Maya Train Project: Map, Tourist Routes + Places to Visit
Last Updated on December 26, 2025
The Maya Train project – or Tren Maya in Spanish – will introduce a new way to experience the rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes of the Yucatan Peninsula. Connecting cities and sites like Cancun, Tulum, Chichen Itza, Bacalar, Campeche and more, the train will revolutionize access to some of Mexico’s top destinations and hidden gems. Learn about the groundbreaking tourist train project and get your passport ready to take advantage of new travel opportunities in Mexico!
If you, like me, love to travel in Mexico, I have exciting news: the Maya Train is nearing completion. This high-speed train will connect important popular tourist destinations and hidden gems across the Yucatan Peninsula, in the states of Quintana Roo, Chiapas, Yucatán, and Campeche.
Construction began in 2020 and is scheduled to be completed by December 1, 2023. Will it be ready on time? I’m keeping an eye on progress and will share updates as available!
In the meantime, learn more about this monumental infrastructure project and the destinations that will be much more accessible to travelers to Mexico. The train will traverse lush jungles, charming cities, unspoiled beaches and fascinating history sites, while bringing tourism much closer to many local economies throughout the peninsula.
Ready to pack your bag? Let’s explore how this project will connect people of today to the heritage of the Maya people.
Map of the Maya Train Project Route
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In this Guide to the Maya Train Project
Project History | Progress | Maya Train Routes | Map | Cities | Maya Ruins | Airports | Budget | Official Opening | Frequently Asked Questions | List of Sections, Stations + Stops
History of the Maya Train Project
The seeds of the Maya Train project were sown during the presidential campaign of Andrés Manuel López Obrador, who envisioned a revival of the railway system to bolster both tourism and regional development. Announced officially in 2018, the project aimed to connect the historical and cultural sites of the Yucatan Peninsula, while creating thousands of jobs and promoting economic growth in the region.
From its inception, the Maya Train has not been without debate. Environmental and indigenous rights activists objected to plans for construction through the jungle. Concerns have persisted regarding impacts on indigenous communities, archaeological sites, and natural ecosystems and landscapes. New ruins sites were even discovered during construction.
Despite these hurdles, construction formally began in 2020. The project has faced a series of challenges, including navigating dense jungles, preserving archaeological sites, and accommodating for the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet the project has continued, steadily transforming from an ambitious vision into a tangible reality.
Maya Train Progress
Since its groundbreaking ceremony in 2020, the Maya Train project has charted a slow but steady course. As of mid-2022, only 25% of the project was estimated to have been completed.
Currently construction continues, with some sections completed. In February 2023 Tren Maya director general Óscar Lozano said that operations would start on December 1, 2023.
Maya Train Routes
The Maya Train is set to journey through the heart of the Yucatan Peninsula. The train’s routes will cover approximately 1500 kilometers, with 17 stops. It promises access to both popular destinations and lesser-known destinations that were only accessible previously by bus or car.
There are 3 routes planned: the Caribbean, Gulf, and Jungle Routes.
Caribbean, Gulf and Jungle Maya Train Routes
The Caribbean route will connect the northern and southern ends of Quintana Roo, starting in Cancun with stops in Puerto Morelos, Akumal, Playa Del Carmen, Tulum, and Bacalar.
The Gulf route will connect Cancun to the colonial city of Merida, with stops in Chichen Itza, Izamal, and Valladolid before continuing on to Campeche.
The Jungle route will connect the southern Quintana Roo to southern Campeche state, making accessible some of the less-touristed Mayan ruins like Palenque and Calakmul. This is the part of the project I am personally most excited about!
For full details, check out this map, which includes all the sections of these routes. The stops are indicated by letters, while stations have a train icon.
Maya Train Map
Cities Served by the Maya Train
Whether you want to revisit some of your favorite destinations in Mexico or discover new ones, The Maya Train project is going to be a game changer! These are some of the most well-known cities on the routes.
- Cancun: Known as the gateway to the Mexican Caribbean, Cancun marries pristine white beaches with nonstop nightlife, for the best combo of relaxation and entertainment for your vacay.
- Tulum: Nestled between the turquoise Caribbean Sea and lush jungles, Tulum is one of Mexico’s hotspots with its well-preserved ruins, bohemian vibes, and gorgeous beaches.
- Bacalar: Home to the extraordinary ‘Lagoon of Seven Colors’, Bacalar is a tranquil town that offers a more laid-back, authentic Mexican experience.
- Campeche: This UNESCO World Heritage city charms visitors thanks to its colonial architecture, ancient fortifications, and vibrant local markets.
- Merida: Merida is the cultural capital of the Yucatan, filled with colonial history, thriving arts, and a buzzing culinary scene.
- Valladolid: A colorful colonial gem with easy day trips to cenotes and ruins.
- Izamal: Dubbed ‘The Yellow City’, Izamal offers a unique vista of saffron-hued buildings, ancient ruins, and the famous Franciscan monastery.
Major Tourist Sites and Mayan Ruins
Beyond the cities, the Maya Train sights will include several major tourist attractions and less-visited spots, allowing travelers to explore more of Mexico’s history, culture, and landscapes.
- Tulum Archaeological Site: A stunning seafront Maya ruin with the picturesque El Castillo perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
- Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve: Close to Tulum, this UNESCO World Heritage site is home to thousands of species of flora and fauna.
- Bacalar Lagoon: Also known as the ‘Lake of Seven Colors’, this freshwater lagoon offers breathtaking views and opportunities for water sports.
- Calakmul Biosphere Reserve: This is one of the largest protected areas in Mexico, featuring prominent ancient Maya ruins.
- Uxmal Archaeological Site: Near Merida, Uxmal is known for its well-preserved Maya architecture, notably the Pyramid of the Magician.
