3 Decades of Travel
Our Train Journeys
Exploring Iconic Train Routes
Since 1995, KHWD Holiday has taken travelers on unforgettable train journeys. From the scenic Transalpine in New Zealand to the majestic Rocky Mountaineer in Canada, we curate experiences that inspire adventure.
All aboard for the world’s greatest excuse to sit down, stare out of a window and call it “adventure.” This collection of famous train journeys celebrates the art of travelling long distances while doing absolutely nothing except eating, gawping at scenery and wondering why life isn’t always this civilised. From desert crossings to mountain climbs, these iconic routes prove that trains aren’t just transport — they’re moving theatres with better snacks. So settle in, sip something fancy, and enjoy a whistle‑stop tour of the planet’s most unforgettable rail escapades… without lifting more than a finger.
Kuranda
1995: Cairns to Kuranda, Queensland, Australia
"with the lovely Simone"
The video showcases the Kuranda Scenic Railway winding through lush North Queensland rainforest, crossing bridges and tunnels carved into the mountainside. It highlights sweeping views of Barron Gorge, Stoney Creek Falls and the historic 1891 railway engineering, capturing a calm, scenic journey from Cairns to Kuranda in crisp 4K detail.
The Kuranda Scenic Railway runs between Cairns and the rainforest village of Kuranda in Far North Queensland. The journey climbs from sea level into the Barron Gorge National Park, passing waterfalls, deep ravines, 15 hand‑cut tunnels, 37 bridges, and dense tropical rainforest. Travellers enjoy views of Stoney Creek Falls and the impressive Barron Falls along the way. The trip takes around 1 hour 45 minutes each way and uses beautifully restored heritage carriages. Built in the late 1800s, the railway remains one of Australia’s most iconic scenic journeys, offering a memorable blend of history, engineering, and natural beauty.
TranzAlpine
2008: Christchurch to Greymouth
South Island, New Zealand
Our 30th Wedding Anniversary
The TranzAlpine Railway runs across New Zealand’s South Island between Christchurch and Greymouth, travelling from the Canterbury Plains through the Southern Alps to the West Coast. The journey crosses wide braided rivers, rolling farmland, deep gorges, and the dramatic alpine landscape of Arthur’s Pass National Park. Highlights include the Waimakariri River, the Otira Tunnel, and sweeping mountain vistas from panoramic carriages. The trip takes around 4 hours 45 minutes each way and is considered one of the world’s great scenic rail journeys. It offers a memorable combination of engineering achievement, rugged landscapes, and ever‑changing natural beauty.
The TranzAlpine glides from Christchurch across the Canterbury Plains, climbing into the Southern Alps beside braided rivers and deep gorges. It crosses viaducts, forests and snowy peaks before descending through lush valleys to Greymouth, revealing one of the world’s most spectacular rail journeys in just five unforgettable hours.
Retro postcard celebrating five legendary rail adventures — Kuranda, TranzAlpine, The Ghan, Indian Pacific, and Rocky Mountaineer — across Australia, NZ & Canada.
The Ghan
2008: Darwin to Alice Springs, Red Class seats, 24-26 May
If only, not back in 2008 on a Canon Powershot...But...Sweeping drone shots, endless red desert, a long silver train cutting through Australia’s outback, dramatic curves, vast skies, rugged landscapes and fast‑paced visuals capturing the essence of The Ghan’s iconic journey.
The Ghan runs through the heart of Australia between Darwin and Alice Springs, travelling from the tropical Top End into the vast red landscapes of the Northern Territory. The journey crosses floodplains, desert scrub, mountain ranges, and remote outback regions that few travellers ever see. Highlights include the Adelaide River floodplain, the sweeping desert views south of Katherine, and the dramatic approach into Alice Springs. The trip takes around 24 hours and is known for its spacious carriages, off‑train excursions, and relaxed pace. First launched in 1929, The Ghan remains one of Australia’s most iconic long‑distance rail experiences.
Big thanks to Elisa & Max, “A fast, stunning 54‑second look at The Ghan, capturing Australia’s iconic outback rail journey with sweeping desert scenery and dramatic aerial shots.”
The Indian Pacific
2017: Perth to Adelaide
Our 39th Wedding Anniversary
The Indian Pacific rolls out of Perth and glides through the Avon Valley before opening into the vast, golden emptiness of Western Australia’s wheatbelt. The landscape stretches wider with every mile until the train reaches the legendary Nullarbor Plain, crossing the world’s longest straight railway line. Remote outposts, red earth and endless horizons define the journey as it pushes east. Short stops at Rawlinna and Cook reveal tiny settlements shaped by isolation. As the terrain softens, the train descends into South Australia, finishing in Adelaide after an unforgettable trans‑continental crossing filled with scale, silence and pure Australian drama.
Read the February diary 26-28 for the full details of our experience
Longest Straight Stretch of Track in the World
Rocky Mountaineer
2024: Banff to Vancouver, Alberta to Vancouver, British Columbia Gold Class seats
The Rocky Mountaineer's "First Passage to the West" route from Banff to Vancouver is a spectacular journey through the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Here are some key details:
Route Highlights
Banff to Kamloops: The journey begins in Banff, a charming mountain town, and travels through the Spiral Tunnels and Continental Divide. You'll witness breathtaking mountain passes and dramatic canyons.
Kamloops: After a full day on the train, you'll arrive in Kamloops, a lovely town where you can enjoy a stroll along the riverside.
Kamloops to Vancouver: The next day, the train continues its journey to Vancouver, offering stunning views of the Canadian wilderness along the way.
Experience
The Rocky Mountaineer glides out of Banff and follows the Bow River through towering peaks and glacier‑cut valleys. The train sweeps past Castle Mountain and into the dramatic Kicking Horse Canyon, where cliffs, rapids and engineering feats define the route. Crossing the Continental Divide, the landscape softens into forested slopes and wide river plains. In British Columbia, the Fraser Canyon delivers roaring waters and sheer rock walls before the scenery opens into fertile farmland. As the train approaches Vancouver, mountains give way to coastal greenery, completing a spectacular daylight journey built entirely around views, comfort and pure Canadian grandeur.
Daylight Travel: The train operates exclusively during the day, allowing you to soak in the scenery and take plenty of photos6.
Luxury and Comfort: You can choose between GoldLeaf Service with dome cars for panoramic views or SilverLeaf Service with comfortable seating.
Overnight Stops: Since the train doesn't offer sleeper services, you'll stay overnight in hotels at Kamloops.
Season and Schedule
Travel Season: The train operates from mid-April to mid-October. We were on the second to last trip which was great as snow had fallen on the 1st part of the journey.
Complimentary Transfers: Motorcoach transfers are provided between the train and hotels in Kamloops.
Passengers often describe the experience as "unforgettable and luxurious" and "the best way to explore Canada’s Rocky Mountains" and we would whole heartedly concur with that.
