Embark on an unforgettable five-day journey aboard Rovos Rail, travelling in luxury through some of Southern Africa’s most captivating landscapes. Your adventure begins at the iconic Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, before heading south through Zimbabwe. Along the way, explore Hwange and Matobo National Parks, renowned for their abundant wildlife and ancient rock art. Cross the Tropic of Capricorn and continue into South Africa, where your extraordinary journey concludes in Pretoria, the country’s gracious administrative capital.
Situated in western Zimbabwe, the Hwange National Park is the country's biggest reserve, home to a profusion of wildlife, including giraffe, lion, zebra and approximately...
Idyllically located in the spectacular Matobo Hills, the renowned Matobo National Park is known for its rich human history, its remarkably diverse flora and fauna...
Bordering Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Botswana, the Limpopo Province is South Africa’s northernmost province renowned for its quintessentially African vistas. This region is known for its...
5:00 PM – Departure from Victoria Falls
The Rovos Rail departs Victoria Falls Station, marking the beginning of an extraordinary journey. Settle into your luxurious suite and take some time to freshen up before joining fellow travelers in the elegant lounge car or the observation car. Both offer panoramic views and a refined setting to relax, mingle, and admire the scenic landscapes as the train makes its way south....
5:00 PM – Departure from Victoria Falls
The Rovos Rail departs Victoria Falls Station, marking the beginning of an extraordinary journey. Settle into your luxurious suite and take some time to freshen up before joining fellow travelers in the elegant lounge car or the observation car. Both offer panoramic views and a refined setting to relax, mingle, and admire the scenic landscapes as the train makes its way south.
7:30 PM – Dinner
A formal multi-course dinner is served in the dining cars as the train travels toward Malindi. Dress: Formal. Prepared by the train’s expert chefs, the evening menu highlights the finest regional flavors paired with carefully selected wines. The rich décor, attentive service, and gentle rhythm of the train create an atmosphere of timeless elegance, making for a memorable first night aboard Rovos Rail.
5:00 AM – Continental Breakfast
A light continental breakfast is served in the dining cars, featuring freshly baked pastries, fruits, and hot beverages. This refreshing start to the day sets the tone for the exciting adventure ahead....
5:00 AM – Continental Breakfast
A light continental breakfast is served in the dining cars, featuring freshly baked pastries, fruits, and hot beverages. This refreshing start to the day sets the tone for the exciting adventure ahead.
6:00 AM – Game Drive in Hwange National Park
Disembark for an early morning game drive in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe’s largest reserve, covering over 1.4 million hectares. This safari offers prime viewing conditions to spot elephants, lions, buffalo, and a wide variety of birdlife as the park awakens with the sunrise. With its diverse habitats and rich wildlife, Hwange is one of Southern Africa’s most celebrated safari destinations.
12:00 PM – Lunch
Return to the train for a gourmet lunch in the dining cars. As you dine, the journey continues along one of the world’s longest straight stretches of railway, extending 114 kilometers. The train then approaches Bulawayo, Zimbabwe’s second-largest city and the capital of Matabeleland, an industrial hub steeped in history and culture.
4:30 PM – Afternoon Tea
Tea is served in the lounge and observation cars, offering a relaxed interlude with a selection of fine teas and freshly baked treats. Enjoy the elegant atmosphere while watching the diverse Zimbabwean landscapes glide by.
7:30 PM – Dinner
A formal dinner is served in the dining cars. Dress: Formal. Savor a multi-course menu crafted by Rovos Rail’s chefs, paired with fine South African wines. The refined setting, enhanced by the soft rhythm of the train, provides a sophisticated and memorable close to a day of remarkable wildlife encounters and scenic travel.
6:00 AM – Breakfast
Begin your day with breakfast in the elegant dining cars, served until departure. Enjoy a delightful spread of freshly baked pastries, fruits, cereals, and hot dishes in a refined setting that perfectly complements the gentle rhythm of the train....
6:00 AM – Breakfast
Begin your day with breakfast in the elegant dining cars, served until departure. Enjoy a delightful spread of freshly baked pastries, fruits, cereals, and hot dishes in a refined setting that perfectly complements the gentle rhythm of the train.
