Rovos Rail Southern Cross Safari
Safari Information
- Departure; Scheduled departure dates
- Duration; 12 Days / 11 Nights
- Lodging; Aboard Rovos Rail
- Group Size; Minimum 1
- Note: Travel insurance is compulsory for all safaris
Experience a 12-Day Luxury Safari on the Iconic Rovos Rail
Imagine a journey where the rhythm of the rails carries you through the heart of Africa, unveiling breathtaking landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and cultural treasures at every turn. This 12-day safari adventure aboard the Rovos Rail is more than just a trip; it’s an immersive experience that combines the elegance of luxury travel with the raw beauty of the African wilderness. From the moment you step aboard this iconic train, you’ll be transported to a world where time slows down, and every detail is designed to captivate your senses.
The Rovos Rail is renowned for its opulent accommodations, world-class dining, and impeccable service, making it the perfect setting for an unforgettable safari. Over the course of 11 nights, you’ll traverse some of Africa’s most iconic destinations, including the majestic Victoria Falls, the vast savannahs teeming with wildlife, and charming towns rich in history and culture. Each day brings new adventures, from thrilling game drives to serene sunset cruises, ensuring that every moment is as memorable as the last.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first safari, this journey offers something truly special. It’s an opportunity to connect with nature, indulge in unparalleled luxury, and create memories that will last a lifetime. As you explore the wonders of Africa aboard the Rovos Rail, you’ll discover that this is more than just a vacation—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave you inspired and in awe of the world’s natural beauty.
Day 1: Pretoria to eMalahleni
- 10:00: Depart from Rovos Rail Station, Pretoria. The train travels on the eastern line through the harsh coal-mining area of eMalahleni (Witbank)—where Rovos Rail was founded—and Middelburg, known as the "stainless steel capital of Africa".
- Historical Note: The Dutch railway building company, NZASM, built this line between Pretoria and Lourenço Marques (Maputo) from 1893 to 1895.
- 13:00: Lunch is served in the dining cars.
- 19:30: Dinner is served in the dining cars.
- Dress: Formal.
Day 2: Panorama Route to Malelane
- 09:00: Enjoy a full-day tour of the Panorama Route, visiting the historic mining town of Pilgrim's Rest, the cylindrical rock formations of Bourke's Luck Potholes, and the dramatic Graskop gorge.
- Historical Note: Pilgrim's Rest is a living museum, declared a National Monument after gold was discovered there in 1873.
- 19:30: Dinner is served as the train travels toward Malelane on the border of the Kruger Park.
- Dress: Formal.
Day 3: Kruger National Park to Maputo
- 07:00: Enjoy a game drive in the world-renowned Kruger National Park, home to the Big Five and over 500 bird species.
- 16:30: Afternoon tea is served as the train crosses the border at Komatipoort into Mozambique.
- 19:30: Dinner is served as the train arrives in the coastal capital of Maputo.
- Dress: Formal.
Day 4: Maputo to Mpaka
- 09:00: Enjoy a tour of Maputo, Mozambique, a city of contrasts featuring African, Portuguese, and colonial architecture alongside Victorian mansions.
- 16:30: Tea is served as the train travels toward the Kingdom of eSwatini (formerly Swaziland).
- 19:30: Dinner is served while the train stables at Mpaka for border formalities.
- Dress: Formal.
Day 5: eSwatini to Hoedspruit
- 08:30: Visit Swazi Candles to interact with local artisans and the Mantenga Cultural Village, a living museum representing Swazi lifestyle in the 1850s.
- 16:30: Tea is served as the train re-enters South Africa and travels toward the lowveld.
- 19:30: Dinner is served en route to Hoedspruit.
- Dress: Formal.
Day 6: Kapama Reserve & HESC
- 05:30: Morning game drive in the Kapama Private Game Reserve, followed by a visit to the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre (HESC) to learn about rare species conservation.
- 13:00: Lunch is served as the train travels north toward the Soutpansberg mountains.
- 19:30: Dinner is served in the dining cars.
- Dress: "Africa" Theme or Smart Casual.
