Rovos Rail

Name: Rovos Rail
Address: Rovos Rail Station, 1 Transnet Avenue, Capital Park, Pretoria, 0084, ZA
Telephone: +27123158242
Price range: ££££
Rating: 4.7

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Rovos Rail

Great southern Africa train adventures In a series of journeys lasting from 48 hours to 15 days, Rovos Rail links some of the continent’s greatest destinations.
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Since its establishment in 1989, Rovos Rail has earned an international reputation for its truly world-class travel experiences. Bespoke train safaris through the heart of Africa combine magnificent scenery with the glamour and excitement of the golden age of leisure travel. The beautifully rebuilt trains carry a maximum of 72 passengers in 36 superbly appointed suites and are also available for c

harter, while the Events Train caters for up to 250 guests and is suitable for daytime journeys. An exciting addition to the company was the acquisition of the Shongololo Express train in January of 2016. The journeys of between 12 to 15 days traverse South Africa, eSwatini, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Mozambique. All journeys are available in reverse. Each journey has its own off-train excursions ranging from safari, cultural and historical outings. ROVOS RAIL JOURNEYS

CAPE TOWN
3 days 1600km: Pretoria-Cape Town
Rediscover the old pioneering trail of the Karoo. DURBAN SAFARI
3 days 800km: Pretoria-Durban
Venture into the heart of the South African bushveld. VICTORIA FALLS
4/5 days 1400km: Pretoria-Victoria Falls
See one of the natural wonders of the world. GOLF SAFARI
9 days 2100km: Pretoria-Pretoria
A kaleidoscope of golf, game and scenic beauty. NAMIBIA SAFARI
9/10 days 3450km: Pretoria-Walvis Bay
Explore untamed deserts and the wild Atlantic. AFRICAN COLLAGE
10/11 days 3700km: Pretoria-Cape Town
A rich tapestry of landscape, game, history and culture

DAR ES SALAAM
15 days 5800km: Cape Town-Dar es Salaam
Embark on this epic voyage across Southern Africa. TRAIL OF TWO OCEANS
15 days 4300km: Dar es Salaam-Lobito
A pioneering east-west African adventure. COPPER TRAIL
15 days 3100km: Dar es Salaam-Lobito
Unite a natural wonder of the world with the copper trail. SHONGOLOLO EXPRESS JOURNEYS

