When wood-paneled coaches and white-gloved staff greeted adventurers ready to be whisked off on the safari of their dreams...

Wishing you could harken back to this golden age of African rail safari? Of steam locomotives rolling through the countryside, taking in the impressive wildlife and rugged landscape of Africa? Don’t let this bygone era pass you by! You too can enjoy the romantic and nostalgic atmosphere for yourself as you embark on the luxurious Rovos Rail vintage train through the heart of some of Africa’s most vividly captivating sights on our Rivers & Rails of Africa itinerary.

The Distinguished Way to Travel 

Five-star cuisine, excellent South African wines and extraordinary views await our explorers when traveling in turn-of-the twentieth-century style throughout this 995-mile journey. After all, in those times, the train itself was the destination!

Of course, travel via trains was once the most distinguished way to travel. It was glamorous, chic and posh. Trains were dazzling works of art in and of themselves and the subjects of Agatha Christie novels. Travelers would dress in their absolute finest and delight in the utter luxury of taking one’s time – after all, life is all about the journey.

Majestic Falls

And your journey aboard Rovos Rail will start with a sendoff at the colonial-era rail station in Victoria Falls. Cross the majestic Zambezi River on its iconic bridge. The mist and sheer power of Victoria Falls thunders down near one side, offset by the dark rocks of the gorge that can be viewed from the opposing side’s window.

 

Safari in Luxury

From there, wind your way through the timeless beauty of the African bush – where you may spot various herds of wildlife roaming or galloping by. Relax aboard glamorous air-conditioned lounges, plush sofas and chairs and the exquisite Victorian dining room. Fine china, crisp linen and polished silver are paired with elegant cuisine and wines. Dressing up for dinner is all part of the fun here – with cocktail attire for ladies and jackets and ties for gentlemen.

Watching the World Go By 

Continue on towards the metropolitan city of Pretoria, where you will be met by lush mauve blossoms and Jacaranda trees lining streets – and possibly even a flock of preening peacocks that congregate nearby. Through it all, you’ll be able to watch the world roll by at the pace of a time gone by – but with some modern amenities and considerations, such as air-conditioned suits and lounges. There are no radio nor television sets on board to preserve the authenticity of travel in the turn of the century but travelers may use laptops or mobile devices within the privacy of their own suite.

Ride the Rovos Rail on the adventurous Rivers & Rails of Africa itinerary.

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