Day 7: At Leisure & Zimbabwe Border
- All Day: A day of leisure on board as the train crosses the Limpopo River Valley into Zimbabwe via Beitbridge.
- Historical Note: The Limpopo River was famously described by Rudyard Kipling as the "great grey-green, greasy Limpopo".
- 19:30: Dinner is served as the train traverses "Baobab country".
- Dress: Formal.
Day 8: Great Zimbabwe Monument
- 08:00: Transfer to the Great Zimbabwe Monument, the largest precolonial monument south of the Egyptian pyramids and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- 13:00: Lunch is served at the monument before returning to the train.
- 19:30: Dinner is served as the train travels to Gweru.
- Dress: Formal.
Day 9: Antelope Park to Bulawayo
- 08:00: Visit Antelope Park, home to a world-famous lion rehabilitation program. Optional activities include canoeing and bird-watching cruises.
- 16:30: Tea is served as the train travels to Bulawayo, the industrial capital of Zimbabwe.
- 19:30: Dinner is served in the dining cars.
- Dress: Formal.
Day 10: Matobo National Park
- 09:00: Tour Matobo National Park to view ancient bushmen rock art and the grave of Cecil John Rhodes at "World’s View".
- 16:30: Tea is served as the train travels toward the Hwange region.
- 19:30: Dinner is served en route to Kennedy.
- Dress: Formal.
Day 11: Hwange National Park
- 06:30: Enjoy a full-day game drive in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe's largest wildlife area, known for its prolific lion and elephant populations.
- Note: The train travels along a 114km stretch of straight railway line, one of the longest in the world, on the eastern edge of the park.
- 19:30: Dinner is served as the train travels to Thompson's Junction.
- Dress: "1920s" Theme or Smart Casual.
Day 12: Victoria Falls
- 10:00: Arrive at Victoria Falls Station and walk across to the historic Victoria Falls Hotel.
- 11:00: Enjoy a walking tour of the Victoria Falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the world.
- 16:00: Conclude the journey with a Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi River.
- Dress: Smart Casual.
Rates form part of a safari itinerary
- Rovos Rail Golf Safari Rates
- Per person sharing
- Rates are in South African Rands
- *Rates may vary according to season
- Accommodation
- All meals
- All local alcoholic and other beverages
- 24-hour full room service
- Bar facilities
- Limited laundry service
- Excursions accompanied by a qualified tour guide (where applicable)
- Entrance fees to places of interest, per itinerary
- Government tax
- Visas
- Items of a personal nature
- Flights (domestic and international)
- Staff gratuities
- French Champagne
- Memorabilia purchases
- Off train costs and purchases
- Fully comprehensive travel insurance
South Africa Travel Topics
The Perfect Kruger National Park Honeymoon Safari
Embarking on the perfect Kruger National Park honeymoon safari offers an unparalleled blend of thrilling wildlife encounters and luxurious romantic escapes in one of Africa’s most iconic wilderness destinations. The Greater Kruger area, encompassing both the national park and its adjoining private reserves like Sabi Sand and Timbavati, provides newlyweds with exclusive access to the Big Five, rare wildlife sightings, and world-class cuisine paired with rejuvenating spa treatments. Beyond the captivating game drives and wildlife, Kruger seamlessly integrates with other South African highlights to create a truly bespoke honeymoon journey. Many couples combine their safari with cosmopolitan stays in Cape Town, exploring Table Mountain and the Winelands, or extend their trip to the breathtaking Victoria Falls or pristine beaches of Mozambique.
Best Kruger National Park Safari Itinerary
Embarking on a safari in Kruger National Park is an adventure that promises the awe-inspiring beauty of African wildlife and landscapes. For those plotting their first journey into this majestic wilderness, understanding the daily rhythm of safari life is essential. Early morning game drives are your golden ticket to witnessing the park's inhabitants in their most active states, as the cool air and rising sun stir them to life. Our Kruger National Park itineraries are designed for every type of traveller. Whether you want an intimate, three-night stay in a private reserve or a nine-day exploration of diverse ecosystems—including stops in Johannesburg and the Panorama Route—there's an itinerary for you.