AFRICAN TRILOGY
15 days 5000km: Pretoria-Walvis Bay
This new flagship tour is a rich tapestry of landscape from the mountainous east to the wild deserts of the west. GOOD HOPE
15 days 3900km: Pretoria-Cape Town
A grand odyssey offering amazing insight into well-known destinations across South Africa. SOUTHERN CROSS
12 days 2500km: Pretoria-Victoria Falls
An impressive panoramic journey through South Africa, eSwatini, Mozambique and Zimbabwe. DUNE EXPRESS
12 days 3800km: Pretoria-Walvis Bay
An epic journey of discovery to the Atlantic. SPECIAL COLLECTIONS
Discover our collections, specials and journey combinations. LIFE ON BOARD
Each train has accommodation carriages, dining cars, a lounge car, smoking lounge and observation car with open-air balcony. In maintaining the spirit of a bygone era, there are no radios or television sets on board and the use of technology that has the ability to disturb other guests is confined to the privacy of suites. Meals are served in one sitting only. For days on board Rovos Rail, dress is smart casual while evening attire is strictly formal. On Shongololo Express, days on board are casual while evening attire is strictly smart casual. We welcome all travellers – singles, couples and groups. The dining cars are made up of two-seaters and four-seaters where guests eat together or individually. Our lounge and observation cars – with their big picture windows, sofas and booths – make for great mingling areas or quiet corners to while away the days. For our child policy, please visit our website. ROVOS RAIL has three suite types available in double or twin: Pullman/Pullman Gold ±7sqm, Deluxe ±10sqm and Royal ±16sqm. All have en-suites with shower, toilet, basin and bath (Royal only), tea facilities, safes, air conditioning, linen and amenities and are serviced daily. There is adequate storage and small cupboards with hangers and shelves. SHONGOLOLO EXPRESS has two cabin types available in double or twin: Gold ±7sqm and Emerald ±10sqm. Both have en-suites with shower, toilet and basin, tea facilities, safes, air conditioning, linen and amenities and are serviced daily. There is adequate storage and the small cupboards with hangers and shelves. PRIVATE HIRE
We have two private hire possibilities to choose from: CHARTER TRAIN or EVENTS TRAIN. Charter Train: Combine our 42- or 72-bed Rovos Rail or Shongololo Express train with other entertaining products for bespoke charters including incentive groups, historical expeditions, cycling tours and private gatherings. You could choose a charter-train package or exclusively book one of our scheduled departures (which can be adjusted within reason). Travel wherever there is a railway line in Southern Africa (within reason and subject to availability). Events Train: Limited only by time and distance, there are many alternative uses for the Events Train, which include a three-hour circular trip around Pretoria or a one-way journey to any destination within eight hours’ rail travel time from Pretoria. The Events Train is the perfect venue for weddings, private gatherings, incentives, conferences and product launches. Only suitable for day trips and depending on the number of guests, it can host – with full bar facilities – a four-course sit-down lunch or dinner for up to 120 guests OR for up to 250 guests, canapés served for the duration of the journey. ST JAMES GUESTHOUSES
Discover our stately and elegant seaside retreats overlooking the vibrant fishing village of Kalk Bay and St James with majestic views across Cape Town’s False Bay – a perfect addition to our rail journeys. For more details about life on board, the journeys, private hire, rates and schedules, please visit our websites:
www.rovos.com
www.shongololo.com
www.stjamesguesthouses.com

11/11/2024

If you listen carefully, you’ll hear only the sounds of the train, nature and the laughter of those you love. 🚂

Aboard our luxury trains, we invite you to unplug from the digital hustle and immerse yourself in the beauty of the present moment. We believe that every journey should transport you into a world of wonder, discovery, and authentic connection. By embracing our digital detox tradition, we ensure that every journey is not just about travel — it’s a transformative and unforgettable experience waiting to unfold.

🚂 https://rovos.com/journeys/
📩 [email protected]
☎️ +27 (0)12 315 8242
📷 Edoardo Santi

08/11/2024

Bonnie Culbertson from The Luxury Editor recently joined us on a journey from Pretoria to the mighty Victoria Falls, her experience proving that the analogue can be elegant, and that it's possible to steep yourself in local culture even as you travel swiftly through it.

Read more: https://ow.ly/2NZ550U15Kk

📩 [email protected]
☎️ +27 (0)12 315 8242

06/11/2024

It's always a pleasure to host local media from across our beautiful country.✨

Katinka Oosthuizen from AfriForumTV recently visited Rovos Rail offering viewers an exclusive look at our rich history and the values that drive us. As a proudly South African company, we are committed to ensuring every guest interaction leaves a lasting and positive impression of our fine country.

📩 [email protected]
☎️ +27 (0)12 315 8242

01/11/2024

Step into the elegance of a bygone era, where dressing up is all part of the journey!

Daytime calls for smart-casual style - comfy shoes and a stylish hat for your adventures. But when evening falls, it’s time to shine! Gentlemen suit up in jackets and ties, while ladies dazzle in cocktail dresses and gowns, adding a touch of glamour to the luxurious experience.

📷 Sindiswa Msomi, Chase The Adventures, Zhenya Swan, Christian Böhm, Tyler Wallinger, Gillian McLaren, Craig Hedderwick, Corinna Thier, Stephne Ashworth, Rosemarie Parnell, Clark Media

30/10/2024

As a proudly family-owned business, Rohan Vos, Founder and CEO of Rovos Rail, credits family as the driving force and main reason for our continued success. But it’s not just about those who share our name – our incredible dream team are nothing short of extraordinary.

