Our Top Holiday Inspirations

Destinations

Holiday Styles

A herd of springbok running past the Rovos Rail train in South Africa

What to Expect on South Africa’s Rovos Rail

Author Image

By James Ferdinando


Long eulogised and romanticised, the ‘Pride of Africa’ is unrivalled in terms of luxury rail through Southern Africa.

The Edwardian-style train has been authentically refurbished, reflecting the style and atmosphere of a bygone era, and setting the scene for the truly unique journey that lies ahead. Choose from three different routes, each travelling in both directions, to experience the richness of Southern Africa on this world-class rail experience.

Life on Board

Spend your days relaxing in your suite or taking in the sweeping views from the Observation Car, whilst mingling with other guests and enjoying your favourite tipple. Dining is a sophisticated affair with Silver Service and guests are expected to dress for the occasion. All meals and drinks (except Champagne) are included. With stunning views from the wide picture windows, indulgent fine dining and world class service, your time aboard this luxury rail journey will likely pass all too quickly!


Rovos Rail offers differing levels of comfortable accommodation from which to enjoy your rail adventure:


Pullman Suite: En suite bathrooms come with a shower only. Original fittings combined with modern conveniences ensure a very comfortable journey.


Deluxe Suite: Offering almost 40% more space to relax than the Pullman Suites, plus an additional window for panoramic views from the comfort of your own suite.


Royal Suite: Taking up half a carriage and fitted to the highest standards, Royal Suites offer the most luxurious way to ride the rails in Southern Africa. The bathroom boasts a full bath and shower and is fully in keeping with the historic charm of the train.


 

The dining car on the Rovos Rail train

Cape Town to Pretoria

The Cape Town to Pretoria journey goes from one of South Africa’s iconic cities to another, leaving diverse Cape Town for the stunning landscapes that lead to historic Pretoria.


Journey to a bygone era aboard a fully restored train as you trundle through the winelands of the Western Cape towards Worcester. Stopping off at the quaint village of Matjiesfontein before riding through the desolate Karoo, a vast semi-desert region and once enormous inland sea. On the final day of your journey, admire the views from the Observation Car as the train continues through the Free State before arriving into Meyerton Station, just south of Pretoria. From here you will be transferred onwards to your hotel.


Cape Town • Matjiesfontein • De Aar • Kimberley • Meyerton • Pretoria


 

The Rovos Rail train passing through the South Africa countryside

Pretoria to Durban

Travel south from Pretoria to Durban over the vast Drakensberg Mountains and through the battlefields of KwaZulu-Natal towards Durban.


Pass by the breathtaking Drakensburg Mountains and through the moving battlefields of the Anglo Boer War. Disembark at the Nambiti Reserve for an exciting game drive, before traveling onwards towards Ladysmith an Spioenkop Lodge. Choose between embarking on another game drive or opt for an escorted tour of the historic battlefields, for which this area is famed. On the last day of your journey, enjoy tea in the lounge as the train passes the Valley of a Thousand Hills to reach the final stop, Durban.


Pretoria • Nambiti Reserve • Spioenkop • Durban


 

Rovos Rail train

Pretoria to Victoria Falls

Venture north from Pretoria to Victoria Falls  through the wilds of Zimbabwe on this glorious train with a refined atmosphere, end this rail adventure at the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls.


Sit back, relax and enjoy lunch as the train winds its way north through Warmbaths, crossing the Tropic of Capricorn. Travel along one of Africa’s longest stretches of straight track before arriving at Hwange National Park where you will depart the train for a thrilling game drive. Your journey comes to an end at the mighty Victoria Falls.


Pretoria • Beitbridge • Hwange National Park • Victoria Falls


 

Lion cub resting on a termite mount in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

For more rail adventure inspiration, take a look at our Rail Holidays pages.

Author Image

Written by James Ferdinando

James is a Marketing Executive, based in our Kensington head office. He has worked at Trailfinders since 2019 and has travelled to 72 countries. His favourite destinations include Namibia, Argentina & Sri Lanka.

Follow us on our socials

@trailfindersofficial

iconiconiconicon

You may also like...

Offers and News

Enjoy access to our latest offers, travel inspiration and news

Order the Africa Brochure

Africa

Get In Touch

Call our Africa specialists on
01 677 8800