Experience legendary classic splendour aboard the world’s most exclusive trains, Rovos Rail and the Blue Train
LUXURY TRAIN HIGHLIGHTS
Savour a 5-course dinner aboard one of the world’s most luxurious trains
Discover South Africa’s finest wines with the exceptional selections aboard Rovos Rail or the Blue Train, as you journey through breathtaking landscapes
Be captivated by South Africa’s stunning landscapes from the comfort of the dining car or the observation deck
This is no ordinary train ride; it’s a journey back in time, where classic elegance meets modern comfort and impeccable service. Every detail is carefully curated to make you feel like royalty, creating an experience that is both extraordinary and unforgettable.
Enhance your luxury safari adventure with a unique rail journey. Whether you choose to begin or end your trip aboard one of these magnificent trains, you’ll immerse yourself in a world of enduring elegance and refined opulence on the rails. The world-renowned Rovos Rail and the legendary Blue Train offer a variety of itineraries, ranging from 2 to 15 days, all seamlessly combinable with our exclusive safari destinations.
Below, you’ll find a glimpse of one of the most memorable experiences imaginable. Let yourself be enchanted by this world of timeless luxury and everlasting grandeur. Contact us to learn more.
Rovos Rail
Embark on a breathtaking journey through the spectacular landscapes of Zimbabwe, Botswana, and South Africa aboard the luxurious Rovos Rail. Travel from Victoria Falls to Pretoria over three nights and four days, starting at the historic Victoria Falls Hotel in Zimbabwe. Begin your adventure in Rovos Rail’s elegant lounge with a glass of bubbly and canapés. After a warm welcome and a briefing by the train manager, you’ll be escorted by a hostess to your luxurious suite.
Rovos Rail offers three classes of suites. The Pullman Suites, at 7 square metres, are the most compact but still feature a private en-suite bathroom with a shower. By day, the bed converts into a comfortable sofa. The Deluxe Suites, measuring 11 square metres, include a seating area with two chairs and a private bathroom with a shower. For the ultimate indulgence, the Royal Suites span 16 square metres, occupying half a train carriage. These suites feature a small lounge area and a private bathroom with a separate shower and bathtub.
All suites come with double or twin beds, a writing desk, a safe, and a minibar stocked according to your preferences. There is no TV or internet, ensuring a tranquil retreat. Room service is available 24/7. The Observation Car, located at the rear of the train, offers panoramic views through large windows and even includes an open-air balcony.
The air-conditioned dining cars are adorned with elegant decor, complete with silver cutlery, crisp linens, and crystal glassware. Meals are served in a single sitting three times a day in two beautifully appointed dining cars. The cuisine is of the highest standard, paired with a generous selection of South Africa’s finest wines. All beverages are included except French champagne. The dress code is smart casual during the day, with suits and ties for gentlemen and elegant dresses for ladies at dinner.
Rovos Rail operates five trains, accommodating a maximum of 74 passengers across 36 luxurious suites, ensuring an exclusive and intimate experience.
Premium Accommodation Options
Suite Class: Royal
The Royal Suite, the largest aboard Rovos Rail, spans an impressive 16 square metres and occupies half a carriage. It features a private lounge area, a bathroom with a separate shower and bathtub, and the choice of a double bed or twin beds. Additional amenities include a writing desk, safe, and minibar stocked to your preferences. Without TV or internet, the focus is on tranquil luxury, complemented by 24-hour room service. Discover timeless elegance on a journey like no other.
Pricing Example: A three-night journey from Pretoria to Cape Town costs R61,000 per person until 30 September 2023, increasing to R66,200 from 1 October 2023 to 30 September 2024. A single supplement of 50% applies. Prices include shared accommodation, all meals, snacks, excursions, and an extensive selection of beverages, including alcohol.
Suite Class: Deluxe
The Deluxe Suite, spanning 11 square metres, offers both space and style. In addition to a comfortable bed (double or twin options), the suite includes two additional seating areas and a private bathroom with a shower. Amenities such as a writing desk, safe, and a minibar stocked to your preferences ensure your every need is met. While there’s no TV or internet, the tranquil ambiance and 24-hour room service provide an unparalleled experience of relaxation and luxury. Enjoy refined elegance and comfort as you journey through South Africa’s breathtaking landscapes.
