Why Rovos Rail Should Be High On Your South African Bucket List

The luxurious Rovos Rail, established in 1989, has been lovingly restored to transport guests to a bygone era when train journeys were an elegant and exclusive event. Here’s why a trip on the Rovos Rail should be on your bucket list.

Rovos Rail’s train safaris snake through the most scenic parts of South Africa while guests dine on gourmet meals and retreat to luxurious cabins.

Everything from arrival to departure and life on board is done in first class fashion

Life on board the Pride of Africa

Train journeys last from 48 hours to a whole month, depending on the series you book. Travel from Cape Town to Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, through game reserves to the mammoth Victoria Falls, through KwaZulu-Natal or the Garden Route, the list is expansive!

The train, which has been refurbished to emphasise its original charm, carries a maximum of 72 passengers in 36 beautiful suites. This is one way to see South Africa, and Africa, as never before and the journey promises to be unforgettable.

From pastries and freshly baked cakes, guests can expect a plethora of sweet treats

From world-class chefs cooking up delicious local fare, including game dishes, to a full breakfast served each morning, you won’t go hungry. Expect fine china and a formal dress code for dinner.

Travel from Pretoria into the Cape

On this 51 hour (1600 kilometre) journey, the Pride of Africa travels through the grasslands of the Highveld, through the Great Karoo, and into the mountains and winelands of the Cape. The final destination is Cape Town and the journey includes a visit to the quaint town of Matjiesfontein as well as the mining town of Kimberley.

An alternative view of the Victoria Falls

The Victoria Falls is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of The World and the journey guides through Botswana to arrive at Plumtree to cross the border into Zimbabwe. Spot wildlife from the train as it passes Hwange National Park until eventually reaching The Falls. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities from cruises to rafting and photo safaris.

Go on a safari in KwaZulu-Natal

A three-day safari takes guests into the heart of KwaZulu-Natal, one of the lushest areas in the country. From the Big Five bush retreat Nambiti Conservancy to Caversham in the Midlands. Stop by Ardmore Ceramic Art for one of a kind souvenirs and visit Spionkop Lodge from where guests can explore the mountains and battlefields of the region.