Together, we’ve built more than a luxury travel experience. We’ve built a legacy of trust, unity, and unforgettable moments. It’s this deep bond that makes every Rovos Rail journey feel like coming home.

📩 [email protected]
🚂 Journey with us: https://rovos.com/journeys/
☎️ +27 (0)12 315 8242

28/10/2024

Step into a world of true connection! 🚂

We believe that every journey should be an immersive experience filled with wonder, discovery, and human connection. That’s why on board our luxury trains, we invite you to disconnect from the digital world and rediscover the art of being truly present.

With no radios, televisions, or Wi-Fi, our journeys offer a rare opportunity to look up, indulge in meaningful conversations, and embrace the beauty of Africa's landscapes without distraction.

We uphold our digital detox tradition to ensure each journey is more than just travel – it’s a transformative, unforgettable experience.

🚂 Journey with us: https://rovos.com/journeys/
📩 [email protected]
☎️ +27 (0)12 315 8242
📷 IG:

26/10/2024

Happy World Sustainability Day!

We’re excited to share a behind-the-scenes look at how Güdco - Doing Goods toilet paper, found in every suite aboard our trains, is made with the planet in mind.

Each roll is hand-wrapped in eco-friendly paper and packaged in recycled paper boxes to eliminate plastic waste. Their 2-ply paper is BPA-free and free from chlorine, acids, inks, dyes, or fragrances. Plus, it’s 100% biodegradable, ensuring it’s safe for sewers and septic tanks.

We are dedicated to making every journey as sustainable as possible which is why we couldn’t be more proud to be partnering with this fantastic company.

📩 [email protected]
☎️ +27 (0)12 315 8242
📷 Beautiful News

23/10/2024

As highlighted by the Journal of Travel Research, slow tourism focuses on reducing mobility, immersing in local culture, and embracing a more mindful travel experience.

With us, every journey is a testament to this philosophy. Our train offers an indulgent escape, merging opulence with an unhurried pace. From the plush interiors and exquisite dining to the thoughtfully curated stops, every detail is designed to enhance your experience.

Read more about the essence of slow travel and how we embody this trend: https://ow.ly/vY6n50Tw78O

📩 [email protected]
☎️ +27 (0)12 315 8242

Rovos Rail offers an unparalleled slow travel adventure – it’s an invitation to escape normal life and step back in time.

21/10/2024

Our bartenders are not just masters of mixology - they’re the heart and soul of our journey!

Renowned and sought after, they serve guests with unparalleled expertise and warmth, often staying up late into the night to share stories and join in the infectious banter and camaraderie. From a curated selection of fine wines and spirits to unique liqueurs, beers, ciders, and non-alcoholic options, we offer something for everyone.

🚂 Journey with us: https://rovos.com/journeys/
📩 [email protected]
☎️ +27 (0)12 315 8242
📷 IG:

18/10/2024

Travel through Africa’s breathtaking landscapes aboard one of our luxurious trains, each offering uniquely designed cabins with ensuite showers, sinks, and toilets. The Royal Suite features a Victorian-style bathtub for those who desire extra opulence.

We also offer a refined smoking lounge and an observation car that promises panoramic views. Every detail is crafted to provide an unforgettable journey.

🚂 Journey with us: https://rovos.com/journeys/
📩 [email protected]
☎️ +27 (0)12 315 8242
📷 François Mazure

16/10/2024

In a recent article from Insights Success, Tiffany Vos Thane, our COO, shares her vision of transforming hospitality by blending her rich South African heritage with innovative practices. Her leadership not only respects tradition but also paves the way for a modern, customer-focused experience. As a proudly South African company, we couldn’t be more proud to witness first-hand how her commitment to heritage-driven values sets new standards in the industry.

