Curitiba to Morretes Train Ride: The Most Scenic Railway Journey in Brazil

Complete Guide with History, Categories, Prices, Best Viewpoints & What to Do in Morretes

The Curitiba–Morretes train ride, located in the state of Paraná in southern Brazil, is frequently ranked among the most beautiful train journeys in the world. Running through the Atlantic Rainforest (Mata Atlântica) and descending the Serra do Mar mountain range, this historic railway combines breathtaking scenery, 19th-century engineering, and the charm of small colonial towns.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know as an international traveler:

✔ History of the railway
✔ All train classes and services
✔ Best landscapes and viewpoints
✔ Which side to sit on
✔ Ticket purchase tips
✔ What to do in Morretes
✔ Costs, routes, timing, safety & more

1. History of the Curitiba–Morretes Railway

The railway between Curitiba and Morretes is part of the legendary Paranaguá–Curitiba Railroad, inaugurated in 1885. Built during one of the most ambitious engineering projects of the 19th century, the railway crosses one of the steepest and most preserved mountain ranges in Brazil.

Key historical facts:

• Designed by American engineer Michael Fox

• More than 9,000 workers, including European immigrants

• 41 bridges and viaducts

• 13 tunnels carved into solid rock

• Curves and tracks built on the edges of cliffs

• Entirely built without modern machinery

The railway astonished international engineers at the time. Today, cargo trains still operate on the line, while the tourist section — Curitiba to Morretes — is operated by Serra Verde Express, offering one of the top scenic train experiences in South America.

2. All Train Classes on the Curitiba–Morretes Route

The train offers multiple classes to suit different travel styles and budgets. All coaches include wide windows and bilingual guides depending on the departure.

2.1. Tourist Class (Standard Tourist)

The most affordable option and very popular.

• Comfortable seats

• Large windows

• Onboard guide

• Drinks and snacks sold separately
  Ideal for budget travelers and backpackers.

2.2. Boutique Class (Themed Coaches)

Stylish coaches inspired by Curitiba’s architecture, history, and regional culture.

• Cushioned seats

• Special décor

• Complimentary drinks depending on the coach

• More comfort and exclusivity
  Great for travelers looking for unique design and Instagram-friendly interiors.

2.3. Executive Class

A mid-range category offering upgraded comfort.

• Spacious reclining seats

• Snacks included

• Reduced noise

• Panoramic windows
  Perfect for travelers wanting comfort at a moderate price.

2.4. Luxury Railcars – Litorina (Premium Experience)

The highest categories of the railway experience.

🔸 Barão do Serro Azul Luxury Coach

• Premium seats

• Drinks included (some alcoholic)

• Gourmet snacks or meals

• Air-conditioning and quieter cabins

• Larger panoramic windows

🔸 Foz do Iguaçu / Panoramic Coach

• Almost floor-to-ceiling windows

• Unobstructed landscape views

• Exclusive onboard service
  The top choice for photographers, couples, and luxury travelers.

2.5. Train + Lunch Packages

Packages include:

• Train ride down the mountains

• Traditional barreado lunch in Morretes

• Return transport by bus
  An excellent option for day trips.

3. Best Landscapes and Viewpoints on the Curitiba–Morretes Train

The journey lasts 3.5 to 4 hours, descending nearly 900 meters from Curitiba to the coast. These are the must-see highlights of the route:

3.1. Viaduto do Carvalho (Carvalho Viaduct / “Bridge of Arches”)

The most iconic point of the journey — a narrow bridge suspended over a deep canyon.

Look for:

• Cliffside drop on the left

• Tropical rainforest stretching to the horizon

• Railway curves wrapping around the mountains

• Dramatic sense of height

3.2. Véu de Noiva Waterfall

A spectacular waterfall hidden deep in the forest.

Look for:

• The main vertical cascade

• Thin streams flowing over dark rock

• Bright green vegetation around it

3.3. Marumbi Peak (Marumbi Mountain Range)

One of Brazil’s most important mountaineering destinations.

Look for:

• Granite peaks: Olimpo, Abrolhos, and Esfinge

• Mist touching the summits

• Wide mountain panoramas

3.4. Serra do Mar Canyons & Cliffs

Sections where the train runs right next to stone walls and deep valleys.

