WHISPERS OF THE WIND: A Journey Aboard La Trochita, the Old Patagonian Express
FLYBRANIFF.COM
Travel Blog
Blog #14
May 2, 2026
La Trochita Railway in Argentina
Whispers of the Wind: A Journey Aboard La Trochita, the Old Patagonian Express Railway
Stepping aboard the Old Patagonian Express, affectionately known as La Trochita, is like entering a living time capsule where the rhythmic clatter of 750 mm narrow-gauge rails and the scent of coal smoke transport travelers back to the early 20th century. This legendary steam train, immortalized by Paul Theroux in his 1978 travelogue, remains a crowning jewel of Argentine heritage, chugging through the rugged landscapes of the Patagonian steppe with a nostalgic charm that is increasingly rare in the modern world.
La Trochita makes a quick stop at Esquel Station, Argentina. This grand railway tour is only a click away with FlyBraniff.com. Photo: PAG ARG, Copyright
The railway originally spanned 402 kilometers between Ingeniero Jacobacci in Río Negro Province and Esquel in Chubut Province, though today it primarily operates on shorter scenic stretches for visitors. The most popular route departs from Esquel and travels 18 kilometers to the Nahuel Pan station, an ancient Mapuche settlement where passengers can explore a local museum and craft markets during a 45-minute stop before the return journey. Another regular service runs between El Maitén and Desvío Thomae, offering a journey of approximately two and a half hours through the breathtaking horizons of the Andes foothills.
A secondary route of the Old Patagonian Express operates between El Maiten and Desvio and is an experience you can enjoy via FlyBraniff.com. Photo: Tripadvisor, Copyright
For those planning an overnight stay, the region offers a variety of unique accommodations that range from rustic retreats to high-end lodges. In the broader Patagonian region, travelers often stay at iconic properties like the Llao Llao Hotel in Bariloche, which is famous for its classic mountain lodge architecture and stunning views of Lake Moreno and Nahuel Huapi. Closer to the trekking hubs, options include the historic Hotel Las Torres at the base of the Torres del Paine mountains, the eco-friendly domes of EcoCamp Patagonia, or the luxury yurts at Patagonia Camp. For a more traditional experience, estancias like Cerro Guido offer a deep connection to the region's ranching heritage.
The breathtaking Llao Llao Hotel is the place to stay at magnificent Bariloche with its picture perfect views and historic accommodations, which can be booked with FlyBraniff.com ! Photo: Llao Llao Hotel, Copyright
Hotel Las Torres at the foothills of the Torres del Paine Mountains is a Conde Nast Reader’s Choice hotel for 2026 and is an easy book with FlyBraniff.com. Photo: Hotel Las Torres, Copyright
The beauty of this historic line is further preserved within the Braniff International South American Art Collection, which features more than 3000 evocative works such as the oil on canvas painting of La Trochita by Verena Viegner from 2005. Measuring 20 inches by 27 inches, this piece captures the essence of the "Old Patagonian Express" and stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of South American rail travel within the airline's historical archives.
La Trochita is captured brilliantly in oil on canvas by Argentine Artist Verena Viegner. This work is housed in the Braniff International South American Art Collection. La Trochita can be booked simply and easily with www.FlyBraniff.com. Photo: Braniff Airways, Incorporated, Copyright
Argentina Artist Verena Viegner painted this beautiful work of La Trochita in its earliest days. This work is housed in the Braniff International South American Art Collection, which was formed by Braniff Airways, Incorporated, in 1948. Photo: Braniff Airways, Incorporated
In 1967, Braniff merged with Pan American Grace Airways, known as Panagra, which made Braniff the largest US airline serving South America. Photo: Braniff Airways, Incorporated
Braniff International inaugurated its pioneering service to Buenos Aires, Argentina, in May 1950, eventually establishing itself as a premier carrier for travelers seeking the region's untamed beauty. While the airline provided modern jet connections to the capital, its legacy in the country remains deeply linked to the "Old Patagonian Express," or La Trochita, a legendary 750 mm narrow-gauge steam train that represents the raw power of nature and human ingenuity. This historic line, which today operates scenic routes through the Andes foothills and the Patagonian steppe, serves as a moving monument to the timeless romance of rail travel that Braniff sought to connect with its international passengers.
Braniff’s colorful advertising beautifully depicts travel to Argentina, which can be reserved for you via FlyBraniff.com. Photo: Braniff Airways, Incorporated, Copyright
The railway tour of a lifetime. Book FlyBraniff.com to fly to Argentina. Photo: We Build Value Magazine, Copyright
Whether you are a serious rail aficionado or a traveler seeking the untamed beauty of the end of the world, a journey on La Trochita provides an unforgettable encounter with the history and raw power of nature. As the vintage steam engine winds through the treeless stretches of the steppe, it serves as a moving monument to human ingenuity and the timeless romance of the rails.
Your first step to the vacation of a lifetime, is FlyBraniff.com
Braniff Gets You There with Flying Colors!
Braniff Airways, Incorporated, Copyright 1926 2026
Join us online where we enjoy more than 10 million impressions weekly:
www.flybraniff.com www.braniffinternational.com www.braniffboutique.com www.facebook.com/BraniffInternational
Twitter: @braniffintl
Instagram: @braniffairwaysinc
Youtube: Braniff Airways Foundation
TikTok: @braniff.international
La Trochita can be accessed from Santiago, Chile, or Buenos Aires, Argentina, and flights and the railway tour can be booked with FlyBraniff.com. Photo: South America Tourism, Copyright
The perfect way to remember your trip to Argentina; available from BraniffBoutique.com.