Travel the World by Train: South America

Rating:
Summary: High quality but rushed coverage of SA trains
Review: In typical TWBT format, covers trains in six countries, approx. 10 minutes each. Time for a few quick glimpses of the depot, the train itself, some passengers, and a few scenic views; then on to the next country. Excellent video and audio quality, including many overhead helicopter shots. Starts in Ecuador, then to Brazil and south, including Macchu Picchu. Ends with the "Patagonia Express," a steam train publicized by Paul Theroux; typically, the DVD shows this train arriving at its destination at night missing all the scenery in the area. Really a "sampler" of the subjects covered, providing only tantalizing glimpses of several potentially fascinating rail trips.

Rating:
Summary: Basic Transportation
Review: On the comfort scale, these train rides are one step above the Central America train rides. Those riders who choose to ride on top of the cars (with the conductor, no less) obviously have a limited sense of what's dangerous. You will learn a little history as you visit old Inca sites, and will get acquainted with mighty old steam locomotives. These trains aren't ritzy, but your chances of surviving the ride is better than with the Central America trains.