Luxury Train Journeys in Africa

Luxury African Train Journeys

In Southern Africa, you can enjoy a luxury train journey on either Rovos Rail or the Blue Train. Both trains offer a travel experience reminiscent of a bygone era. The trains are luxurious, with fine dining, silken suites, and chic decor. This is a unique way to travel between the top destinations in Southern Africa.

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Luxury Trains of Africa

Watch the countryside roll by while relaxing in the lounge car with your favorite drink in hand - an experience that is sure to be remembered.

Rovos Rail

Rovos Rail is one of the world's most luxurious trains. The train operates between Pretoria, Cape Town, Durban, and Victoria Falls. Periodically longer journeys are also offered to Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and Swakopmund in Namibia.

Each train consists of a locomotive, a generator car, sleeper cars, and a staff car. The train features a non-smoking lounge, two dining cars, a smoking lounge, and an observation car. The cars of Rovos are lavishly decorated in wood panels, a blend of leather and luxury fabric. During the day, the dress code is smart casual. Dinners are more formal, and gents are required to wear a dinner jacket.

Rovos operates two classic trains dating back to the 1920s. The main train can accommodate up to 72 passengers. The train limits the use of technology, and you will not have access to Wi-Fi while traveling on Rovos. Mobile phone coverage will be limited as you journey through Southern Africa - an excellent opportunity to relax and get away from it all.

The Blue Train

The Blue Train is another of the world's finest trains. The train operates between Cape Town and Pretoria and has established a reputation as the ultimate luxury travel experience. The trains travel at a speed of 90km per hour, which makes it possible to enjoy views of the surrounding countryside en route to your destination.

The Blue Train is a fabulous luxury experience. What better way for travelers to enjoy the scenic spoils of South Africa as the train moves swiftly through the different landscapes while thoroughly pampered by skilled staff? Mealtimes exude excellence, from the highly sought-after Karoo lamb to Knysna oysters.

Suites are well-appointed, each with its own bathroom fitted with either a shower or a bath. The lounge and dining cars emanate a sense of luxury and opulence. Meals of the highest quality are served in two sittings, with crystal and fine silverware adding to the experience. The train is equipped with televisions and a host of other modern amenities. The journey will surely be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, whichever route you intend to undertake.

Why book a Luxury Train Journey in Africa?

The Scenic Route

Flying between destinations saves you time but cancels out the invaluable intimate view of the country you are exploring. Car trips offer panoramic expeditions, but if the distances are lengthy, it can become quite a tedious exercise. Enjoy the scenic route in the most memorable and convenient way by opting for a luxury train journey across Southern Africa.

An air of nostalgia

Much romance is associated with the Africa of colonial times when Europeans were still at the doorstep of discoveries. The train journeys are reminiscent of this era before the world was mapped out, and technologies invaded personal spaces with their deluge of information and constant communication. Unwind and hearken back to a time of novelties.

Extravagant indulgence

Most passengers are blown away by the luxury and comfortable interiors of the trains. With exquisite meals, surprisingly spacious suites, and refined service, you will genuinely find yourself aboard a luxurious hotel that happens to find itself in a beautiful new location as each hour passes. Despite your constant migration, you will want for naught.

Experiences to Savor on a Luxury Train

Sunrise in the Karoo

On train journeys to or from Cape Town, waking up in the Karoo is always a highlight. As the train snakes across the vast, arid landscape, the sun bursts from the horizon in dazzling explosions of pink and gold. The terrain is so flat and open that at this time of the day, you will find it hard to determine where the earth ends, and the sky begins.

The view of the Falls

The Rovos Rail's route to the town of Victoria Falls passes along the original bridge that spans the gorge. Reaching the Falls and watching the masses of water plummet as the train trundles by is always a momentous occasion. You will likely hear the Falls before you see them, building the most pleasurable anticipation.

Fine dining

Both trains take great pride in the fine fare available on their menus, all complemented by exclusive selections of South African wines. Local ingredients, like Karoo lamb, ostrich, venison, and Knysna oysters, are trendy and prepared to perfection. The fanfare of the meals is crowned by exquisitely decorated dining cars.

FAQ

Where are the train journey departure points?

The majority of train journeys depart from Pretoria. However, many are also available 'in reverse' from Cape Town, Durban, Victoria Falls, Swakopmund, and Dar es Salaam.

What are the durations of the train journeys?

Depending on the route you opt for, your trip can be anything from 27 hours to 28 days.

Are there set departure dates, or can I hop on at any time?

Yes, both trains have set departure dates for all their journeys. Be sure to book well in advance, as they are very popular.

Which train is better, Rovos Rail or the Blue Train?

It depends mainly on your needs. The Blue Train currently only operates scheduled trips between Cape Town and Pretoria, while the Rovos Rail goes much further afield. If you are considering the Cape Town leg and time is a factor, the Blue Train trip is one night (or 27 hours) in duration, while the Rovos Rail trip is two nights (around 48 hours).

Is there a dress code?

While both trains require semiformal attire for dinner (jacket and tie for the gentleman, cocktail dress, or smart suit for the ladies), only the Rovos Rail requires smart casual dress for other meal sittings.

Are children allowed on the trains?

While children are allowed on the trains, the journeys and luxury train etiquette are aimed more at adults. Suites cannot accommodate additional beds or cots, so children would have to share beds with their parents or into separate suites at an additional cost. Furthermore, neither train offers special meals for children, and there are areas of the trains where children are prohibited. No child minding services or activities for children are available on either train.

Will I have access to the internet and have mobile reception?

Both trains limit the use of technology to preserve the atmosphere of a bygone era. Therefore, on Rovos Rail, there are no televisions, there is no Wi-Fi or internet connectivity, and mobile reception is poor while traveling. Use the opportunity to unwind. The Blue Train has televisions and in-room telephones to call out.

Will I have a private bathroom?

Yes, all suites have private bathrooms with toilets and showers. More plush suites will also have bathtubs.

Can I opt for a partial train journey?

No - both trains prefer guests to use complete travel packages to ensure a comprehensive experience. Trips of varying durations are available, so there should be a journey to complement your needs.

What does the rate include?

Accommodation, meals, all beverages, all mentioned off-train excursions, and laundry (longer Rovos Rail journeys only). Exclusions are limited to off-train drinks on specific Rovos Rail journeys and gratuities. On the Blue Train, external phone calls are charged at an additional rate, as are French champagne and caviar.