Destinations Magazine

The Pride of Africa Rovos Rail: Luxury Train Journey

By Arianamarialouis

Have you heard about Rovos Rail’s Royal Suites? They take up half a carriage each, giving travellers a big 16sqm of luxury. Each has a private lounge and a full en-suite, including a Victorian bath and shower.1 Rovos Rail is known as the world’s top luxury train for good reason. It mixes the thrill of an African safari with the charm of early 20th-century train travel. You’ll enjoy lavish trips across Southern Africa.

Choosing Rovos Rail means more than getting from one place to another. It’s about diving into a world of Edwardian splendour. Every carriage, lovingly restored, takes you back to a time of elegance. And it still has the modern luxuries you’d expect in top cabins. The trips are amazing too. For instance, the Namibia journey lasts 13 nights. It offers 2 extra nights in a hotel and a flight over beautiful Namibia/South Africa1. The Southern Cross journey includes your pick of a 20% discount or two free nights in Victoria Falls1. No matter which trip you choose, you’ll experience Africa’s beauty in the lap of luxury from your Rovos Rail suite.

Key Takeaways

  • Rovos Rail’s Royal Suites offer 16sqm of opulent space in half a carriage.1
  • The Namibia journey includes 13 nights with complimentary hotel and flight perks.1
  • Guests can choose a 20% discount or two free nights in Victoria Falls with the Southern Cross journey.1
  • Rovos Rail combines early 20th-century elegance with modern luxury cabins.
  • Itineraries range from short scenic trips to extended cross-country adventures.

An Introduction to the Pride of Africa Rovos Rail

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The Pride of Africa Rovos Rail is famous for luxury and style. It’s known as the top choice for train travel in Africa. The train goes through many countries like South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe. It combines the excitement of safaris with the comfy feels of luxury train rides. Rovos Rail tours promise an amazing travel adventure.

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With room for up to 72 people, the Pride of Africa feels special and private2. The journey starts at Pretoria station, designed like an old Edwardian place. This station is full of history and starts your elegant train trip. The train has Pullman Gold Suites that are great for a short stay2. They’re spacious, at 76 square feet, with twin beds that become sofa seats.

If you want even more space, try the Deluxe Suites. They’re about 108 square feet and have twin beds or a large double bed2. For the ultimate luxury, there are Royal Suites. They’re the biggest on any train, at around 172 square feet. They have a king bed and are wonderfully lavish2.

Each dining car can seat up to 42 people. They sit at small tables or bigger ones to enjoy their meals2. There’s also an observation car with a bar, inside sitting, and an open part for seeing the views2. Dressing up is required for dinner, making the train feel very posh. And, all meals and drinks are part of your ticket price. They serve South African wines, too2.

Not just a fancy train, the Pride of Africa Rovos Rail offers a premier rail experience. It lets you really relax and enjoy the fancy surroundings. This mix of old-world charm and today’s comforts is why it’s a top choice for luxury in Africa. It offers a chance to experience the beautiful journeys it takes.

Luxurious Accommodations on Board

Rovos Rail cabins

Rovos Rail is all about luxury on the move. It offers a range of suites, each meticulously designed. They ensure an unmatched experience of luxury during your journey.

Royal Suites

Royal Suites stand for the highest luxury on Rovos Rail. They take up half a carriage. A private lounge and a full bathroom with a Victorian bath are yours to enjoy. It guarantees a luxurious time onboard. With a dedicated host, your comfort and privacy are well taken care of.

Deluxe Suites

Deluxe Suites are a mix of style and functionality. They come with a lounge for relaxation and private en-suite facilities. The rooms are designed with beautiful wood and Edwardian touches. They offer both the charm of the past and the comfort of today.

Pullman Gold Suites

The Pullman Gold experience is perfect for longer trips. It features a sofa-seat that turns into a bed at night. The suite includes en-suite facilities for your comfort. Its design and facilities epitomize the luxury of train travel.

Dining and Cuisine

Rovos Rail culinary experience

Boarding Rovos Rail opens doors to a world of food delights. Imagine enjoying a meal in the heart of Victorian charm. The food journey on the train is made to please, mixing great tastes with the luxurious travel across Africa.

Victorian-era Dining Cars

The dining area on Rovos Rail sends guests to a time of splendour. Imagine eating amidst polished wood, shining silverware, and crisp linens. Here, you get hearty breakfasts, lush lunches, and dinners paired perfectly with South African wines. This all ends with a lovely afternoon tea. Eating on this train is like nowhere else3.

Local Delicacies and Fine Wine

Chefs work wonders to bring amazing meals on the journey. They mix the best of South African and local flavours in every dish. Then, there’s wine tasting to make each meal extra special. It all happens in the beautiful setting of the Victorian dining cars, sharing the joy with other guests.

Wines from South Africa add a special note to these great meals. They’re carefully chosen to fit the dishes perfectly. The mix of local tastes and global inspiration makes dining on Rovos Rail truly unforgettable.

On the 14-day trip from Cape Town to Dar es Salaam, every bite is a story. The talented culinary team crafts flavours and textures that amaze. Their dedication to true dining luxury shines in every meal3.

On-board Atmosphere and Entertainment

Rovos Rail makes every journey special with its top-notch amenities. This ensures a mix of luxury and relaxation all the way.

Lounge Cars

In Rovos Rail’s luxury lounges, tranquillity meets history. Passengers can unwind in these beautifully designed spaces. They are perfect for reading, chatting, or enjoying the entertainment on offer.