Pricing Example: A three-night journey from Pretoria to Cape Town costs R45,800 per person until 30 September 2023, increasing to R49,700 from 1 October 2023 to 30 September 2024. A single supplement of 50% applies. Prices include shared accommodation, all meals, snacks, excursions, and an extensive selection of beverages, including alcohol.
Suite Class: Pullman
The Pullman Suite, at 7 square metres, is the most compact yet charming option aboard Rovos Rail. It features a private bathroom with a shower, and during the day, the bed conveniently converts into a sofa. Guests can choose between a double bed or twin beds, and all suites include a writing desk and a secure safe. While there’s no TV or internet, the peaceful atmosphere and 24-hour room service ensure a comfortable and relaxing journey. Enjoy an intimate and elegant travel experience on one of the world’s most luxurious trains.
Pricing Example: A three-night journey from Pretoria to Cape Town costs R31,700 per person until 30 September 2023, increasing to R34,500 from 1 October 2023 to 30 September 2024. A single supplement of 50% applies. Prices include shared accommodation, all meals, snacks, excursions, and a variety of beverages, including alcohol.
The Blue Train
Embark on the Blue Train’s iconic route from Cape Town to Pretoria. This 31-hour, 1,600-kilometre journey spans two days and one night of pure indulgence. The experience begins in the Blue Train’s lounge at Cape Town Station, where you’ll be welcomed with a glass of bubbly and canapés. After a warm introduction to your journey, your personal butler will escort you to your luxurious suite.
The Blue Train offers two types of suites. The Deluxe Suite includes a private bathroom with a shower, while the Luxury Suite features a private bathroom with both a shower and a bathtub. Each suite is equipped with air conditioning, a safe, a TV, radio, telephone, and internet access. A private butler is at your service around the clock. The train’s lounge and dining cars are designed with large panoramic windows, allowing you to take in South Africa’s stunning scenery in comfort and style.
The dining experience on the Blue Train is a highlight of the journey. The air-conditioned dining cars are beautifully decorated with silverware, fine linens, and crystal glassware, creating an elegant setting for gourmet meals served three times a day in two sittings. The cuisine is of the highest quality, paired with an extensive selection of South African wines. All beverages are included, except French champagne. During the day, the dress code is smart casual, while evenings call for suits and ties for gentlemen and elegant dresses for ladies.
The route includes a stop in the Victorian town of Matjiesfontein, where you can step back in time and enjoy a glass of sherry at the historic bar.
The Blue Train operates two configurations, one accommodating 80 passengers and the other just 52 passengers, ensuring an intimate and exclusive experience. Traveling aboard the Blue Train is not just a journey—it’s an elegant escape through South Africa’s most captivating landscapes.
Premium Accommodation Options
Suite Class: De Luxe Suite
The De Luxe Suite, measuring 4 x 2 metres, offers a cosy lounge area and a private bathroom with a separate shower. Each suite comes equipped with a double bed or twin beds, a writing desk, a secure safe, and a minibar stocked to your preferences. Additional features include air conditioning, a TV, and internet access. For added convenience, 24-hour room service is available. Enjoy refined luxury as you journey through South Africa’s stunning landscapes.
Pricing Example: Pretoria to Cape Town during high season (01 September 2023 – 15 November 2023) costs R35,745 per person in a De luxe Suite. A single supplement applies.
Suite Class: Luxury Suite
The Luxury Suite, measuring 5.13 x 2 metres, offers additional space and comfort with two extra seating areas alongside a choice of a double bed or twin beds. The en-suite bathroom features both a shower and a bathtub for added luxury. Each suite is equipped with a writing desk, secure safe, and a minibar stocked to your preferences, as well as air conditioning, a TV, and internet access. For your convenience, 24-hour room service is available throughout the journey. Relax and enjoy the ultimate in comfort and sophistication as you traverse South Africa’s breathtaking scenery.
Pricing Example: Pretoria to Cape Town during high season (01 September 2022 – 15 November 2022) costs R40,310 per person in a Luxury Suite. A single supplement applies.
Contact Safari Collection for more information about exclusive train journeys
Rovos Rail and the Blue Train run all year. We can recommend the best routes based on the season
The quality of medical care varies greatly at train destinations. Contact us for more details
Train destinations have different visa requirements. Reach out to us for specific information
Things to Consider Before a Train Journey:
The so-called “peak seasons” in December–January (some destinations) and June–August (others) are highly popular. Booking your destination, suite, lodge, safari, and additional activities well in advance is strongly recommended.