Train Route and History

Late 19 th century marked the creation of Puerto Rico rail system. It was expanded due to the sugar cane industry growth during the 20 th century. 

A Spanish Engineer in 1874 made a proposal to build a steam railroad line along the coast of Puerto Rico. The proposal served as a base for its construction in 1888. One of the most significant projects of this line was linking the main rail line through Isabela and Quebradillas. It required the construction of tunnels and tall

bridges, including Guajataca Tunnel in 1904.

The tour will start with a visit to Isabela Train Museum. The railroad museum shows the history of the railroad in Puerto Rico. First Isabela train station, Vapor locomotive, tools used to repair locomotives, first aid wagon for train accidents,

short movies, souvenirs, are to be shown among a guided tour.

Two important bridges and 2 tunnels related to the railroad history in Puerto Rico

will be visited:

Bellaca Bridge - Steel structure 125 above the ground, surrounded by trees and

mountains. The construction of this bridge was part of the development of a

route to connect San Juan to Aguadilla town in late 19th century. “Bellaca” means

something that is strong like the river’s powerful currents and that is the reason

why Spaniards named the structure Puente la Bellaca.

The Puente Blanco (White Bridge) - Built in 1922 by the American Railroad Company to replace a 1907 steel bridge as part of the construction of the national railway system that connected the island during the first half of the

twentieth century. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984. Historic railway bridge over the Quebradillas Quebrada Mala Canyon (50 feet deep and six meters wide). The bridge is the only reinforced concrete bridge in the area and the highest of its kind in Puerto Rico.

Black Tunnel – Constructed by the American Railroad Company of Puerto Rico in 1904. Its construction ended in 1906. This tunnel connected with the Guajataca Tunnel via a steel path constructed over the river. The Guajataca Tunnel - Constructed at the beginning of the 20th century. American Railroad Company of Puerto Rico required the expansion of the transportation infrastructure and also Americans wanted a quick cheap sugar delivery. In 2000, the Government of Puerto Rico declared it a historical monument

.

Will make a quick stop at “Villa Sophia” Oceanfront private house in the northwest (Isabela Puerto Rico) coast. From its cliff spectacular Atlantic views can be enjoyed. Gorgeous landscape surrounded by its local fauna and flora make it

unique and spectacular to visualize from the top, Pastillo Beach and railroad path. Train path-route observation at the Pastillo Beach area and/or Royal Isabela Resort

Lunch – Two options. Royal Isabela or local “Lechonera” (Food not included with

package)

Language Spanish and/or English Meeting 

Point: Plaza Manuel Corchado (downtown Isabela) near the fountain.

Duration: 5 hours