More of the Best Train Rides in the World
Grand Canyon Railway, USA
First completed in 1901, the Grand Canyon Railway takes you from outside of Flagstaff, Arizona to the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. The 130-mile roundtrip ride will get you in the spirit of the locale with music and cowboy characters. Along the way, you’re likely to spot wildlife such as deer and mountain lions.
Kuranda Scenic Railway, Australia
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Venture through one of the world’s oldest rainforests when you ride the Kuranda Scenic Railway in Queensland, Australia. The striking natural beauty is present throughout the two-hour trip, and you’ll see waterfalls, mountains, and much more. Once you arrive at Kuranda, be sure to spend some time at Barron Gorge National Park and take in the local culture.
TranzAlpine, New Zeland
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Experience another side of New Zealand by embarking on this nine-hour-roundtrip. TranzAlpine takes you from Christchurch and Greymouth by way of the Waimakariri River and the Southern Alps with plenty of native beech forest to enjoy.
The Ghan, Australia
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The Ghan is a four-day, three-night experience that takes you from Adelaide to Darwin (or vice-versa). Ride through the “heart of Australia” and explore its central region as the train stops along the way.
Shongololo Express, South Africa and Zimbabwe
Venture from Namibia, South Africa to Zimbabwe on the Shongololo Express enjoying sights of the southern plains. This luxury train ride has multi-lingual guides that will assist you during the scheduled excursions off the train.
Kandy to Ella, Sri Lanka
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Over the course of seven hours, the Kandy to Ella train route will showcase the beauty of Sri Lanka. It was originally used as a trade route but has since been turned into a tourist attraction and a favorite way to explore the country. Visit Buddhist shrines in Kandy, buy snacks from local vendors during train stops, and tour Ella, the hill country village.
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