Rovos Rail has earned an international reputation for its truly world-class travel experiences. Step aboard the wood panelled coaches - classics remodelled and refubished to mint condition - and enjoy fine cuisine in five-star luxury as some of the most varied scenery imaginable unfolds beyond the windows. Recapture the romance and atmosphere of a by-gone-era, when privileged travellers experiences the magic and mystery of Africa in a relaxed and elegant fashion. The trains - which may be hauled by steam, diesel or electric locomotives at various stages of the journey - carry a maximum of 72 passengers in 36 superbly appointed suites. Pride of place in the Rovos stable goes to the historic and newly rebuilt Capital Park Station and locomotive yard, which is the heart and headquarters of this private railway company.
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For many visitors to South Africa, there is no finer way to see the country than on the popular 48-hour weekly journeys between Pretoria and Cape Town. This 1600-kilometre journey is a perfect illustration of South Africa as a world in one country. Travel the grasslands of the gold rich Highveld to the haunting barrenness of the Great Karoo. Trundle through the spectacular mountain ranges and scenic wine lands of the Cape. Journey’s end is Cape Town, the Mother City of South Africa, cradled by the imposing bulk of Table Mountain, Devil’s Peak and Lions Head. Highlights of the north and southbound routes include a visit to the historic village of Matjiesfontein. This authentic perfectly preserved Victorian Village, which was founded by Mr Logan as a refreshment stop in 1890, also boasts an impressive museum on the platform. A stop is also made in Kimberley providing an opportunity to enjoy a city tour and a visit to the Mine Museum and the world’s largest man-made excavation, the Big Hole.
The Royal Suites, each of which take up half a carriage, are spacious and elegant, measuring 16 sq metres in size. Each has its own private lounge area and full bathroom with Victorian bath and separate shower. The Deluxe suites (11 sq metres) also accommodate two passengers in either twin or double beds and have a lounge area and en-suite bathroom with shower. The Pullman Suites (7 sq metres)are equipped with a comfortable sofa-seat during the day, with a conversion to double or twin beds for the evening. They also have an en suite bathroom with shower. The very spacious suites offer passengers the opportunity to travel in privacy, comfort and luxury, with fittings and facilities that are of the highest standard.
Cancellation Policy
8 weeks and more prior to departure are subject to a cancellation fee of 5% of the per person tour price.
Between 8 and 4 weeks prior to departure are subject to a fee of 25% of the per person tour price.
Within the 4-week period are subject to forfeiture of the entire tour price.
Cape Town to Pretoria Itinerary
Monday/Saturday/Tuesday
11h00 Depart from Platform 23 at Cape Town Station and proceed inland to Worcester.
18h00 Upon arrival at Matjiesfontein guests may visit this quaint, historical village.
19h00 Depart Matjiesfontein.
19h30 Dinner is served in the dining car/s.
Tuesday/Sunday/Wednesday
14h30 Upon arrival in Kimberley board the bus for a tour of the Big Hole and museum.
Wednesday/Monday/Thursday
12h00 Arrive at Rovos Rail's Capital Park Station, Pretoria.
Pretoria to Cape Town Itinerary
Tuesday/Wednesday/Friday
15h00 Depart Rovos Rail's private Capital Park Station aboard the Pride of Africa.
Wednesday/Thursday/Saturday
10h00 Arrive in Kimberley.Passengers visit the Big Hole, the Diamond Museum.
12h30 Depart from Kimberley and proceed overnight via De Aar and Beaufort West for Matjiesfontein.
Thursday/Friday/Sunday
08h15 Visit the historic village of Matjiesfontein.
10h30 Depart Matjiesfontein and proceed via Touws River, De Doorns and Worcester to Cape Town.
18h00 Arrive Cape Town Station, Platform 24.