Read more here: https://ow.ly/kpM950Tw5JM

14/10/2024

Step aboard and indulge in a culinary adventure where every meal is a masterpiece served in one sitting within the charming Victorian atmosphere of our dining cars. Our world-class chefs, backed by an enthusiastic team, meticulously oversee the preparation of each dish, ensuring your every need is catered to. Complementing each meal is a selection of fine South African wines, enhancing the journey with exceptional taste and elegance.

🚂 Journey with us: https://rovos.com/journeys/
📩 [email protected]
☎️ +27 (0)12 315 8242
📷 IG: &

11/10/2024

Step into our world with the latest edition of the Tribune! From behind-the-scenes at Rovos Rail to our incredible 35-year timeline, compelling offers and our green journey.

Take a peek and join us on this exciting adventure: https://ow.ly/gkYy50Tw4YI

09/10/2024

We are thrilled to share the exciting news that Rovos Rail has been honoured as the third-best train in the world in the Condé Nast Traveler 2024 Readers' Choice Awards!

Thank you to all our amazing guests and supporters for this incredible recognition.

With their unparalleled legacy as the travel industry's longest-running and most prestigious accolades, this award is the ultimate symbol and acknowledgement of excellence within the travel sector. Read more, https://ow.ly/kmaL50THvhH

07/10/2024

The Morning Show SA recently visited Capital Park to offer viewers an exclusive look at our growing fleet of locomotives, our rich history, and the values that drive us – like championing local businesses and empowering local artisans. As a proudly South African company, we are committed to ensuring every guest interaction leaves a lasting and positive impression of our beautiful rainbow country.

📩 [email protected]
☎️ +27 (0)12 315 8242

04/10/2024

Cheers to the Weekend! 🥂

Why not use this weekend to book the trip of a lifetime? Imagine breathtaking game drives, indulgent fine dining, and nature's most stunning landscapes all wrapped in pure luxury.

🚂 Journey with us: https://rovos.com/journeys/
📧 [email protected]
☎️ +27 (0)12 315 8242
📷 The Palm Tribe

02/10/2024

At our Capital Park Station, our iconic flag welcomes travellers to a world where the romance of rail travel meets the highest standards of service and hospitality.

📷 Kayla Richter
📩 [email protected]
☎️ +27 (0)12 315 8242

30/09/2024

Experience the elegance of a bygone era aboard Rovos Rail, where dressing up is all part of the journey! As the train winds through Africa's stunning landscapes, guests have the unique opportunity to don their finest attire and embrace the sophisticated charm of yesteryear.

📷 IG:
📩 [email protected]
☎️ +27 (0)12 315 8242

Address

Rovos Rail Station, 1 Transnet Avenue, Capital Park
Pretoria
0084

Telephone

+27123158242

Website

http://www.rovos.com/

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Videos

If you listen carefully, you’ll hear only the sounds of the train, nature and the laughter of those you love. 🚂 Aboard our luxury trains, we invite you to unplug from the digital hustle and immerse yourself in the beauty of the present moment. We believe that every journey should transport you into a world of wonder, discovery, and authentic connection. By embracing our digital detox tradition, we ensure that every journey is not just about travel — it’s a transformative and unforgettable experience waiting to unfold. 🚂 https://rovos.com/journeys/ 📩 [email protected] ☎️ +27 (0)12 315 8242 📷 Edoardo Santi #rovosrail #travelafrica #luxurytravel #luxurytraintravel #digitaldetox

Rovos.mp4

It's always a pleasure to host local media from across our beautiful country.✨ Katinka Oosthuizen from AfriForumTV recently visited Rovos Rail offering viewers an exclusive look at our rich history and the values that drive us. As a proudly South African company, we are committed to ensuring every guest interaction leaves a lasting and positive impression of our fine country. 📩 [email protected] ☎️ +27 (0)12 315 8242 #rovosrail #travelafrica #luxurytravel #luxurytraintravel

