Rovos Rail Itineraries

Discover Rovos Rail itineraries across South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Botswana and Tanzania, connecting Cape Town, Pretoria, Victoria Falls, the Namib Desert and Dar es Salaam on journeys ranging from two to sixteen nights.

Rovos Rail

The Great Luxury Train of Africa

Rovos Rail Video

Rovos Rail: The Luxury Train That Transforms Africa Into an Experience

Rovos Rail: The Luxury Train That Transforms Africa Into an Experience

Imagine crossing Africa without haste, as elephants move in the distance and the landscape shifts in scale before your eyes.

Rovos Rail is one of the world’s most iconic luxury trains and the ultimate reference for rail travel in Southern Africa. Since 1989, it has journeyed through some of the continent’s most breathtaking scenery: wildlife-filled savannas, red-hued deserts, historic cities, and monumental waterfalls.

Here, time expands.
The train moves at a measured pace, allowing Africa not to be rushed through — but truly observed.

Traveling aboard Rovos Rail is not simply about getting from one destination to another.
It is about experiencing the continent with perspective, elegance, and depth.

The Story of Rovos Rail: The Golden Age Reimagined in Africa

The Story of Rovos Rail: The Golden Age Reimagined in Africa

Founded in 1989, Rovos Rail was created with a clear vision: to revive the glamour and romance of classic rail travel in one of the most spectacular settings on earth.

Its beautifully restored wood-paneled coaches, wide panoramic windows, and period detailing blend timeless aesthetics with modern comfort. There is no television and no onboard WiFi. The experience is designed to disconnect from modern noise and reconnect with Africa’s vast, living landscapes.

The gong announcing dinner.
Fine china and crisp linen.
The evening dress code.

Everything evokes a refined, timeless elegance — never theatrical, never excessive.

Rovos Rail is not just another luxury train.
It is a rare jewel within the global luxury travel world.

What Is Included on Rovos Rail: A Seamless Luxury Train Experience in Africa

What Is Included on Rovos Rail: A Seamless Luxury Train Experience in Africa

Imagine settling into your suite as the train begins to glide smoothly out of the station.
Your luggage is already placed. A glass awaits on the table. The landscape begins to move — slow, almost hypnotic.

On Rovos Rail, everything is designed so that you don’t have to think about anything except living the journey. This luxury train in Africa is not simply transportation; it is a fully orchestrated experience where every detail flows naturally.

From the first welcome to the final evening on board, service, cuisine, excursions, and comfort are coordinated with precision so that the continent unfolds without interruption.

Each Rovos Rail journey includes:

  • Accommodation in Pullman, Deluxe, or Royal Suites with private en-suite bathroom
  • Full board while on board
  • A curated selection of South African wines and beverages
  • Bar service from 7:00 AM to approximately 1:00 AM
  • Daily afternoon tea at 4:30 PM
  • Formal dinners served in a single seating
  • Carefully integrated off-train excursions according to itinerary
  • Dedicated host/hostess service available 24 hours a day
  • A maximum of 72 guests per train

Luxury here is not about excess.
It is about harmony.

Dining on Rovos Rail: Africa Served With Elegance

Dining on Rovos Rail: Africa Served With Elegance

On Rovos Rail, dining does not simply accompany the journey.
It defines it.

Imagine beginning your morning with fresh fruit, warm pastries, and rich coffee as African light transforms the scenery beyond your window. Breakfast becomes a suspended moment between wilderness and comfort.

At lunch, dishes celebrate regional ingredients: carefully sourced meats, fresh seafood, subtle spices, and traditional flavors refined with contemporary technique. The train continues its steady rhythm as conversation flows effortlessly.

At 4:30 PM, afternoon tea offers an elegant pause — delicate pastries, small bites, and a glass in hand as the sun lowers over the savanna.

And by evening, the dining car becomes a stage. Crisp linen, polished glassware, four carefully executed courses, and South African wines selected to elevate each dish.