- Chichen Itza: This is one of the most-visited destinations in Mexico. Home to the famous El Castillo (Temple of Kukulcan), Chichen Itza is a UNESCO Heritage Site.
- Ek Balam: This less-visited Maya ruins site near Valladolid has some of the best-preserved ruins in the region. One big draw here is that it’s possible to climb many of the ruins, including the largest structure, the 30-meter high Acropolis!
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Airports on the Maya Train Route
The Maya Train route is strategically designed to include cities with airports, providing international and domestic visitors easy access to this historical journey.
- Cancun International Airport (CUN): The second busiest airport in Mexico, it offers numerous direct flights from major cities around the world.
- Chetumal International Airport (CTM): Serving the southern part of the peninsula and the city of Bacalar.
- Campeche International Airport (CPE): Convenient for visitors coming to the western side of the peninsula.
- Merida International Airport (MID): Serving the city of Merida, it has direct flights to major Mexican cities and connecting flights from the U.S.
As the train begins operating, travelers should plan ahead for transportation services to reach the stations. Each of these airports offers a range of transportation services, including car rentals, shuttle services, and taxis – so hopefully they will be prepared for the additional influx of travelers.
Budget for the Project
With a projected budget of $9.8 billion, the Maya Train is an enormous investment in Mexico’s tourism infrastructure. The project is expected to transport more than 40,000 passengers daily across 1,500 kilometers of the southeastern part of the country.
The sheer scale of the project demonstrates the Mexican government’s investment in the region’s tourism potential and providing more accessible transportation options for visitors.
Official Opening Date for the Maya Train
In February 2023 Tren Maya director general Óscar Lozano said that operations would start on December 1, 2023. I will share updates on this target date as it approaches!
Ready to Board?
The Maya Train project promises to connect travelers to less-accessible sites, destinations, and experiences in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. It looms large, both with concerns about its impacts, and anticipation of the access and development it can bring.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or an avid traveler, the Maya Train promises an unforgettable voyage through the treasures of the Yucatan, forever changing the landscape of tourism in Mexico.
Maya Train: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Maya Train?
The Maya Train is a passenger, cargo, and tourist train designed to connect popular sites across the Yucatán Peninsula, encompassing the states of Quintana Roo, Chiapas, Yucatán, and Campeche. Its aim is to improve tourism and accessibility to these sites, boosting the local economy.
How fast will the Maya Train travel?
The train’s top speed could be up to 160 km/h (37-99 mph) depending on the terrain and distance between stops.
What is the official website for the Tren Maya?
Find information here on the Tren Maya project. You can also visit the Tren Maya Wikipedia page for up-to-date information and potential future updates regarding the official website.
Is there a mobile app for the Tren Maya?
At this time, a mobile app is not yet available. It is likely that an app will be developed to provide information and support for travelers.
How will the Maya Train affect Mexico’s environment?
The construction of the Maya Train has raised concerns about the environmental impact on the Yucatán Peninsula, including potential damage to natural habitats and the disruption of ecosystems. The project has begun clearing 40-meter-wide lines of jungle, which has led to the discovery of previously unknown archaeological ruins. There are significant concerns about how this process may affect the environment and ecosystems.
Where can I learn more about the social and environmental impacts of the Maya Train project?
- Science.org: A Controversial Train Heads for the Maya Rainforest
- The New York Times: Over Caves and Over Budget, Mexico’s Train Project Barrels Toward Disaster
- Time: Mexico’s Maya Train Is An Environmental Disaster
What is the full listing of sections, stops and stations?
Section 1: Palenque – Escárcega
This section covers a distance of approximately 228 kilometers.
- Stations: Palenque, Chiapas; Boca del Cerro, Tabasco; El Triunfo, Tabasco; Escárcega, Campeche
- Stops: Tenosique, Tabasco; Candelaria, Tabasco
Section 2: Escárcega – Calkiní
This section covers a distance of approximately 235 kilometers.
- Stations: Escárcega, Campeche; Edzná, Campeche; San Francisco de Campeche, Campeche
- Stops: Carrillo Puerto, Campeche; Tenabo, Campeche; Hecelchakán, Campeche; Calkiní, Campeche
Section 3: Calkiní – Izamal
This section covers a distance of approximately 172 kilometers.
- Stations: Merida Airport, Yucatán; Teya, Yucatán; Izamal, Yucatán
- Stops: Maxcanú, Yucatán; Tixkokob, Yucatán
Section 4: Izamal – Cancún
This section covers a distance of approximately 257 kilometers.
- Stations: Chichén Itzá, Yucatán; Valladolid, Yucatán; Nuevo Xcán, Quintana Roo
- Stops: Xibalbá, Yucatán; Leona Vicario, Yucatán
Section 5 North: Cancún – Playa del Carmen
This section covers a distance of approximately 49.8 kilometers.
- Stations: Cancún Aeropuerto, Quintana Roo; Puerto Morelos, Quintana Roo; Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo
Section 5 South: Playa del Carmen – Tulum
This section covers a distance of approximately 60.3 kilometers.
- Stations: Tulum, Quintana Roo; Tulum Aeropuerto, Quintana Roo
- Stops: Xcaret, Quintana Roo; Puerto Aventuras, Quintana Roo; Akumal, Quintana Roo
Section 6: Tulum – Bacalar
This section covers a distance of approximately 254 kilometers.
- Stations: Felipe Carrillo Puerto, Quintana Roo; Bacalar, Quintana Roo; Chetumal, Quintana Roo
- Stops: Limones, Othón P. Blanco, Quintana Roo
Section 7: Bacalar – Escárcega
This section covers a distance of approximately 287 kilometers.
- Stations: Xpujil, Campeche
- Stops: Conhuas, Campeche; Centenario, Campeche
