Rail Tours

At Distant Journeys we have a series of incredible rail journeys across our destinations and award-winning tours, including some of the world’s most famous. From Australia’s legendary Ghan to South Africa’s Rovos Rail or Blue Train and Canada’s Rocky Mountaineer, these unforgettable rail tours offer lasting memories and a truly unique way to explore.

We also have some shorter rail journeys on many of our tours, all of which are chosen to show you the very best our holiday destinations have to offer, from magnificent views to cultural encounters, with the chance to travel like a local.

All-inclusive Rail Journeys

Our all-inclusive rail journeys offer the perfect chance for anyone looking to combine exploration and excitement with the romance of railways. An experience like no other, all meals on board are included, as well as selected drinks, and your private cabin ensures a good night’s sleep.

Experience a different view each morning and see all the well-known highlights, along with some hidden-gems.

Deccan Odyssey, India

Once reserved only for Indian royalty and British aristocrats, travelling by train is now one of the most exciting and rewarding ways to journey across India. Distant Journeys are delighted to offer two new tours, Deccan Odyssey’s Grand Heritage and Deccan Odyssey’s Cultural Discovery, which combine a tapestry of must-see destinations with the pure joy of a truly remarkable rail experience. On board the Deccan Odyssey you can expect grandeur, impeccable service and true nostalgia of a bygone era. As the train arrives at the station, boundless adventure lies ahead. Renowned as one of the finest luxury trains in Asia, it ensures that every moment of your journey is a delight.

Rocky Mountaineer, Canada

Journey through the breathtaking and untouched landscapes of the Canadian Rockies. Travelling during daylight hours, and at an easy pace, watch the magnificent mountains, vibrant canyons and surreal desert landscapes unfold whilst enjoying impeccable service and delicious meals. Menus showcase the finest local ingredients, paired with world-class hospitality and fine wines. Relax on the Rocky Mountaineer with the choice of Silverleaf or GoldLeaf and experience two days of daylight rail travel on a route only accessible by train. Hosts on-board are dedicated to making your experience as memorable as the scenery outside.

The Ghan, Australia

Regarded as one of the world’s greatest rail journeys. Prepare to journey deep into the fiery red heart of Australia on the legendary Ghan, accessing parts of Australia no other holiday can come close to, whilst offering the perfect balance of comfort and adventure. As guests in Gold Service, you will enjoy the romance of a bygone era with every modern comfort on this all-inclusive ‘Outback Spirit’ rail tour from Adelaide to Alice Springs. Expect to find the finest locally sourced ingredients on the Queen Adelaide Restaurant’s impressive outback gourmet menu, complemented by local wines.

Blue Train, South Africa

Be entranced by the stunning landscapes of South Africa from the comfort of the luxurious Blue Train. Included as part of our Very Best of South Africa tour, the distinctive sapphire-coloured carriages of the legendary Blue Train will take us on a 1,600 km journey from Pretoria to Cape Town. The Blue Train offers a choice of two elegantly furnished suites: Deluxe or Luxury; and in the Dining Car you’ll enjoy fresh local produce presented by a team of talented chefs, in a unique setting.

Rovos Rail, South Africa

Scenic views are matched by the elegance and style of travel from a bygone era, when travelling on board Rovos Rail, ‘The most luxurious train in the world’. On our African Rail Adventure, Namibian Rail Safari, South African Rail Discovery and Grand African Rail Journey tours, you can enjoy many incredible nights on Rovos Rail, visiting different countries across southern Africa, and providing memories to last a lifetime.

Distant Journeys also offers the opportunity to join Rovos Rail on our Spectacular South Africa tour. Travelling from Durban to Pretoria over three days, enjoy 800kms of wonderful scenery and fascinating excursions, on this all-inclusive and unforgettable experience.

Rovos’ period Suites are equipped with modern amenities, making for a cosy and comfortable stay on board, as we explore the wonders of South Africa. Prepared by gifted chefs, indulge in traditional speciality dishes as well as international favourites, within the stylish ambience of the wood-panelled carriages.

Best of the rest…

Traverse New Zealand’s beautiful landscapes on three train journeys, the TranzAlpine, Northern Explorer and The Coastal Pacific, on our incredible New Zealand by Rail, Road and Sea Tour.

Take a trip on Australia’s Puffing Billy steam train on a scenic journey through the southern reaches of the Sherbrooke Forest, or travel back from Cairns after an optional day out on board the famous Kuranda Scenic Railway.

Discover India’s rural landscapes on The Gatimaan Express en route to Amritsar. Journey towards the Himalayan Mountains on board the UNESCO Toy Train towards Shimla and learn about the country’s rich history.

Travel at speeds of up to 200 miles per hour on board Japan’s iconic Bullet Train, as the train smoothly whisks us to Hiroshima. Enjoy an optional rail journey on board a local train to appreciate Sri Lanka’s idyllic panorama of forests, villages, tea estates and waterfalls en route to Nuwara Eliya.

Follow the links for more information on our tours to Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, India, Japan and Sri Lanka and the amazing rail holidays they have to offer.