Non-Golfers Itinerary

6:00 AM // Begin your day with a sumptuous breakfast served in the dining cars. Guests can enjoy a delightful array of morning dishes, freshly prepared by the train’s expert chefs.

7:45 AM // Transfer to Sun City. The scenic journey takes approximately 60 minutes, bringing you to one of South Africa’s premier resort destinations.

9:00 AM // Embark on an exhilarating game drive in the Pilanesberg Reserve. Nestled within an ancient volcanic crater, this reserve is home to the Big Five and offers breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife. Experienced guides will lead you through the reserve, providing insights into the flora and fauna.

12:00 PM // Rejoin the golfers for a delightful lunch at Sun City’s Lost City. Enjoy a variety of gourmet dishes while sharing stories of the morning’s adventures.

Afternoon // The afternoon is at your leisure to explore Sun City. Whether you choose to relax by the pool, indulge in a spa treatment, or explore the resort’s many attractions, Sun City offers something for everyone. Visit the Valley of Waves, try your luck at the casino, or stroll through the lush gardens.

5:30 PM // Return to the train. Guests can relax in their suites or gather in the lounge car to unwind after a day of exploration.

8:00 PM // Dinner is served in the dining cars. This formal dining event invites guests to dress in their finest attire, adding an air of sophistication to the evening. Enjoy a multi-course gourmet meal, expertly crafted by the train’s chefs, while the train continues its journey through the scenic South African landscape.

Golfers Itinerary

6:00 AM // Start your day with a hearty breakfast served in the dining cars. Prepare for a day of exceptional golfing.

7:45 AM // Transfer to Sun City’s renowned Gary Player Golf Course or Lost City Golf Course. Both courses offer challenging layouts and stunning scenery, perfect for a day of top-tier golfing.

9:00 AM // Tee off and enjoy a morning on the greens. These championship courses are known for their impeccable design and beautiful surroundings, offering an unforgettable golfing experience.

12:00 PM // Lunch is served at the golf course, providing a relaxing break with a selection of delicious meals. Join the non-golfers for a shared meal and some leisurely conversation.

Afternoon // Continue your golfing adventure or take advantage of Sun City’s luxurious amenities. Whether you choose to complete your round or enjoy the resort’s facilities, the afternoon promises relaxation and enjoyment.

5:30 PM // Return to the train. Freshen up in your suite or relax in the observation car as you recount the day’s highlights with fellow passengers.

8:00 PM // Dinner is served in the dining cars. Dress formally for this elegant dining experience, featuring a multi-course meal that showcases the culinary excellence of Rovos Rail’s chefs. Enjoy a sophisticated evening as the train makes its way to the next destination.

Spend a relaxing day aboard the Rovos Rail, enjoying the luxurious amenities and breathtaking views as the train journeys towards Ladysmith. All meals will be served on board, allowing you to indulge in gourmet cuisine throughout the day. The dress code for the day is “Africa” Theme or Smart Casual, adding a touch of fun and elegance to your experience.

As the train makes its way through the stunning South African landscape, it climbs to Majuba Hill, the historic site of the decisive battle that ended the First Anglo Boer War. This significant location offers a glimpse into South Africa’s rich history and the pivotal events that shaped the nation.

Continuing the journey, the train passes through Newcastle, home to what is reputed to be the largest cella-dome Hindu temple in the southern hemisphere. This architectural marvel is a testament to the diverse cultural heritage of the region and adds an intriguing element to the scenic journey.

The train also travels through Glencoe, the site of the first battle of the Anglo Boer War. Today, Glencoe is the center of the province’s coalfields, reflecting the area’s industrial significance. The combination of historical sites and natural beauty creates a captivating backdrop for your leisurely day on board.

Throughout the day, guests can enjoy the elegant lounge and observation cars, offering panoramic views and comfortable settings to relax and socialize. Whether you choose to read a book, sip on a refreshing drink, or simply watch the world go by, the Rovos Rail provides a serene and luxurious environment for a day of leisure.

In the evening, savor a delicious dinner served in the dining cars, capping off a day of relaxation and scenic exploration.

Non-Golfers Itinerary

6:00 AM // Start your day with a sumptuous breakfast served in the dining cars, offering a delightful selection of morning dishes to energize you for the day’s activities.

