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Rovos Rail is the South African equivalent of the Orient Express and has earned an equally enviable international reputation for the provision of truly world class travel. The experience begins as soon as guests step aboard the wood panelled coaches, all classically remodelled and refurbished to mint condition. Here, you embark upon a journey that truly recaptures the romance and atmosphere of a bygone era, when privileged travellers experienced the magic and mystery of Africa in a relaxed and elegant fashion. The trains - which may be hauled by steam, diesel or electric locomotives at various stages of the journey - carry a maximum of seventy two passengers in thirty six superbly appointed suites.
All suites offer the option of twin or double bed and have en suite bathrooms with showers. There is also a bar fridge filled with beverages of the passengers’ choice and room service is available 24 hours a day. The Royal Suites, each of which take up half a carriage, are spacious and elegant, each with its own private lounge area and full bathroom with Victorian bath and separate shower. The Deluxe suites also accommodate two passengers in either twin or double beds and have a lounge area and en-suite bathroom with shower. A third level of accommodation, the Pullman suite, includes the identical bathroom to that of the deluxe suites, the bedroom is smaller with a one up one down bunk for twin requirements or a double bed for couples. During the day this can be converted into a comfortable couch.
Dining is sublime, with every need being catered for and considerable thought and meticulous planning going in to creating the menus. Unlike many of the great trains of the world, travellers are on board the trains for several days at a time, requiring a much wider selection of meals. The emphasis is upon fresh local ingredients, and traditional dishes such as game are a specialty. The Observation Car is positioned at the rear of the train and at the centre of the train there is a non-smoking Lounge Car.
For many visitors to South Africa, there is no finer way to see the country than on the popular 48-hour weekly journeys between Pretoria and Cape Town. This journey is a perfect illustration of South Africa as a world in one country. Travel the grasslands of the gold rich Highveld to the haunting barrenness of the Great Karoo. Trundle through the spectacular mountain ranges and scenic wine lands of the Cape. Journey’s end is Cape Town, the Mother City of South Africa, cradled by the imposing bulk of Table Mountain, Devil’s Peak and Lions Head. Highlights of the north and southbound routes include a visit to the historic village of Matjiesfontein. This authentic perfectly preserved Victorian Village, which was founded by Mr Logan as a refreshment stop in 1890, also boasts an impressive museum on the platform. A stop is also made in Kimberley providing an opportunity to enjoy a city tour and a visit to the Mine Museum and the world’s largest man-made excavation, the Big Hole.
