High Speed Train Comes to Mexico

Have you heard about Tren Maya? It is a rail system that promises to bring a stronger tourist infrastructure, bringing both goods and passengers to 34 stops along the 966 mile loop. This development has excited the travel community, making access from tourist destinations to the many historically and culturally important places much more possible! It has not come without scrutiny from some though.

The high speed train, going up to 102 MPH will connect much of Mexico with 42 trains. The route is below. The section between Campeche and Cancun was the first to open December 15, 2023 after construction began in June of 2020. Opening day proved to be challenging with 5 hour delays because of configuration issues. President Lopez Obrador announced during a recent morning meeting at the National Palace that the entire route should be open by August 2024, just before his presidency ends.

The sections are:

Palenque to Escarcega

Escarcega to Calkini

Calkini to Izamal

Izamal to Cancun

Cancun to Tulum

Tulum to Bacalar

Bacalar to Escarcega

Popular stops and sites along the route include Tabasco, Vallaloid, Chicen Itza, Playa del Carmen and more!

As mentioned, there have been some concerns raised about the trains impact. The biggest concern is a section between Cancun and Tulum that has many natural cenotes and some believe the vibrations of the trains could cause collapses. There is also concern about the impact to the surrounding jungles and indigenous communities. Some feel the building of the system did not have enough time to consider these concerns and address them because the priority finish before the end of the president's term.

While the government notes the concerns, tourist seem to have excitement and apprehension towards the project. I think it will be a great way to connect popular destinations and sites. I hope that concerns mentioned have been addressed and a resolution is found to protect what is already present in Mexico, much of which is the reason people visit.

The train will be a good value. International passengers will pay a slightly higher ticket price than locals and there are 2 classes of service available, tourist class and premier class. Premier class will get you a wider seat, unlimited coffee and dining dependent on the length of the section you purchase. The section between Cancun and Tulum will no provide food service. Here is an example of pricing. A one way trip from Cancun to Chichen Itza is approximately $56.05 in premier and $34.95 in tourist.

Tell me your thoughts. Are you excited to explore more of Mexico on your own? What concerns would you have?