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Rovos Rail
Since its first venture on the tracks in April 1989, Rovos Rail has delivered a service of unparalleled luxury across South and Southern Africa. Its magnificently restored carriages and engines are interwoven with the history and memories of the Vos family, who started the business as a way to preserve the magic of the classic rail journey. Travelling from its home in Pretoria to destinations as spectacular as Victoria Falls, Namibia and Angola, Rovos Rail has earned an international reputation for world-class journeys in the heart of Southern Africa.
Rovos Rail owns one of the biggest private collections of vintage train cabins in the world. All are remodelled with the Rovos classic look in mind, to evoke the original feel of early 20th-century train travel. The Classic and Edwardian trains are equipped with pre-1940 dining cars, resplendent in polished dark wood with grand interior arches and pillars. The train's superbly appointed suites are spread across no more than 20 coaches, all of which have been lovingly rebuilt in a traditional Edwardian style. The result is a timeless collection of train carriages designed to offer guests a truly special experience.
And, of course, the setting for each journey is just as extraordinary. Whether heading out on safari or tasting your way across the winelands, Rovos Rail offers the chance to uncover the very best Southern Africa has to offer. Visit the mighty Victoria Falls, play golf on world-class courses or see the endless apricot deserts of Namibia – wherever you go, it’s sure to be inspiring.
In keeping with the atmosphere of a bygone era, there are no radios or television sets on board Rovos Rail, and the use of mobile phones is confined to the privacy of your suite. The result is sparkling conversation and more attention on the journey itself. A walk through the train reveals elegant lounge and dining cars staffed by the attentive Rovos team, ready and waiting to pour you a glass of South African wine or bring you a cup of hot coffee. Throughout your journey, you’ll have plenty of chances to relax in these spaces, surrounded by plush furnishings and classic décor as the African countryside passes you by.
Meals are served in the dining cars, showcasing a menu of fresh local ingredients and traditional speciality dishes, expertly paired with fine wines. Preparing for dinner each evening is a special time; you’ll retire to your cabin to freshen up and change into your formal attire feeling as though you've travelled back in time. Dressed to the nines in your tuxedo or cocktail dress, you’ll enjoy a multi-course feast before making the most of the onboard bar service as night falls.
The Edwardian elegance of the dining car
Watch the world go by from the Observation Car
The Pullman Suites, all dark wood panelling and tasteful furnishings, offer a plush seating area during the day that converts to double or twin beds each evening. You’ll have air-conditioning, a writing desk and a safe for your valuables, while the convenient en suite bathrooms include a shower, hair dryer and shaver plugs. There’s also room service, 24 hours a day.
The upgraded Deluxe Suites accommodate two passengers in either twin or double beds, with a separate lounge seating area and en suite bathroom with shower. These elegant wood-panelled cabins offer every modern convenience and comfort, including air-conditioning, and with no need to convert your cabin before bed, you’ll feel right at home at any time of day. The Deluxe Suites also feature a bar fridge filled with beverages of your choice and 24-hour room service as standard.
For the ultimate in luxury, upgrade to one of the signature Rovos Rail Royal Suites. Comprised of half a carriage, each spacious Royal Suite features a private lounge area and full bathroom with a Victorian bathtub and separate shower. Side-by-side twin beds or a roomy double maximise your comfort levels during your stay, while elegant Edwardian features and sumptuous soft furnishings recall the decadence of a bygone era. As with the other suites, 24-hour room service is available, and you’ll enjoy the convenience of a bar fridge stocked with drinks of your choice.
For the most luxurious experience on your Rovos Rail journey we recommend you spoil yourself with a Royal Suite – you'll enjoy more room in which to relax and of course, a bath tub for soaking in, which could be incentive enough.
The classic style of a Pullman Suite
Spacious luxury: the Deluxe Suite
The ultimate luxury experience – the Royal Suite
There are many reasons why Rovos Rail is regarded as one of the world's finest luxury train journeys. Explore Southern Africa's most spectacular landscapes, from Cape Town and the Winelands to Kruger safaris, Victoria Falls and Namibia, enjoying vintage elegance, exceptional dining, extraordinary wildlife encounters and unforgettable experiences along the way.
Rovos Rail's routes explore the very best of Southern Africa, from Cape Town and Pretoria to Victoria Falls and Namibia, offering spectacular scenery, wildlife encounters, cultural highlights and world-class luxury rail travel.
One of the most popular Rovos Rail train journeys, this four-day adventure travels through the changing landscapes of Zimbabwe and northern South Africa. Departing from the majestic Victoria Falls – Africa's largest waterfall – guests will enjoy a visit to Hwange National Park, renowned for its exceptional wildlife viewing and vast elephant herds, before arriving in South Africa's administrative capital. Combining luxury rail travel, safari experiences and one of the world's greatest natural wonders, this route is ideal for first-time visitors to Southern Africa.
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Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Arguably the most iconic Rovos Rail South Africa route, this three-night journey links two of the country's most celebrated destinations. Departing from cosmopolitan Cape Town, the train winds through the famous Cape Winelands, crosses the dramatic semi-desert landscapes of the Great Karoo and stops at the beautifully preserved Victorian village of Matjiesfontein. Rich in history, culture and scenery, it offers an unforgettable introduction to South Africa's remarkable diversity.
