LUXURY TRAIN ROUTES IN SOUTHERN AFRICA
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Availability last updated: 01-May-26
We ranked luxury trains globally based on international awards, exclusivity, and impeccable 5-star service. Here is the definitive top 15 list.
Spoiler Alert: South Africa features twice!
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Europe
1.
Venice Simplon - Orient-Express
The train against which all others are measured. Original vintage restorations from the 1920s, strict black-tie dress codes, and Michelin-standard cuisine.
Why it wins: Authentic history that simply cannot be replicated. -
Japan
2.
Seven Stars in Kyushu
So exclusive that you must enter a lottery to buy a ticket. Blends Japanese craftsmanship (kumiko wood, Arita porcelain) with Western luxury.
Why it wins: With only 30 passengers, the service is near-telepathic. -
India
3.
The Maharajas’ Express
Built to replicate the carriages of Indian royalty. The itinerary includes red-carpet welcomes at stations and elephant polo matches.
Why it wins: The ultimate regal experience. -
South Africa
4.
Rovos Rail
The Pride of Africa. Focused on an "Old World" atmosphere with no TVs to disturb the peace. The open-air observation balcony offers an unmatched connection to the stunning South African landscape.
Why it wins: The Royal Suites feature full Victorian bathtubs, an absolute rarity on rails. -
Scotland
5.
Belmond Royal Scotsman
Feels like a rolling 5-star Scottish estate with only 40 guests. The train famously stables at night so guests can sleep without motion.
Why it wins: On-board Bamford Haybarn Spa. -
South Africa
6.
The Blue Train
The Moving Five-Star Hotel. Famous for its suspension system that ensures a glass of wine rarely ripples at full speed. Dedicated butler service for every cabin across the Karoo.
Why it wins: Modern luxury, speed, and world-class food & wine pairing. -
Canada
7.
The Rocky Mountaineer
A daylight-only luxury train ensuring you never miss a moment of the Canadian Rockies. The premium GoldLeaf Service features bi-level glass-domed coaches and an exclusive dining room.
Why it wins: Panoramic domed views. -
Japan
8.
Train Suite Shiki-Shima
Designed by Ken Okuyama (Ferrari designer). Uses champagne-gold geometric cutouts and glass-walled futuristic observation pods.
Why it wins: Cutting-edge futuristic design. -
Australia
9.
The Ghan
Travelling straight through the red heart of Australia from Adelaide to Darwin. Its Platinum Service offers full-size double beds and an exceptional outback gastronomy experience.
Why it wins: Outback adventure in complete luxury. -
Southeast Asia
10.
Eastern & Oriental Express
The jungle classic. Sip a Singapore Sling in the piano bar while passing through lush tropical jungles and rice paddies.
Why it wins: Tropical elegance and open-air cars. -
Switzerland
11.
Glacier Express, Excellence Class
The standard Glacier Express is famous, but the Excellence Class elevates it to true 5-star luxury. It guarantees a window seat, a five-course menu with wine pairing, and a dedicated concierge bar.
Why it wins: The world's slowest express train. -
Russia / Central Asia
12.
Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian
The adventure icon. It traverses the massive expanse of Russia and Mongolia, offering ultimate luxury in the middle of nowhere.
Why it wins: Epic trans-continental scale. -
Spain
13.
Tren Al Andalus
Often described as a palace on wheels. Its lounge, bar, and restaurant carriages were built in France in the 1920s for the British monarchy travelling to the French Riviera.
Why it wins: Moorish architecture on rails. -
Peru
14.
Belmond Andean Explorer
South America’s first luxury sleeper train. Travels one of the highest railway routes on Earth with oxygen-enriched cabins to combat altitude sickness.
Why it wins: High-altitude luxury. -
India
15.
Palace on Wheels
The original pioneer of Indian luxury rail. While newer trains have launched, this heritage icon still holds massive global cachet, taking guests through the royal state of Rajasthan.
Why it wins: The classic heritage pioneer. -
Rising Star
BONUS:
The Vietage ("S-Journey")
A special mention to this rising star in Vietnam. Connecting Da Nang and Quy Nhon, it offers 5-star dining and massage treatments on rails.
Why it wins: Spa treatments at 60km/h.
Experience the Top 15
While we can't easily secure you a spot on the Japanese Rail Lottery, we are the leading booking agents for Rovos Rail (#4) and The Blue Train (#6).
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