Rovos Rail

The adventure commences with the majestic departure of the train from Rovos Rail Station in Pretoria. As the journey unfolds, you will be taken on a northward route, passing through Warmbaths (Bela-Bela), renowned for its mineral waters, and Nylstroom (Modimolle), a town christened by the Voortrekkers as the source of the Nile River due to its north-flowing river. En route, you will cross the Tropic of Capricorn and the Limpopo River, eventually arriving in Bulawayo, the second city of Zimbabwe and the capital of Matabeleland. In Bulawayo, an exhilarating game drive (available on the 4-night journey only) in Matobo National Park awaits. This World Heritage Site is famed for its bushmen caves, rock art, and breathtaking granite hills. The park also houses Cecil John Rhodes’ grave, perched atop the summit of Malindidzimu – ‘hill of benevolent spirits’ with a panoramic ‘view of the world’. Continuing on, the journey leads along one of the world’s longest stretches of straight railway line, spanning 114km, before venturing through Hwange National Park, a thriving and diverse wildlife sanctuary offering an exciting game drive excursion. Finally, the journey culminates at the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls on the mighty Zambezi River. The surrounding areas provide abundant recreational opportunities, including captivating cruises, exhilarating whitewater rafting, as well as exceptional game viewing and photo safaris. This remarkable journey is also available in reverse, and depending on railway capacity, the route may pass through Botswana.

During the summer months, treat yourself to a 3-day journey between Pretoria and Durban. Experience a malaria-free safari in the Nambiti Conservancy situated on 20,000 acres in KwaZulu-Natal. Learn more about the Zulu people at Ardmore Ceramics in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands and travel through the Valley of a Thousand Hills to Durban.

This world-famous extraordinary and enchanting train expedition will take you through the breathtaking landscapes of South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Tanzania. Your journey commences in the vibrant city of Cape Town, leading you to the quaint village of Matjiesfontein, the historic diamond town of Kimberley, and the bustling capital city of Pretoria for short but captivating tours. The adventure continues with a two-night stay in the mesmerizing Madikwe Game Reserve, followed by a captivating passage through Botswana into Zimbabwe, where you will spend a night at the iconic Victoria Falls Hotel. As the train crosses the mighty Zambezi River, it joins the Tazara line in Zambia, offering a scenic route to Chisimba Falls for an immersive bush walk experience. The train then ascends to the Tanzanian border, navigating through tunnels, switchbacks, and viaducts along the spectacular escarpment to the lush Udzungwa Mountains. Continuing its journey, the train traverses the vast Nyerere National Park, providing a glimpse of timeless Africa, before arriving in the lively city of Dar es Salaam the following day. This extraordinary expedition is also available in reverse, ensuring an unforgettable experience in both directions.

An extraordinary rail journey aboard a train that traverses the diverse landscapes from the lush savannahs of the Highveld to the majestic Atlantic coast in the west. Commencing the adventure in Pretoria, the train’s first stop is the historic town of Kimberley, renowned for being the epicenter of one of the world’s most significant diamond rushes. Here, travelers have the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the captivating ambiance of a 1870s mining village. As the journey continues, the train weaves through the dramatic and rugged vistas of the Northern Cape, offering breathtaking views of the immense Fish River Canyon, which stands as the second-largest canyon in the world, only surpassed by the Grand Canyon. The expedition proceeds to Garas Park, where an enchanting quiver-tree forest awaits exploration. Continuing the odyssey, guests are treated to the untamed beauty of the Kalahari Desert before encountering a captivating cheetah conservation project. The adventure then leads to a stop in Windhoek, Namibia’s spirited capital, characterized by its vibrant atmosphere and a notable German influence. The next leg of the journey includes a short flight to Sossusvlei, a mesmerizing pan nestled in the heart of the Namib Desert, where travelers can savor an unforgettable overnight stay. Subsequently, the expedition concludes with a night in the wildlife-abundant Etosha National Park, providing an exhilarating experience amidst nature’s raw splendor. As the journey draws to a close, the train ventures through the Namib to the impeccably preserved 19th-century German Hansa town of Swakopmund and the picturesque Walvis Bay, culminating this remarkable adventure with an indelible and unforgettable experience. This extraordinary journey is also available in reverse for those seeking a different perspective.

This panoramic journey starts in Pretoria and ends in Cape Town, offering both golfing and non-golfing activities. After a game drive in Kruger Park, guests will travel to the Kingdom of eSwatini to experience Swazi heritage, and then to Hluhluwe for game viewing. The journey continues along the coast to Durban for a city tour, then through the Valley of a Thousand Hills to Spionkop Lodge, which provides an ideal base for exploring the mountains, bush, birds, and battlefields of the region. The trip then proceeds to Port Elizabeth for a game drive at Addo Elephant Park, followed by a visit to the natural paradise of Knysna for an overnight stay at Fancourt. The itinerary also includes a transfer through the Outeniqua Mountains to the impressive Cango Caves and an ostrich farm visit. Travelers will then traverse the Karoo, the spectacular winelands, and the Cape mountains before the expedition concludes in Cape Town. This itinerary is also available in reverse.