Step into the elegance of a bygone era, where dressing up is all part of the journey! Daytime calls for smart-casual style - comfy shoes and a stylish hat for your adventures. But when evening falls, it’s time to shine! Gentlemen suit up in jackets and ties, while ladies dazzle in cocktail dresses and gowns, adding a touch of glamour to the luxurious experience. 📷 Sindiswa Msomi, Chase The Adventures, Zhenya Swan, Christian Böhm, Tyler Wallinger, Gillian McLaren, Craig Hedderwick, Corinna Thier, Stephne Ashworth, Rosemarie Parnell, Clark Media #rovosrail #travelafrica #luxurytravel #luxurytraintravel #travelinstyle #bestdressed

Happy World Sustainability Day! We’re excited to share a behind-the-scenes look at how Güdco - Doing Goods toilet paper, found in every suite aboard our trains, is made with the planet in mind. Each roll is hand-wrapped in eco-friendly paper and packaged in recycled paper boxes to eliminate plastic waste. Their 2-ply paper is BPA-free and free from chlorine, acids, inks, dyes, or fragrances. Plus, it’s 100% biodegradable, ensuring it’s safe for sewers and septic tanks. We are dedicated to making every journey as sustainable as possible which is why we couldn’t be more proud to be partnering with this fantastic company. 📩 [email protected] ☎️ +27 (0)12 315 8242 📷 Beautiful News #rovosrail #travelafrica #luxurytravel #luxurytraintravel #sustainability #greeninitiatives

Travel through Africa’s breathtaking landscapes aboard one of our luxurious trains, each offering uniquely designed cabins with ensuite showers, sinks, and toilets. The Royal Suite features a Victorian-style bathtub for those who desire extra opulence. We also offer a refined smoking lounge and an observation car that promises panoramic views. Every detail is crafted to provide an unforgettable journey. 🚂 Journey with us: https://rovos.com/journeys/ 📩 [email protected] ☎️ +27 (0)12 315 8242 📷 François Mazure #rovosrail #travelafrica #luxurytravel #luxurytraintravel #traintravels #trainholiday

At our Capital Park Station, our iconic flag welcomes travellers to a world where the romance of rail travel meets the highest standards of service and hospitality. 📷 Kayla Richter 📩 [email protected] ☎️ +27 (0)12 315 8242 #rovosrail #travelafrica #luxurytravel #luxurytraintravel #capitalpark #trainstation

There she goes! We are very excited to welcome the first-prize winner of our The Great Train Race competition on board our two-night steam-hauled journey between Pretoria and Heidelberg. These two will be joining in on all the fun tomorrow. Will you be joining them? #rovosrail #travelafrica #luxurytravel #luxurytraintravel #greattrainrace #heidelberg #letrainbleurace

One of our guests had a blast stepping back in time during our stop at the historic Matjiesfontein. This charming Victorian village, a preserved gem, is a must-see for those seeking a blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery. Stroll through its streets, explore the famous Lord Milner Hotel, visit the fascinating museums, or simply soak in the tranquil beauty of the Karoo. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for a unique escape, Matjiesfontein offers a captivating glimpse into South Africa's history. 📷 Laura's World 📩 [email protected] ☎️ +27 (0)12 315 8242 #rovosrail #travelafrica #luxurytravel #luxurytraintravel #matjiesfontein

Still wondering whether you should attend The Great Train Race? 🚂 Let’s take a peek at last year’s festivities so you can have a better idea of what this fantastic event is all about. We look at it as an honourary spectacle and celebration of all things vintage! There were about 90 eclectic automobiles from the early 1900s and up that awed the crowd while a classic aerial display zoomed overhead. Little ones had a blast on the miniature steam trains and the motorcycle race led by a vintage Bugatti was a once in a lifetime occurrence that the crowd couldn’t get enough of. We hope to see you at this year’s event. 🎟️ Tickets available on Quicket or at the gate: https://tinyurl.com/yy45fdz4 💸 Adults: R80 | Scholars: R40 For any enquiries, send an email to [email protected] or call +27 (0)81 514 6954. 🌐 More info: https://tinyurl.com/mr2tvxf5 #rovosrail #luxurytrain #luxurytravel #greattrainrace #heidelberg #letrainbleurace

