Imagine admiring the magnificent African scenery from the window of a luxury train inspired by the legendary Orient Express. This is the unique experience offered by Rovos Rail, a South African company that has been organising exclusive journeys through the countries of Southern Africa for 35 years. Rovos Rail promises an unforgettable adventure by combining the glamour and retro atmosphere of a vintage train with unparalleled comfort and service.

Elegance and Adventure on Rovos Rail

Synonymous with elegance and adventure, Rovos Rail offers around twenty itineraries lasting from two days to two weeks. These journeys wind through some of the continent’s most fascinating destinations, including South Africa, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Tanzania, and Angola. Rovos Rail’s itineraries attract a growing number of international travellers and showcase the best of Southern Africa.

The Fabulous Path of the Two Oceans

The “Path of the Two Oceans” tour is one of the most thrilling journeys. Starting from Dar Es Salaam, the lively capital of Tanzania on the shores of the Indian Ocean, the tour heads to Angola on the tropical Atlantic. This 4,300-kilometer coast-to-coast adventure takes travellers through the spectacular landscapes of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia.

Among the most exciting stops is Lobito, a port city in full expansion thanks to numerous infrastructure projects, including the famous Lobito Corridor. This is the third time Rovos Rail has arrived in Angola, following inaugural voyages in July 2022 and 2023. The tour offers a unique opportunity to discover the tourist wonders of a country that has opened its doors to the world.

Numerous stops are planned along the route to explore the various countries’ natural, historical, and cultural heritage. Guided visits to historical sites and meetings with local communities enrich the journey. The tour has a total duration of 15 days, which is a round trip, but travellers can choose to travel the entire itinerary or opt for specific stages of the journey.

A Luxury Trip in Orient-Express Style

Travelling aboard Rovos Rail is an extraordinary luxury experience. The train carriages, decorated in Orient-Express style, are embellished with fine wood panels and pulled by diesel or electric locomotives. With a maximum capacity of 72 passengers, the train offers elegantly furnished suites equipped with all comforts and five-star service. Restaurant rooms and convivial spaces allow guests to socialize and enjoy the journey.

The Fascinating African Trilogy

Another itinerary that is enjoying great success is the “African Trilogy.” This journey offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in a variety of extraordinary landscapes. The next departure is scheduled for October 2, when the train leaves Pretoria’s Rovos Rail station, heading towards Kruger Park for an unforgettable safari. The journey continues through the Kingdom of Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) and the Hluhluwe nature reserve, up to Durban and its tropical botanical gardens.

Crossing the Valley of a Thousand Hills and the Drakensberg Mountains, travellers reach the mining village of Kimberley and the arid Karoo. After visiting Upington and the impressive Fish River Canyon, passengers explore the Kalahari Desert and Garas Park. A sightseeing flight will take them to Sossusvlei for an overnight stay in the dunes of the Namib-Naukluft Park. Finally, the train arrives in Windhoek and Etosha National Park, concluding the journey on the wild Atlantic coast at Walvis Bay.

Conclusion

Rovos Rail’s luxury train journeys offer a unique blend of elegance, adventure, and unparalleled comfort. Whether you choose the Path of the Two Oceans or the African Trilogy, each itinerary promises an unforgettable experience through the stunning landscapes of Southern Africa. Embark on a dream journey with Rovos Rail and discover the magic of this extraordinary continent.