8:00 AM – Excursion to Matobo National Park
Transfer for an approximately 45-minute drive to Matobo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its dramatic granite outcrops and rich cultural history. Explore ancient San rock art in the park’s caves, offering a window into Africa’s earliest human heritage. The visit also includes the grave of Cecil John Rhodes, dramatically set atop a granite hill with sweeping views across the surrounding wilderness.
1:00 PM – Lunch
Return to the train for a gourmet lunch in the dining cars as the journey continues through baobab country. The distinctive silhouettes of these ancient trees create a striking backdrop, making this dining experience both scenic and memorable.
4:30 PM – Afternoon Tea
Relax in the lounge and observation cars with a selection of teas, coffees, and pastries. As the train descends towards Gwanda, the wide windows of the observation car provide panoramic views of the changing landscapes.
7:30 PM – Dinner
Dinner is served in the dining cars as the train travels towards Beitbridge for Zimbabwean border formalities. Dress: Formal. The multi-course menu, paired with fine wines, is presented in a refined setting of crystal, linen, and attentive service, ensuring an evening of elegance and culinary excellence.
7:00 AM – Breakfast
Breakfast is served in the elegant dining cars, offering a refined start to the day with freshly baked pastries, fruits, cereals, and hot dishes. As you dine, the train crosses the iconic Limpopo River, entering South Africa near Musina for border formalities. This crossing recalls Rudyard Kipling’s Just So Stories, where the “Elephant’s Child” ventures to the “great grey-green, greasy Limpopo River, all set about with fever-trees, to find out what...
7:00 AM – Breakfast
Breakfast is served in the elegant dining cars, offering a refined start to the day with freshly baked pastries, fruits, cereals, and hot dishes. As you dine, the train crosses the iconic Limpopo River, entering South Africa near Musina for border formalities. This crossing recalls Rudyard Kipling’s Just So Stories, where the “Elephant’s Child” ventures to the “great grey-green, greasy Limpopo River, all set about with fever-trees, to find out what the Crocodile has for dinner.”
1:00 PM – Lunch
A sumptuous lunch is served in the dining cars as the train continues its journey south. During the meal, the line crosses the Tropic of Capricorn, marking another notable geographical milestone. The gourmet dishes, paired with attentive service and expansive views of the surrounding landscapes, create a memorable midday experience.
4:30 PM – Afternoon Tea
Afternoon tea is served in the lounge and observation cars. Guests can relax with a selection of teas, coffees, and pastries while enjoying the panoramic views from the rear observation car or the comfort of the lounge.
7:30 PM – Dinner
Dinner is served in the dining cars as the train makes its way towards Pyramid. Dress: Formal. The evening’s multi-course menu highlights Rovos Rail’s signature blend of local and international flavors, presented in a setting of fine china, crystal, and polished wood. As you dine, the train skirts the edge of the escarpment where the Highveld drops steeply away, offering dramatic and unforgettable views to accompany the sophisticated ambiance.
Day 5 : Depart
Room basis: Bed and Breakfast
Morning Preparations
Please ensure your luggage is ready for collection 15 minutes before arrival and that your passport is accessible for any necessary checks....
Morning Preparations
Please ensure your luggage is ready for collection 15 minutes before arrival and that your passport is accessible for any necessary checks.
7:00 AM – Breakfast
Breakfast is served in the elegant dining cars until 9:30 AM. Enjoy a final selection of freshly prepared dishes, from pastries and fruits to hot favorites, as the train glides through South Africa’s picturesque landscapes. The refined ambiance of the dining cars, paired with attentive service and sweeping views, provides a fitting start to your last morning on board.
10:00 AM – Arrival in Pretoria
The train arrives at Rovos Rail Station in Pretoria, marking the end of your journey. This beautifully restored station, with its timeless architecture and old-world charm, offers a graceful conclusion to your rail adventure. As you step onto the platform, the welcoming atmosphere reflects the heritage and elegance that define the Rovos Rail experience.