Here, dinner is not routine.
It is a celebration of the journey.

Because on a luxury train in Africa, flavor becomes part of the landscape.

Rovos Rail Itineraries and Destinations: Africa at Grand Scale

Rovos Rail Itineraries and Destinations: Africa at Grand Scale

Imagine waking up each morning to a completely different world.
One day along the Atlantic in Cape Town. The next crossing the vast Karoo. Later, watching mist rise from Victoria Falls.

Rovos Rail offers some of the most ambitious rail journeys in the world:

  • Cape Town to Pretoria
  • The journey to Victoria Falls
  • Namibia and the Namib Desert
  • The transcontinental route to Dar es Salaam
  • The Copper Trail
  • Journeys ranging from 48 hours to 16 nights

These routes cross South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, and beyond — blending panoramic rail travel with carefully selected excursions.

Traveling with Rovos Rail means discovering Africa at its true scale.
Unfragmented. Unhurried. Unfiltered.

Rovos Rail Cabins and Suites: Your Private Sanctuary in Motion

Rovos Rail Cabins and Suites: Your Private Sanctuary in Motion

As the train continues its nocturnal passage beneath an endless African sky, your suite becomes a sanctuary.

Rovos Rail cabins and suites combine classic wood finishes, generous proportions, and contemporary comfort. Every detail is designed so that rest becomes part of the luxury train experience in Africa.

Rovos Rail offers three main categories:

Royal Suite (16m²)

Occupying half a carriage, with a private lounge area and full en-suite bathroom including a Victorian bath. A true residence on rails.

Deluxe Suite (10m²)

Featuring a lounge area and private bathroom with shower, offering a perfect balance of space and sophistication.

Pullman / Pullman Gold (7m²)

More compact yet refined, ideal for guests who prioritize the journey experience while maintaining comfort.

All suites include:

  • Private en-suite bathroom
  • Air conditioning
  • Mini fridge
  • Electronic safe
  • Luxury amenities
  • Daily personalized service

Here, you do not simply sleep.
You awaken in the heart of Africa.

Why Book Rovos Rail With Teovian

Why Book Rovos Rail With Teovian

Rovos Rail operates a limited number of departures each year, with a maximum of 72 guests per train. Royal Suites and long itineraries often sell out months in advance.

At Teovian, we are international specialists in luxury train travel. We know every Rovos Rail itinerary in depth, every suite category, and every possible extension.

We do more than secure your reservation.

  • We design private safari extensions
  • We coordinate ultra-luxury lodges
  • We arrange internal flights
  • We organize pre- and post-train hotels
  • We oversee every detail until your return home

Booking Rovos Rail with Teovian means transforming a luxury train journey in Africa into a fully curated, seamless experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rovos Rail (FAQ)

Frequently Asked Questions About Rovos Rail (FAQ)

Is Rovos Rail one of the best luxury trains in the world?

Yes. It is internationally recognized as one of the most iconic luxury trains, particularly for its grand continental journeys across Southern Africa.

How long are Rovos Rail journeys?

From 48 hours to 16 nights, depending on the selected itinerary.

Is there WiFi on board Rovos Rail?

No. The experience is designed to encourage digital disconnection and full immersion in the African landscape.

How many passengers travel on Rovos Rail?

A maximum of 72 guests per train, ensuring exclusivity and an intimate atmosphere.

What is the dress code?

Smart casual during the day. In the evening, especially for formal dinners, elegant attire is recommended.

Can Rovos Rail be privately chartered?

Yes. The train can be chartered for private events or exclusive journeys, subject to availability.

Is Rovos Rail suitable for children?

Long journeys are not recommended for children under 13, and children aged 0–2 are not permitted.

Why choose Teovian to book Rovos Rail?

Because we are luxury train specialists. We provide expert guidance, priority access to availability, and design the complete experience before, during, and after your rail journey.