This week, we're mapping some of the world's greatest train trips.
Earlier this year, Venezuelan president Hugo Chavez declared his intention to string South America together by establishing a transcontinental train. While this type of border-crossing trip is still a matter of navigating the national railways of each country--where they even exist--it also means that hidden gems along the tracks tend to stay (a little more) hidden than the needle threading along the Eurail routes.
But the "Devil's Nose" in Ecuador isn't a train you take to get somewhere: It's pure sightseeing.
The Riobamba-to-Alausí route was so named because of the nearly sheer rock cliff the train was forced to ascend in order to get to the Andean city, a process it accomplishes by... well, watch the video, you might enjoy it. Those of strong stomach might enjoy a platano from a local farmer on the way up on the roof of the train. We'll just be cowering in our seats with one finger on the shutter button.
Related Stories:
· A Train to Cross All South America? [Treehugger]
· Theft and the Devil's Nose [Heldencrow.com]
· Ecuador Field Trip: Escape to Mindo [Jaunted]]]>