Luxury Safari Lodges in the Madikwe Game Reserve
Nestled in the heart of South Africa's vast wilderness, Madikwe Game Reserve stands as a beacon of luxury and exclusivity for those seeking an unparalleled safari experience. As our latest blog post delves into the opulent world of Luxury Safari Lodges within this remarkable reserve, we invite you on a journey to discover the epitome of high-end bush hospitality. In this haven of serenity and wildlife conservation, discerning guests find their expectations surpassed by personal attention, privacy, and unmatched game viewing opportunities. Madikwe’s luxury lodges offer a sanctuary where elegance meets wilderness, catering to those who yearn not just for a holiday but for an encounter with nature that leaves a lasting imprint on their soul.
Best Eco-Friendly Lodges In Kruger National Park
Embarking on a safari adventure through the majestic landscapes of Kruger National Park is a dream for many wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. However, in an age where sustainability and conservation are more important than ever, choosing eco-friendly lodges that prioritise minimal environmental impact while providing luxurious comfort is essential. The Greater Kruger area, known for its breathtaking biodiversity and sprawling wilderness, offers a selection of such accommodations. These eco-friendly safari lodges not only ensure an unforgettable safari experience but also demonstrate how luxury and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand.
Kruger Game Reserves
Embarking on a safari adventure in the heart of South Africa’s majestic landscapes is an experience that beckons travellers from all corners of the globe. The Kruger National Park, a beacon of natural beauty and wildlife preservation, offers an escape into a world where nature reigns supreme. Since its establishment in 1898, this iconic destination has not only played a pivotal role in wildlife conservation but has also become synonymous with the ultimate safari experience. In our latest blog, "Kruger Game Reserves", we delve deep into the heart of what makes this region so captivating. Beyond the vast expanses of public land lies a collection of private game reserves such as Sabi Sands and Timbavati, each offering an unparalleled luxury safari experience. These reserves are renowned for their high concentrations of wildlife and provide guests with exclusive lodging options that promise comfort amidst the wild.
Top 10 Day Trips In Cape Town
Cape Town, a jewel at the tip of Africa, is a city brimming with an eclectic mix of landscapes, history, and culture that beckons travellers from around the globe. It's a place where the rugged mountains meet the endless ocean in an explosion of natural beauty, making it not just a destination but an experience. Each destination has been carefully selected not only for its unique beauty and charm but also for the story it tells—a story that adds another layer to Cape Town's rich tapestry. In our latest blog post titled "Top 10 Day Trips in Cape Town," we're about to take you on a journey beyond the well-trodden paths of Table Mountain and Robben Island to discover hidden gems that offer unforgettable experiences. Embarking on these day trips will allow you to explore stunning vineyards that seem to stretch into eternity, beaches with penguin colonies that look almost too whimsical to be real, and quaint towns whose cobblestone streets whisper tales of days gone by.
Kruger National Park Travel Bucket List
Nestled in the heart of South Africa, Kruger National Park stands as a beacon for adventurers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Its vast landscapes, teeming with an incredible variety of life, offer a sanctuary not just for the animals that roam its plains, but also for the human spirit seeking connection with the wild. Our latest blog post, "Kruger National Park Travel Bucket List," is, without a doubt, the most essential guide for anyone preparing to embark on a journey through this iconic reserve. It will spectacularly navigate you through the rich tapestry of experiences that await in this magnificent corner of the world.
10 Best Hotels In The Cape Winelands
Nestled amidst the rolling vineyards and majestic mountains of South Africa's Western Cape, the Cape Winelands region is a picturesque haven for wine lovers and travelers seeking tranquility and beauty. With its rich history, splendid architecture, and world-renowned wines, this enchanting locale offers more than just exquisite tastings. For those planning an unforgettable getaway in this serene landscape, choosing the perfect place to stay is paramount. Our curated list of the top 10 hotels in the Cape Winelands promises to guide you to accommodations where stunning views meet exceptional service, ensuring your visit is nothing short of magical.