Railbookers, a leading operator of independent rail vacations, recently unveiled an 80-day ‘Around the World’ itinerary that visits four continents and 13 countries.
The journey features trips on world-renowned luxury trains such as Rovos Rail in South Africa, Maharajas’ Express in India, Eastern & Oriental Express in Singapore, Rocky Mountaineer in Canada, and the Golden Eagle Danube Express, Belmond Royal Scotsman, and Venice Simplon-Orient-Express in Europe.
It will begin in Vancouver on August 28, 2024, and conclude in Southeast Asia. During the journey, passengers will visit Budapest, Edinburgh, Florence, London, Paris, Rome, and Venice, as well as Delhi and Mumbai, Turkey, and Cape Town and Johannesburg.
The time between train journeys varies from one night to four nights either at a hotel or on-board one of the trains in the various destinations.
Travellers must make their own international air travel arrangements, but the trip is inclusive of rail transportation, hotel accommodations in between train journeys, private ground transfers at destinations, as well as all sightseeing and activities listed in the itinerary.
The ‘Around the World by luxury train’ journey can also be booked as customisable segments, ranging from seven to 14 days. The first segment takes place in Canada, followed by Edinburgh, Europe, India, South Africa, and Singapore.
The prices for each segment range from US$3 799pp (R69 490) to US$24 499pp (R448 120).
Railbookers expands to SA
Railbookers also recently announced that it has expanded its destination portfolio to offer 15 new rail itineraries in South Africa.
“We are seeing rising demand for luxury rail vacation solutions to South Africa,” said Railbookers Senior Vice President of Strategic Partnerships, Jim Marini.
“Our product team has come up with the most comprehensive selection of luxury train departures, including the quintessential South African activities and destinations.”
According to Travel Pulse, the itineraries range from nine to 20 days and showcase the country’s popular Blue Train and Rovos Rail. They feature visits to the Kruger National Park and Victoria Falls, as well as wine-tasting experiences and excursions to a diamond mine.