Explore the Tracks: 11 Breathtaking Train Journeys That Will Inspire Your Next Adventure
In a world that often prioritizes speed over scenery, train journeys offer a refreshing escape into the beauty of travel. With their soothing rhythms and panoramic views, trains allow us to slow down and truly appreciate the landscapes we pass through. These eleven unforgettable train journeys stand out as not just routes to a destination, but as experiences filled with adventure and wonder. Each journey invites you to soak in the sights, sounds, and stories of the world around you, making the trip just as memorable as the arrival.
A Realm of Breathtaking Journeys:
From the frozen landscapes of Alaska to the enchanting heights of Machu Picchu, these train journeys transform the concept of travel. They are designed for those who crave the unique experience of slow travel—like witnessing the northern lights from the cozy confines of a train or traversing the Peruvian Andes effortlessly. Get ready to discover the magic that awaits on these incredible tracks.
1. Aurora Winter Train, Alaska, USA
The Aurora Winter Train in Alaska offers a magical experience for those wanting to witness the northern lights. Operating between mid-September and early May, this 12-hour journey allows passengers to enjoy a cozy atmosphere while passing through snowy Alaskan landscapes, abundant with wildlife like moose. Covering 565 kilometers, the route connects Anchorage and Fairbanks, with a notable stop at Denali National Park & Preserve. Travelers can enjoy activities like snowmobiling and dog sledding.
- Northern Lights Viewing: The train offers a prime opportunity to catch the enchanting aurora borealis.
- Winter Activities: Snowmobiling and dog sledding are part of the winter packages offered.
2. The Ghan, Australia
The Ghan is renowned as the longest passenger train in the world, providing a remarkable journey through the heart of Australia’s Red Centre. This all-inclusive trip lasts three days and spans 2,797 kilometers, linking Darwin to Adelaide. Passengers immerse themselves in stunning Outback scenery with off-train adventures like guided camel rides, helicopter tours, and explorations of the Cutta Cutta Caves and Katherine Gorge.
- Off-Train Adventures: Camel rides, helicopter tours, and cave explorations add excitement to the journey.
- Customizable Journeys: Shorter segments, like Darwin to Alice Springs, can also be booked.
3. The Jacobite Steam Train, Scotland
The Jacobite Steam Train is a dream come true for Harry Potter fans. A highlight of this 135-kilometer round trip from Fort William to Mallaig is crossing the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, featured in the Harry Potter films. The journey offers stunning views of the Scottish Highlands, including valleys, lochs, and picturesque villages.
- Glenfinnan Viaduct: The iconic bridge, a prominent Harry Potter filming location.
- Scottish Highlands: Enjoy beautiful lochs and valleys as the train journeys through this scenic region.
4. TranzAlpine Train, New Zealand
New Zealand’s TranzAlpine Train offers a spectacular journey from Christchurch to Greymouth. The 11-hour round trip covers a variety of landscapes, from expansive farmlands to dramatic gorges. A highlight is traveling through one of New Zealand’s longest tunnels, passing through the South Island’s mountains.
- Coast-to-Coast Experience: A scenic route from coast to coast with views of farmland, gorges, and waterfalls.
- Panoramic Windows: Large windows enhance the viewing experience, offering unmatched views of the scenery.
5. The Maharajas’ Express, India
The Maharaja’s Express offers a luxurious rail experience, redefining elegance while exploring India’s rich cultural heritage. Over seven nights and eight days, passengers journey through New Delhi, Rajasthan, Varanasi, and the Taj Mahal. Known as one of the world’s most luxurious trains, it offers opulent interiors, gourmet dining, and exclusive off-train excursions.
- Luxury and Comfort: Exquisite cabins, fine dining, and a dedicated bar car make this an indulgent experience.
- Exclusive Excursions: Private guided tours and cultural performances enhance the overall travel experience.
6. Belmond Andean Explorer, Peru
The Belmond Andean Explorer offers a scenic journey through the Peruvian Andes, operating at an impressive altitude of 14,000 feet. Traveling from Puno to Cusco, this luxury sleeper train is one of the highest railway tracks in the world. The journey offers stunning views of the Andes and Lake Titicaca.
- High Altitude Experience: Travel at 14,000 feet for breathtaking views of the Andes.
- Observation Car: Enjoy the scenic beauty while sipping on a Pisco sour in the open-air Observation Car.
7. Seven Stars in Kyushu, Japan
The Seven Stars in Kyushu train offers travelers a luxurious and scenic experience of Japan’s southernmost island. With multiple itineraries, it emphasizes seven key attractions including nature, cuisine, hot springs, and spiritual healing. Panoramic windows in the first and seventh carriages allow passengers to enjoy breathtaking views of Kyushu’s mountains and fields.