There are no TVs or radios. This promotes a calm environment and helps guests enjoy the view. It also fosters connections among travellers, ensuring everyone has a memorable time4.

Observation Cars

The observation cars at the back of the train offer incredible views. They have balconies for seeing the African scenery. Plus, you can get a drink from the bar, open until late4.

These cars also host gatherings like high tea. People share their adventures and enjoy the African beauty together. This mix of lounges and observation cars makes the journey something you’ll never forget. It highlights Rovos Rail’s charm and Africa’s stunning landscapes.

Popular Rovos Rail Journeys

Rovos Rail offers two famously loved journeys – the Southern Cross and the Cape Town Journey. These are top picks for those seeking luxury and adventure while exploring Africa by train. You’ll enjoy stunning views, learn about rich cultures, and travel in supreme comfort.

Southern Cross: Pretoria to Victoria Falls

The Southern Cross is a thrilling Rovos Rail itinerary from Pretoria to Victoria Falls. It’s known for its beautiful views and stops at historical sites. This journey blends nature and history, offering a deep look at Africa. You’ll see everything from lush areas near Pretoria to the grand Victoria Falls, making it an unforgettable trip.

Cape Town Journey: Pretoria to Cape Town

The Cape Town luxury rail excursion travels from Pretoria to Cape Town through Africa’s diverse landscapes. It showcases the beauty from the Highveld’s greenery to the Great Karoo’s unique desert. The journey ends with the iconic Table Mountain in view. With stops at cultural spots like Matjiesfontein and Kimberley, it shares South Africa’s rich history and nature.

Safari rail trips are known for their luxury and top-notch service. Rovos Rail’s cross-country train tours host up to 72 people for an intimate experience. Each suite, whether Pullman or Royal, is roomy. Royal Suites are particularly spacious, taking up half a train car and giving guests plenty of space to relax2.

Booking and Travel Information

Starting a journey with Rovos Rail means you’re in for something special. It’s all about top-notch service for those with discerning tastes. They offer detailed itineraries like the Southern Cross journey. This one is for 11 nights and comes with a great 20% discount or two free nights in Victoria Falls1. The team at Rovos Rail makes everything smooth, from booking the accommodation to planning your whole trip1.

Rovos Rail’s choices go beyond the ordinary, with crafted packages just for you. Take the African Trilogy, for example, a 15-night adventure that means business. Book before May 31, 2024, and get a sweet 5% discount1. If you prefer shorter journeys, the Cape Town trip is for you. It’s a 4-day/3-night plan that includes stops at Matjiesfontein and Kimberley. It catches the true spirit of an Adventurous African tour1. Every journey is designed to give you the best experience in style and comfort.

There’s a wide range of Rovos Rail packages, 11 in total, with extras like pre and post tours. The longest trips last 24 days, showing how deep and absorbing these adventures are5. You can even customise your own package to suit your tastes perfectly5. These options truly make your trip on the Pride of Africa both deluxe and personal.

FAQ

What makes the Pride of Africa Rovos Rail unique?

Embarking on a Rovos Rail journey combines safari thrill with old-world luxury. It lets you immerse in the grandeur of early 20th-century train travel. You enjoy lavish, restored coaches alongside modern comforts.

What destinations does Rovos Rail cover?

Rovos Rail travels through captivating places like South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe. It brings back the magic of the golden age of rail, all while offering modern luxuries. You can choose from various routes, like the Southern Cross to Victoria Falls or Cape Town Journey to Cape Town from Pretoria.

What types of accommodations are available on Rovos Rail?

There are three accommodation levels on Rovos Rail: Royal Suites, Deluxe Suites, and Pullman Gold Suites. Each is elegantly designed, blending Edwardian charm with modern features. They all have air conditioning, a safe place for belongings, and 24-hour room service.

What can passengers expect from the dining experience on board?

The dining is like a fine culinary adventure in Victorian-era dining cars. Skilled chefs use local ingredients to create international and South African dishes. These are served with top South African wines.

Are there any special features in the lounge and observation cars?

Enjoy the comforts of the elegant lounge cars with their fine furniture. They create a friendly, relaxing atmosphere. At the end of the train, the observation cars have a bar and an outdoor patio. Here, you can soak in Africa’s stunning views.”);

How do I book a journey on Rovos Rail?

Booking a trip on the Rovos Rail is easy through their website or travel agents. The Rovos team works to make your journey unforgettable. They offer various options and packages, including stay and tour deals.

Are there any special dishes or wines served on Rovos Rail?

Rovos Rail’s meals are a feast of fine dining, made with the best local ingredients. They’re paired with exceptional South African wines. Dinners showcase the best of traditional South African food.”);

What kind of entertainment options are available on board?

Onboard, you’ll find spaces designed for relaxation and mingling. You can chill out in luxury lounges or enjoy the view from observation cars. There are activities like high tea and storytelling, making it a perfect time to connect with fellow travellers.”

Source Links

  1. https://www.luxurytrainclub.com/trains/pride-of-africa-rovos-rail/
  2. https://www.irtsociety.com/train/rovos-rail-pride-of-africa/
  3. https://www.irtsociety.com/blog/rovos-rails-pride-of-africa-is-a-true-home-away-from-home/
  4. https://blog.luxurygold.com/south-africa-rovos-rail/
  5. https://luxurytrainsouthafrica.com/ticket-prices/

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