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From the thundering spectacle that is the mighty Victoria Falls to the awe-inspiring big-game viewing of Hwange National Park, and on to Mana Pools on the Zambezi, Zimbabwe offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will take your breath away, leaving memories that linger.
From the thundering spectacle that is the mighty Victoria Falls to the awe-inspiring big-game viewing of Hwange National Park, and on to Mana Pools on the Zambezi, Zimbabwe offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will take your breath away, leaving memories that linger.
Whether you choose to languish in the luxury of a local hotel or strike out on a train journey, Zimbabwe’s central location places a wealth of experiences at your fingertips. From Vic Falls, you have unfettered access to the best of Botswana, South Africa and Zambia, all within striking distance on an easy day’s travel.
Widely rated as one of the world’s greatest must-see destinations, South Africa has it all. From the spectacular cosmopolitan beauty of Cape Town and its iconic Table Mountain to the spectacular scenery and gastronomic delights of the Winelands – and on to the soaring mountain peaks of the Drakensberg, the scenic Karoo semi-desert region and the majestic national parks, a wealth of exceptional experiences awaits.
Widely rated as one of the world’s greatest must-see destinations, South Africa has it all. From the spectacular cosmopolitan beauty of Cape Town and its iconic Table Mountain to the spectacular scenery and gastronomic delights of the Winelands – and on to the soaring mountain peaks of the Drakensberg, the scenic Karoo semi-desert region and the majestic national parks, a wealth of exceptional experiences awaits.
Added to the many natural attractions of South Africa are its many rich local cultures. Enjoy the world-renowned wines on the estates of the winelands of the Cape, or the striking history of the Kingdom of The Zulu, or many other traditional African cultures. With so much to offer, in South Africa any traveller’s dream itinerary can be accommodated.
Rovos Rail
Since its establishment in 1989, Rovos Rail has earned an international reputation for its truly world-class travel experiences.
Since its establishment in 1989, Rovos Rail has earned an international reputation for its truly world-class travel experiences.
In a series of 11 bespoke train journeys, step aboard the luxurious vintage wood-panelled coaches and sit back as some of the most varied scenery imaginable unfolds beyond the windows. With discreet and friendly service, top cuisine and a selection of South Africa’s finest wines, Rovos Rail harks back to a simpler, more elegant era encompassing the timeless grace and high romance of African exploration.
For Rovos Rail passengers, a highlight of their journey is a visit to the private station at Capital Park, Pretoria. The once-bustling hub of steam locomotions is now the headquarters for Rovos Rail. The gracious railway station serves as the departure or arrival point for most of the train journeys where the Rovos team work assiduously to ensure the locomotives and trains are maintained to the highest standard.
This is the busy hub of a provisioning operation that is world-class in terms of efficiency and attention to detail on board one of the most ‘Great Southern Africa Train Adventures’.
From the mighty Ngorongoro Crater to the vast rolling plains of the Serengeti and on to the dazzling blue coastline and its exotic destinations that include the spice islands of Zanzibar, Tanzania presents the safari traveller with a outstanding range of options that are amongst the very best in Africa.
From the mighty Ngorongoro Crater to the vast rolling plains of the Serengeti and on to the dazzling blue coastline and its exotic destinations that include the spice islands of Zanzibar, Tanzania presents the safari traveller with a outstanding range of options that are amongst the very best in Africa.
Rated as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa, the Serengeti is home to the Great Wildebeest Migration every year, when herds begin to move toward the central region in search of fresh pasture. Following the herds as they give birth to a new generation are always the majestic predators that follow in their wake: lion, leopard and hyena, all of which provide for excellent viewing. Beyond the classic safari destinations of the savannah lie many other exceptional experiences which include the alluring island destinations that lie offshore. To the west lies spectacular Lake Victoria, to the east Pemba Island and Zanzibar offer the sensuous delights of the ages-old spice trade – and in the south, the wildly expansive areas of the south such as Nyere and Ruaha. With so much to offer, Tanzania is guaranteed to satisfy the safari dreams of every traveller.
