Africa's Most Luxurious Train Journey Through Untamed Wilderness
Rovos Rail has a style all of its own with train tours that have a blend of earthy African safari and traditional luxury
About Rovos Rail - Cape Town to Johannesburg
Enjoy a memorable seven night South African holiday starting with two nights in Cape Town, where you can choose to explore the city’s iconic landmarks like Table Mountain and the V&A Waterfront.
Then embark on a luxurious three night journey aboard Rovos Rail, travelling from Cape Town to Pretoria in vintage elegance, with gourmet dining, fine wines, and scenic stops including a visit to the historic town of Kimberley.
Conclude your trip with two relaxing nights in Johannesburg, discovering its rich history, jacaranda-lined streets, and cultural highlights before heading home.
The Route
Eight Days Discovering Southern Africa's Heart
Experience the perfect introduction to South Africa's diverse beauty through an elegant week-long journey that seamlessly blends Cape Town's coastal sophistication with Johannesburg's cultural heritage, aboard the world's most luxurious train where vintage elegance meets contemporary comfort whilst historic Kimberley reveals the diamond rush stories that shaped a nation's destiny.
Day One
Upon arrival at Cape Town International Airport, you'll be welcomed with VIP treatment as part of Cullinan GSO’s Platinum V-VIP service. From the moment you step off the plane, a dedicated airside handler will escort you through passport control, baggage claim, and customs. In the arrivals hall, a Guest Services Officer will greet you with a refreshment and help answer any questions about your trip. A complimentary porter is on hand to assist with luggage, and all onward arrangements will be smoothly coordinated. You’ll then enjoy a private transfer with an English-speaking driver to the iconic Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, where your Cape Town adventure begins.
Day Two
Choose from a day's tour of the Peninsular or the Winelands Tour. Option 1 - Enjoy a full-day guided Peninsula Tour showcasing some of Cape Town’s most iconic coastal highlights. Travel along the breathtaking Chapman's Peak Drive, visit the Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point with return tickets on the Flying Dutchman funicular for panoramic views, and stop for a seafood lunch at the scenic Seaforth Restaurant overlooking Seaforth Beach. The tour also includes entrance to Boulders Penguin Colony to see the charming African penguins up close, with all transportation, entrance fees, bottled water, and guide services included. Option 2 - Enjoy a full-day Winelands Tour beginning with a guided visit to historic Stellenbosch, followed by a wine tasting at Plaisir Estate. A highlight of the day is a three-course lunch at the tranquil Brookdale Estate Bistro, surrounded by vineyards and mountain views, paired with a second wine tasting and insights into Brookdale’s unique vintages. The tour continues with a visit to a second renowned estate for more wine tasting amid the scenic Cape Winelands. Return to your hotel to freshen up before a special welcome dinner at Mount Nelson’s elegant Sherwood Room, featuring a set menu with selected beverages and an inspiring talk by South African author and speaker Andrew Russell.
Day Three
After breakfast at 'The Nellie', you will embark on a short Cape Town orientation tour including highlights such as Table Mountain, the vibrant Bo-Kaap and historic sites such as the Castle of Good Hope. You will be transferred to Rovos Rail station in Cape Town to board your luxurious train for the next three nights. Once boarded and shown to your luxury suite, it is time to settle in and take your new surroundings as the train trundles through the Winelands of Western Cape. It will soon be time to make your way to the restaurants cars for your first gastronomic experience.
Day Four
Enjoy breakfast on board the train before disembarking at the historic village of Matjiesfontein, where you can explore the charming platform museum and a fascinating collection of vintage cars and railway carriages near the Lord Milner Hotel. After your stroll, rejoin the train as it continues its journey through the vast, semi-desert landscapes of the Karoo—once an ancient inland sea—now known for its dramatic geology and timeless beauty.
Day Five
Enjoy a guided tour of Kimberley’s Diamond Mine Museum and the iconic Big Hole, a deep hand-dug excavation that marks the city's diamond rush origins in 1871. Known as the capital of the Northern Cape, Kimberley played a key role in South Africa’s mining history. After the tour, return to the train for lunch as the journey continues northeast through the expansive grasslands of the Highveld towards Klerksdorp.
Day Six
Enjoy another day at leisure aboard the train and some last minute cocktails before disembarking in Pretoria at Rovos Rail's very own private station. Here you can choose to take part in a tour of the station and the museum hosted by an informative guide, which we would highly recommend. You will then be transferred to the luxurious Saxon Hotel to enjoy an evening of relaxation.
Day Seven
Experience a rich cultural day in Johannesburg and Soweto, beginning with a visit to the Hector Pieterson Museum, commemorating the 1976 student uprising, followed by a tour of Mandela House to explore the personal history of Nelson Mandela. Enjoy a traditional South African lunch at the lively Sakhumzi Restaurant, known for its local flavours and vibrant atmosphere. Continue to the powerful Apartheid Museum for an in-depth look at South Africa’s struggle for freedom and democracy. Conclude the day with a memorable farewell dinner at the elegant Saxon Hotel’s new Pavilion venue, featuring a three-course plated menu, select beverages, and impeccable service in a luxurious setting.
Day Eight
Enjoy a final breakfast this morning before being transferred to the airport for your onward arrangements home.
Where You Will Stay
Step into your private Victorian-era inspired suite where period furnishings and modern amenities create the perfect base for your African adventure, featuring panoramic windows positioned for optimal wildlife viewing, luxury bedding, and en-suite facilities that maintain colonial elegance whilst providing contemporary comfort.
