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From Pretoria to Cape Town aboard the Rovos Rail
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From Pretoria to Cape Town
A three-night journey between Pretoria and Cape Town aboard Rovos Rail, crossing the Highveld, the Great Karoo and the mountains of the Cape in one of Southern Africa’s great railway journeys.
Day 1: Pretoria. The journey south begins.
At 10:00, Rovos Rail departs gently from its private Capital Park station in Pretoria. Once settled into your suite and as the train begins to find its rhythm, the journey truly begins. You may explore the lounge cars, settle into the Observation Car, or simply allow the landscape of the Highveld — the vast golden plateau of South Africa’s interior — to set the tone for the journey ahead.
At 13:00, lunch is served in the dining cars, where fine china and South African wines accompany the first hours of this great continental route. Meanwhile, the train crosses the historic Witwatersrand, the region whose mineral wealth transformed South Africa in the late 19th century. Open grasslands stretch endlessly towards the horizon.
The afternoon unfolds gently. At 16:30, tea invites you to settle by the large windows, drink in hand, as the light shifts across the plateau. It is the moment when the horizon seems to expand and the depth of the journey begins to settle in.
As evening falls, at 19:30, the gong announces the first formal dinner. Impeccably dressed tables, polished glassware and the soft murmur of the train create an atmosphere that reminds you that here, the journey is as important as the destination.
As you sleep, the train continues its steady advance southward, crossing the African night.
Day 2: Kimberley, the thrill of diamonds
The day begins between 07:00 and 10:00 with breakfast served as the landscape gradually shifts in tone. Vegetation becomes sparser, the earth takes on ochre hues, and the Karoo begins to emerge as a land of infinite horizons.
Shortly after midday, at 12:30, the train arrives in Kimberley. Following lunch, a visit to the Diamond Mine Museum and the famous Big Hole reveals the magnitude of the diamond rush that transformed South Africa. Standing before this colossal hand-dug excavation, one begins to understand that Africa was shaped as much by ambition as by landscape.
Back on board, the train resumes its journey south. Afternoon tea at 16:30 is served as the light fades across the plains and the silence of the semi-desert gradually envelops the journey.
At nightfall, at 19:30, formal dinner brings guests together once more in the dining cars. Gleaming glassware, crisp linen and the rhythmic motion of the train define the tone of the evening.
As you sleep, the train continues gliding through the Karoo, without stopping, crossing the African darkness on its way to the Cape.
Day 3: The Great Karoo and Matjiesfontein. A pause in time.
Dawn reveals the Great Karoo in its full dimension. An ancient inland sea transformed into mineral vastness. Here, the landscape does not dominate — it expands.
At 09:00, the train stops in Matjiesfontein. This small Victorian enclave, founded in 1890, preserves the atmosphere of another era. Walking along its platform, visiting its museum and admiring its carefully preserved façades recalls a time when the railway was the backbone of travel to the south.
Back on board, the journey becomes even more spectacular. Four tunnels pierce the mountains on the descent toward Worcester. One of them, over 13 kilometres long, cuts through solid rock before revealing the first vineyards of the Cape. The train descends approximately 750 metres, as if Africa itself were changing scenery before your eyes.
Afternoon tea at 16:30 is served with mountains on the horizon and a noticeably different air — more humid, more Atlantic.
At 19:30, the final formal dinner on board is experienced with quiet emotion. It is more than a meal; it is a discreet celebration of a journey that has connected plateaus, deserts and mountain ranges in just three nights.
As you sleep, the train continues its steady progress toward Cape Town.
Day 4: Cape Town. Arrival beneath the mountain.
Breakfast accompanies the final hours of the route. The landscape softens, valleys open up, and the urban skyline begins to appear in the distance.
At 15:00, the train enters Cape Town. Table Mountain rises majestically before you, flanked by Devil’s Peak and Lion’s Head. The arrival is not abrupt; it is a gradual revelation.
The rail journey concludes here, but the experience need not.
Cape Town opens the door to historic vineyards, natural reserves, private safaris and world-class gastronomy. With Teovian, the journey can continue with the same coherence and excellence that has defined every kilometre of the route.