9:00 AM // Transfer to Spionkop Lodge for a morning of historical exploration. Hear the riveting tale of the Battle of Spionkop, a significant event in the Anglo-Boer War, and walk in the footsteps of historical figures such as Winston Churchill and Mahatma Gandhi, who both played roles in this momentous battle.

12:45 PM // Enjoy a delicious lunch at the lodge, savoring the flavors of a well-prepared meal in a serene and picturesque setting.

2:00 PM // Choose between an afternoon game drive, where you can explore the local wildlife and stunning landscapes, or relax at the lodge, taking in the tranquil surroundings and amenities.

4:30 PM // Return to the train for tea in the lounge and observation cars. Enjoy a variety of teas and pastries while taking in the scenic views and socializing with fellow travelers.

7:30 PM // Dinner is served in the dining cars, providing a gourmet culinary experience to conclude the day. Relish in the elegance of the dining atmosphere as you reflect on the day’s adventures.

Golfers Itinerary

6:00 AM // Begin your day with a hearty breakfast served in the dining cars, preparing you for a day on the greens.

7:00 AM // Transfer to Champagne Sports Resort for a morning tee-off. This renowned golf course offers a challenging and picturesque setting for an enjoyable round of golf.

12:00 PM // Enjoy lunch at the resort, where you can relax and refuel with a delicious meal, surrounded by the beauty of the resort’s landscape.

5:00 PM // Return to the train after a fulfilling day of golfing and leisure.

7:30 PM // Dinner is served in the dining cars. Shortly after Chieveley, on the right side of the track, you will see a memorial to Winston Churchill, who was captured here in November 1899 while trying to free an armored train trapped by a Boer ambush. This historical marker adds a touch of significance to your journey, enriching the evening with a sense of history.

Enjoy the sophisticated ambiance and exquisite cuisine as the train continues its scenic journey through South Africa.

Non-Golfers Itinerary

6:00 AM // Begin your day with a delightful breakfast served in the dining cars, featuring a variety of freshly prepared morning dishes to start your day right.

9:00 AM // Embark on an exciting Durban city tour. Explore the vibrant city, visit the beautiful botanical gardens, and enjoy lunch at Umhlanga’s picturesque beachfront. Durban, the third largest city in South Africa, is renowned for its significant industry and its expansive, busy port.

2:15 PM // As the train departs, traverse the stunning Valley of a Thousand Hills, offering breathtaking views of rolling hills and lush landscapes.

4:30 PM // Return to the train for tea in the lounge and observation cars. Enjoy a selection of teas and pastries while relaxing and taking in the scenic surroundings.

7:30 PM // Dinner is served in the dining cars as the train makes its way to Hluhluwe. The evening meal is a formal affair, inviting guests to dress in their finest attire. Savor the exquisite multi-course meal and the elegant dining atmosphere.

Golfers Itinerary

5:30 AM // Start your day with a hearty breakfast served in the dining cars, providing the energy needed for a day on the greens.

7:00 AM // Transfer to one of Durban’s premier golf courses: Durban Country Club, Beachwood, or Zimbali. Each course offers a unique and challenging experience, set against the backdrop of Durban’s beautiful landscapes.

12:00 PM // Enjoy lunch at the golf course, providing a relaxing break and a chance to refuel with delicious food amidst scenic surroundings.

3:30 PM // Return to the train after a fulfilling day of golf and leisure.

4:30 PM // Tea is served in the lounge and observation cars. Unwind with a variety of teas and pastries, while sharing stories of the day’s activities with fellow travelers.

7:30 PM // Dinner is served in the dining cars as the train travels en route to Hluhluwe. This formal dining experience features gourmet cuisine and a sophisticated ambiance, perfect for concluding a day of adventure and relaxation. Enjoy the elegant setting and the culinary delights prepared by the train’s expert chefs.

5:00 AM – 6:00 AM // Begin your day with a continental breakfast served in the dining cars. Enjoy a selection of pastries, fruits, and beverages to energize you for the day’s adventures.

