Curitiba, Morretes and Ilha do Mel: the train ride through the Serra do Mar
The train ride from Curitiba to Morretes is one of the most beautiful rail journeys in Brazil. The train descends the Serra do Mar in Paraná through the forest, with views of canyons, waterfalls and green valleys. In Morretes, the reward is barreado (a slow-cooked meat dish), the region's typical dish. The trip also includes the peaceful Ilha do Mel and charming Curitiba. It is an itinerary of scenery and calm, ideal for those who like to travel without rushing, and even easier on a guided group trip.
Below, we explain what each part of the trip is like and why it suits travellers who are looking for nature and tranquillity.
The train ride through the Serra do Mar in Paraná
The train journey between Curitiba and Morretes is the highlight of the trip. The railway crosses the Serra do Mar, one of the best-preserved landscapes on the Brazilian coast, along a route full of tunnels, bridges and bends that reveal impressive views.
On the descent, you will see:
- Mountains covered in forest.
- Waterfalls running down the slopes.
- Green valleys opening up around every bend.
It is a ride to enjoy at an easy pace, seated, looking out of the window. No effort is needed: just relax and take in the scenery. For this reason, this stretch is very popular with travellers aged 60 or over.
Morretes and barreado
On arriving in Morretes, a historic and peaceful town, the almost obligatory programme is barreado. It is a typical dish of the region, made with meat cooked slowly for many hours and served with farinha (cassava flour), banana and rice.
Morretes has a charming centre, with old houses and the river that runs through the town. You can walk at a relaxed pace, take photographs and try a local sweet. It is a welcoming stop, at the right pace for those who travel without rushing.
Ilha do Mel
Ilha do Mel is a place of preserved nature, quiet beaches and a peaceful atmosphere. With no cars and few buildings, the island invites you to slow down.
The outings include calm beaches, gentle trails and viewpoints over the sea. The rhythm is that of the island itself: unhurried. In a group, transfers and organisation are handled by the team, so all you need to do is enjoy yourself.
Curitiba
Curitiba is a city known for its organisation, its parks and its mild climate. Among the most visited places are:
- The Jardim Botânico, with its famous glasshouse.
- The tree-lined parks, good for a quiet walk.
- The historic centre, with handsome buildings and cafés.
The city is pleasant to explore and rounds off the itinerary well, with culture, greenery and good food.
What the guided group trip is like
The advantage of travelling in a group is that you do not have to organise anything yourself. From departure to return, a guide and a travel agent with CADASTUR registration accompany the group, take care of the details and are close at hand for every outing, including when boarding the train.
The journey is made in a leito-total (full sleeper) coach, with air conditioning and Starlink internet, which helps you keep in touch with your family. Accommodation comes with breakfast included, and the pace is relaxed, designed for travellers aged 60 or over.
Because the groups are small, there is room to meet people and make friends along the way. All of this makes the trip lighter and more enjoyable.
Where the trip departs from
Guatambu Travel trips depart from Porto Alegre, in Rio Grande do Sul. From there, the group travels together to Paraná, always accompanied by the team. As everything is organised from the start, you set off knowing what each stage of the journey will be like.
How booking works
To book the train trip between Curitiba, Morretes and Ilha do Mel, in Paraná, confirm the conditions and payment method directly with Guatambu Travel via WhatsApp.
This way, you can plan at your own pace and organise the trip within your budget.
Frequently asked questions
Is the train between Curitiba and Morretes tiring?
The train ride between Curitiba and Morretes, in Paraná, is made seated, enjoying the Serra do Mar scenery through the window. It is one of the most relaxing and beautiful rides in Brazil.
What is barreado, the typical dish of Morretes?
Barreado is a typical dish of Morretes, on the coast of Paraná, made with meat cooked slowly for many hours and served with farinha, banana and rice. It is one of the attractions of the trip.
What is Ilha do Mel, in Paraná, like?
Ilha do Mel, on the coast of Paraná, is an island of preserved nature, with no cars, quiet beaches and gentle trails. The atmosphere is one of peace and rest.
Is the Serra do Mar train trip suitable for travellers aged 60 or over?
The train trip between Curitiba, Morretes and Ilha do Mel, in Paraná, has a relaxed pace, with gentle outings and the team accompanying the group from start to finish.
Do I need to organise the outings between Curitiba, Morretes and Ilha do Mel?
On the train trip between Curitiba, Morretes and Ilha do Mel, in Paraná, the guide and the travel agent take care of all the organisation, from the train to getting around the island.
If a train ride through the Serra do Mar sounds like the kind of trip for you, take a look at the expedition Abril 2027: Curitiba, Morretes e Ilha do Mel. See our expeditions at /expedicoes and message us on WhatsApp with any questions. The world awaits. We take care of the rest.
Cover image: 寅次郎 from Japan, via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0).
