Rovos Rail - Luxury Train Journeys in Southern Africa

South Africa

Since its inaugural journey in 1989, Rovos Rail has earned a global reputation as one of the most luxurious train experiences in the world. Often referred to as “The Pride of Africa,” Rovos Rail offers unforgettable long-distance journeys across Southern and East Africa aboard beautifully restored vintage trains. Travelling on Rovos Rail captures the romance and elegance of a bygone era while providing exceptional comfort, refined dining and attentive personal service throughout the journey.

The Observation Car and Deck on the Rovos Rail

In 2016, the Shongololo Express, another well-known luxury train in South Africa, began operating under the Rovos Rail umbrella. As of January 2024, the Shongololo Express brand has been fully incorporated into Rovos Rail, expanding the collection of routes and experiences available. Today, Rovos Rail offers 12 extraordinary luxury train journeys that showcase some of Africa’s most spectacular landscapes and destinations.

A Brief History

For more than three decades, South African entrepreneur Rohan Vos, founder and owner of Rovos Rail, has carefully built an impressive collection of historic railway locomotives and coaches. Sourced from the former Rhodesian and South African Railways, international rail operators, private collectors and auctions, each carriage has been thoughtfully selected and meticulously restored. Today, these beautifully refurbished vintage coaches form one of the largest private collections of luxury rail stock in the world, preserving the elegance and heritage of classic rail travel.

Stunning views aboard the The Rovos Rail en route to Cape Town

On The Train

The beautifully restored coaches on Rovos Rail include luxurious guest suites, elegant dining cars, comfortable lounge areas, observation cars and fully equipped kitchen cars. Each carriage has been carefully refurbished to retain its original charm, with ornate wood paneling, carved details and classic design elements that reflect the golden age of rail travel. The lounge and observation cars feature plush wing-back chairs, leather seating and deep sofas, creating inviting spaces where guests can relax and enjoy the passing scenery.

Each Rovos Rail train accommodates a maximum of 72 passengers in elegant guest suites that blend Edwardian-style décor with modern comforts.

As the train travels through some of Southern Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes, guests can enjoy attentive five-star service, fine dining and a relaxed, elegant atmosphere. A journey on Rovos Rail is a memorable highlight that can easily be combined with other safari and travel experiences across Africa.

The Different Journeys

Rovos Rail offers a collection of rail journeys across Southern and East Africa, connecting iconic destinations such as Cape Town, Victoria Falls, Durban, Dar es Salaam and Namibia. Two specialised Golf Safari journeys are also available for those wishing to combine luxury rail travel with world-class golf courses. Departures take place several times each month and journeys can generally be booked in either direction. Pretoria serves as the main headquarters and departure point for many of the routes.

Along the way, guests are treated to some of Africa’s most spectacular scenery, from vineyards and mountain ranges to deserts, forests, rugged coastlines, game reserves and vast savannas. The trains are typically hauled by diesel or electric locomotives, with historic steam locomotives occasionally used on special departures, adding even more nostalgia and charm to the experience.

Rovos Rail travelling through the desert landscape of Namibia

Contact African Travel Gateway to discuss how we can incorporate one of Rovos Rail’s luxury train journeys into your Southern African itinerary. Alternatively, you can explore the rates and departure dates for 2026 ** and 2027 ** to begin planning your journey.

** Please note that when travelling by train in South Africa, occasional delays can occur due to national electricity supply constraints. As a result, the schedules shown in the rate sheets may differ slightly from actual travel times. When planning your itinerary before and after a train journey, we always allow extra time to ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience.

In addition to Rovos Rail, we also recommend another iconic luxury train experience, The Blue Train, which offers elegant journeys between Pretoria, Cape Town and the Kruger National Park.

For more information about these or other Luxury Train Travel options in South Africa, please Email us

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