PLEASE NOTE: Grandluxe Rail Journeys, formerly the American Orient Express, ceased operations effective August 28, 2008.

The train equipment has been purchased and new owners are planning trips for the 2011 travel season. These new itineraries will be available for purchase in mid 2010. Please sign up below to be notified when new information is available.

Sign up to be notified when the American Orient Express train is operating again.

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Private Rail Car Tours are a great alternative to the American Orient Express. Relive those days of first-class service, superb cuisine, and comfortable appointments. Travel in comfort and style aboard historic privately owned railcars.

Alternatives to Grandluxe Rail Journeys. The tours below go to some of the same great destinations using Amtrak:

• Best of the West
• Canyonlands
• National Parks of the Northwest
• Wonders of the West

If you are interested in a luxury rail experience in North America consider The Royal Canadian Pacific.

Please contact a Vacations by Rail Specialist for alternatives to Grandluxe Rail Journeys, formerly the American Orient Express.

The luxurious International Rail Journey takes you from the San Francisco Bay area to one of the most scenic areas on the planet; the Copper Canyon. As you travel south, you will stop at some of the most beautiful areas in the western United States and Mexico. While in the United States, seize the opportunity to walk the beach in Santa Barbara, take in the sights of Palm Springs' aerial tramway or simply enjoy the magnificent scenery as you relax in your GrandLuxe cabin.

As you enter Mexico you will marvel at the stunning landscapes that pass you by as experienced hosts give informative lectures on the various regions involved in the tour. You will makes multiple stops in some of Mexico's most beautiful cities. San Carlos, Divisadero and Chihuahua are all included, and offer the chance to get to know new cultures as you shop the art and craft bazzars of the Tarahumara Indians. Be sure to have your cameras ready for your visits to the Sea of Cortez and the legendary Copper Canyon. The International Rail Journey is an awe inspiring trip of a lifetime that will fill you with fond memories of the US and Mexico.

Breathtaking scenery is the backdrop that glides by as you relax on board the restored Vintage Pullman, Single Sleeper, Single Sleeper Grand Class, Triple Suite, Parlor Suite, Classic Presidential Suite, Grand Suite and Gold Suite Carriages enroute to the national treasures of America.

• Route Map
• View Itinerary
• Tour Images

Day 1 - San Francisco Bay Area
Welcome to the GrandLuxe Express. Guests enjoy a welcome aboard champagne reception and dinner. Overnight on the GrandLuxe Express (D)

Day 2 - Santa Barbara
The perfect place to stroll, shop, and admire the Pacific Ocean. Tour, wine tasting and lunch at Demetria Estate and Winery. Afterwards enjoy a scenic afternoon rail journey along the Pacific Coast. Overnight on the GrandLuxe Express (B,L,D)

Day 3 - Palm Springs
Today you will experience the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway and get an informative city tour. Afterwards you may use your afternoon free time to explore further, shop or relax. Dinner at the luxurious Palm Springs hotel (night in hotel included). (B,L,D)

Day 4 - Rail Day Through Mexico
Marvel at the ever-changing Mexican scenery as you spend a day on the rails. Experience guides provide informative lectures on the passings sights. Overnight on the GrandLuxe Express (B,L,D)

Day 5 - San Carlos, Mexico
Seaside Adventure on the Sea of Cortez. Tour members get to choose between a boat cruise along the shore searching for dolphins and sea lions, or a tour of working saltwater pearl farm in nearby Guaymas. Lunch at a San Carlos resort and time for shopping is also planned. Overnight on the GrandLuxe Express (B,L,D)

Day 6 - The Copper Canyon and Divisadero, Mexico
The Copper Canyon Railroad is one of the most scenic rail routes in the world. Ascend through the Copper Canyon on the railroad that took over 90 years to build. Cross over 37 trestles and ride through 86 tunnels, including one that makes a 180-degree turn inside a mountain. Once again, experienced tour professionals will provide entertaining lectures. Your afternoon will be spent at the rim of the canyon, accompanied by a dance demonstration by Tarahumara Indians. A geological discussion will also be hosted by local experts. Overnight on the GrandLuxe Express (B,L,D)

Day 7 - Chihuahua, Mexico
Your GrandLuxe rail journey comes to a close. If time allows, enjoy the culture of Chihuahua on your own before departing for home. (B)

Meals Included: B=Breakfast  L=Lunch  D=Dinner

Optional Tour packages
Enjoy one of the optional extensions or additional hotel nights before or after your journey. Contact Vacations By Rail for more details.