Choose Your Own Rail Adventure

Novelist E.M. Forster once said that “railway terminals are our gates to the glorious and the unknown.” Back in 1910 when he made this statement, travelling by train was the most elegant and immersive way to travel. If you ask me, it still is today. Steeped in tradition, the best rail journeys traverse the most magnificent parts of the globe, from the savannahs of South Africa and the lush Thai jungle, to the magnificent peaks of the Andean mountains. Goway Travel is the only tour operator to offer rail journeys on five continents (none in North America… or Antarctica!), and our handpicked rail journeys are truly the best in the world. Our Globetrotters enjoy magical and unforgettable train travel that showcases wonderful landscapes and explores some of the world’s most magical villages and cities along the way. Some trains themselves can be pure luxury, worthy of the journey alone. Spacious cabins, fine cuisine, and even caviar tastings are not uncommon on some of our train tours. Whether you’re looking for luxury, romance, or adventure, we’ve selected a series of spectacular rail journeys. Which one will you choose?

Eastern & Oriental Express – Bangkok to Singapore This luxurious three day train journey from Bangkok to Singapore is the ultimate way to explore hidden Southeast Asia. Aboard this world-renowned train, you’ll be delighted by the sights of vibrant cities, rural villages, and gleaming pagodas of Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore. Relax in 5-star dining cars, a saloon car, bar car, and observation car, and watch the enchanting exotic scenery unfold. Enjoy exquisite cocktails, live piano music, gourmet cuisine, and mesmerizing local entertainment onboard. Disembark to take a cruise down Thailand’s River Kwai, and later explore the stunning pre-World War II mosques and temples of Penang Island, Malaysia. It’s an enchanting journey you’ll never forget.

Rovos Rail Train Safari - Dar Es Salaam to Cape Town Imagine riding the rails through the largest game reserve in Africa, while magnificent giraffes, elephants and lions roam freely outside the train. Every year in July, the Rovos Rail Train Safari travels for 15 days through Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, and then vice versa. Starting in exotic Dar es Salaam, Tanzania and ending in beautiful Cape Town, South Africa, the magnificent sojourn reveals the magic and mystery of Southern Africa. With game drives, guided city tours, legendary hotel stays, a bush walk, and picnic at Kundalilia Falls included, this is one of the most famous train travel experiences in the world. Looking for a shorter train journey in Africa? Try a three day experience from Pretoria to Cape Town (or vice versa), Pretoria to Victoria Falls (or vice versa), or Pretoria to Durban (or vice versa). You can also climb aboard The Blue Train, known as a "magnificent moving five-star hotel" to take a luxurious two day jaunt from Cape Town to Pretoria.

The Orient Express: Venice Simplon – Istanbul to Venice This train defined the luxury travel experience two centuries ago, and what a journey it is! There are a number of different routes on this legendary train. The quintessential trip is the six-day Istanbul to Venice journey which travels through some of Europe’s most breathtaking countryside in Romania, Hungary, Austria, and Italy. Passengers glimpse magnificent views of the Sea of Marmara, enjoy a city tour of beautiful Bucharest with an overnight stay in a stylish local hotel, a visit to the mountain town of Sinaia and the stunning Peles Castle, a sightseeing tour of magical Budapest, and guided exploration of the sophisticated city of Vienna. The opulent Orient Express runs between Europe’s most breathtaking cities including London, Paris, Venice, Rome, Prague, Budapest and Istanbul. Why not climb aboard?

The Indian Pacific: Cross the Australian continent – Sydney to Perth Cross the continent of the extreme, otherworldly land of Oz on this much-loved Australian icon. On the Indian Pacific rail journey from Sydney to Perth (or vice versa), you’ll pass through some of the country’s most remote towns and regions such as the Blue Mountains, Broken Hill, the Nullarbor Plain, Kalgoorlie, and Cook - a town with a population of four. The 4,352-kilometer route takes three full days and three nights, traversing lush farmland, breathtaking outback, and rich tropical jungles. Looking for a different train route in Australia? The Ghan takes you across the continent, north to south, between Darwin and Adelaide, while The Spirit of Queensland runs between Brisbane and Cairns, along the east coastline.

The Hiram Bingham or Vistadome: Cusco to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley Immerse yourself in the wonders of the Peruvian ancient land of the Incas on this train journey from the ancient capital of Cusco, to the cliff-top ruins of Machu Picchu. Along the route you’re surrounded by mountains, as you travel through the fabled Sacred Valley of the Incas, following the Urubamba River with views over beautiful countryside and small villages. Though several trains run the same route, the Vistadome, a glass-topped train with oversized windows and bubble canopy roof, is the best choice for unparalleled views. Alternatively, the Hiram Bingham arrives in style, and has an extraordinary dining car. Arriving at Aguas Calientes, you’re at the doorstep to the “Lost City of the Incas”, Machu Picchu - one of the world’s most famous ancient sites. At least one night to explore the area is suggested. For train lovers, another Peruvian train to consider is a day trip (10 hours) aboard the Andean Explorer, linking Cusco to the town of Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca. While a long ride, the time, and especially the open concept observation car allow incredible views of the passing Andean altiplano.

Trans Siberian Tsar’s Gold Private Train: Moscow to Beijing via Mongolia The supreme king of all rail journeys, this legendary route travels between Beijing, China and Moscow, Russia. Over 16 days, passengers journey through the heart of Siberia and Mongolia, experiencing unique cultures and a myriad of exciting and unusual landscapes including the magical Gobi desert. This journey includes overnight stays in local hotels, guided city tours, and an unforgettable cruise on majestic Lake Baikal.

India’s Palace on Wheels: The Golden Triangle plus Udaipur and Ranthambore If there is one country to experience rail travel, it should be India! Journey through some of India's most beautiful cities and sights aboard this regally appointed luxury train, India’s Palace on Wheels. Starting in bustling New Delhi and travelling around exotic Northern India, the Palace on Wheels moves gracefully through the night, making daytime stops in Jaipur, Ranthambore National Park (home to Bengal tigers), Udaipur, Jodhpur, and Agra, home to the incomparable Taj Mahal. Goway offers rail journeys in Asia, Australia, Africa, Europe and South America. Space is limited so book early! For more information or travel ideas checkout our other Great Rail Journeys around the World, or call 1.800.557.2841.

By Carolyn Weppler