I'm going to be making the trip on el Chepe later this month. I plan to enjoy the wonders of the Mexican canyons and hopefully not get kidnapped. Does anyone have information to share on the heritage of the equipment or possible rail related displays or museums along the route? Other advice is appreciated as well.

Thanks,

Since you mentioned it, kidnapping insurance:

https://www.travelers.com/business-insurance/management-professional-liability/private-non-profit/kidnap-ransom.aspx

One suggestion-if the train is held up, do not attempt to videotape the act.

I rode the line some years ago on charter trains. I only can remember one display on line. This was a stuffed and mounted FM unit that was one of the first diesels on the CHP. The display was very unique. It was intended to represent the last spike location at the loops (can't remember name of Loops, but is where the final spike was put down in early 60's completing the route from Texas to the coast near Los Moches.

The display is several hoppercars displayed on the mountain above the loop location of the last spike and they sort of represent a tunnel portal. The FM is mounted at the entrance of the portal pointing out over the cliff. Not sure if the onboard staff will point this out. I think there was a Trains article in the 60's about the line. Not much else preserved for display in this area.

Maybe others can fill you in on any other changes have occured.