Fancy a slow ride on a chugging little train from Córdoba capital to the northern end of the Valle de Punilla? The iconic Tren de las Sierras is the only railway serving the region and the cheapest, most grassroots way to hop from town to town and experience Argentina’s train system. Got time? Blend with the locals and enjoy the countryside views.
Railway Overview
Part of the historic Ferrocaril General Belgrano line that opened in July 1892, the Tren de las Sierras connects Córdoba with 22 localities in the Valle de Punilla, including popular stops like Cosquín, La Falda and La Cumbre. It takes about five hours to complete its 100km run.
Planning a Trip
At the time of research, the Tren de las Sierras ran twice a day from Córdoba's Mitre train station, leaving at 6:50am and 1:15pm, with a carriage change in Cosquín, where another train proceeds at 10:10am and 4:12pm to Capilla del Monte’s train station, arriving at 12:20pm and 6:30pm. From Capilla del Monte, trains leave at 7:45am and 1:45pm, changing in Cosquín at 9:58am and 4:26pm, arriving in Córdoba at 1pm and 7:30pm. A third departure leaves Capilla del Monte at 6:45pm, only reaching as far as Cosquín, at 8:54pm.
What to Expect
Oddly enough, the train windows are covered in stickers with fine black dots that help keep the heat at bay but obscure the views. It’s a slow journey, but buskers often get on the carriages to play guitar and sing for tips.