Incredible South Africa with Rovos Luxury Train

Overview

Itinerary at a Glance

• 1 Depart USA
• 2 Arrive Johannesburg
• 3 Johannesburg
• 4 Private Game Reserve
• 5 Private Game Reserve
• Optional Excursion: AM Bush Walk
• 6 Panorama Route to White River
• 7 White River & Pretoria
• 8 Rovos Rail
• 9 Rovos Rail
• 10 Rovos Rail
• 11 Cape Town
• 12 Cape Town
• 13 Cape Town
• Optional Excursion: Half-Day Cape Wineland's Tour, $150
• 14 Depart Cape Town

Videos

Dates & Prices

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 Depart USA

• Depart New York on your overnight flight to Johannesburg

Day 2 Arrive Johannesburg

• Arrive in Johannesburg and transfer to your hotel
• Spend the remainder of the day at leisure
• Enjoy a welcome dinner with your fellow travelers

54 on Bath or similar Dinner

Full Day Itinerary

Welcome to South Africa. After completing customs and immigration formalities, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel.

Join your fellow travelers tonight for a welcome dinner.

Day 3 Johannesburg

• Enjoy a full-day Johannesburg Journey to Freedom tour
• Spend the evening at leisure

54 on Bath or similar Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary

This morning, learn more about South Africa's turbulent past and its unwavering hope for the future on a fascinating tour to Soweto (short for Southwestern Township), a sprawling metropolis on the outskirts of Johannesburg. Your tour will give you a close-up look at daily life in this bustling neighborhood, the largest black urban settlement in Africa and the center of political campaigns aimed at overthrowing the apartheid state. Highlights of the Soweto tour include a visit to the Kiptown open-air museum, the former residence of Nobel Peace Prize winner Nelson Mandela, the Hector Peterson memorial for the victims of the civil unrest in the 1970s, and a drive by the ultramodern Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital.

Later, visit the Apartheid Museum. The Apartheid Museum, the first of its kind, illustrates the rise and fall of apartheid. An architectural consortium comprising several leading architectural firms conceptualized the design of the building on a seven-hectare stand. The museum is a superb example of design, space, and landscape, offering the international community a unique South African experience.

Afterward, return to your hotel and enjoy an evening at leisure.

Day 4 Private Game Reserve

• Transfer to the airport for your flight to the South African bush
• Enjoy an afternoon game drive

Kapama River Lodge, Becks Safari Lodge or similar Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Full Day Itinerary

After breakfast, depart for the Johannesburg airport for your short flight to the South African bush. Surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of the Greater Kruger National Park, this exclusive lodge boasts world-class amenities and unrivaled wildlife encounters close to some of the most iconic wildlife on the planet. Enjoy an afternoon game drive led by a professional and an assistant guide on the same vehicle.

There are hundreds of other species of animals to spot, so the early morning and evening game drives are the best way to start and end the day. With approximately 350 bird species recorded on the reserve, bird enthusiasts are also spoilt for choice.

This afternoon, embark on your first game drive in search of the illustrious "Big 5." This evening, enjoy dinner at the camp.

Note: August 9, 2024 departure will stay at Becks Safari Lodge. 

Day 5 Private Game Reserve

• Enjoy a morning game drive
• Spend the remainder of the day at leisure
• Embark on an exciting afternoon game drive

Kapama River Lodge, Becks Safari Lodge or similar Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Full Day Itinerary

This morning, wake up early and depart in an open vehicle for the morning game drive, searching for the Big 5, antelope, and other animals. When applicable, your experienced rangers and trackers may invite you out of the vehicle to see tracks and examine certain plants. After an exhilarating hunt for tracks to see the animals' activities at night, return to the camp for breakfast.

The remainder of the day is spent at leisure until it's time for the afternoon game drive, which extends into the evening to view seldom-seen nocturnal animals. Return to the lodge for dinner.

Note: August 9, 2024 departure will stay at Becks Safari Lodge.

Optional Excursion: AM Bush Walk

The Kapama River Lodge offers a Bush Walk in lieu of the Game Drive. This is subject to availability, done in very small groups, and is for those that are physically fit and comfortable walking long distances. When you arrive at the lodge, you will meet with the guides, who assess all potential participants' fitness levels to ensure everyone's safety. If the bush walk is not for you, you will be included in the early morning game drive.

Note: If you are interested, please let us know at the time of booking.