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Cape Town
Covering roughly 2,500 kilometers across four countries, the Southern Cross journey is a spectacular exploration of Southern Africa, combining luxury rail travel with exceptional wildlife encounters, cultural experiences and historic landmarks. Travelling through South Africa, Eswatini, Mozambique and Zimbabwe, guests can enjoy game drives in renowned reserves, discover fascinating local heritage and experience constantly changing scenery from the comfort of the train. It is one of the most varied Rovos Rail tours, offering a comprehensive taste of the region.
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Elephants in Kruger National Park
Travelling from Pretoria to Walvis Bay on Namibia's Atlantic coast, this extraordinary journey showcases some of Africa's most breathtaking and remote landscapes. Guests pass through rugged mountain ranges, wide-open desert plains and dramatic canyon scenery while enjoying exclusive excursions along the route. From the red sands of the Namib Desert to the haunting beauty of Namibia's wilderness, this is one of Rovos Rail's most scenic and adventurous rail experiences.
Cape fur seals at Walvis Bay, Namibia
The African Trilogy is among Rovos Rail's most ambitious and rewarding journeys, taking travellers across multiple countries and a remarkable range of landscapes. From the Cape Winelands and South African bushveld to the deserts of Namibia and the natural wonders of Zimbabwe, the route showcases the very best of Southern Africa. With diverse cultures, iconic wildlife, dramatic scenery and the timeless elegance of Rovos Rail throughout, this is the ultimate luxury rail expedition for those seeking a truly immersive African adventure.
Etosha National Park, Namibia
Rovos Rail prices vary depending on the route, duration, season and cabin category selected. Shorter journeys such as Pretoria to Victoria Falls typically cost less than extended itineraries like the African Trilogy or Namibia Safari. Our tailor-made Rovos Rail packages can also include luxury hotels, safaris and private transfers, allowing you to create the perfect holiday around your rail journey.
For many travellers, the Deluxe Suite offers the ideal balance between space and value. The larger cabin includes a separate seating area and ensuite bathroom, providing additional comfort during longer journeys.
Royal Suite pricing varies by departure and route. Since the Royal Suite occupies around half a carriage and includes a private lounge area and Victorian bathtub, it represents Rovos Rail's most luxurious accommodation category. Our specialists can provide up-to-date Royal Suite quotations and available offers.
Booking through The Luxury Holiday Company gives you access to expert advice, tailor-made itineraries and financial protection. We handle every aspect of the reservation process, including accommodation, flights, transfers and rail bookings.
Rovos Rail operates throughout the year. May to September offers cooler temperatures and excellent wildlife viewing while October to April brings greener scenery and dramatic summer skies. Victoria Falls is particularly impressive after the rainy season.
Yes. Rovos Rail trips include carefully selected excursions, which may involve game drives, guided tours, cultural experiences and visits to famous landmarks.
Essentials include:
Yes. Our team manages all paperwork and travel documentation for your holiday, ensuring everything is provided before departure.
Gratuities are entirely optional and left to your discretion. If you would like to recognise the exceptional service provided by the onboard team, you can place a contribution in the gratuity envelope provided in your suite and hand it to the Train Manager, who distributes it fairly amongst the staff. As a guide, many guests choose to tip between ZAR100 and ZAR200 per person, per night, depending on the length of the journey.
Dining is one of the highlights of the Rovos Rail experience. Meals are served in elegant Victorian-style dining cars, where guests enjoy carefully prepared cuisine paired with a selection of fine South African wines. Breakfast is typically served between 7:00am and 10:00am, followed by lunch, afternoon tea and a formal dinner service in the evening. A traditional gong announces lunch and dinner, adding to the nostalgic atmosphere of luxury rail travel.
Yes. Rovos Rail can accommodate most dietary requirements when these are advised in advance. Simply let us know your needs when booking and we'll ensure they are communicated to the train operator. While the onboard chefs will always do their best to accommodate requests, some highly specialised dietary requirements or meals requiring strict religious preparation may be more difficult to provide.
Daytime attire on Rovos Rail is smart casual and comfortable. For evening dining, the atmosphere is more formal, with gentlemen typically wearing a jacket and tie, while ladies often choose cocktail dresses, elegant separates or evening wear. For off-train excursions, we recommend comfortable walking shoes, a hat and sun protection. If your itinerary includes a safari, layered clothing is advisable as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day.
Part of the charm of Rovos Rail is its focus on disconnecting from modern distractions and embracing the journey itself. There are no televisions or radios onboard, and guests are asked to use mobile phones, laptops and other devices only within the privacy of their suites. Mobile reception can be limited while travelling through remote areas, and onboard Wi-Fi is generally not available. Internet access is typically available at selected stations, hotels and lodges included within many itineraries.
Yes. All Rovos Rail suites and public areas are fully air-conditioned for year-round comfort. Each suite has its own temperature controls, allowing guests to adjust cooling or heating to their preference. Windows can also be opened to enjoy fresh air and views of the passing scenery, while electric blankets are provided during cooler months for additional comfort.
Observation car aboard Rovos Rail
Rovos Rail passing Victoria Falls
A journey aboard Rovos Rail is much more than a train trip. From luxury safaris and Cape Town escapes to Victoria Falls adventures and tailor-made Southern Africa itineraries, we'll create a seamless holiday designed around your interests.
Our specialists have first-hand destination knowledge and extensive experience planning luxury rail journeys across Africa, ensuring every detail is expertly arranged.
"Having travelled on Rovos Rail myself, what stands out most is how effortlessly the journey combines old-world elegance with extraordinary African experiences. Our first-hand knowledge allows us to recommend the right route, cabin category and safari extensions to ensure every itinerary is perfectly tailored for our clients."
Alison Nicole, Africa Specialist
