The incredible 188 mile train journey connecting 2 seaside cities in gorgeous country

The train journey connects Salina Cruz to Coatzacoalcos (Image: Getty)

Stretching across its country’s narrowest point, a train ride offers an extraordinary journey between two vibrant coastal cities.

Operated by the Mexican navy, the Tren Interoceánico is lined with armed marines at every platform and crossing, a reminder that it is both a vital transport link and a symbol of modern infrastructure revival.

The train brings passengers from the Pacific to the Atlantic ocean, threading through mountains, marshes, and lush valleys, and offering a rare glimpse of a region that has long been overlooked by tourists, yet is rich in history and local life.

The route follows the historic Line Z, a rail corridor that first opened in 1907, briefly connecting coast to coast before the Panama Canal reduced its importance.

Abandoned for decades, it was resurrected under the Interoceanic Corridor of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec programme, a bold government initiative combining industrial parks, upgraded ports, and new infrastructure to bolster the region’s economy.

Salina Cruz, Mexico (Image: Getty)

By December 2023, passenger services resumed, offering locals and travellers alike a chance to experience southeastern Mexico by rail for the first time in generations.

The trains themselves are a striking sight. Former American Amfleet I carriages from the 1970s have been refurbished and painted with colourful depictions of women in traditional regional dress. Inside, the retro seats retain their generous legroom, and a trolley service delivers drinks and freshly made burritos to passengers along the aisles. There is no buffet car, but comfort and practicality have been considered, making the journey both scenic and pleasant.

The trip starts from Salina Cruz, which has long been defined by its maritime character. A major shipping hub, the city has a deep connection to the ocean. Surfers are drawn to Punta Conejo, where long right-hand breaks provide world-class waves, while beaches such as Playa Cangrejo and Playa Azul offer more tranquil escapes for swimming and sunbathing. 

Starting at the Pacific coast, passengers pass industrial hubs before climbing into the Sierra Madre de Oaxaca mountains. Rolling greenery, winding rivers, and marshy plains dominate the view, with stops at new or renovated stations along the way. Many of these stations preserve the original architectural style, yet everything has been modernised, reflecting the ambitious scale of the renovation project.

Coatzacoalcos, Mexico (Image: Getty)

The route is deliberately slow, with a maximum speed of 50mph, allowing passengers to take in highlights such as a stretch that reaches 735 feet above sea level and several impressive river crossings.

Armed marines are a constant presence, stationed at level crossings and platforms, ensuring security and smooth operation while underscoring the railway’s unique military oversight. 

In the end, you’ll arrive in Coatzacoalcos, on the Gulf of Mexico, which has a character shaped by trade and industry as well as a rich historical backdrop. There, visitors can explore the Malecon de Coatzacoalcos, a lively waterfront promenade perfect for an evening stroll, or head to Plaza de las Culturas to see public art and local murals.

By connecting these two towns, the Tren Interoceánico serves as a corridor of culture and commerce, linking communities shaped by centuries of trade, maritime activity, and regional traditions. Both termini, though separated by mountains and rivers, reflect the dynamic character of southeastern Mexico, and its coastal cities where industry meets natural beauty.

One-way tickets from Salina Cruz to Coatzacoalcos start from just MX$476 (around £20), and for visitors travelling from the UK, Virgin Atlantic will operate three weekly flights from Heathrow to Cancun from £604 return.