Rovos Rail

Since its establishment in 1989, Rovos Rail has crafted a stellar reputation for offering exceptional travel experiences. Rovos Rail captures the timeless grace and high romance of African exploration, ensuring a journey that resonates with those who cherish a sense of refinement.

Step onto the vintage wood-panelled coaches, settle into a comfortable seat, and let the picturesque landscapes unfold beyond your window. Immerse yourself in the nostalgia of a bygone era, where discreet and friendly service, exquisite cuisine, and a selection of South Africa's finest wines create an ambiance reminiscent of a simpler, more elegant time.

These beautifully restored trains, pulled by either diesel or electric locomotives, accommodate a maximum of 72 passengers in 36 meticulously appointed suites. It's an invitation to step back in time, relish in the journey, and savour the sophisticated allure of African travel.

Accommodation | Dining on Board | Route | Journeys

Luxury Accommodation onboard Rovos Rail trains

Pullman Cabins

Pullman cabins offer a cozy retreat for one or two passengers. Each suite features an en-suite bathroom complete with a shower, toilet, and basin, ensuring convenience and comfort. By day, relax on the comfortable sofa-seat, which easily converts to either a double or twin beds for a restful evening-choose side-by-side or upper and lower bunks for your preference.

Rest assured, a dedicated host or hostess is always at your service, attending to your needs and ensuring your suite is impeccably serviced every day.

Deluxe Suites

The Deluxe Suites offer a splendid haven for one or two passengers, featuring the choice of a comfortable double or twin beds. These suites are thoughtfully designed with a private lounge area, creating a cozy retreat for relaxation. The en-suite bathroom, complete with a shower, toilet, and basin, adds a touch of convenience and luxury.

Rest easy knowing a dedicated host or hostess is available around the clock, ensuring your suite is meticulously serviced each day. For your enjoyment, a bar fridge is stocked with a selection of onboard beverages, tailored to your personal taste.

Dining & the Onboard Experience

In our charming dining cars, you'll find an array of two-seaters and four-seaters, fostering a wonderful atmosphere for both shared meals and private dining experiences. Meanwhile, our lounge and observation cars, adorned with expansive picture windows, sofas, and cozy booths, offer perfect spaces for mingling or finding a quiet corner to unwind.

Many of our passengers appreciate the elegance of fine china, crystal glassware, and the touch of crisp linen and silver. As a nod to this sophistication, attire during the day leans towards smart casual, while evenings take on a more formal note. During extended journeys, we add a touch of flair with themed evenings, giving our guests the option to dress up accordingly or embrace a smart casual elegance.

A dedicated team of chefs takes pride in curating a culinary experience that caters to your every need. With a focus on fresh local ingredients, our chefs specialize in traditional dishes, adding a delicious touch of familiarity to your journey. Meals are served in a single sitting in the dining cars, complemented by a selection of exquisite South African wines. It's an immersive dining experience designed to delight the senses of our discerning travelers.

Rovos Rail Route

Embark on an extraordinary journey with Rovos Rail, where carefully crafted itineraries, ranging from 3 to 15 nights, connect you with some of Africa's most breathtaking destinations. Starting from the iconic Cape Town, you'll traverse the Cape Winelands, journey through the Karoo, and explore the Kimberley Diamond Mines before reaching Pretoria.

For those seeking northern adventures, the route extends from Pretoria into Zimbabwe, offering a captivating experience along the edge of the Kalahari basin. Enjoy game drives in Hwange and Matobo National Parks, culminating in the awe-inspiring sight of the majestic Victoria Falls.

Opt for a once-in-a-lifetime journey from Namibia's Walvis Bay, venturing through Etosha National Park, a Cheetah conservation project, and desert drives in Sossusvlei, ultimately arriving in Pretoria.

Or, for the ultimate adventure, embark on an epic 3,500-mile odyssey across the African continent. Starting in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, you'll traverse Zambia, pass by the breathtaking Victoria Falls, journey through Zimbabwe, explore Botswana and the Kalahari, before finally arriving in the vibrant city of Cape Town. It's an adventure of a lifetime, tailor-made for those seeking the grandeur and diversity of Africa.