Discover The Serra Verde Express, One Of The Most Enchanting Train Experiences In Brazil

On The Table Read Magazine, “the best arts and entertainment magazine UK“, discover the magic of Brazil’s most enchanting train journey aboard the Serra Verde Express – a breathtaking 70km voyage from Curitiba to historic Morretes through dramatic canyons, lush Atlantic Forest, and century-old bridges, blending engineering marvels, stunning nature, and authentic Paraná culture in one unforgettable four-hour adventure.

The Serra Verde Express offers one of Brazil’s most captivating railway adventures, combining engineering brilliance, stunning natural scenery, and cultural immersion. Operating for nearly 30 years, this historic train service has carried over four million passengers along a route that showcases the best of Paraná’s landscapes and heritage.

A Scenic 70-Kilometre Journey

The Serra Verde Express travels 70 kilometres from Curitiba to the coastal town of Morretes through the Serra do Mar mountain range. The four-hour ride winds through dramatic canyons, cascading waterfalls, and lush stretches of the Atlantic Forest—one of the best-preserved areas of this vital ecosystem in the country.

Passengers cross 41 bridges and 13 tunnels while climbing to a maximum elevation of 952 metres above sea level. The route’s engineering highlight includes the São João Bridge, which rises an impressive 113 metres. The train moves at a leisurely maximum speed of 30 km/h, allowing ample time to soak in the panoramic views. This route gained international attention when featured in the BBC’s Celebrity Race Across the World in 2024.

Arrival in Historic Morretes

The journey ends in Morretes, a charming coastal municipality founded by Jesuits in 1733. The town’s colonial streets, historic buildings, and vibrant square reflect Paraná’s rich development. Visitors can wander through local markets to browse handicrafts and sample the region’s signature dish, barreado—a traditional slow-cooked beef stew prepared in a clay pot with spices, typically served with cassava flour and bananas. The recipe dates back to the era of colonial muleteers and remains a highlight of local cuisine.

Train Classes and Onboard Experience

The Serra Verde Express can accommodate up to 1,200 passengers depending on demand, using a fleet of 25 cars. Travellers can select from three service levels:

• Tourist Class: A comfortable, affordable option for enjoying the scenery.
• Boutique Class: Offers enhanced amenities, including unlimited water, juices, soft drinks, beer, and a selection of snacks. Themed cars provide distinctive experiences, such as vintage interiors or open balconies with unobstructed forest views. Special carriages include the pet-friendly Bove Car and the accessible Carmen Silva Car.
• Luxury Railcar (Litorina): Self-propelled units that deliver a more exclusive and refined journey with premium interiors.

These varied options ensure the experience suits different preferences and budgets.

An Engineering Masterpiece with Deep Roots

The railway’s story dates back to the 19th century and reflects the vision and determination of the Rebouças brothers—André Pinto Rebouças and Antonio Pereira Rebouças Filho. Sons of a self-taught man and grandsons of a freed enslaved woman, the brothers studied engineering in Europe and Brazil during a challenging era. Their early ideas for connecting the interior to the coast laid the foundation for the project.

Construction faced numerous obstacles, including the Paraguayan War and debates over the best coastal terminus. A Belgian-French company eventually led the effort, and on June 5, 1880, Emperor Dom Pedro II laid the cornerstone in Paranaguá. The line opened on February 2, 1885, after five years of work, achieved largely through national engineering expertise and without relying on unpaid enslaved labour. Today, it stands as a celebrated feat of Brazilian infrastructure.

Growing Popularity

Demand for the experience continues to rise. During the most recent summer season, more than 70,000 passengers travelled the route, while nearly 280,000 passengers enjoyed the tour in 2025 alone. The combination of history, nature, and comfort makes the Serra Verde Express a standout attraction in Brazil’s tourism landscape.

This journey not only highlights the country’s natural beauty and cultural traditions but also supports broader efforts by EMBRATUR, Brazil’s Agency for International Tourism Promotion, to showcase diverse destinations and drive economic and social development through tourism. For travellers seeking an unforgettable blend of adventure and heritage, the Serra Verde Express delivers a truly magical experience.

Find the Serra Verde Express now:

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