Johannesburg

Rovos Rail

Name: Rovos Rail
Address: Johannesburg, South Africa
Price range: From US$1560 per person, per night

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Named three years running in Travel+Leisure World's Best, including No.1 in 2024

Rovos Rail

About Rovos Rail

A superb train journey reminiscent of bygone times with fabulous stops along the way.

If you're looking for a way to experience Africa from a different perspective, Rovos Rail is just the ticket. A restored and shining vintage train, Rovos offers journeys that range in length from two days to 2 weeks, all packed with stops in the highlights of the country (or countries!) you visit. Since 1989, the locomotive has been chugging between Cape Town and the Kruger, South to East Africa and the team on board are experts at crafting memorable routes. You'll feel like royalty in the cherry-stained, wood-panelled suites and enjoying afternoon tea as the view changes from one beautiful scene to the next.

Johannesburg , South Africa

From $1.6K per person/per night

Retreat

36 Rooms

Open Map

Property details

The property

The train has 20 refurbished coaches, some of which date back to before the 1920s. The dining cart has a retro, intimate atmosphere with soft, amber lighting and four delicious courses to enjoy, served with a selection of South Africa's finest wines. When you're not exploring off-train, visit the bar or relax in the lounge car, which is equipped with wingback chairs, large picture windows, and a balcony. And (of course!), leave room for the decadent afternoon tea, which is served on most days.

The rooms

The bedrooms range in size and level of luxury, from the Pullman rooms to the Royal Suites, which each take up half a carriage. The suites are looked after by a personal host and feature a private lounge and en-suite bathroom - some with a large Victorian bath. All rooms have emerald-green carpets and rich wood-panelling, but its only the the suites that have double beds - standard rooms only have a sofa bed. All rooms are equipped with air-con and charging points.

Activities

What you do all depends on the route you choose. The Rovos Rail offers journeys through South Africa and Namibia including stops at Cape Town, Knysna and the Kruger, or the Kalahari, Sossusvlei and Etosha on the longest routes. There are also cross-country expeditions with highlights and stops in Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Tanzania. Along the way, you'll set out on game drives and sightseeing day trips to see the gems of each destination.

Why we love it

This is a truly unique experience and one of the most pleasurable ways to travel between multiple African countries.

Insiders Tip

If you're a history buff, an on-board expert hosts lectures on the longer journeys so be sure to find out when they are.

Something to think about

The dress code for dinner is strictly formal so be sure to pack something snazzy for the evenings.

Trips

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Design a Custom Trip

Plan your stay

How to book Rovos Rail

How do I book Rovos Rail?

Rovos Rail can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made South Africa trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended South Africa trips featuring Rovos Rail or get advice and suggestions from one of our South Africa specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.

How much does it cost to stay at Rovos Rail?

Stays at Rovos Rail start from around $1.6K per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.

South Africa

Johannesburg

The City of Gold is vibrant, diverse and more than worth spending a few extra hours in.