6:00 AM // Transfer to Hluhluwe for a game drive. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes. Hluhluwe, the oldest proclaimed reserve in Africa, spans 960 square kilometers of hilly terrain and is renowned for its rich wildlife and dedicated conservation efforts. Experience close encounters with a variety of animals, including the Big Five, in their natural habitat.

10:30 AM // Return to the train, where you can freshen up and relax in your luxurious suite or mingle with fellow travelers in the lounge and observation cars.

12:00 PM // Lunch is served in the dining cars. Savor a gourmet meal as the train travels toward eSwatini. During this leg of the journey, you will pass through scenic landscapes and picturesque vistas. Border formalities will take place as the train enters eSwatini, ensuring a smooth transition into this beautiful kingdom.

4:30 PM // Enjoy afternoon tea in the lounge and observation cars. This delightful interlude offers a variety of teas and pastries while you relax and take in the breathtaking scenery from the comfort of the train.

7:30 PM // Dinner is served in the dining cars as the train continues its journey to Mpaka. This formal dining experience invites guests to dress in their finest attire, adding an element of sophistication to the evening. Enjoy a multi-course gourmet meal prepared by the train’s expert chefs, accompanied by the elegant ambiance of the dining cars.

Non-Golfers Itinerary

6:00 AM // Begin your day with a delightful breakfast served in the dining cars. Enjoy a variety of freshly prepared morning dishes to energize you for the day’s activities.

7:00 AM // Transfer to Mkhaya Reserve, where you will board game vehicles for an exciting game drive. Explore the reserve’s diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes, offering a unique opportunity to observe animals in their natural habitat.

10:00 AM // Transfer to Swazi Candles for a visit and lunch. The tiny Kingdom of eSwatini (Swaziland) covers only 17,000 square kilometers, most of which is mountainous. Despite its small size, eSwatini sustains two capital cities: Mbabane, the administrative capital, and Lobamba, the royal and legislative capital. In April 2018, Swaziland changed its name to the Kingdom of eSwatini, meaning “place of the Swazi.” It is an absolute monarchy, landlocked, and bordered by South Africa and Mozambique. At Swazi Candles, guests can interact with artisans as they create a variety of candles. The site also features woodcarvings, colorful textiles, and superb basketwork.

Lunch // Enjoy a meal at Mantenga Lodge, nestled in the mountains overlooking ‘Execution Rock.’ The lodge is part of a living museum of old traditions that represent a classic Swazi lifestyle from the 1850s.

4:30 PM // Return to the train for afternoon tea in the lounge and observation cars. Relax with a selection of teas and pastries while taking in the scenic views.

6:00 PM // The train departs for Komatipoort, South Africa. During this time, border formalities will take place, ensuring a smooth transition.

7:30 PM // Dinner is served in the dining cars as the train travels towards Malelane. Enjoy a formal dining experience with a multi-course gourmet meal prepared by the train’s expert chefs.

Golfers Itinerary

6:00 AM // Start your day with a hearty breakfast served in the dining cars, providing the energy needed for a day of golfing.

7:00 AM // Transfer to the Royal Swazi Sun for a morning tee-off. This renowned golf course offers a challenging and picturesque setting for an enjoyable round of golf.

12:00 PM // Enjoy lunch at the Royal Swazi Sun, where you can relax and refuel with a delicious meal amidst scenic surroundings.

4:00 PM // Return to the train after a fulfilling day of golf and leisure.

6:00 PM // The train departs for Komatipoort, South Africa. Border formalities will take place during the journey.

7:30 PM // Dinner is served in the dining cars en route to Malelane. This formal dining experience includes gourmet cuisine and a sophisticated ambiance, perfect for concluding a day of adventure and relaxation. Enjoy the elegant setting and the culinary delights prepared by the train’s expert chefs.

If available, golf at Leopard Creek can be booked on request at your own expense.

5:30 AM // Start your day with a sumptuous breakfast served in the dining cars. If you are golfing at Leopard Creek, breakfast will be available until your departure.

6:30 AM // For those opting for the game drive, embark on an exciting adventure in Kruger National Park. This world-renowned park spans 2 million hectares and is a leader in environmental management. During the drive, enjoy tea and lunch, and take advantage of an opportunity for curio shopping. Kruger Park is home to an astounding variety of species, including 336 species of trees, 49 species of fish, 34 species of amphibians, 114 species of reptiles, 507 species of birds, and 147 species of mammals, including the iconic Big Five.

