Expensive Train Trip: Luxury Rail Journeys Around the World
When you think of an expensive train trip, a high-end rail journey that offers more than just transportation—it’s a moving luxury hotel with panoramic views. Also known as luxury rail travel, it’s not about getting from A to B. It’s about the silence of the countryside at dawn, the clink of crystal glasses in a private cabin, and the feeling of being wrapped in history while racing through landscapes most people only see in photos.
The Pride of Africa, a 12-day journey across southern Africa on a restored 1920s train with private suites and gourmet meals costs over $12,500 per person. It’s not just a ride—it’s a safari, a dining experience, and a cultural immersion rolled into one. Then there’s the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, a glittering relic of the 1920s that runs from London to Istanbul, complete with wood-paneled cabins, white-glove service, and live piano music. And don’t forget the Royal Scotsman, Scotland’s most exclusive train, weaving through glens and lochs with whisky tastings and private guides. These aren’t trains you book on a whim. They’re once-in-a-lifetime experiences, booked months or even years ahead.
What makes these trips so costly? It’s not the fuel. It’s the exclusivity. Fewer than 100 guests on a train that carries the weight of a century’s elegance. It’s the chefs who fly in with fresh ingredients from local markets. It’s the fact that you’re not just watching the landscape—you’re part of it, in a way no airplane or car could ever offer. These journeys connect you to places you’d never reach on your own, with guides who know the hidden stories behind every station, every bridge, every forest.
And while you won’t find any of these routes in India, the same spirit of slow, intentional travel shows up in our own wild retreats—where you trade traffic for silence, and concrete for forests. The posts below explore what makes travel truly unforgettable, whether it’s a $12,500 train ride across Africa or a quiet night under the stars in the heart of the Indian wilderness. You’ll find real stories about luxury, safety, heritage, and what it means to travel well—no matter the price tag.
Step aboard the world of luxury train travel, where opulence meets adventure on the most expensive train trip. Discover the exclusive experience offered by the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, known for its unparalleled luxury and exquisite service. Explore the elegant interiors, gourmet dining, and breathtaking landscapes this iconic train offers. Get tips on how to make the most of this lavish journey and learn what makes it a must-try experience for luxury travel enthusiasts.