We love this magical video from one of our guests that recently travelled with us on our Namibia Safari journey. The spectacular sun-baked dunes are wonderous sight to behold, but this journey also offers loads of unforgettable excursions like traversing the edge of the Kalahari Basin, visiting Kolmanskop, and game drives that allow you to behold the natural wildlife inhabiting Sossusvlei and Etosha National Park. Thanks for sharing your journey with us, Lucrezia Martinengo. 📷 IG: @lulli.martinengo 🚂 Journey with us: https://rovos.com/journeys/namibia-safari/ ☎️ +27 (0)12 315 8242 #rovosrail #travelafrica #luxurytravel #luxurytraintravel #namibia #windhoek

For Rovos Rail passengers, one of the highlights of their journey is a visit to the private station at Capital Park, Pretoria. This once-bustling hub of steam locomotion now serves as the headquarters for Rovos Rail. The property boasts an ever-expanding railway museum, locomotive sheds and more. Should you wish to visit our museum or do a site tour, which will show you the nuts and bolts of the company, we suggest arriving two hours prior to departure. 📷 IG: @sindiswamsomi 🚂 Read more: https://rovos.com/private-hire/rovos-rail-station/ ☎️ +27 (0)12 315 8242 #rovosrail #travelafrica #luxurytravel #luxurytraintravel #capitalpark #stationtour

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Our Story

Celebrating 30 years in April 2019, Rovos Rail has earned its international reputation for truly world class travel experiences. A privately owned company with its 60 acre headquarters at Rovos Rail Station in Pretoria, the company has evolved from one overnight trip to offering seven different safaris across Southern Africa lasting from 48 hours to two weeks. A trip aboard ‘The Pride of Africa’ is a journey like no other with guests experiencing the opulent elegance of rail travel on the most luxurious train in the world. With discreet and friendly service, five-star cuisine and a selection of South Africa’s finest wines, Rovos Rail harks back to a simpler more elegant era, encompassing the timeless grace of grand African exploration. The seven journeys include: • Cape Town (three days) • Durban Safari (three days) • Victoria Falls (four days) • Namibia Safari (nine days) • Golf Safari (nine days) • African Collage (ten days) • Dar es Salaam (fifteen days) Each journey has its own off-train excursions and these range from safari, cultural and historical outings. There are three types of accommodation on board the train each cabin with its own en-suite bathroom. Royal Suites ±16sqm with ready-made king bed, private lounge area, bath as well as separate shower Deluxe Suites ±11sqm with twin or double beds, lounge area and shower Pullman Suites ±7sqm with sofa-seat during the day which is converted into single, double or bunk bed in the evenings. En-suite bathroom with shower The ticket price is fully inclusive all meals, all alcoholic and other beverages, the off-train excursions, room service and a limited laundry service. An exciting addition to the company was the acquisition of the three-star Shongololo Express in January of 2016. The train has been repainted in green and cream and an additional dining car plus an observation car have been added. The accommodation of six Emerald (± 10sqm) and 30 Gold cabins (± 7sqm) have been overhauled to allow for more space and upgraded bathrooms. The three itineraries, Southern Cross – Pretoria to Victoria Falls (12 days), Dune Express – Pretoria to Swakopmund (12 days), Good-Hope – Pretoria to Cape Town (15 days); have been rebuilt with more stationary time at night and less road time spent on the excursions. As an extension of the Rovos Rail brand, the company opened the doors to 15 suites across three beachfront guest houses in the well-to-do area of St James, situated on the southern peninsula in Cape Town. St James Manor, St James Seaforth and St James Homestead are individually decorated five-star homes offering guests a relaxing getaway with easy access to the city centre and the winelands, on one of the Western Cape’s prettiest coast lines.