Since its establishment in 1989, Rovos Rail has earned a reputation for its world class travel experiences and arguably delivers the most luxurious train in the world today. Recapturing the romance of African travel from a bygone era, the trains are hauled by steam, diesel or electric locomotives at various stages of your journey.

Step aboard the wood panelled Edwardian coaches that have, over the years, been painstakingly rebuilt using only the finest of materials and finishes creating truly elegant interiors. Two extremely comfortable 42 seater dining cars accommodate the full complement of 72 guests in one sitting. Formal wear is expected in the evening with gentlemen wearing jacket and tie. During the day dress is smart casual. Each train has a non-smoking Observation Car at the rear of the train, while the coach next to it contains a small smoking lounge. A unique feature of the Observation Cars is the enlarged windows and open-air balconies.

The rebuilt sleeper coaches contain the most spacious train suites we’ve seen, offering every modern convenience and comfort. The epitome of luxury, with handsome wood panelling and period Edwardian features, the air-conditioned suites accommodate two people offering the option of twin or spacious double beds. All are equipped with a writing desk and minibar. In the en suite bathrooms original fittings combine with the modern technology of hot showers, hairdryers and shaver plugs. The Royal Suites, each of which consume half a carriage, are spacious and elegant. Each has its own private lounge area and full bathroom with Victorian bath and separate shower. The Deluxe suites also accommodate two passengers in either twin or double beds and have a lounge area and en suite bathroom with shower. A third level of accommodation, the Pullman suite offers similar en suite facilities with bunk beds for twin occupancy or a double bed. During the day it will be converted to a seating coach. Rovos Rail offers an excellent range of scheduled journeys and annual trips throughout Africa, with a choice of three classes of cabin.


CAPE TOWN TO PRETORIA
Experience the beauty of South Africa in 1000 miles. This popular route is a two night journey through the grasslands of the gold-rich Highveld, the vast Great Karoo, spectacular mountains and charming Winelands. Watch the diverse landscapes pass by from the enlarged windows and open balconies of the glorious Observation Car. Enjoy a refreshing drink at leisure from this prime viewing point before dining on fresh, local cuisine in an elegant pre-1940 Dining Car. Stop to visit a traditional village and the Kimberley ‘Big Hole’ diamond mine. This route also operates in reverse from Pretoria to Cape Town.

PRETORIA TO VICTORIA FALLS
A real highlight awaits at the start of your journey - even before you board the magnificent train. Trains depart from Capital Park Station in Pretoria, a grand colonial-style station that was once the bustling hub of steam locomotion in the province. Take time to visit the small museum and busy roofed workshop before boarding the elegant wood-panelled coaches. On board, cross the Tropic of Capricorn, the dry reaches of Botswana and travel through game-rich Hwange Game Reserve as you follow an historic and diverse route to the mighty Victoria Falls on the Zambezi River. This route also operates in reverse from Victoria Falls to Pretoria.

PRETORIA TO DURBAN
Combine luxury travel with a region of incredible biodiversity on this two night adventure. Experience a Big Five private bush retreat at the Nambiti Conservancy in KwaZulu-Natal and embark on a thrilling game drive, then visit SpionKop Lodge situated on an expansive game farm. An excursion to an African ceramics centre provides the opportunity to learn about Zulu culture, and take a tour of the battlefields with a world class historian. After enlightening days, swap stories in the sociable Lounge Car before retiring to your private, spacious suite. This route also operates in reverse from Durban to Pretoria. Annual journeys include: Cape Town to Dar es Salaam; Pretoria to Swakopmund; Pretoria to Cape Town via Malalane, Durban, Bloemfontein, Port Elizabeth and George; and a golf safari from Pretoria to Phalaborwa, Hluhluwe, Durban, Ladysmith and Sun City.


MEAL PLAN
All meals on board the train are included, plus scheduled sightseeing activities.

TRAVEL TIPS
All meals are served in one sitting only in the charming Victorian atmosphere of the Dining Cars. Many of the passengers enjoy the formality of fine china, crisp linen and silver, and dress accordingly. During the day dress is more casual, with cool, comfortable clothes and hats recommended for the excursions, especially in the game reserves where it can be very hot.