Because on a journey like this, the destination impresses.
But it is the journey that transforms.
Departures are limited each season and international demand is high. Early planning is essential to secure your suite on this exceptional railway journey.
Rovos Rail
The Great Luxury Train of Africa
Rovos Rail Video
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
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
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
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
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
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
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)
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.
Cabins & Suites
Discover the suites of Rovos Rail, spacious and private interiors where contemporary comfort meets the classic aesthetic of a grand African train.
Royal Suite
Royal Suite
Royal Suite of Rovos Rail: a private residence in motion across Africa
The Royal Suite of Rovos Rail is more than a cabin; it is a true private residence on rails. Occupying half a carriage and offering approximately 16 m² of space, it redefines what room and comfort mean aboard a luxury train in Africa. Here, the journey is not experienced from a room, but from a private lounge advancing through deserts, savannas and vast horizons.
As the train crosses the continent, the suite becomes a spacious and quiet retreat. It features a separate sitting area, a double bed or configurable twin beds, and an en-suite bathroom complete with a freestanding Victorian bath, separate shower, washbasin and WC. The layout is designed to provide independence, privacy and a genuine sense of space.
Wood finishes, rich textiles and classic detailing create a warm, timeless atmosphere, while adjustable air conditioning, minibar, safe, premium amenities and daily personalized service complete a refined and coherent experience. On Rovos Rail, the Royal Suite does not simply accompany the journey; it is an essential part of the continental crossing.
Features of the Royal Suite on Rovos Rail
- Approximate size: 16 m²
- Occupies half a carriage
- Double bed or configurable twin beds
- Private sitting area
- En-suite bathroom with freestanding Victorian bath
- Separate shower
- Washbasin and WC
- Adjustable air conditioning
- Minibar
- Safe
- Writing desk
- Wardrobe and luggage storage
- Premium amenities
- Bathrobes and slippers
- Daily personalized service
- Internal telephone and room service
Rovos Rail offers a very limited number of Royal Suites per train, reinforcing their exclusivity within a maximum capacity of 72 guests.
How to book your Royal Suite with Teovian
At Teovian, we assist you in securing your Royal Suite on Rovos Rail with careful planning, particularly on longer itineraries and high-demand departures.
Beyond the train reservation, we can design your complete African experience, including private safaris, high-end lodges, internal flights and tailored extensions before or after the journey.
Choosing the Royal Suite means travelling with space, privacy and character. Booking with Teovian means turning that choice into a perfectly orchestrated experience.
Deluxe Suite
Deluxe Suite
Deluxe Suite of Rovos Rail: the perfect balance of space and elegance
The Deluxe Suite of Rovos Rail offers a harmonious combination of space, comfort and classic style. At approximately 10 m², it provides generous proportions within the railway context, ideal for enjoying a continental journey across Africa with privacy and ease.
During the day, the suite invites relaxation as the African landscape unfolds beyond the wide windows. At night, the double bed or configurable twin beds ensure restful sleep while the train continues its passage through deserts, savannas and historic cities.
The en-suite bathroom, equipped with shower, washbasin and WC, provides full autonomy on board. Wood finishes, warm textiles and classic detailing create a timeless atmosphere, complemented by adjustable air conditioning, minibar, safe and daily personalized service. The Deluxe Suite represents the ideal balance between space, character and functionality on a luxury train in Africa.
Features of the Deluxe Suite on Rovos Rail
- Approximate size: 10 m²
- Double bed or configurable twin beds
- Integrated sitting area
- En-suite bathroom with shower
- Washbasin and WC
- Adjustable air conditioning
- Minibar
- Safe
- Writing desk
- Wardrobe and luggage storage
- Premium amenities
- Bathrobes and slippers
- Daily personalized service
- Internal telephone and room service
Rovos Rail offers a limited number of Deluxe Suites per train, within a maximum capacity of 72 guests, maintaining an exclusive and carefully scaled atmosphere.
How to book your Deluxe Suite with Teovian
At Teovian, we help you select the departure and suite category best suited to your itinerary and preferred travel pace.
