The Mayan Train: Driving Long-Term Growth and Connectivity in Mexico’s Southeast
The Mayan Train is one of the most important infrastructure projects currently being developed in Mexico, and it’s already transforming the way people travel, invest, and experience the southeast region. With a route of approximately 1,525 kilometers, the train connects the five states of Quintana Roo, Campeche, Yucatán, Tabasco, and Chiapas, linking key cities, airports, natural reserves, and archaeological sites in an effort to stimulate inclusive economic development and responsible tourism.
A Project Designed for the Region
The Mayan Train was conceived as a response to the need for more equitable development in the region. While areas like Cancún and Tulum have seen exponential growth thanks to international tourism, other towns and communities remain underdeveloped and disconnected. The train is designed to redistribute tourism, open up new destinations, and strengthen the social and economic fabric of the southeast.
It features 20 stations and 14 stops, offering three types of services:
A passenger train for everyday mobility
A tourist train with panoramic views and curated experiences
A cargo train to support regional supply chains
This comprehensive structure will help improve logistics, enhance travel experiences, and drive long-term regional planning.
Expanding Access and Connectivity
One of the key benefits of the Mayan Train is the connectivity it will bring to the region. Travelers will be able to move easily between popular destinations and lesser-known towns, discovering new cultural, historical, and natural gems that were previously harder to reach. Some of the most iconic stations include:
Chichén Itzá, one of the most visited archaeological sites in Mexico and a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Palenque, surrounded by lush jungle and known for its impressive Mayan ruins
Bacalar, famous for its stunning Lagoon of Seven Colors
Valladolid, a charming colonial town rich in culture and history
Mérida, the vibrant capital of Yucatán with deep-rooted traditions
Tulum, known for its beaches, wellness scene, and jungle lifestyle
For locals, especially those living in areas with limited or no access to reliable public transportation, the train represents a much-needed solution. It will allow for better commuting, access to services, and economic mobility—connecting communities that have long been isolated.
Immediate and Future Impact
Beyond improving mobility, the Mayan Train is creating real economic value in the region. The project has already generated over 150,000 direct and indirect jobs, and will continue to support employment and training opportunities, particularly in the tourism, construction, and hospitality sectors.
It also strengthens the long-term investment outlook in places like Tulum. Government investment in large-scale infrastructure like this sends a strong signal of stability and planned growth, elements that are crucial when evaluating real estate opportunities. Better roads, efficient transportation, and regional planning all contribute to property appreciation, improved rental demand, and increased interest from both national and international buyers.
Designed with modern travelers in mind, the Mayan Train can reach speeds of up to 160 km/h and includes both Tourism and Premier Class services. Onboard, passengers can enjoy Wi-Fi, a cafeteria with drinks and snacks, and comfortable seating, making the journey part of the experience itself. Although train schedules are still limited in this early stage, more departures are expected to be added soon—making it a convenient and scenic way to move through the Yucatán Peninsula.
A Boost for Tulum and Its Surroundings
Tulum, in particular, stands to benefit significantly from the Mayan Train. The city will have its own station, providing direct access to visitors and improving connectivity with other important locations such as Palenque, Bacalar, Valladolid, Campeche, and Mérida.
Combined with other strategic projects like the Tulum International Airport and the Jaguar National Park, the Mayan Train reflects the government’s commitment to investing in sustainable tourism, conservation, and regional equity. These efforts are not only elevating the traveler’s experience, but also adding long-term value to real estate investments in and around Tulum.
The Mayan Train is more than a new way to travel, it’s a catalyst for change, growth, and balanced development. For investors, locals, and travelers alike, it signals that the southeast of Mexico is ready for the future.