Look for:

• Vertical cliffs

• Streams crossing the tracks

• Dense tropical rainforest

3.5. Historic Tunnels & Steel Bridges

Built by hand in the 1880s, these structures are engineering masterpieces.

Look for:

• Sudden panoramic views after each tunnel

• Original ironwork on bridges

• Height contrasts between valleys and tracks

3.6. Marumbi Station

A historic stop at the base of the mountain.

Look for:

• Clearings in the forest

• Sharp peaks towering above

• Rivers and natural pools

3.7. Porto de Cima & Nhundiaquara River

The final and most peaceful stretch of the trip.

Look for:

• Crystal-clear river waters

• Colonial houses

• Rural landscapes leading into Morretes town

4. Which Side of the Train Has the Best Views?

On the way down (Curitiba → Morretes): SIT ON THE LEFT SIDE

You will see:

• Viaduct do Carvalho

• Waterfalls

• Canyons

• Deep valleys and cliffs

On the way up (Morretes → Curitiba): SIT ON THE RIGHT SIDE

This is crucial for photography and visibility.

5. Best Time of the Day and Season to Take the Trip

Best departure time:

Morning departures (around 8:30 a.m.) — the sunlight hits the mountains beautifully.

Best season for clear views:

• Winter (June to August): crisp skies

• Spring (September to November): greener landscapes

• Summer: lush vegetation but higher chance of fog and rain

6. Ticket Prices & How to Buy

Prices vary by season and availability, but typical ranges are:

• Tourist Class: R$115–180

• Executive: R$200–260

• Boutique: R$300–350

• Luxury Litorina Railcars: R$450–700

✔ Where to buy tickets:

• Official website: Serra Verde Express

• Authorized travel agencies

• Rodoferroviária Train Station in Curitiba

Advance booking is highly recommended during weekends, holidays, and Brazilian school vacations.

7. What to Do in Morretes (Complete Guide)

Morretes is one of the most charming colonial towns in southern Brazil. Small, historic, and surrounded by rivers, it is ideal for a relaxing slow-travel experience.

7.1. Explore the Historic Center

• 19th-century colonial houses

• Rocha Pombo Square

• Municipal Market

• Old churches and bridges

• Riverside walk along the Nhundiaquara River

7.2. Taste the Famous Barreado (Traditional Local Dish)

A slow-cooked beef stew simmered for more than 12 hours.

Best restaurants for barreado:

• Madalozo

• Ponte Velha

• Nhundiaquara

• Villa Morretes

7.3. Nature & Waterfalls

• Salto da Fortuna waterfall

• Salto dos Macacos

• Recanto Nhundiaquara (river beach & picnic area)

Great for swimming, hiking, and nature photography.

7.4. Adventure Sports

• Rafting

• Tubing (bóia-cross)

• Canyoning

• Kayaking

• Mountain biking

Local agencies offer full-day or half-day packages.

7.5. Hiking Trails

• Caminho do Itupava (17th-century stone trail)

• Marumbi State Park (intermediate and advanced routes)

Perfect for travelers seeking eco-tourism and adventure.

7.6. Day Trip to Antonina

Only 15 km from Morretes.

• Historic architecture

• Seafood restaurants

• Beautiful bay views

7.7. Local Products & Handcrafts

• Artisanal cachaça

• Banana sweets

• Local pepper sauces

• Ceramic and wood crafts

8. How Many Days to Stay?

• 1 day: Train trip + lunch + walk around town

• 2 days: Add waterfalls, river swimming, or a short hike

• 3 days: Include Antonina and longer trails

9. Photography Tips for the Train Ride

• Use fast shutter speed (the train moves quickly)

• Sit on the left going downhill

• Avoid sticking cameras out the window

• Bring microfiber cloth (humidity fogs lenses)

• Polarizing filter helps reduce glare from vegetation

Conclusion: Why the Curitiba–Morretes Train Ride Is a Must-See in Brazil

The Curitiba–Morretes train journey is more than a simple transportation route — it’s a profound encounter with one of the richest ecosystems on Earth and a unique opportunity to witness a masterpiece of engineering from 1885. The panoramic views, tropical mountains, colonial towns, waterfalls, rivers, and cultural cuisine make this one of the best day trips in Brazil for international tourists.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a photographer, a history enthusiast, or simply a traveler searching for authentic Brazilian experiences, this scenic train ride is unforgettable.