A year has passed since the Maya Train, or Tren Maya, on the Yucatan Peninsula marked its first operational journey, connecting Cancun and Merida on December 15, 2023. This ambitious multibillion-dollar initiative was launched by former Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador in 2018.
On Sunday, Mexico’s newly inaugurated president, Claudia Sheinbaum, celebrated the opening of the final segment between Escarcega and Chetumal, thereby completing a nearly 1,000-mile rail network that encircles five states and 34 stations throughout Mexico.
While the Maya Train provides a novel transportation option for both tourists and locals traversing Quintana Roo, Yucatan, Chiapas, Campeche, and Tabasco, it hasn’t been without its fair share of controversies.
Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting new train route in Mexico.
Maya Train routes and key stations
The Maya Train runs three primary routes:
- Cancun to Palenque
- Cancun to Chetumal International Airport (CTM)
- Chetumal International Airport to Escarcega
Andres Martinez, the director of the Quintana Roo tourism board, emphasizes the importance of the Cancun International Airport (CUN) station, referring to it as the “elemental station” and the “heart” of the train system. From Cancun, travelers can venture west to Merida, the capital of Yucatan, or south to Palenque and its lush archaeological ruins, ultimately reaching Chetumal, the Quintana Roo capital, and effectively traversing the entire southern peninsula.
The most popular route currently is the section through Quintana Roo along the Caribbean coast, linking stations such as Puerto Morelos, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum (which features two stops, including the new Tulum airport and downtown), as well as Bacalar and Chetumal.
More than just a transportation solution, the stations of the Maya Train are being developed into thematic attractions. “It’s not merely about traveling from point A to point B,” Martinez stated. “Visiting the station will be a unique experience.”
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The Tulum station, for instance, connects to the newly opened Jaguar Park, which launched in September. This protected natural area includes biking trails and a small museum showcasing local artifacts and regional art, and it links to the Tulum Archaeological Site.
Classes of service and cost
The “Standard Trains” currently offer two service classes: Tourist Class and Premier Class. Both promise a comfortable journey through the lush landscapes of the peninsula, though the Premier Class provides more spacious seating — three seats per row instead of four — along with complimentary box lunches.
Dining and sleeper trains are under development for longer routes, such as the 11-hour journey from Cancun to Palenque.
Tickets for the Maya Train can be purchased at all stations and can also purportedly be prebooked online, although many travelers have encountered issues with the website not displaying available schedule information. Ticket prices range from 40 pesos (approximately $1.98) to 4,500 pesos (about $223), depending on the class and travel distance.
Impact on tourism and local communities
Martinez highlights the dual advantages provided by the Maya Train, asserting that it is “not only for tourists but also for locals.” The train enhances connectivity for residents, particularly those commuting to the numerous local resorts. “It represents a major infrastructure advancement,” he states.
The train offers tourists a convenient alternative for exploring the peninsula without the need to rent a car. It also connects to the primary regional airports, which is beneficial for travelers looking to avoid expensive transportation shuttles or private drivers.
However, operational challenges remain. The New York Times reported scheduling mishaps and incomplete stations that have resulted in confusion among travelers, despite the train’s operational status.
Environmental and social concerns
Despite its intended benefits, the Maya Train has ignited significant debate. Environmental advocates have expressed worries about the construction impact on delicate ecosystems, notably in jungle regions that harbor endangered species. Activists have also raised concerns regarding the potential disturbance to local Mayan communities, who feel inadequately consulted in the planning stages.
For instance, in 2022, conservation organizations lodged complaints with Semarnat, the Mexican environmental ministry, citing the government’s failure to accurately assess the environmental effects of certain train sections.
“Mexican officials have not thoroughly considered the environmental risks posed by the Maya Train, but we recognize it as a serious threat to jaguars and other wildlife,” stated Alejandro Olivera, the Mexico representative for the Center for Biological Diversity. “The government’s review lacked depth regarding risks ranging from deforestation to operational impacts. Over 67 kilometers of this section only includes two wildlife passages for jaguars and ocelots, while 15 kilometers of track lacks any wildlife connectivity whatsoever. If this proceeds, it will spell disaster for some of Mexico’s rarest species.”
The Center for Biological Diversity has also claimed that the project breaches local regulations on dredging, excavation, vegetation removal, and the expansion of cenotes.
Looking ahead
While the Maya Train continues to inspire polarized discussions, it has transformed travel across the Yucatan Peninsula. As final adjustments are being made to the stations, travelers now have a fresh, efficient mode of transport to reach destinations in southern Mexico that were previously harder to navigate.
Related reading:
https://thepointsguy.com/news/mexico-maya-train-tren-maya-completes-route/
