Yes, but only via private luxury services like the Sierra Madre Express from Tucson, Arizona to Copper Canyon
Do passenger trains go to Mexico?
Yes, Mexico operates several passenger trains, primarily for tourism and commuting
You’ll find tourist trains like the Chihuahua al Pacífico (Chepe) cutting through Copper Canyon, plus the Tequila Express from Guadalajara to a tequila distillery. Mexico City even has commuter options like the Tren Suburbano. These aren’t for cross-border trips though—just for locals and visitors exploring within Mexico.
Is there a train from US to Mexico?
U.S. intercity trains only reach the border at El Paso, Texas; no Amtrak service crosses into Mexico
Amtrak’s Sunset Limited makes the long haul from Los Angeles (16+ hours) or New Orleans (26+ hours) straight to El Paso. From there? You’re on your own. No Amtrak train continues into Mexico—you’ll need to hop on a Mexican train or bus to finish your trip. Check Amtrak’s site for the latest schedules.
Are trains in Mexico safe?
Trains are generally safe for tourists, but theft and petty crime can occur
Violent crime on trains is uncommon, but pickpocketing and bag snatching happen—especially on crowded commuter routes. Night travel isn’t recommended, and keeping your valuables close is just common sense. The U.S. State Department doesn’t ban train travel in Mexico, but they do advise caution here.
Why are there no passenger trains in Mexico?
Mexico’s passenger rail service declined due to privatization and lack of investment
Back in 1937, Mexico nationalized its rail system, but by the 1990s, privatization killed off most passenger service. Now, freight trains dominate the tracks. Only tourist lines like the Chepe and a few commuter routes survive. The government’s talked about bringing back regional service for years, but as of 2026? Still no major comeback.
Can you travel to Mexico by ship?
Yes, but you must meet Mexico’s entry requirements for vessels and passengers
Every passenger needs a valid passport—cruise lines usually handle the paperwork, but double-check. Mexico also requires your ship to carry liability insurance. If a minor’s traveling without both parents, bring a notarized consent letter. Skip the hassle and review the full list on the Mexican Ministry of Health site.
Do you need a passport to go to Mexico on bus?
Yes, all foreign nationals need a passport and valid visa (if required) to enter Mexico by bus
U.S. citizens can use a passport or passport card for land or sea entry, but airlines will demand a passport. When you return to the U.S., you’ll need your passport again—and possibly a visa, depending on your status. Don’t forget Mexico’s tourist card (FMM); keep it until you leave. For the latest rules, check CBP’s website.
Is Mexico richer than Romania?
No, Romania’s GDP per capita was higher than Mexico’s as of 2025 estimates
Romania’s sitting at around $32,000 per person (2025 estimate), while Mexico’s closer to $22,000. These numbers are based on purchasing power parity, so they’re not perfect comparisons. For the freshest data, the World Bank is your best bet.
Can you take a bus to Mexico?
Yes, multiple bus companies operate long-distance routes from the U.S. to Mexico
Greyhound, ETN, and TAP are the big names running routes from cities like Los Angeles or San Antonio straight into Mexico City and beyond. Some trips stretch past 72 hours with transfers, so pack snacks and patience. Always book through official sites and confirm border crossing rules before you go. Check Greyhound’s site for schedules.
Why are Mexican trains called that?
The term “Mexican Train” refers to a domino game variant popularized in the U.S. in the 1970s
This game’s shared “Mexican Train” was pure marketing—no connection to actual Mexican railroads. By the 1970s, the name stuck and became standard across game sets. If you’re curious about the trademark history, the U.S. Patent Office has the details.
Is subway safe in Mexico City?
The Mexico City subway is considered safe during the day with standard precautions
Over 12 million people ride it daily, and the system has cameras and patrols. Still, rush hours (7–9 AM, 6–8 PM) get crazy crowded—pickpockets love that chaos. Keep bags zipped, don’t flash valuables, and stick to well-lit areas. Check for updates on the official site before you head out.
Is Ferromex a class one railroad?
Yes, Ferromex is classified as a Class I railroad in North America
Ferromex runs over 7,500 miles of track, putting it in the same league as major U.S. and Canadian freight railroads. It moves everything from intermodal containers to cars and bulk goods. For the full list of Class I railroads, see the Association of American Railroads.
Is it safe to go to Copper Canyon?
Copper Canyon is generally safe for tourists, but avoid remote areas at night
Drug-related violence pops up occasionally, but tourists aren’t usually the target. Stick to guided tours on the Chepe train and stay in established lodges. Hiking alone off the beaten path? Not a great idea. Before you go, check the latest travel advisories from the U.S. State Department and Mexican tourism offices.
Does Mexico have high speed trains?
Mexico City–Querétaro high-speed rail was planned but not operational as of 2026
This 210 km, 300 km/h line was supposed to zip between Mexico City and Querétaro, but funding and politics have stalled it for years. As of 2026, no high-speed trains actually run in Mexico. Even the Mexico City–Toluca line never got off the ground. Keep an eye on updates from Mexico’s Ministry of Communications.
What train goes to Mexico?
The Sierra Madre Express is the only private train offering service into Mexico from the U.S.
This luxury train runs from Tucson, Arizona, straight into Los Mochis and El Fuerte in Copper Canyon. Tickets include meals, guides, and excursions—but you’ll need to book through specialist operators. No Amtrak or public train crosses the border. Only deal with verified tour agencies to avoid scams.
How many Kilometres of railroad did Mexico have?
Mexico had 14,388 km of rail lines in 2018, the latest official figure
Freight rail owns almost all of it, run by companies like Ferromex and Kansas City Southern Mexico. Passenger rail? Barely 1% of the total. Since 2018, expansion’s been slow. For the most current numbers, check INEGI.
Edited and fact-checked by the MeridianFacts editorial team.
