The CRRC train, equipped with lithium battery technology, is unique in Latin America. It features two passenger cars and will serve national and international tourists. While fare details are yet to be announced, local travellers are expected to have access to lower fares compared to foreign tourists.
The inaugural journey took passengers from Volcán to Purmamarca, with an intermediate stop in Tumbaya. Starting next year, the service will extend its operations throughout the day, offering flexibility for travellers of El Tren Turístico de la Quebrada de Humahuaca to stop at stations as desired.
This solar train is powered by solar panels, with batteries capable of being fully recharged in 25 minutes, providing a range of 120 km. Although capable of reaching 70 km/h, the train will typically operate at speeds below 50 km/h. It will run daily from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
The project is part of a broader plan to revive up to 300 km of railway services in Jujuy. The goal is to connect San Salvador de Jujuy and La Quiaca, eventually linking with Bolivia's railway system.
The solar train, acquired from CRRC Tangshan, is designed with panoramic glazing on the sides and roof. The inaugural trip, linking the towns of Volcán, Tumbaya, and Purmamarca, was attended by the then-governor of Jujuy, Gerardo Morales. Tourism Secretary Diego Valdecantos noted that the service's launch for tourism is planned for March 1st.
The railway recovery works, which started in 2017, are part of a three-phase project aiming to operationalize 300 km of railway between San Salvador de Jujuy and La Quiaca. The next stages will extend the service to Humahuaca and subsequently to La Quiaca. The final phase plans to connect Volcán with San Salvador de Jujuy, involving significant infrastructure developments including new bridge constructions.