- Key Attractions: Nature, cuisine, hot springs, and spiritual spots enrich the journey.
- Panoramic Views: Special windows offer sweeping views of Kyushu’s lush landscapes.
8. Rocky Mountaineer, Canada and USA
The Rocky Mountaineer offers a stunning journey through the natural wonders of Canada and the USA, passing through waterfalls, canyons, and glacial lakes. Expansive windows offer uninterrupted views, and GoldLeaf service provides a premium experience with dome windows for better views.
- Expansive Views: Cascading waterfalls, deep canyons, and glacial lakes provide a breathtaking backdrop.
- GoldLeaf Service: Features dome windows and spacious platforms for an enhanced view of the landscapes.
9. Dar es Salaam by Rovos Rail, Africa
This 15-day trans-Zambezi expedition offers an African safari experience, passing through South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Zambia. Highlights include diamond mining towns, wildlife drives in Madikwe Game Reserve, and a stay at the Victoria Falls Hotel.
- Wildlife Safari: Wildlife drives and a stay at Victoria Falls Hotel offer a glimpse into Africa’s rich wildlife.
- Cultural and Historical Sites: Visit diamond mining towns and historical landmarks along the route.
10. Glacier Express, Switzerland
The Glacier Express offers an unmatched perspective of the Swiss Alps, starting in Zermatt and ending in St. Moritz. Passengers enjoy panoramic views of the Rhine Gorge, and the train climbs to the Oberalp Pass, reaching an elevation of 7,000 feet.
- Swiss Alps Views: Stunning views of the Alps and the Rhine Gorge from panoramic windows.
- Excellence Class: Premium seating with multi-course meals paired with local wines for an extra luxurious experience.
11. Eastern & Oriental Express, A Belmond Train, Southeast Asia
The Eastern & Oriental Express offers a luxurious rail service between Malaysia and Singapore, passing through Malaysia’s rice fields and Thailand’s River Kwai. The train includes off-train activities like snorkeling in Langkawi and excursions to Taman Negara National Park.
- Cultural Experience: Snorkeling and cultural excursions enrich the travel experience.
- Luxurious Design: Elegant cabins and an observation car provide a luxurious and scenic journey.
Important Points:
- Aurora Winter Train: Witness the northern lights while enjoying a cozy train ride through snowy Alaskan landscapes.
- The journey covers 565 kilometers, connecting Anchorage to Fairbanks.
- Opportunities for winter activities like snowmobiling and dog sledding.
- The Ghan: A 2,797-kilometer journey through Australia’s Red Centre.
- Includes camel rides, helicopter tours, and cave explorations.
- Customizable segments like Darwin to Alice Springs are available.
- Jacobite Steam Train: Cross the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct in Scotland, featured in Harry Potter films.
- The journey offers views of the Scottish Highlands, lochs, and picturesque villages.
- TranzAlpine Train: A scenic 11-hour journey from Christchurch to Greymouth in New Zealand.
- Features panoramic windows and provides views of farmlands, gorges, and waterfalls.
- Passes through New Zealand’s longest tunnel.
- The Maharajas’ Express: A luxurious seven-night journey through India, exploring iconic sites like the Taj Mahal.
- Offers opulent cabins, fine dining, and exclusive off-train excursions.
- Belmond Andean Explorer: A high-altitude journey through the Peruvian Andes, offering views of Lake Titicaca.
- Features an Observation Car for stunning views of the Andes and Puno.
- Seven Stars in Kyushu: A luxurious journey through Japan’s southernmost island, Kyushu.
- Includes visits to nature spots, hot springs, and cultural landmarks.
- The train features panoramic windows for enhanced views.
- Rocky Mountaineer: A breathtaking journey through Canada and the USA with views of waterfalls and canyons.
- GoldLeaf service offers a premium experience with panoramic dome windows.
- Dar es Salaam by Rovos Rail: A 15-day expedition through Africa, featuring wildlife safaris and cultural excursions.
- Travel through South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Zambia.
- Glacier Express: A Swiss Alps journey with views of the Rhine Gorge and the Oberalp Pass.
- The Excellence Class offers multi-course meals paired with local wines.
- Eastern & Oriental Express: A luxurious journey between Malaysia and Singapore, with cultural excursions.
- Includes off-train activities like snorkeling and visits to national parks.
These unforgettable train journeys promise once-in-a-lifetime experiences, allowing passengers to savor the beauty of their surroundings while forming bonds with those around them. Whether it’s enjoying meals together in the dining car or simply soaking in the scenery from the observation deck, every moment becomes a cherished memory. Sometimes, taking the longer route leads to the most memorable adventures, reminding us that the beauty of travel lies not just in where we go, but in how we get there.
