The Chile railroad network is not what it once was, and it is not the most convenient option for traveling Chile, but it is still possible to travel several routes around Chile by train.

The Empresa de Ferrocarriles del Estado (www.efe.cl) operates Chile’s passenger trains and offers several departures each day from Santiago to Chillán and Talca, and more frequent trains to San Fernando. There are also trains linking Constitución with Talca, Hualqui with Mercado, Concepción with Lomas Coloradas and Victoria with Temuco. EFE changes its routes frequently; until recently you could travel by train from Santiago as far as Puerto Montt, and the line from Santiago to Temuco is usually in operation during the summer but not during the winter. With that in mind, it is best checking with EFE before you make your plans to ride trains in Chile. When the domestic trains do run, they cost a little more than buses, but are relatively comfortable and efficient.