Beyond securing your accommodation on board, we can integrate private safaris, exclusive lodges and tailored extensions before or after your Rovos Rail journey.
Travelling in a Deluxe Suite means choosing comfort with character. Booking with Teovian ensures every detail is seamlessly coordinated.
Pullman Gold
Pullman Gold
Pullman Gold of Rovos Rail: intelligent comfort for extended journeys
The Pullman Gold of Rovos Rail is designed to offer a balanced and functional experience on the train’s longer itineraries. At approximately 7 m², this suite optimizes space with elegance, maintaining privacy and comfort throughout a continental journey across Africa.
Primarily used on extended routes, the Pullman Gold features a double bed or configurable twin beds, an en-suite bathroom with shower, washbasin and WC, and a layout carefully planned so that every element has its place without compromising comfort. Wood finishes, classic fabrics and refined detailing create a warm atmosphere that complements the train’s unhurried rhythm.
Adjustable air conditioning, minibar, safe, premium amenities and daily personalized service complete a category that demonstrates how true luxury can also be expressed through proportion and intelligent design. The Pullman Gold offers everything essential to experience Rovos Rail with coherence and style.
Features of the Pullman Gold on Rovos Rail
- Approximate size: 7 m²
- Double bed or configurable twin beds
- En-suite bathroom with shower
- Washbasin and WC
- Fold-down writing desk
- Wardrobe and storage space
- Adjustable air conditioning
- Minibar
- Safe
- Premium amenities
- Bathrobes and slippers
- Daily personalized service
- Internal telephone and room service
Pullman Gold Suites are primarily used on Rovos Rail’s longer itineraries, offering a well-proportioned and comfortable solution within the train’s maximum capacity of 72 guests.
How to book your Pullman Gold with Teovian
At Teovian, we guide you in selecting the most appropriate category according to the duration and nature of your chosen itinerary.
Beyond your suite reservation, we can design a complete African journey including exclusive lodges, private safaris and perfectly coordinated internal flights.
The Pullman Gold is an intelligent choice for exploring Africa by train with comfort and balance. With Teovian, every detail is thoughtfully planned.
Pullman
Pullman
Pullman of Rovos Rail: elegant functionality for selected journeys
The Pullman of Rovos Rail is designed to offer a comfortable and well-conceived experience on the train’s shorter itineraries. At approximately 7 m², it maximizes space through a versatile layout that adapts to the rhythm of the journey without sacrificing character.
By day, the suite presents a lounge-style setting with a comfortable sofa, creating a practical space to relax as the African landscape passes by. By night, the space transforms into a double bed or twin beds in bunk configuration, providing adequate rest in a layout designed to maximize functionality.
The en-suite bathroom with shower, washbasin and WC ensures full autonomy on board. Adjustable air conditioning, minibar, safe, premium amenities and daily personalized service complete a category that proves even compact dimensions can deliver essential comfort and aesthetic coherence.
Features of the Pullman on Rovos Rail
- Approximate size: 7 m²
- Day configuration: sofa
- Night configuration: double bed or twin beds (bunk style)
- En-suite bathroom with shower
- Washbasin and WC
- Fold-down writing desk
- Wardrobe and storage space
- Adjustable air conditioning
- Minibar
- Safe
- Premium amenities
- Bathrobes and slippers
- Daily personalized service
- Internal telephone and room service
Pullman Suites are primarily used on Rovos Rail’s shorter itineraries, offering a functional and thoughtfully designed option within the train’s maximum capacity of 72 guests.
How to book your Pullman with Teovian
At Teovian, we help you select the suite category best suited to your travel style and the length of your journey.
In addition to managing your reservation on board, we can integrate tailored African extensions, private safaris and exclusive accommodations before or after your rail experience.
The Pullman is a versatile option for discovering Africa by train with comfort and efficiency. With Teovian, every choice becomes part of a carefully coordinated journey.
Rovos Rail Gallery
Explore the atmosphere of Rovos Rail: open-air balconies facing endless African horizons, formal dinners at sunset, locomotives gliding through vast savannas and the relaxed elegance of a true continental journey.
