A Luxury Train Journey Through South Africa
A luxury train may not be everyone’s idea of the perfect way to compliment a South African safari, but for those who yearn for that romantic and by-gone elegance, a luxury train journey could offer the ultimate in resplendent and regal travel. South Africa’s most famous rail journeys are aboard the iconic blue train and along the rovos rail network which transport guests across a vast range of country and offering multiple itineraries.
Conveyed in style and comfort through some of the country’s most enamouring and striking landscapes safely and securely and away from the clamour of hectic road travel. A train promises you peace of mind and decidedly more glamorous way to travel. The beauty of a luxury rail journey is that instead of interrupting a more archetypal safari experience, 4x4ing through the undergrowth, it acts as the ideal supplement. What you might not expect from a rail journey, typically rigid and regimental affairs, is the incredible flexibility that taking a luxury train offers.
Both the Blue Train and Rovos Rail offer guests a great deal of choice not only in regards of service but also in relation to timings and routes including tours along the renowned Cape Town to Pretoria route, up to Zambia to the Victoria Falls and along the stunning garden route. Journeys can consist of a shorter one way 27 hour Cape Town to Pretoria (or Pretoria to Cape Town) tour or a more extensive trip which can include a return journey.
Rovos Rail itself consists of two beautifully restored trains which boast some of the most spacious suites in the world; five star luxury cruising through the South African countryside without interruption. Capable of accommodating 72 passengers the trains feature 20 coaches including two luxurious dining carriages, a lounge and observation carriage. Such is Rovos’ pursuit of refined and luxurious travel the private company have even built and restored a private central train station and locomotive yard solely for the service.
The Blue train is a symbol of endearing opulence in South Africa, its unmistakable royal blue paintwork gleaming in the sunshine as it coasts through the valleys, savannahs and plains. Kings and presidents have journeyed through South Africa aboard the Blue Train and that air of prestige still clings to it today. Such are the standards attained on board this moving five star hotel that all guest rooms are suites with a selection of luxury and deluxe options available. The glorious wood panelled carriages have been beautifully designed to reflect the glamour of a forgotten age and throughout the train including the dining and club cart this sense of grandeur is maintained. Each passenger coach enjoys its own private butler who will endeavour to attend to all of the needs and wants of the exclusive clientele you will be part of.
A luxury train journey is a wonderful way to encounter the glory of South Africa and what more befitting way to explore this striking nation than by travelling with all the pomp and grandeur of a refined rail trip.