Taking its name from the mighty Zambezi River which runs along its western and southern periphery, Zambia’s highlights cater to those seeking a classic African safari experience. With a wide range of game viewing available across its many national parks and game reserves, spotting big game up close rates as one of the most sought-after activities to be enjoyed on our tours.
Taking its name from the mighty Zambezi River which runs along its western and southern periphery, Zambia’s highlights cater to those seeking a classic African safari experience. With a wide range of game viewing available across its many national parks and game reserves, spotting big game up close rates as one of the most sought-after activities to be enjoyed on our tours.
From hearing and seeing prides of lions in their natural habitat, to admiring the grace of giraffes as they lope through the savannah, and on to the delights of cruises along the Lower Zambezi to view elephants, hippo and crocodiles along the river’s course, or the sublime pleasure of seeing the mighty Victoria Falls from the elegance of a waterside hotel, the sights and sounds of the country make it the quintessential African destination for lovers of wildlife. Whether you’re seeking an up-close walking safari, or viewing from the secluded safety of a game hide at the water’s edge, the choice is yours.
Between the vast untouched Kalahari desert and the teeming lush Okavango delta, Botswana provides a range of experiences that are rated as amongst the finest in Africa, with game viewing on a level rarely achieved elsewhere. From bomas tucked away in secluded locations that offer close-up encounters with a wide range of large game to scenic mokoro (canoe) trips through the waterways of the Okavango, Botswana holds a wealth of rar...
Between the vast untouched Kalahari desert and the teeming lush Okavango delta, Botswana provides a range of experiences that are rated as amongst the finest in Africa, with game viewing on a level rarely achieved elsewhere. From bomas tucked away in secluded locations that offer close-up encounters with a wide range of large game to scenic mokoro (canoe) trips through the waterways of the Okavango, Botswana holds a wealth of rare and exceptional experiences that are off the beaten path and awaiting discovery.
We offer you the best of Botswana, whether a combination of desert and delta, or a package that includes a wider itinerary taking in the spectacular Victoria Falls and Zambezi River. Choose the destination that suits your ideal safari, and we’ll assist you in creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Commonly known as ‘The Kingdom in the Sky’ due to its dramatically high altitude, Lesotho is rather unique in that it is entirely surrounded by South Africa. This tiny and spectacularly mountainous kingdom makes for a wonderful adventure getaway with excellent pony trekking, hiking, rock climbing, fishing, abseiling, birdwatching, mountain biking and even snow skiing on offer. The country’s highlands boast magnificent mountain scenery, clean mountain air, and a myriad of impressive sparkling wa...
Commonly known as ‘The Kingdom in the Sky’ due to its dramatically high altitude, Lesotho is rather unique in that it is entirely surrounded by South Africa. This tiny and spectacularly mountainous kingdom makes for a wonderful adventure getaway with excellent pony trekking, hiking, rock climbing, fishing, abseiling, birdwatching, mountain biking and even snow skiing on offer. The country’s highlands boast magnificent mountain scenery, clean mountain air, and a myriad of impressive sparkling waterfalls and clean streams. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn about the fascinating local cultures, particularly in the isolated Basotho villages, where a traditional way of life is still celebrated. Itinerary favourites in Lesotho also include the highest waterfall in southern Africa, the Maletsunyane Falls, and the modern yet traditional capital city of Maseru.
A country of stark contrasts, Namibia offers a range of experiences beyond expectation. From the vast and serene dunes of the desert, to the barren beauty of the Atlantic coast, the harsh environment is home to hidden gems that include extraordinary plants and desert-adapted wildlife which make for a safari experience unlike any other.
A country of stark contrasts, Namibia offers a range of experiences beyond expectation. From the vast and serene dunes of the desert, to the barren beauty of the Atlantic coast, the harsh environment is home to hidden gems that include extraordinary plants and desert-adapted wildlife which make for a safari experience unlike any other.
Experience tranquillity amongst the world’s highest sand dunes, or the freedom of vast and beautiful coastline, and the tribal life of the Himba and the San people – the choice is yours, and the range of wildlife to be seen is strikingly unusual and distinctive.