3:00 PM // Return to the train, where you can relax and freshen up after your thrilling wildlife experience.

4:30 PM // Enjoy a relaxing afternoon tea served in the lounge and observation cars. As the train travels west, it crosses the magnificent Drakensberg Mountains and ascends the spectacular escarpment. This journey offers breathtaking views of the rugged peaks, known as ‘Dragon Mountain’ or Drakensberg in Afrikaans, due to their dragon spine-like appearance.

7:30 PM // Dinner is served in the dining cars. Dress formally for this elegant dining experience, featuring a multi-course gourmet meal prepared by the train’s expert chefs. Enjoy the sophisticated ambiance as you savor exquisite dishes, reflecting on the day’s adventures and the scenic beauty experienced along the journey.

Non-Golfers Itinerary

7:00 AM // Begin your day with a delightful breakfast served in the dining cars. Enjoy a variety of freshly prepared morning dishes to energize you for the day’s activities.

8:30 AM // Attend an engaging presentation on fly fishing, where you will learn about the techniques and nuances of this serene and skillful sport.

12:00 PM // Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Walkerson’s Hotel. Nestled in the picturesque countryside, the hotel offers a tranquil setting and gourmet cuisine that complements the morning’s activities.

3:00 PM // Return to Dullstroom for an afternoon of cultural exploration. Start with an introduction to whisky distilling, where you will learn about the intricate process of creating this beloved spirit. This is followed by a tour of the Dullstroom Arts & Crafts Centre, showcasing a variety of local artworks and handcrafted items, providing insight into the region’s rich artistic heritage.

7:30 PM // Dinner is served in the dining cars. The evening’s dress code is “1920s” Theme or Smart Casual, adding an element of fun and sophistication to the experience. Indulge in a multi-course gourmet meal prepared by the train’s expert chefs, enjoying the elegant ambiance and lively conversation with fellow travelers.

Golfers Itinerary

7:00 AM // Start your day with a delightful breakfast served in the dining cars, offering a variety of freshly prepared morning dishes to energize you for the day’s golfing adventure.

8:45 AM // Transfer to Highland Gate Golf Course, a scenic 40-minute drive from the train. Nestled in the breathtaking Mpumalanga highlands, Highland Gate is renowned for its challenging layout and stunning vistas.

10:00 AM // Tee off and enjoy a round of golf at one of South Africa’s premier courses. The rolling fairways and meticulously maintained greens offer a fantastic golfing experience amidst the natural beauty of the region.

12:30 PM // Break for a leisurely lunch at the clubhouse. Savor a delicious meal while taking in the panoramic views of the highlands, and perhaps discuss the morning’s game with fellow golfers.

4:00 PM // Return to the train after a fulfilling day on the greens. Freshen up in your suite or relax in the observation car, enjoying the comfort and luxury that Rovos Rail is known for.

4:30 PM // Afternoon tea is served in the lounge and observation cars. Indulge in a selection of teas and pastries while sharing stories from the day’s golfing activities and taking in the scenic landscapes as the train continues its journey.

7:30 PM // Dinner is served in the dining cars. The evening’s dress code is “1920s” Theme or Smart Casual, adding a touch of elegance and fun to the dining experience. Enjoy a multi-course gourmet meal prepared by the train’s expert chefs, capping off a perfect day with sophisticated cuisine and delightful company.

Please ensure your luggage is ready for collection 15 minutes before arrival and have your passport readily accessible for any necessary checks.

7:00 AM // Begin your final morning aboard the Rovos Rail with a sumptuous breakfast served in the elegant dining cars. Enjoy a delightful selection of freshly prepared morning dishes, savoring the last moments of your luxurious journey while taking in the scenic views.

10:00 AM // The train arrives at its journey’s end at the historic Rovos Rail Station in Pretoria. As you disembark, you’ll be greeted by the station’s classic architecture and timeless charm, marking the conclusion of your extraordinary adventure. This beautifully restored station reflects the rich heritage and elegance of Rovos Rail, providing a fitting end to your unforgettable journey.