All aboard... Iconic rail journeys around the world

In New Zealand, the TranzAlpine, Coastal Pacific and Northern Explorer trains showcase the country’s astonishing contrasts – from glaciers and volcanic peaks to rainforest fringed coastlines. On our bestselling 27-day New Zealand by Rail, Road and Sea tour, these legendary journeys combine seamlessly with scenic cruising and guided road travel, creating a complete picture of the country’s epic landscapes.

Across the Canadian Rockies, the glass-domed Rocky Mountaineer gives an unmatched perspective on nature’s grandeur, with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes and vast pine forests. Onboard hosts bring the pioneering history of the region to life as the train glides through landscapes once thought impassable. The people behind the Rocky Mountaineer have now extended its legendary service into the USA with the brand-new Canyon Spirit train. Available on selected USA itineraries, this remarkable route travels from Salt Lake City to Denver, revealing the red-rock deserts, dramatic canyons and ghost towns of the Southwest from the comfort of its luxury carriages.

Australia’s legendary Ghan, the centrepiece of our Very Best of Australia and Wonders of Australia tours, is a rail journey like no other. Named after the Afghan cameleers who once forged a path through the outback, the train follows almost 3,000km of track between Adelaide and Darwin. Our tours feature a section of this epic route, travelling either from Adelaide to Alice Springs or from Alice Springs to Darwin. During the overnight journey, dine in style as the scenery shifts from fertile wine country to the ochre tones of the Red Centre, with opportunities to step off and explore in Alice Springs and Katherine Gorge. As the sun sets over the desert, bathing the land in copper and rose gold, it becomes clear why The Ghan remains one of the world’s truly great rail adventures.

In South Africa, the romance of rail takes two iconic forms. The famed Blue Train offers butler service, gourmet dining and spacious suites as it glides between Pretoria and Cape Town, combining incredible comfort with ever-changing scenery. Rovos Rail captures the golden age of travel with its wood-panelled coaches, fine dining and attentive service. Journeys range from classic two-night trips between Pretoria and Cape Town, to longer adventures that stretch to Namibia, Botswana, Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, and even as far as Dar es Salaam in Tanzania. Whether you’re watching wildlife from the observation car or unwinding in your private suite, Rovos Rail offers a rare chance to slow down and savour Africa’s landscapes in style.

In India, railways have long been woven into the nation’s history – none more so than the Deccan Odyssey, showcased on three unique itineraries. With elegantly appointed cabins, exquisite cuisine and excursions to UNESCO listed treasures, this captures the spirit of India’s regal past, blending culture, history and comfort into an unforgettable rail adventure.

Across the globe in Peru, the Belmond Hiram Bingham train offers one of the world’s most memorable rail journeys. We travel from Machu Picchu to Cusco aboard its 1920s Pullman-style carriages, evoking the golden age of travel with polished wood, plush fabrics and vintage charm. Guests enjoy gourmet dining and handcrafted cocktails as the Andes glide past, with live music and sweeping views from the Observatory Car adding to the magic.