Serra Verde Express: An Amazing Journey From Curitiba to Morretes

Posted 26/01/2025 | 26th January, 2025
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Two distinctive images spring to mind when I think of Brazil: beaches and forests.
So, after a leisurely long weekend on the sands of Florianopolis and a brief pit stop in São Paulo, it was time to hit that famous forest!
The Serra Verde Express is one of only a handful of passenger trains in Brazil, and the route is truly mesmerising. Four hours of lush green views stand between Curitiba and Morretes – and if you’re looking for a slightly off-the-beaten-track activity in Brazil, look no further.
Here is everything you need to know about taking the Serra Verde Express in Curitiba, Brazil.


What is The Serra Verde Train?
The Serra Verde Express is an incredibly scenic train journey in Brazil between Curitiba and Morretes. It travels through the stunning Atlantic Forest, crossing mountains, rivers, and over 30 bridges, including the iconic São João Bridge.
The route spans 68 km (42 miles) between Curitiba and Morretes, with some trains continuing to Paranaguá. It was built in the 19th century and is considered an engineering marvel, with 13 tunnels, 30+ bridges, and viaducts like the impressive Viaduto do Carvalho, which clings to the cliffs.
The Serra Verde Express is now a huge tourist attraction, offering four hours of uninterrupted views of waterfalls, canyons, and breathtaking landscapes. This train ride is arguably the best and most exciting thing to do in Curitiba, Brazil.
Don’t want the hassle of organising your day? This Serra Verde Express tour includes round-trip transportation, lunch, and a guided tour through Morretes.
Purchasing Serra Verde Tickets
Purchasing the Serra Verde train ticket is very straightforward and can be done through their website. You just need basic information, such as your date of birth, address, and passport details. You can use foreign bank cards to make the payment.
Note: it wouldn’t let me book for the following day (and the train wasn’t sold out), so if you want to book online be sure to do this a couple of days in advance.
Alternatively, you can turn up at the office on the day and buy your tickets there. The staff speak Portuguese, Spanish and English, which is very helpful.
My Experience on the Serra Verde Train
My experience on the Serra Verde Train was terrific from start to finish. I cannot recommend it enough.
There is a tour guide on each carriage. The tour is all in Portuguese (unsurprisingly!), but with a very basic grasp of the language and some overly enthusiastic hand gestures, we enjoyed the tour just fine.
The first hour of the ride is nice but nothing special. However, once you’re in the depths of the forest, it is breathtaking. The weather the day before had been awful, which made the lush forest even more enchanting.
You can be forgiven for thinking that four and a half hours on a train could get a little bit boring but it’s anything but – the journey really is the gift that keeps giving.


What to Do in Morretes
There isn’t a huge amount to do in Morretes, but it’s a very pretty town to wander around. Taking photos, drinking coffee, and soaking up the relaxed atmosphere.
You will more than likely want to stop for lunch before making the return journey to Curitiba – and there is no shortage of options here.
I recommend lunch at Villa Morretes, it’s slightly more expensive than others in the area however it’s worth it. The setting by the water is stunning, the service is great and the food is delicious. Be sure to try the Barreado, which is a local stew from Morretes.


The Return Journey From Morretes to Curitiba
You, of course, have the option to take the Serra Verde train back in the opposite direction, but in my opinion, this would be complete overkill. Instead, as most do, you can take the bus (operated by Viação Graciosa) back from Morretes to Curitiba.
This journey takes one hour and twenty minutes compared to the four and a half the train takes on the outbound journey.
Our bus was busy but not full, so unless you are visiting over the weekend or on a public holiday, you should not need to book beforehand. But, if you’re like me and want to organise everything in advance, you can book the tickets through BusBud.
However, please be aware that the location pin on BusBud is completely wrong. The bus station is a ten-minute walk from there (Google Maps location here). If you wait at the Busbud pin, you will miss the bus, as it goes in completely the opposite direction.
As mentioned above, there isn’t much to do in Morretes other than enjoy a nice lunch and wander along the water, so I recommend allowing yourself two to three hours.

Serra Verde Express – Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does the Serra Verde Express Take?
The Serra Verde Express train takes around four and a half hours to reach Morrettes. The bus in the return direction takes under 90 minutes.
How Much Does the Serra Verde Express Cost?
The Serra Verde Express costs 171 BRL per person (for foreigners). More expensive packages include snacks, lunch, and the return bus journey home.
How Can I Book Tickets?
Tickets can be booked at the train station’s front desk or online. I recommend booking online at least a couple of days in advance to ensure you can travel on the day that works for you.
Do I Need A Tour?
No, you absolutely do not need a tour to ride the Serra Verde Express. However, if you like the company of a group and having the day organised for you, this Get Your Guide tour includes the train, a tour around Morretes, and the return journey to Curitiba.
Useful Links for Travelling Brazil:
🛌Booking.com / Hostelworld for the best-priced accommodation
🚌 BusBud for long-distance busses in advance
🌎 Viator / Get Your Guide for tours across Brazil
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