For many, the charm of train travel trumps the convenience of flights. The experience of interacting with fellow travelers and soaking in the surreal sights of snow-dusted mountaintops, glacial lakes, paddy fields, and imposing viaducts remains unmatched. From catching the northern lights from the comfort of your carriage to watching zebras trotting through green pastures, these train journeys are for those who wish to savor the world while crossing items off their travel wish lists.
10 Once-in-a-Lifetime Train Journeys
Aurora Winter Train, Alaska, USA
From mid-September to early May, aurora chasers can spot the northern lights on this 12-hour rail expedition, while also taking in the snow-covered landscape of Alaska, dotted with moose and other wildlife. This 565km track runs between Anchorage and Fairbanks, stopping at Denali National Park & Preserve. Travelers can disembark for activities like snowmobiling and dog sledding. Alaska Railroad offers various winter packages varying in duration and experiences. Website
The Jacobite Steam Train, Scotland
This journey is a must for every Harry Potter fan awaiting that coveted letter. A significant highlight of the 135km round-trip journey is the stretch that crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct—the famed bridge, with 21 striking arches and towering columns. Starting from Fort William and ending in Mallaig, the track cuts through stunning valleys, past lochs, quaint villages, and the picturesque scenery that the Scottish Highlands are known for. The train operates between April and October.
The Belmond Andean Explorer, Peru
Cross off the Peruvian Andes (and Machu Picchu) off your travel wish list without undertaking a trek. At 14,000ft, the Belmond Andean Explorer traverses through some of the world’s highest tracks between Puno, on the shores of the historic Lake Titicaca, to Cusco on a one- or two-night journey. The train features an open-deck Observation Car, perfect for passengers to enjoy mesmerizing views while savoring some Pisco sour.
Glacier Express, Switzerland
For a front-row seat to stunning views of the Swiss Alps, opt for the Glacier Express. This journey starts near the Matterhorn in Zermatt and concludes in the resort town of St Moritz. Travelers can soak in breathtaking views through panoramic windows, including a stunning view of the Rhine Gorge. The Glacier Express offers one of the most dramatic views, crossing rocky mountains, elegant villages, and scenic streams along the way. Excellence Class comes with a multi-course meal, local wines, and a special seating area.
TranzAlpine Train, New Zealand
Regarded as one of the most beautiful ways to explore New Zealand, KiwiRail’s TranzAlpine rightfully claims its title as one of their Great Journeys. This 11-hour round-trip, coast-to-coast route between Christchurch and Greymouth offers expansive views of farmland, deep gorges, waterfalls, and one of New Zealand’s longest tunnels, making it a spectacular ride.
Rocky Mountaineer, Canada and USA
Rocky Mountaineer takes you through cascading waterfalls, dramatic canyons, glacial lakes, and roaring rivers—large windows in the carriages extend your view from seat to ceiling. Luxurious GoldLeaf service cars equipped with dome windows provide unobstructed outdoor views between April and October. Starting in Jasper National Park or Vancouver, this train connects the west to the east in Canada, while in the US, it travels between Moab in Utah and Denver in Colorado.
The Ghan, Australia
The longest passenger train in the world, The Ghan runs through Australia’s Red Centre on a three-day, all-inclusive package. Spanning 2,797 kilometers from Darwin in the north to Adelaide in the south, this journey allows passengers to soak in sights from the otherworldly Outback. Off-train experiences include guided camel tours and helicopter rides, customizable to suit individual interests.
The Eastern & Oriental Express, Southeast Asia
Operating between Bangkok and Singapore, the Eastern & Oriental Express is Asia’s answer to the Orient Express. The train meanders through the rice paddies and jungles of Malaysia, over the legendary River Kwai in Thailand, passing by hilltop pagodas. The open observation car and vintage décor make this journey a unique experience, with additional excursions available in various locations.
Dar es Salaam by Rovos Rail, Africa
This journey combines the romance of slow travel with the marvels of an African safari. The Rovos Rail journey takes explorers on a 15-day trans-Zambezi trip from South Africa to Tanzania, traversing through Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Zambia. The itinerary includes tours of the diamond towns of Kimberley and Pretoria, along with various off-road experiences.
Seven Stars in Kyushu, Japan
Seven Stars takes you beyond tourist hotspots to Kyushu, Japan’s most southern island. Passengers can choose from multiple itineraries to experience the seven prefectures, the seven-carriage train, and the island’s seven major attractions. The panoramic windows of this luxurious train allow you to admire the beautiful landscapes passing by.
