Luxury Train Journeys in Africa | Rovos & Blue Train

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Luxury Trains of Africa

In Southern Africa, you can enjoy a luxury train journey on either Rovos Rail or The Blue Train. Both offer a travel experience that evokes a bygone era.

Rovos Rail

Rovos Rail is one of the world's most luxurious trains. It operates between Pretoria, Cape Town, Durban, and Victoria Falls, with periodic longer journeys to Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and Swakopmund in Namibia.

Each train consists of a locomotive, a generator car, sleeper cars, and a staff car. The train features a non-smoking lounge, two dining cars, a smoking lounge, and an observation car. Cars are lavishly decorated with wood paneling, leather, and luxury fabrics. By day the dress code is smart casual; dinners are formal, with men expected to wear a jacket and tie.

Rovos operates classic carriages refurbished to modern comfort. The main train accommodates up to 72 passengers. The train limits the use of technology—there is no Wi-Fi and mobile coverage is limited—an excellent opportunity to switch off and relax.

The Blue Train

The Blue Train is another of the world's finest trains. It operates scheduled journeys between Cape Town and Pretoria and has an enduring reputation for quintessential luxury travel. The pace lets you savor the changing landscapes en route.

The Blue Train is a fabulous luxury experience—sumptuous service and refined dining, featuring local specialties like Karoo lamb and Knysna oysters. Suites are well appointed with private bathrooms (shower or bath depending on category), while lounge and dining cars exude classic elegance.

In-suite entertainment and telephones are provided; mobile reception varies as the train moves through remote areas. However you route it, the journey is designed to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Why book a Luxury Train Journey in Africa?

1

The Scenic Route

Flying saves time but skips the intimate views of a country. Long drives can become tedious. A luxury train delivers the scenery in comfort—watch Southern Africa unfold outside your window while you travel unhurriedly between highlights.

2

An Air of Nostalgia

These journeys embrace the ritual and romance of classic rail travel—quiet lounges, picture windows, and attentive service—without the constant buzz of modern tech. Unwind and savor the slower tempo.

3

Extravagant Indulgence

Expect exquisite meals, spacious suites for a train, and refined service—a luxury hotel that just happens to wake up somewhere beautiful each day. You will want for nothing as the landscapes glide by.

Experiences to Savor on a Luxury Train

Sunrise in the Karoo

On journeys to or from Cape Town, waking up in the Karoo is a highlight. As the train crosses the vast, arid plateau, the sun lifts over an immense horizon painted pink and gold.

Victoria Falls bridge from the train route

The View of the Falls

Rovos Rail’s route to Victoria Falls traverses the historic bridge across the gorge. Hearing the roar grow before the vista opens is a moment to remember.

Fine Dining

Both trains take pride in multi-course dining paired with South African wines. Local ingredients—Karoo lamb, ostrich, venison, Knysna oysters—shine in elegant dining cars.

African Train Journeys FAQ

Where are the train journey departure points?

Most journeys depart from Pretoria. Some operate in reverse from Cape Town, and select Rovos Rail routes feature Durban, Victoria Falls, Swakopmund, or Dar es Salaam.

What are the durations of the train journeys?

Depending on the route, your trip can range from about 27 hours (Blue Train) to extended Rovos Rail itineraries of up to approximately 16 nights.

Are there set departure dates, or can I hop on at any time?

Yes, both trains have set departure dates for all their journeys. Book well in advance, as departures are popular.

Which train is better, Rovos Rail or the Blue Train?

It depends on your needs. The Blue Train currently operates scheduled trips between Pretoria and Cape Town, while Rovos Rail goes further afield. If time is tight on the Cape Town leg, Blue Train is about one night (±27 hours), while Rovos Rail is typically two to three nights.

Is there a dress code?

Both trains request smart attire at dinner. On Rovos Rail, men are expected to wear a jacket and tie; by day, smart casual is appropriate. The Blue Train recommends semi-formal wear for dinner.

Are children allowed on the trains?

Children are allowed but experiences are designed for adults. Suites cannot take extra beds or cots, so sharing or separate suites may be required. No special kids’ menus are offered, some areas are restricted, and no childminding services are available.

Will I have access to the internet and have mobile reception?

Rovos Rail has no Wi-Fi or televisions, and mobile reception can be poor while traveling. The Blue Train provides in-suite entertainment and telephones; mobile reception varies along the route.

Will I have a private bathroom?

Yes, all suites include private bathrooms with showers; premium categories add bathtubs (Rovos Royal; Blue Train Luxury).

Can I opt for a partial train journey?

No—both trains sell journeys as complete itineraries on set schedules. Choose from various durations to suit your plans.

What does the rate include?

Accommodation, meals, all beverages, listed off-train excursions, and laundry on longer Rovos routes are usually included. Blue Train exclusions include external phone calls, French champagne, and caviar.

Luxury African Train Journeys