All rooms aboard this unique journey are Deluxe Suites with handcrafted details, premium appointments, and 24-hour personalised attention, your suite becomes a luxurious retreat where you can reflect on each day's extraordinary wildlife encounters and cultural discoveries.
Deluxe Suite
Enjoy 10 sqm of refined luxury with optimal wildlife viewing positioning. Each Suite includes a private bathroom with shower and a lounge area with complimentary mini bar.
Where you will relax and dine
Dining Car
Experience the artistry of South African cuisine in our two magnificent restaurant cars, where crystal, silver, and crisp linens create the perfect setting for meals that celebrate the rainbow nation's diverse culinary heritage.
Club Car
Unwind with premium South African wines, craft spirits, and international favourites in our sophisticated social spaces, where fellow travellers become lifelong friends over shared stories of African adventures.
Observation Car
Panoramic windows and comfortable armchairs transform wildlife viewing into a private cinema experience, where the Big Five perform against backdrops of African sunsets.
Hotels & Accommodation
Our exclusive partnerships offer the ultimate luxury stays during your journey with us.
Mount Nelson, Cape Town
The legendary 'Pink Lady' of Cape Town, this Belmond property has welcomed royalty and dignitaries for over a century. Situated in the heart of the city with Table Mountain views, afternoon tea traditions, and access to Cape Town's finest attractions.
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Saxon Hotel, Johannesburg
Mandela's former residence transformed into Africa's most prestigious boutique hotel, featuring luxury suites, world-class spa facilities, and impeccable service. This tranquil oasis in Sandhurst provides the perfect end to your African odyssey.
Experience Africa's natural beauty by Rail
Our comprehensive brochure reveals the complete 8-day Cape Town to Pretoria experience, showcasing how three nights aboard Rovos Rail's legendary train perfectly complements Cape Town's coastal elegance and Johannesburg's cultural heritage.
From your luxury suite's Victorian appointments to the historic diamond discoveries in Kimberley that shaped modern South Africa, every page demonstrates why this week-long journey provides the ideal introduction to rainbow nation hospitality, world-class wine regions, and the kind of personalised service that transforms travel into cherished memories.
Calendar
25th June - 2nd July 2026 | Cape Town to Johannesburg (8 days) | 30 couples only | £11,499 per couple | Please contact us for single supplements.
25 June 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Essential information for your African adventure aboard the world's most luxurious train. From safari preparations to onboard amenities, everything you need for an unforgettable journey through Southern Africa's spectacular landscapes.
Is there a laundry service on board Rovos Rail?
Yes, a complimentary basic laundry service is available (wash, dry, iron) with a 48-hour turnaround. No dry-cleaning is available. Rovos is not responsible for damage or loss.
Is WiFi available on Rovos Rail?
WiFi is available at:
- Cape Town Lounge
- Rovos Rail Station
- Tau Game Lodge
- Victoria Falls Hotel
- Mokuti Lodge
- Most Namibia Safari lodges
Are mobile phones and laptops allowed?
Yes, but only in your private suite. To maintain a peaceful environment, devices should not be used in public areas. Signal is poor while moving.
What are meal times on Rovos Rail?
- Breakfast: 07:00–10:00
- Lunch: 13:00
- Tea: 16:30
- Dinner: 19:30 (Formal)
A gong will announce lunch and dinner.
Are dietary needs accommodated?
Yes—please list any dietary requirements on the Reservation Form. Chefs will do their best to accommodate requests. Meals requiring strict religious preparation may not be available without prior notice.
What should I wear on board Rovos Rail?
- Daytime on train: Smart casual
- Dinner: Formal — Jacket and tie for men, cocktail or evening wear for women
- Off-train activities: Comfortable walking shoes, sunblock, and hats
- Game drives: Dress in layers — mornings are cool, afternoons warm
Are children allowed on board Rovos Rail?
Long journeys (more than 2 nights) are not recommended for under 13 yr old children.
Children between 0-2 years old are not permitted to travel. There are no child-minding facilities or activities available for children on board.
Are tips expected on Rovos Rail?
Tips are optional. If you'd like to show appreciation, place the gratuity in the envelope provided in your suite and give it to the Train Manager. It will be fairly shared among the staff.
Suggested amount: ZAR 100–200 (approx. US$10–20) per person per night.
What currency is used onboard Rovos Rail and during excursions?
- South Africa: South African Rand (ZAR). All major credit cards are accepted onboard.
- Outside South Africa: US Dollars are used for off-train expenses and excursions. Credit cards are accepted.
Are all US Dollars accepted?
No. Only notes printed after 2001 are accepted.
- Use low denominations for tips and shopping.
- Use high denominations for exchanging currency (especially in Tanzania).
Are vaccinations or medications needed for Rovos Rail?
- Malaria precautions are recommended for Swaziland, Kruger Park, Northern Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Tanzania.
- Recommended vaccinations (not required): Hepatitis A, Polio, Tetanus, Cholera (low risk).
- Yellow Fever: If traveling to or from Tanzania, a Yellow Fever certificate or medical exemption is required.
Who should I contact for medical travel advice?
Please consult your doctor. You can also call Travel Doctor Africa:
Local: 0861 300 911 | International: +27 11 214 9030
Should I let Rovos know about medical conditions or allergies?
Yes. Please complete the Passenger Information Form and include any medical conditions, disabilities, or allergies. A basic First Aid Kit is available on board. A doctor is present only on the Dar es Salaam journey.