Day 6 Panorama Route to White River

• Enjoy a morning game drive
• Embark on a Panorama Route Tour with views of the Three Rondavels, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, Lisbon Falls, and God’s Window

Oliver's Restaurant & Lodge or similar Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Full Day Itinerary

This morning, wake up early and depart in an open vehicle for the morning game drive, searching for the Big 5, antelope, and other animals. Return to the camp for breakfast.

Then, depart for White River via the Panorama route. Today's adventure, you will marvel at the geological formations known today as The Three Rondavels, Bourke's Luck Potholes, cylindrical rock sculptures formed by years of water erosion, Lisbon Falls, and God's Window.

Later, check into your hotel and enjoy dinner with your fellow travelers.

Day 7 White River & Pretoria

• Transfer to the airport for your short flight to Johannesburg
• Transfer to your hotel near Pretoria

Ivory Manor Boutique Hotel or similar Breakfast & dinner

Full Day Itinerary

Enjoy a lovely breakfast at Oliver's. Then, transfer to the airport for your short flight to Johannesburg. Later, check in to your hotel and enjoy the amenities, followed by dinner with your fellow travelers.

Day 8 Rovos Rail

• Transfer to Rovos Rail station in Pretoria for a champagne reception and board Rovos Rail

Rovos Rail Luxury Train or similar Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Full Day Itinerary

After breakfast, transfer to the private Rovos Rail station in Pretoria. Enjoy a champagne reception in the elegant lounge of the old Pretoria rail station before boarding the Rovos Rail, the most luxurious train in the world. This lavishly appointed train has historic coaches driven by a steam locomotive, serves high tea in the lounge and observation cars, and has five-course formal dinners in the dining car. Travel through 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.

Day 9 Rovos Rail

• Arrive in Kimberley and enjoy sightseeing of The Big Hole
• Visit the Diamond Mine Museum

Rovos Rail Luxury Train or similar Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Full Day Itinerary

After a lavish breakfast in the dining car, arrive in Kimberley, where the ambiance transports you in time to explore the history of South African diamond mining. Here, you will explore what is known as the Big Hole, the most extensive artificial excavation in the world. Visit the Diamond Mine Museum, an open-air experience that whisks you away on a journey to the diamond rush. Discover how diamonds transform from a rough cut to the beauty of a multi-faceted diamond.

Enjoy various bars and snack shops nestled amongst the spectacular town of Kimberley.

Return to the train for lunch and your onward journey, relaxing in the observation car for tea and a formal dinner in the dining car.

Day 10 Rovos Rail

• Join an optional 5km walk from Whitehill Siding into Matjiesfontein
• Visit the historical village of Matjiesfontein

Rovos Rail Luxury Train or similar Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Full Day Itinerary

The train travels through the Karoo, a vast semi-desert region once an enormous inland sea. Over millions of years, the volcanic matter was ground down and deposited as silt upon the seabed to form what geologists call the Karoo system. Have the option to disembark the train at Whitehill Siding and walk the 5km into Matjiesfontein accompanied by a Rovos staff member. Or you are welcome to leave at Matjiesfontein and stroll through the historic village. We suggest you visit the museum on the platform and a collection of historic cars and railway carriages to the right of the Lord Milner Hotel. Re-board the train for your scenic journey toward Camp Town.

Enjoy lunch and dinner on the train.

Day 11 Cape Town

• Arrive to Cape Town
• Enjoy a tour of Cape Town, including Table Mountain
• Visit a diamond-cutting factory and learn about the history of diamonds and gold

Queen Victoria Hotel or similar Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary

After a lavish breakfast in the dining car, arrive mid-morning in Cape Town, a beautiful jewel nestled between stunning Table Mountain and a dramatic coastline.

Enjoy a panoramic city tour of Cape Town, showcasing this vibrant city's scenic and historical highlights. Wind your way past the picturesque suburbs of Camps Bay and Clifton route to the central business district. Sense the depth of history as you drive past Parliament Buildings, City Hall, the Slave Lodge, and the Castle of Good Hope, built initially as a maritime replenishment station and now the oldest surviving colonial building in South Africa! Learn more about the history of the Bo-Kaap and its people as we move up the cobblestoned hills to the Malay Quarter and marvel at the ice-cream colors of the quaint Bo-Kaap homes.

Then, visit a diamond-cutting factory and witness a professional diamond cutter create magnificent stones. After learning more about the history of diamonds and gold in South Africa, make your way to Table Mountain and, weather permitting, travel by cable car to the top of the mountain, Cape Town's most striking landmark and one of the world's New Seven Wonders of Nature.

Later, check into your hotel.

