Rovos Rail Luxury Train Journeys in South Africa

The Train

From its establishment in 1989, Rovos Rail has won its international reputation for truly world-class travel experiences. The Pride of Africa as the train is called has indeed earned its name. Accommodate yourself in wood panelled coaches, classics remodelled to mint condition and enjoy five-star luxury as breath-taking scenery unravels through your window. Relax with class and romance while you emulate privileged travellers from times gone by as they made their way through Africa on elegant trains. The trains - which may be hauled by steam, diesel or electric locomotives at various stages of the journey – accommodate their passengers in the most outstanding and spectacular suites. The jewel in Rovos’ crown is the magnificent Capital Park Station and locomotive yard, which is the nerve centre and new headquarters of the family owned railway company.

The Suites

The most spacious train suites in the world combine magnificent Edwardian features with modern convenience. The wonderfully rebuilt sleeper coaches epitomise luxury with classic wood panelling. Air conditioned suites offer two people the choice of twin or spacious double beds. All offer a writing surface as well as a secure personal safe for valuables. Passengers can choose the drinks that are stocked in the bar fridge and room service is available 24 hours a day. The harmony of past and present is artfully composed with the opulent classic bathroom fittings housing modern hot showers, hair dryers and shaver plugs. The Royal Suites, each of which take up half a carriage, are spacious and elegant, measuring +/-16 sq metres in size (+/-172 sq ft). Each has its own private lounge area and full bathroom with Victorian bath and separate shower. The Deluxe suites (+/-11 sq metres/+/-118 sq feet) also accommodate two passengers in either twin or double beds and have a lounge area and en-suite bathroom with shower. A third level of accommodation, the Pullman suite is +/-7 square metres (+/-76 sq ft) in size and while it includes the identical bathroom to that of the deluxe suites, the bedroom is smaller with a one up one down bunk for twin requirements or a double bed for couples. During the day this can be converted into a comfortable couch.

The Coaches

As well as a 13-coach, 42-berth Edwardian train which is available year round for charter, Rovos Rail operate two classic 20-coach, 72 berth trains. The maximum complement of 72 passengers on each train will be catered for in total comfort as each train has two 42-seater dining cars. At the rear of each train there is a non-smoking Observation Car, while the next coach accommodates a small welcoming smoking lounge. At the centre of the train we have, when numbers dictate, a non-smoking Lounge Car, which houses the Gift Shop.

Cuisine & Service

Passionate chefs are on hand to manage the job of ensuring that guests’ every need is looked after and that their every desire is delivered. Meticulous devotion to the menus results in an incredible cacophony of culinary class. Because guests are on board for several days at a time, unlike other great trains, a broader assortment of meals is required and offered. From the morning’s made-to-order breakfast, to the evening’s repast the emphasis is on fresh local ingredients and particular care is reserved for specialties such as traditional game dishes. A selection of cold meats, croissants, pastries, fresh fruit, yoghurts, cereals and preserves make up a tempting breakfast buffet. For lunch and dinner there is a starter and a choice of fish, meat or vegetarian dishes, followed by a tempting dessert and are complemented by a selection of excellent South African wines. All meals are served in one sitting only in the charming Victorian atmosphere of the Dining Cars. Many of the passengers aboard the Pride of Africa enjoy the formality of fine china, crisp linen and silver, and dress accordingly. During the day dress is more casual, with cool, comfortable clothes and hats recommended for the excursions, especially in the game reserves where it can be very hot. The Observation Car seats 32 passengers and is positioned at the rear of the train. At the centre of the train we have, when numbers dictate, a non-smoking Lounge Car, which seats 26 passengers in comfort. In maintaining the spirit of travel of a bygone era, there are no radios or television sets onboard.

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