Bolivia

Exploring Bolivia by Rail: A Fascinating Journey Through History and Diversity

Bolivia's rail network weaves a tapestry of history, geography, and economic significance. Stretching across approximately 3,500 kilometers, primarily of meter gauge, the railway system is divided into two distinct systems – the western, connecting Bolivia to Chile and Peru, and the eastern, linking Bolivia to Brazil and Argentina.

Historical Roots and Notable Lines

The roots of rail transport in Bolivia trace back to the 1870s, initially serving the transportation of saltpeter from the Bolivian coast to the Pacific Ocean. The aftermath of the War of the Pacific (1879-1884) saw Bolivia lose its sea access, necessitating reliance on neighboring nations for international trade. This circumstance spurred the development of diverse railway projects aimed at connecting Bolivia's coasts and internal regions.
Several remarkable railway lines stand out:
    • Antofagasta to Uyuni Line: Originally constructed in 762 mm gauge by a British company, later converted to meter gauge, this line traverses the Andes and the breathtaking Salar de Uyuni, the world's largest salt flat.
    • La Paz to Arica Line: Constructed by a Chilean company post the Treaty of Peace and Friendship of 1904, it links Bolivia's capital, La Paz, to the Pacific port of Arica. Passing through Lake Titicaca, the world's highest navigable lake, this line offers awe-inspiring vistas.
    • Santa Cruz to Puerto Suárez Line: Part of the Interoceanic Highway uniting Brazil, Bolivia, and Peru, this line crosses Bolivia's eastern lowlands. It reaches the Brazilian border at Puerto Suárez, connecting with a railway leading to the Atlantic coast.
    • Madeira-Mamoré Railroad: Built by an American company from 1907 to 1912, this 365-kilometer route through the Amazonian jungle aimed to facilitate rubber exports. However, it was abandoned due to low demand, high costs, and disease.

Challenges and Resilience

Throughout its existence, Bolivian rail transport has confronted political upheaval, economic crises, lack of investment, competition from roads, and natural disasters. Nonetheless, it has played a pivotal role in shaping the nation's identity, culture, and development. While some lines continue to serve freight and passengers, others have been transformed into tourist attractions or heritage sites.

Exploring Bolivia by Train

Bolivia's rail network comprises two main networks: the western highland-to-Pacific coast connection and the eastern lowland-to-Atlantic coast link. Passengers can embark on captivating journeys:
    • Expreso del Sur: From Oruro to Villazón, this train stops at the Salar de Uyuni, the world's largest salt flat.
    • Wara Wara del Sur: Operating a different route to Villazón, this train offers a glimpse of the Bolivian Andes in Tupiza.
    • Ferrobus: Daily service between Oruro and Cochabamba through the Altiplano and valleys.
    • Tren Crucero: A weekly route from La Paz to Arica, offering views of Lake Titicaca and the Andes.
    • Ferroviaria Oriental: Connecting Santa Cruz to Puerto Suárez, it crosses Bolivia's fertile eastern lowlands.
    • Tren de la Selva: A once-a-week journey from Santa Cruz to Quijarro, traveling through tropical forests and rivers.

Affordable Adventures

Bolivian train fares provide cost-effective travel alternatives compared to buses or flights. For instance:
    • Oruro to Villazón (Expreso del Sur/Wara Wara del Sur): $11-$30, based on class (executive, salon, or popular).
    • Oruro to Cochabamba (Ferrobus): $10 for a single class.
    • La Paz to Arica (Tren Crucero): $20-$40, based on class (first or second).
    • Santa Cruz to Puerto Suárez (Ferroviaria Oriental): $5-$15, based on class (super pullman, pullman, or popular).
    • Santa Cruz to Quijarro (Tren de la Selva): $7-$20, based on class (super pullman, pullman, or popular).

Practical Travel Tips

Bolivian train travel entails certain luggage rules, including size and weight limits. Bicycles, pets, and other items may incur additional fees. While bringing your own refreshments is possible, dining services are available on select trains.

Various comfort classes cater to diverse preferences

    • Executive: Expreso del Sur, Wara Wara del Sur (top-tier comfort).
    • Salon: Expreso del Sur, Wara Wara del Sur, Ferrobus (mid-range comfort).
    • Popular: Wara Wara del Sur, Ferroviaria Oriental, Tren de la Selva (basic class).

Exploring with Discounts

Discounts are offered to students and seniors, providing incentives for exploration:
    • Expreso del Sur: 20% off executive class, 10% off salon class.
    • Wara Wara del Sur: 10% off any class.
    • Ferrobus: 10% off any class.
    • Tren Crucero: 50% off second class.

When traveling with children

    • Expreso del Sur: Under 5 travel free, age 5-12 get 50% discount.
    • Wara Wara del Sur: Similar to Expreso del Sur.
    • Ferrobus: Under 3 travel free, age 3-12 get 50% discount