Frequently Asked Questions about the Train Maya (Tren Maya)

We tried hard to think of every question someone might ask about Mexico's Train Maya (Tren Maya), but if you have a question that isn't here, please let us know!

Hopefully, these questions will answer most of yours about Train Maya:

Q: Where and how do I buy tickets? In the US? Mexico? Online (beforehand)?

A: You can buy tickets online using the Tren Maya app, or you can buy them at any train station.

Q: How far ahead of time do I need to arrive to make sure I catch my train?

A: We recommend arriving one hour before your departure time.

Q: How safe is the train? Can I travel alone or bring my family? Small children?

A: The train is very safe. You do need your passport to check in and go through security just like the airport. There are also security personnel at each station and on the train. You can travel alone or with family. Small children love traveling on the train because it's a great adventure.

Q: What kind of meals do they serve on the train?

A: You can purchase snack like chips, cookies, and flan. Drinks are available, too. You can also purchase meals like hot sandwiches and pizza.

Q: Can I bring my own food, luggage, pillow?

A: Yes. You can bring your own food and drink as well as luggage and pillow.

Q: Does the train have WIFI, charging stations, reclining seats?

A: Wi-Fi may be available in certain stations, but most trains do not have Wi-Fi capabilities yet, so you will want to download your Netflix movies at your hotel. Each seat has USB ports and one electrical outlet. Seats can also recline slightly.

Q: What is the first class car like?

A: First class is roomier than coach with two seats on one side and one across the aisle resulting in a total of only three seats across instead of four. First class also has more legroom and has two charging stations between seats. The first class bathroom is larger as well.

Q: What are the bathroom facilities like ?

A: Bathroom facilities are very clean and are have a toilet, faucet, toilet seat, and toilet paper. They are similar to those on an airplane only larger.

Q: Does the train have a sleeper car?

A: Sleeper cars are not yet available but will be added in the future.

Q: How full is the train on most days?

A: The early morning train from Cancun airport that goes all the way to Palenque usually fills up since it has 19 stops along the way, so you must purchase tickets in advance for that route. However, other train routes generally have available seats.

Q: How long does the train stop at each station?

A: The train stops for two minutes in total to allow for onboarding and exiting.

Q: If I miss getting back on my train, how long will I have to wait for another train to come?

A: Trains run every 2-3 hours between Cancun and Merida. Beyond Merida to Palenque trains run only once per day because it is an 11-hour ride from Cancun to Palenque.

Q: How fast does the train travel?

A: Up to 90 miles an hour. The train is very smooth and does travel through rural Mexican pueblos so its speed can vary.

Q: How often does the train run—how many are running at one time?

A: Several trains run per day between Cancún and Merida and Cancún and Tulum. Generally one to two trains run at a time.

Q: What are the hotels like near the train stations?

A: There are hotels that were built prior to the train, and new hotels associated with Tren Maya have been built near the stations.

Q: Do I have to stay at one of the Train Maya hotels?

A: No. You can choose your own accommodations. Most hotel and travel applications will list available hotels and price in dollars.

Have a question that wasn't listed here or just need more info? Just contact us!

woman wearing yellow long-sleeved dress under white clouds and blue sky during daytime

The Train Maya experience was unforgettable! Stunning views and luxurious stays made our trip exceptional.

Emily B.

An aerial view of an ancient archaeological site surrounded by dense green forest. A large stepped pyramid structure is centrally located, with other smaller stone buildings and ruins scattered around. The area is bustling with numerous visitors exploring the site.
An aerial view of an ancient archaeological site surrounded by dense green forest. A large stepped pyramid structure is centrally located, with other smaller stone buildings and ruins scattered around. The area is bustling with numerous visitors exploring the site.

Riding the Train Maya was a dream come true! Every stop was filled with history and beauty.

Joe M.

A vast archaeological site with large, ancient stone pyramids and stepped platforms, surrounded by crowds of visitors walking along a wide, open pathway. The landscape includes distant mountains under a partly cloudy sky.
A vast archaeological site with large, ancient stone pyramids and stepped platforms, surrounded by crowds of visitors walking along a wide, open pathway. The landscape includes distant mountains under a partly cloudy sky.
★★★★★
★★★★★