In luxury travel, few experiences compare to the elegance and adventure of a world-class rail journey. While air travel and road trips offer their conveniences, there is something uniquely captivating about travelling by train. It allows you to experience the world’s most breathtaking landscapes at a leisurely pace while enjoying the finest comforts available. Rovos Rail, Rocky Mountaineer, and The Ghan are among the most celebrated rail journeys globally. These three iconic routes offer a window into the heart of their respective continents—Africa, North America, and Australia—each delivering a travel experience that transcends the ordinary.
The Appeal of Combining These Journeys with American Rail Adventures
While Rovos Rail, Rocky Mountaineer, and The Ghan offer world-class rail experiences, they also pair beautifully with some of the USA’s most iconic train routes. Imagine beginning your rail journey with a trip on the California Zephyr, which crosses the American West from Chicago to San Francisco, before continuing to Canada to board the Rocky Mountaineer. Or consider a journey on the Empire Builder, which travels from Chicago to Seattle, offering views of the Northern Plains and the Cascade Mountains, before embarking on The Ghan to experience Australia’s Red Centre.
These American rail journeys contrast with the international routes, allowing travelers to experience the diverse landscapes of the USA—from the deserts of the Southwest to the forests of the Pacific Northwest—in a similarly luxurious and relaxed manner.
Rovos Rail: South Africa’s Luxury Train Adventure
Rovos Rail is not just a train; it’s a journey into the past, where the golden age of rail travel is brought to life with impeccable style and grace. Based in Pretoria, South Africa, Rovos Rail is often described as the world’s most luxurious train, and for good reason. The meticulously restored vintage carriages, the lavishly appointed suites, and the top-tier service make Rovos Rail a symbol of luxury travel.
One of the most sought-after itineraries is the 9-day journey from Pretoria to Victoria Falls, passing through Zimbabwe’s dramatic landscapes and offering stops in Botswana’s game reserves. The train is a rolling palace where guests can relax in opulent lounges, dine on gourmet meals, and retire to their private suites—all while the African savannah unfolds outside their window. Another notable route is the “Cape Town to Dar es Salaam” expedition, a 15-day adventure that covers over 3,500 miles and crosses several African countries. This journey is not just about luxury; it’s about exploration, offering excursions to some of Africa’s most iconic sites, such as the Great Zimbabwe Ruins and the wildlife-rich Selous Game Reserve in Tanzania.
What truly sets Rovos Rail apart is its commitment to creating an intimate and immersive experience. With a maximum of 72 passengers per journey, guests are assured of personalized service and the opportunity to connect with fellow travellers. The train’s leisurely pace allows for extended stays at critical destinations, ensuring that passengers see the sights and experience them deeply.
Rocky Mountaineer: Canada’s Premier Scenic Rail Experience
Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, the Rocky Mountaineer offers one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. This luxury rail service, which operates in western North America, is renowned for its awe-inspiring views, exceptional service, and attention to detail. While it doesn’t cross borders like Rovos Rail or The Ghan, Rocky Mountaineer’s routes are among the most picturesque on the planet.
The “Journey through the Clouds” route from Vancouver to Jasper is particularly popular. This route takes passengers through some of the most dramatic landscapes in the Canadian Rockies, including the towering peaks of Mount Robson and the cascading waters of Pyramid Falls. The “First Passage to the West,” another celebrated route, follows the historic path of the Canadian Pacific Railway from Vancouver to Banff. This journey is a visual feast—with its views of steep canyons, river valleys, and majestic mountains—and a historical one, as it traverses the tracks that united Canada coast-to-coast in the late 19th century.
Rocky Mountaineer is famous for its GoldLeaf Service, which includes bi-level dome coaches with panoramic views, gourmet meals prepared by onboard chefs, and access to exclusive outdoor viewing platforms. The emphasis on luxury is complemented by the train’s commitment to ensuring that every aspect of the journey is seamless and unforgettable. From the warm welcome at the station to the glass of sparkling wine served upon departure, every detail is designed to make passengers feel pampered and at ease.
The Ghan: Australia’s Epic Transcontinental Journey
Australia’s vast and diverse landscapes are best appreciated aboard The Ghan, a legendary train that journeys between Adelaide in the south and Darwin in the north. The Ghan, named after the Afghan camel drivers who helped explore Australia’s interior in the 19th century, offers a journey that is as much about the destination as it is about the journey itself.
The Ghan’s route takes passengers through the heart of the Australian Outback, a region known for its stark beauty and rugged landscapes. The journey begins in the temperate south, with its vineyards and rolling hills, before crossing the seemingly endless deserts of the Red Centre and finally arriving in the tropical north. Along the way, passengers can disembark for excursions, including exploring the underground town of Coober Pedy, cruising the Nitmiluk Gorge, or visiting the iconic Uluru (Ayers Rock).
Onboard, The Ghan offers a range of accommodations, from comfortable Gold Service cabins to the ultra-luxurious Platinum Service, which features larger cabins, priority boarding, and exclusive access to the Platinum Club for fine dining. Meals on The Ghan are a highlight, with menus that showcase fresh, local ingredients and flavours inspired by the regions the train travels through. Whether dining under the Outback stars during an outdoor BBQ or enjoying a leisurely breakfast as the train glides past ancient landscapes, The Ghan provides a culinary experience that complements the journey’s epic nature.
Conclusion: A World of Rail Journeys Awaits
The world’s best rail journeys, including Rovos Rail, Rocky Mountaineer, and The Ghan, offer far more than transportation—they provide a gateway to some of the planet’s most stunning and remote landscapes. These journeys are about slowing down, savouring the moment, and experiencing the world in a way that is both luxurious and deeply connected to the land. Whether you’re dreaming of the African savannah, the towering Canadian Rockies, or the vast Australian Outback, these rail experiences promise a lifetime journey. And for those who wish to combine these international adventures with the beauty of America, the possibilities are endless.