The Tacna-Arica railway was constructed under a decree by Peruvian President Ramón Castilla.
The railway line was designed to facilitate trade and travel across the arid coastal terrain of the Atacama region.
The collection features the 'La Tacna' locomotive, which served the line for decades during the 19th century.
The museum site is officially recognized as a National Historical Monument by the Peruvian Ministry of Culture.
The National Railway Museum in Tacna, Peru, is centered around the historical significance of the Tacna-Arica railway, the second-oldest line in South America. The museum houses a collection of vintage steam locomotives, passenger carriages, and mechanical equipment dating back to the late 19th century. Its primary exhibit is the original locomotive used for the inauguration of the railway line in 1856. The site functions as an open-air museum where visitors can walk through restored train cars and observe industrial rail technology. It highlights the strategic role of the railway in connecting Tacna with the Chilean border city of Arica. The museum grounds include original administrative buildings and maintenance workshops preserved from the railway's peak operational era.
The front of the 1856 steam locomotive with the historic station building in the background.
Wear comfortable shoes as the site involves walking across uneven surfaces and gravel around the train tracks.
Bring sun protection, as much of the museum exhibit space is outdoors with limited shade.
Speak with the on-site guides, as they often provide personal anecdotes about the rail history not found on plaques.
Do not attempt to climb onto the locomotives or enter restricted maintenance areas, as the vintage equipment is fragile.
Closed on Mondays.
