Rovos Rail

Since its establishment in 1989, Rovos Rail has earned an international reputation for its truly world-class travel experiences. Bespoke train safaris through the heart of Africa combine magnificent scenery with the glamour and excitement of the golden age of leisure travel.

In a series of journeys lasting from 48 hours to 15 days, Rovos Rail links some of the subcontinent’s greatest destinations. The beautifully rebuilt trains carry a maximum of 72 passengers in 36 superbly appointed suites and are also available for charter, while the Events Train caters for up to 250 guests and is suitable for daytime journeys.

Upon confirmation of your reservation, Secrets VIP guests receive one night complimentary stay, at either the 5 star Castello Di Monte, Pretoria or The Taj Hotel, Cape Town with return transfers.

 

 

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Suggested Itinerary

Pretoria - Victoria Falls

This three-night adventure begins with the train’s departure from Rovos Rail Station in Pretoria. It then winds its way north through Warmbaths, so named for its mineral waters, and Nylstroom, christened by the Voortrekkers as the source of the Nile River as the town’s river happened to be north flowing. The train then passes the edge of the escarpment and crosses the Tropic of Capricorn en route to the border with Zimbabwe.

After formalities at Beitbridge the next morning, the train travels towards Bulawayo, second city of Zimbabwe, capital of Matabeleland and industrial capital of the country. The following day sees the train travelling along one of the world’s longest stretches of straight railway line – 114 kilometres – before traversing Hwange National Park, a rich and diverse wildlife sanctuary where animals can be spotted from the train and a game drive excursion is enjoyed. After a service stop at Thompsons Junction, the sojourn ends at the incomparable Victoria Falls on the mighty Zambezi River. The surrounding areas offer travellers many recreational opportunities including cruises, whitewater rafting as well as superb game viewing and photo safaris. Available in reverse. Depending upon railway capacity, this journey could be routed through Botswana.

Day 1

10h00 The train departs Rovos Rail Station in Pretoria.
13h00 Lunch is served in the dining cars as the train travels north through Warmbaths and Nylstroom, crossing the Tropic of Capricorn.
Enjoy afternoon tea and dinner en route to Messina and Beitbridge for Zimbabwe border formalities.
(Breakfast 07h00-10h00 • Lunch 13h00 • Tea 16h30 • Dinner 19h30)

Day 2

Day at leisure. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served as the train travels towards Bulawayo via West Nicholson. Overnight stop on board at Mpopoma.

Day 3

07h00 Breakfast is served as the train departs Mpopoma.
13h00 Enjoy lunch while travelling along the eastern edge of Hwange Park along one of Africa’s longest stretches of straight railway line – 114 kilometres.
15h00 Arrive at Kennedy Siding for a game drive at The Hide.
19h30 Dinner is served in the dining cars en route to Thompsons Junction for the overnight stop.

Day 4

07h00 Breakfast is enjoyed while travelling towards the Zambezi River.
10h00 Arrive at journey’s end in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.