Top scenic journeys around the world

There’s something magical about traveling by train or by boat in far-flung corners of the world, watching the unfolding wonder of your chosen landscapes as you glide by in comfort. We offer trips that include some of the world’s most iconic and scenic travel routes, with all the details and reservations taken care of so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the view. We’ve chosen ten of our favorite scenic journeys to inspire you, but if you have something else in mind in one of the destinations we cover, our local experts can usually organize an itinerary to suit.

1. China

China boasts some epic scenery and lays claim to some of the most jaw-dropping journeys anywhere. Traveling by train is a fantastic way to experience some of the country’s most scenic travel routes up close, especially when touring the southeast. Consider taking the stretch between Wuyishan and Huangshan, renowned for its breathtaking mountain views. This route passes both Mount Wuyi and the Yellow Mountain—two of the most revered and beautiful peaks in China. You may even recognize the iconic peaks of Huangshan, often depicted in ancient Chinese paintings, rising dramatically above the famed sea of clouds.

Read more: A regional guide to food in China

2. Sri Lanka

The train journey from Nanu Oya to Ella – or the longer route from Kandy – is ranked as one of the world’s most scenic travel routes. Winding into the central highlands of Sri Lanka, the track passes through incredibly lush hillsides covered in rich vegetation and the pillowy green rows of tea plantations. With regular stops at charming hill villages, the journey offers a visual feast of picturesque bridges, cascading waterfalls, vibrant street scenes, and even groups of local children who run to wave at the passing trains.

3. Russia

The vast expanse of Russia seems huge and unknowable, but you can gain an insight into the differences between the regions by traversing the nation on the renowned Trans Siberian Railway, one of the most iconic journeys on the planet. Beginning in Moscow after you’ve had some time to explore the splendor of the capital, this adventure could be a grueling one, but our handpicked local experts have devised an itinerary which breaks up the trip into manageable sections with plenty of time for sightseeing in the most interesting and scenic areas.

4. Vietnam

What better way to see the wonders of Vietnam than from the deck of a traditionally styled yet luxurious riverboat? Our Cruising Northern Vietnam itinerary takes you through some of the most delightful scenery in the country, beginning with a thorough exploration of Halong Bay’s highlights followed by a journey along the Kinh Thay River, stopping to discover local villages and the bustling city of Hanoi with its museums, fine food and coffee culture. The cruise also takes you into the highlands of Vietnam where excursions into the stunning rice terraces and minority villages are a highlight.

Read more: How to plan the ultimate odyssey to Vietnam

5. Borneo

The lush jungles of Borneo are teeming with life; an immense variety of insects, birds, reptiles, and mammals all thrive amidst the equally abundant plant life. One of the most rewarding scenic travel routes through this wild landscape is by boat along the Kinabatangan River. Spending a couple of days cruising through this protected rainforest allows you to witness Borneo’s natural wonders up close. From daytime journeys in search of wild orangutans and pygmy elephants to magical night cruises illuminated by fireflies, the Kinabatangan River offers an unforgettable way to experience the region’s rich biodiversity in comfort.

6. India

Enjoy the experience of watching the scenery of Assam in India’s far northeast glide by as you cruise the Brahmaputra river looking out for groups of rhinos, elephants, and buffalo in the wilds of the Kaziranga National Park, or birdwatching along the river banks – the area is known for its raptors and wetland birds. Visit riverside villages, tea plantations, and nature reserves along the way, with plenty of stops to punctuate the cruise. Discover the intriguing culture of Assam on an exploration of Majuli island, where faith, the arts, and artisan traditions combine to make this a cultural treasure trove and a brilliant place to seek out local handicrafts as souvenirs.

Read more: The best time to visit India

7. The Silk Route

From the barren beauty of the Gobi desert in China and the high-altitude meadows of the Kyrgyz lakes, this Silk Route journey unveils impressive scenery at every turn. With certain sections traveled by rail, others by air or road, this has to be one of the world’s most amazing routes to follow. Cross from Kashgar’s bustling market into the Tian Shan mountains through the Torugart Pass and on into Kyrgyzstan, before arriving in Uzbekistan and another scenic train journey from Tashkent to Samarkand, the jewel of the Silk Road home to many architectural marvels.

8. Ecuador

A classic South American experience by rail is the Tren Crucero, winding its way from the plains up to the highlands in stately style, pulled on some stretches by steam engines. The route ascends to an ear-popping 3,600 meters altitude in around 450 kilometers and offers a leisurely way to experience Ecuador’s extreme contrasts of vegetation and landscape as you climb. Our local partners have put together an itinerary that includes four days of traveling on the Tren Crucero – the Train to the Clouds – with comfortable overnights in towns served by the railway. Highlights include the Devil’s Nose switchback climb, the scenery of the Chanchan Canyon, indigenous communities, and the majestic Avenue of Volcanoes.

Read more: Wildlife and historic wonder on the Galapagos Islands

Make it happen

It’s a thrill to navigate the transport system of a distant nation and successfully get yourself from A to B, but if your idea of a trip doesn’t involve that kind of stress, why not let our trusted local operators take the strain? Explore some of the most breathtaking scenic travel routes around the world, whether by train, boat, or winding mountain road, these journeys promise unforgettable views and experiences. Don’t forget, our partners can tailor any itinerary to suit your needs, just get in touch to let them know your preferences.

1. China
2. Sri Lanka
3. Russia
4. Vietnam
5. Borneo
6. India
7. Ecuador