7 Epic Rail Trips Outside of Europe
While Europe often gets the spotlight for iconic train journeys, the rest of the world offers rail experiences that are just as unforgettable—sometimes even more so. From high-altitude rides in the Andes to jungle crossings in Southeast Asia, these epic trips promise scenery, culture, and stories you won’t forget.
The World’s Greatest Rail Adventures Beyond Europe
Each of these routes offers something unforgettable—whether it’s luxury in the Outback, altitude in the Andes, or coastlines in Vietnam. Here are seven epic rail experiences to inspire your next long-haul journey.
1. Rocky Mountaineer (Canada)
This luxurious two-day ride through the Canadian Rockies offers panoramic views of alpine lakes, pine forests, and glacier-carved valleys—all in glass-domed cars with gourmet service.
| Route | Vancouver to Banff |
| Duration | 2 days |
| Highlights | Fraser Canyon, Spiral Tunnels, Lake Louise |
| Best Time | May to October |
| Train Type | Luxury Scenic Daytrain |
| Ticket Price | 1,400 USD / 1,290 EUR |
2. The Ghan (Australia)
An epic transcontinental journey through Australia’s red center, from tropical Darwin to historic Adelaide, with immersive off-train excursions in the Outback.
| Route | Darwin to Adelaide |
| Duration | 3–4 days |
| Highlights | Katherine Gorge, Alice Springs, Coober Pedy |
| Best Time | April to October |
| Train Type | Luxury Sleeper Train |
| Ticket Price | 1,600 USD / 1,475 EUR |
3. Tren a las Nubes (Argentina)
Climbing to over 4,200 meters, this breathtaking ride snakes through Andean peaks and viaducts above the clouds in Northern Argentina.
| Route | Salta to Polvorilla Viaduct |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Highlights | Lerma Valley, Quebrada del Toro, high-altitude bridges |
| Best Time | April to November |
| Train Type | Tourist Excursion Train |
| Ticket Price | 90 USD / 83 EUR |
4. Kyushu Seven Stars (Japan)
Japan’s most luxurious train, this artfully designed cruise-on-rails explores the island of Kyushu with elegant suites and curated cultural stops.
| Route | Fukuoka loop around Kyushu |
| Duration | 2–4 days |
| Highlights | Mount Aso, Beppu hot springs, traditional cuisine |
| Best Time | Year-round |
| Train Type | Luxury Cruise Train |
| Ticket Price | 3,000 USD / 2,765 EUR |
5. Reunification Express (Vietnam)
Connecting the north and south of Vietnam, this coastal train ride is beloved for its sweeping ocean views and access to charming cities.
| Route | Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City |
| Duration | 32–35 hours |
| Highlights | Hai Van Pass, Hue, Da Nang, Nha Trang |
| Best Time | January to April |
| Train Type | Sleeper & Seating Train |
| Ticket Price | 75 USD / 69 EUR |
6. The Blue Train (South Africa)
South Africa’s legendary luxury train is a glamorous throwback to golden-age travel, with lavish suites and white-glove service.
| Route | Pretoria to Cape Town |
| Duration | 2 days |
| Highlights | Karoo Desert, diamond mines, fine dining onboard |
| Best Time | Year-round |
| Train Type | Luxury Sleeper Train |
| Ticket Price | 1,750 USD / 1,615 EUR |
7. Qinghai–Tibet Railway (China)
The highest railway in the world, this journey across the Tibetan Plateau offers unmatched elevation and scenery—not to mention oxygen-supplemented cabins.
| Route | Xining to Lhasa |
| Duration | 22–24 hours |
| Highlights | Tanggula Pass, permafrost plains, Tibetan towns |
| Best Time | May to October |
| Train Type | High-Altitude Sleeper |
| Ticket Price | 110 USD / 101 EUR |
Why Travel by Train
Trains let you watch the world change hour by hour—from lush forests to desert plains, neon-lit cities to foggy mountain passes. Unlike air travel, there’s no rush. No lines. Just time to sit, reflect, and take it all in. For many travelers, it’s the journey—not just the destination—that leaves the biggest mark.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Make your international rail trip smoother by steering clear of these missteps:
- Assuming all trains have Wi-Fi or outlets—many don’t.
- Not reserving early—popular routes often sell out.
- Ignoring altitude or climate differences (especially in Tibet or the Andes).
- Expecting Western-style cabins everywhere—comfort levels vary.
- Booking the cheapest seat without researching class types.
Real-Life Tip
A traveler on the Reunification Express shared that while the ride is long, the coastal views and interactions with locals were the real reward. They brought instant noodles and a thermos—lifesavers when the café car ran out. Their advice: “Pack light, bring snacks, and keep your window open.”
Takeaway
If you’re looking for unforgettable rail journeys beyond Europe, these trips prove the tracks stretch far and wide—and are full of wonder. Whether you crave luxury or adventure, mountains or coastlines, there’s a ride here for you.