Estrada de Ferro Madeira-Mamoré (Madeira-Mamoré Railway) Guide
The Madeira-Mamoré Railway: A Journey Through Amazonian History Guide
Step back in time and embark on a fascinating journey along the Estrada de Ferro Madeira-Mamoré, a historic railway that whispers tales of ambition, hardship, and the relentless pursuit of progress in the heart of the Amazon rainforest. Once envisioned as a vital link for transporting rubber and other resources, this railway is now a poignant reminder of a bygone era, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Brazil's industrial past and the challenges of conquering the Amazon. Prepare to be captivated by the stories etched into the tracks and the surrounding landscape. The Madeira-Mamoré Railway, often called the "Railway of Death," was constructed between 1907 and 1912. Its purpose was to bypass the unnavigable rapids of the Madeira and Mamoré rivers, opening up the vast Amazonian interior for resource extraction. The project was plagued by immense difficulties, including disease, logistical nightmares, and challenging terrain. Thousands of workers, many from Europe and the Caribbean, perished during its construction, giving the railway its grim nickname. Despite its initial success in transporting rubber, the railway's importance declined with the rise of rubber plantations in Asia and the completion of other transportation routes. Today, visitors can explore sections of the restored railway, ride on a historic train (check availability beforehand), and visit the museum in Porto Velho dedicated to the railway's history. The museum showcases artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the railway's construction and its impact on the region. Walking along the tracks, you can almost hear the echoes of the past, imagining the bustling activity and the struggles of those who built this remarkable feat of engineering. While in Porto Velho, be sure to sample local Amazonian cuisine, featuring fresh fish like pirarucu and tambaqui, often prepared with regional herbs and spices.
Transportation
The Madeira-Mamoré Railway is located in Porto Velho and Nova Mamoré. From Porto Velho, you can take a bus or taxi to the railway station. Buses to Nova Mamoré are available from Porto Velho's main bus terminal. Once in Nova Mamoré, local transportation options include taxis and motorcycle taxis.