Expansive landscapes of distinct characteristics compose the whole of the South African territory, one of the world’s megadiverse countries. With a far-reaching history, there are several ways to traverse and enjoy said landscapes, each with its own perks. However, one of the most unique travel methods in South Africa is its extensive railway network, where the Rovos Rail elegant trains crawl along the savannah.
A remembrance of olden times, the Rovos Rail trains entice an antique essence oozing through its train cars, furniture, and atmosphere. Each train accommodates between 42 and 72 passengers and offers dining cars, lounges, smoking lounges, and observation cars with panoramic views. All of Rovos’ trains cherish the ambience of the days of old, and this is felt through and through: fine china, glassware, crisp linen, silver, and a lack of radios and televisions on board drive this opulent atmosphere even further. Professional chefs overview guests’ every need and offer breakfast, meals, tea, and dinner, as well as bar services in each lounge and observation cars. All on-board food and beverages are included with their standard rates, and special items such as French Champagne are available upon advanced request.
Rovos welcomes single travellers, couples and groups of any size, and has a way of accommodating them. Three different types of suites are available, from the smaller Pullman and Deluxe Suites to the Royal Suite, made for the true luxury-seekers. All suites include double or twin beds, their own private shower, toilet, and basins, with the Royal Suites housing a bath option. Tea facilities, safes, air conditioning, linen, amenities, elegant cupboards, and daily housekeeping are all available in all suites as well. The Royal Suites also have their own private living room area and take up half a car each. A host or hostess is available at all times to cater to the guest’s needs, too.
Rovos Rail offers several different journeys for travellers to enjoy, ranging from 2 or 3 days to up to 15-day journeys. Each route offers different off-board activities, depending on the location, and, of course, amazing landscapes of wide variety.
Durban Safari
3 day trek
Pretoria-Durban
Experience the Nambiti Conservancy, a Big Five reserve through a game drive.
Drive through the Spionkop Reserve to watch animals in their natural habitat.
Visit historic battlefields, learn about South African history and the traditional ceramic techniques at Ardmore Gallery.
Gaze at the Drakensberg Mountains and the Valley of a 1000 Hills.
Cape Town
3 day trek
Pretoria-Cape Town
Traverse the Great Karoo, the barren South African desert.
Visit the Matjiesfontein Victorian Village
Visit to the Diamond Mine Museum and the Big Hole, the world’s largest excavation
Victoria Falls
4-5 day trek
Pretoria-Victoria Falls
Traverse the Warmbaths of Bela-Bela
Traverse the Hwange National Park and enjoy a game drive.
Visit the Victoria Falls and Zambezi River, enjoy game drives, safaris and cruises.
Golf Safari
9 day trek
Pretoria Round Trip
Ideal for Golf players.
Visit Sun City, Spionkop, Durban and Mkhaya for golf courses.
Durban Botanic Garden
Hluhluwe-iMfolozi, Mkhaya, Spionkop, Kruger, and Pilanesberg game drives.
Lost City, Durban, and historic Spionkop tours.
Traverse eSwatini and the Valley of a 1000 Hills
African Collage
10-11 day trek
Pretoria-Cape Town
Ideal for golf players
Journey through the Cape Winelands, Drakensberg Mountains, eSwatini, the Valley of a 1000 Hills, the Garden Route, the Karoo, and Outeniqua Mountains
Game drives: Hluhluwe-iMfolozi, Kruger Park and Spionkop Reserve
Cultural visits: Swazi Candles, Mantenga Cultural Village, Oudtshoorn Ostrich Farm.
Namibia Safari
9-10 day trek
Pretoria-Walvis Bay
Cheetah conservation project visit.
Etosha Game Drive & Overnight stay, Sossusvlei game drive.
Traverse the Karoo, and Kalahari Basin.
Windhoek, Garas Park, Upington, Deadvlei, Fish River Canyon, Trans-Namib Musuem and Walvis Bay visits.
Dar Es Salaam
15 day trek
Cape Town-Dar Es Salaam
Visits: Chishimba Falls, Majiesfontein, Kimberly Diamond Mine Museum.
Madikwe Reserve and Selous Reserve game drives.
Traverse the Karoo, the Kafue Railway Bridge, Rift Valley, Tazara Railway, Kalahari Basin, and Udzungwa Mountains.
Other trips traverse Africa from east to west and offer different views and landscapes. Most of the trips are available in reverse direction, allowing for a different order in which to experience the journey. Most trains are also available for full private bookings, and Rovos Rails offer the option of an event train for private gatherings such as product launches, weddings, and more.
Relive olden times and relish in the tranquil luxury of a train ride as you gaze at the African plains. Traverse dreamy landscapes in a secure manner and enjoy various game drives and cultural and historical activities, let your explorer wonder grow and thrive at the hands of the Rovos Rail.
Photos: courtesy.
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