A luxury train journey across southern Africa has combined nostalgic travel with modern comfort, taking passengers through diverse landscapes and cultural landmarks on an 11-night itinerary. Departing from Pretoria, South Africa, the diesel-hauled Rovos Rail train retraces historic routes while offering high-end accommodations and curated experiences.
The train’s design evokes the elegance of early 20th-century rail travel, featuring polished wood paneling, brass fittings, and carpeted corridors. Passengers travel in en suite compartments that range from twin-bed suites to larger cabins with baths, blending period charm with contemporary amenities such as showers, tea kettles, and mini-fridges. Public spaces include two wood-paneled dining cars, three lounge and bar cars, and observation areas, all designed for comfort and socializing.
The journey unfolds slowly along aging tracks that pass through urban areas surrounding Johannesburg, including sprawling townships where locals often greeted the train with waves. Despite some sections of track overgrown with foliage and occasional weather delays—such as a night-long stop caused by heavy rain in the Kalahari Desert—the route offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. Passengers are served gourmet meals prepared daily by an onboard chef, with fine South African wines paired to each course, and a dress code encouraging formal evenings.
The train’s itinerary covers several countries, including South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Zambia, with key stops at wildlife reserves and notable natural sites. Highlights include visits to the Etosha Pan game reserve, where lions, elephants, giraffes, and cheetahs can be seen; the coastal towns of Walvis Bay and Swakopmund, known for their German colonial architecture; the expansive Fish River Canyon, often compared to the Grand Canyon; and the iconic sand dunes near Sossusvlei in the Namib Desert.
Founded nearly four decades ago by South African entrepreneur Rohan Vos, Rovos Rail specializes in restoring vintage railcars and operating luxury train journeys across southern Africa. The company’s trains travel at a leisurely pace, emphasizing a combination of scenic beauty, cultural immersion, and historic ambiance. Tickets for the 11-night journey are priced around £10,000 per person.
Passengers come from a wide range of international backgrounds, many viewing the voyage as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The trip includes lectures on regional history alongside excursions to vineyards and game reserves, blending education with leisure. Staff aboard the train are noted for their professionalism and attentiveness, managing logistical challenges with minimal disruption.
By interweaving elegance, nostalgia, and the African wilderness, the Rovos Rail journey offers a distinctive way to explore Southern Africa’s landscape and heritage.