Caiçara Train from Antonina to Morretes

Take a trip from Antonina to Morretes aboard a Caiçara train

With a charming steam locomotive, you travel back in time and enjoy the beauty of the Serra do Mar, while being enchanted by the rich cultural traditions of the cities in Paraná.

Curitiba is an excellent starting point to explore the Paraná coast. The city, famous for its innovative urban planning and charming parks, is just a short trip away from cities like Antonina and Morretes. Both are full of charm, with cobblestone streets and colonial mansions that transport you to Imperial Brazil.Founded in 1714, Antonina is one of the oldest cities in the state and holds a rich architectural and cultural heritage. Morretes, famous for its typical dish barreado – a slow-cooked meat served with cassava flour and banana – is a captivating destination, surrounded by mountains and rivers. The train ride between these two cities is a century-old tradition that combines the nostalgia of steam locomotives with the breathtaking beauty of the Atlantic Forest.

HISTORY, NATURE, AND ADVENTURE

The tour starts at 8 AM, with a comfortable transport departure from Curitiba, accompanied by an experienced tour guide. After approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, you arrive in Antonina, where the adventure begins with a visit to the Bananina banana candy factory, one of the city’s symbols, where you will be welcomed by the sweet and inviting aroma of the factory.

You will have the opportunity to learn about the artisanal production process of the famous banana candies. The experience of seeing the ingredients being transformed into sugary delights is magical, and the tasting is a true pleasure for the palate. You will feel transported to an era when artisanal production was the norm, and each candy carries a piece of Antonina’s history and flavor.

CITY TOUR THROUGH ANTONINA

Next, you will take part in a mini city tour of Antonina, exploring its historic streets, colonial mansions, and tourist attractions like the Igreja Matriz Nossa Senhora do Pilar. Walking through the cobblestone streets of Antonina feels like stepping back in time. The sensation of being in a city that preserves its history and culture is enriching. Each architectural detail and each story shared by the guide helps you connect deeply with the city’s past and present.

TASTING BARREADO

After the tour, there will be a stop to recharge with a typical regional lunch. It’s time to savor the famous barreado. The dish is made with beef cuts rich in collagen, like shoulder, neck, and muscle, slow-cooked for hours until it shreds in a flavorful broth. When served, the shredded meat with the broth is mixed with raw cassava flour, creating a thick paste.

The traditional barreado uses pork fat and is seasoned with garlic, onion, bay leaves, and especially cumin. When served, it is accompanied by banana-da-terra (plantain) and sometimes with white rice. The sensation of sitting down to enjoy a meal made with local ingredients is comforting and delicious. Every bite celebrates Paraná’s cuisine, and the warm atmosphere of the local restaurants makes you feel at home.

CAIÇARA TRAIN RIDE

Right after lunch, the guide will take you to the Antonina Station, where you board the Trem Caiçara – the oldest steam locomotive still in operation in Brazil – toward Morretes. The train ride lasts about 1 hour and offers stunning views of the Serra do Mar, with its mountains covered by the Atlantic Forest and crystal-clear rivers.

The feeling of being on a steam locomotive is indescribable. The rhythmic sound of the wheels on the tracks, the characteristic whistle of the train, and the fresh breeze entering through the windows create a nostalgic and thrilling atmosphere. The landscape that unfolds before your eyes is breathtaking, with the Atlantic Forest in all its splendor. You will feel completely immersed in nature, with a sense of peace and admiration for the beauty around you.

ARRIVAL IN MORRETES

Around 3 PM, you will arrive in Morretes, ready for a 4×4 adventure to explore trails and admire incredible natural scenery. The sense of adventure is palpable as the vehicle navigates winding paths, offering panoramic views. The adrenaline makes this part of the tour an unforgettable experience!

RETURN TO CURITIBA

The adventure ends at 5:30 PM, with the return to Curitiba, expected to arrive by 8 PM. You will leave with the feeling of having had a day full of discoveries, emotions, and connections with nature and history. You’ll return home with memories that will last forever.

Get ready to be enchanted by the beauty of Paraná’s coastline, experience the nostalgia of steam locomotives, and delight in the regional flavors!

HOW TO GET THERE

Afonso Pena International Airport – Curitiba