zone.
Cancun
Aerial view of the Playa del Carmen.
Playa del Carmen

Maya Train Route: Final Thoughts

The Mayan Train is Mexico’s groundbreaking infrastructure project that aims to connect the country’s natural, historical, and cultural treasures to make it easier for visitors to move around and venture deeper into the southeastern region of the country.

At the same time, the goal is to boost economic growth and development in the region, drawing more communities into tourism-related activities.

Each of the destinations along the Tren Maya railway route contributes its unique flavor to the tapestry of experiences available to travelers. 

From archaeological wonders to stunning natural landscapes and vibrant seaside cities and towns, the diversity of the Yucatan Peninsula makes it an enticing destination for adventurers, history aficionados, sun worshippers, and party-goers alike.

Whether you’re seeking seaside relaxation, nature adventures, huge doses of history and culture, or cool beach partying, the Tren Maya route promises an unforgettable journey through Mexico´s cultural and natural jewels.