Embark on an unforgettable safari through the breathtaking northeastern region of South Africa, where every moment promises adventure and discovery. The journey begins in the vibrant city of Pretoria and takes you to the enchanting Sun City nestled in the picturesque Pilanesberg hills, offering a mesmerizing landscape for exhilarating game viewing. As you traverse the majestic Drakensberg Mountains, you’ll arrive at Spionkop, a perfect gateway to a world of natural wonders, including mountains, bushlands, diverse bird species, and historic battlefields waiting to be explored. The scenic route then leads you through the captivating Valley of a Thousand Hills to the vibrant city of Durban, where you can immerse yourself in a tour of the city and its splendid botanical gardens. Delve into the local culture and craftsmanship as you witness artisans meticulously crafting highly decorative and geometric-shaped candles, showcasing their artistry and skill. The adventure continues with immersive game viewing experiences at Hluhluwe in Zululand, one of the country’s oldest reserves, and an awe-inspiring visit to the world-renowned Kruger Park in Malelane, with an enchanting detour to the Kingdom of eSwatini. Before concluding this remarkable journey back in Pretoria, savor a visit to Dullstroom, known for its vibrant arts and crafts scene, and indulge in a captivating presentation on fly fishing followed by an introduction to the world of whisky, adding a delightful touch to your unforgettable expedition.

Starting in Pretoria, descend the spectacular escarpment to the world-famous Kruger Park for a game drive. Explore the Kingdom of eSwatini followed by a game drive in Hluhluwe wildlife reserve and a tour of Durban and its botanical gardens. Traverse the Valley of a Thousand Hills and the imposing Drakensberg Mountains to visit the 1870s mining village of Kimberley, centre of one of the world’s notorious diamond rushes. Continue through the semi-desert region of the Karoo to Upington and the Fish River Canyon, second in size to the Grand Canyon. Cross the untamed beauty of the Kalahari Desert to see the Quiver trees at Garas Park, home to roughly 300 specimens of the Aloe dichotomy. Take a short flight to Sossusvlei for a lodge stay surrounded by the dramatic dunes of the Namib-Naukluft Park. Enjoy desert drives, a bush dinner and breakfast near Deadvlei where camel-thorn trees contrast against the white-clay pan floor. Visit Namibia’s lively capital, Windhoek, and a cheetah conservation project before overnighting in the game-rich Etosha National Park. Leave the vast stillness of the Namib Desert for the wild Atlantic coast and journey’s end, Walvis Bay.

Embark on an awe-inspiring journey that begins with a scenic expedition across the majestic Drakensberg Mountains, leading you to the breathtaking Panorama Route for an unforgettable game viewing experience in Kruger. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Maputo, the capital of Mozambique, before venturing into the picturesque and mountainous Kingdom of eSwatini. Delight in a thrilling game drive at Kapama and gain insight into wildlife conservation at an endangered species center, followed by a visit to the awe-inspiring Great Zimbabwe Monument. Explore the enchanting Antelope Park and the captivating Matobo National Park, a designated World Heritage Site. Your adventure continues with captivating game viewing in Hwange, culminating in a visit to the iconic Victoria Falls for an immersive walking tour of the village and the thunderous falls. Conclude your journey with a serene sunset cruise on the mighty Zambezi River, creating memories to last a lifetime.

Embark on an awe-inspiring expedition that will take you through the captivating landscapes of Zimbabwe, Zambia, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Angola. Your journey begins at the majestic Victoria Falls, where you’ll experience the power and beauty of the Zambezi River and take a leisurely sunset cruise along the Kafue River. Visit the heartwarming elephant sanctuary in Lusaka, where dedicated teams work tirelessly to rescue and rehabilitate orphaned elephants. From there, you’ll fly to South Luangwa National Park in Zambia, immersing yourself in a three-night safari adventure. This park is a haven of diverse topography, with the Muchinga Escarpment framing its western and northwestern edge, and the meandering Luangwa River defining its southern border. Prepare to be captivated by the park’s stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife. Your journey continues with a tour of Lubumbashi in the DRC, where you’ll delve into its rich history, and then follow the historical copper trail, with short walking tours that offer insights into Angola’s recent past. Finally, your expedition culminates in Lobito, where you can reflect on the incredible journey you’ve experienced. This extraordinary expedition is also available in reverse, offering a new perspective on these remarkable destinations.

Embark on an extraordinary journey that commences in the bustling Tanzanian capital of Dar es Salaam, a city with a rich history of welcoming Rovos Rail’s Cape to Dar trip since 1993. The adventure includes an exhilarating game visit in the Selous Reserve, a captivating two-night fly-in safari in the South Luangwa National Park in Zambia, and an immersive city tour of Lubumbashi in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Following these remarkable experiences, the journey continues along the Benguela line, offering insightful short walking tours that delve into Angola’s recent history, culminating in an unforgettable finale in Lobito. This remarkable trip is also available in reverse, providing a unique and enriching experience from a different perspective.