The most popular border crossing between Brazil and Bolivia is via the Brazilian city of Corumba and the Bolivian city of Quijarro. Every traveler headed to or from Quijarro has to get there by train.
The infamous “Death Train” that takes people to or from Quijarro has become a legend on the traveler’s circuit in Bolivia. No one is sure where the “Death Train” got its name, but there are two common beliefs. Some say that it is because the ride is so long and bumpy a traveler wants to kill themselves. The more likely school of thought is that the “Death Train” got its name from the time when the train used to transport bodies after a Yellow Fever epidemic.
The “Death Train” is a misnomer because there are in fact three different trains that ply the railroad tracks, some better than others. The prices of the trains range from around 60-250 Bolivianos (about 7 Bolivianos to1 $ U.S.) depending on the train that one would like to take.
At least one train runs between Santa Cruz, Bolivia’s third largest city, and Quijarro every day.
The “Death Train”
The actual “Death Train” is the least expensive option. It takes around 21 hours. It leaves at noon on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. There are two classes one can choose from on this train. The first class has assigned seats while the second class is a boxcar type arrangement. This train has no food so it is important to bring your own food and water.
The Oriental Express
This train goes every Saturday, Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday. It is a step above the “Death Train.” It is much quicker and has more comfortable seats. It does have a dining car for one to by basic food from. There is no air conditioning in this train, nor in the “Death Train” but this is a much more comfortable option.
The FerroBus
This option is a traveler’s best bet though it is the most expensive of the trains. The FerroBus is the most comfortable of the options for the journey to or from Quijarro. There are only two cars so tickets must be purchased early or they will fill up. This train leaves Monday, Wednesday and Fridays at 9pm. There is one sleeper car and one car with reclining seats. Both are air-conditioned and both serve lunch and a small breakfast. The train arrives at its destination at 9am the next morning. It is a painless alternative to the “Death Train.”
How to Buy Tickets for the Death Train in Bolivia
Tickets can only be purchased on the day of travel. The trains tend to fill up, especially the FerroBus so it is best to purchase tickets as early as possible in the morning. A passport or Bolivian ID card is needed to buy a ticket.
What to Bring For a Ride on the Death Train in Bolivia
· Mosquito repellent (the trains stop in swampy areas and mosquito repellent is important for the non FerroBus trains because windows will be open)
· Warm clothes (especially for the FerroBus which is overly air-conditioned and extremely cold)
· Drinking water
· Food
Travelers should not believe the rumors, the train journey is not as bad as one is led to believe. As long as one is prepared, it is an enjoyable experience and a great break from the buses that most budget backpackers take around South America.
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