Note: Table Mountain Cableway will shut down for annual maintenance from July, 15 – September 1, 2024. It will re-open, weather permitting, on September 2, 2024. If Table Mountain Cableway is closed, we will visit Signal Hill instead.

Day 12 Cape Town

• Enjoy a full-day Cape Point tour
• Visit Boulders Beach, home to the famous penguin colony
• Stop at a local winery and indulge in a wine tasting

Queen Victoria Hotel or similar Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary

Today, enjoy a full-day tour of Cape Point. Journey along Millionaires Paradise, admiring the glamorous homes of Clifton Beach and Camps Bay. Then, travel towards the charming coastal town and working harbor of Hout Bay. Marvel at the breathtaking views and rugged landscape as you wind along the legendary Chapman's Peak Drive toward the Cape of Good Hope Section of Table Mountain National Park. After, witness the fascinating penguin colony at Boulders Beach. Continue to the historical naval port of Simon's Town and experience the wilder side of this exquisite Cape coastline. End the tour with a stop at the Groot Constantia winery for an exquisite wine tasting. 

Day 13 Cape Town

• Enjoy a day at leisure in Cape Town, or join an optional tour to the Cape Winelands
• This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with your fellow travelers

Queen Victoria Hotel or similar Breakfast & dinner

Full Day Itinerary

Enjoy today at leisure to explore Cape Town on your own, or join an optional tour to the Cape Winelands. Later this evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with your fellow travelers.

Optional Excursion: Half-Day Cape Wineland's Tour, $150

Today, enjoy a glorious excursion to the South African wine lands. Take a leisurely drive to get acquainted with the beauty of this world-renowned region before venturing into the wine-making process in a fascinating cellar tour. Learn about the production of wine, from grape to goblet, and, of course, enjoy tastings of the iconic wines.

Day 14 Depart Cape Town

• Transfer to the airport for your flight home
• Your memorable South African adventure ends as you touch down tomorrow morning in New York

Breakfast

Hotels

54 on Bath

Deluxe

Situated in the leafy Johannesburg suburb of Rosebank, the 54 on Bath hotel offers a signature blend of luxury and style. 54 on Bath is conveniently located within easy reach of Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton City, Melrose Arch, as well as the Gautrain rapid rail system. 54 on Bath features an outdoor terrace with a sparkling pool. Enjoy an alfresco snack or relax with a cold drink as you take in the African sunset and surrounding views. For those who like to work up a sweat to start the day right, or wind down after a day of exploring, stop by the Rosebank Fitness Club with state-of-the-art equipment and facilities.

More information

Kapama River Lodge

Deluxe

Located right on a Private Game Reserve Camp, experience the luxurious feel of the modern-styled Kapama River Lodge. This five-star accommodation is nearby the Greater National Kruger Park with wraparound views of the African bush, enhancing the sense of tranquility at this exclusive safari lodge. 

More information

Oliver's Restaurant & Lodge

First Class

Nestled among White River Country Estate, along the Panorama Route, Oliver's Restaurant & Lodge provides a tranquil stay for guests as they experience the marriage of Austrian flair and African hospitality. 

More information

Ivory Manor Boutique Hotel

Deluxe

Ivory Manor Boutique Hotel is located in a lush suburb of Pretoria East just 30 minutes drive from OR Tambo and Rovos Rail Capital Park Station. This privately-owned, luxury boutique hotel is surrounded by beautiful, tranquil gardens. With its fountains, grand entrance flanked by two sweeping staircases, plush public areas, and nine individually decorated guestrooms with whimsical names, Ivory Manor Boutique Hotel strives to give discerning guests an exceptional experience from arrival to departure.

More information

Rovos Rail Luxury Train

Deluxe

Since its establishment in 1989, Rovos Rail has earned an international reputation for its truly world-class travel experiences. 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 and high romance of African exploration. The Observation Car which has a spacious open-air balcony and seats 32 passengers, is positioned at the rear of the train while at the center of the train there is, when numbers dictate, a non-smoking Lounge Car that seats 26 passengers in comfort. There is also a small, discreet Gift Shop. In maintaining the spirit of travel of a bygone era, there are no radios or television sets on board. The use of mobile phones, laptops and essentially anything that has the ability to disturb other passengers is confined to the privacy of your suites. Smoking is only allowed in the privacy of your smoking suite and in the Club Lounge, located next to the Observation Car and seats 11. Dress Code: Many of the passengers aboard enjoy the formality of fine china and glassware, crisp linen and silver, and dress accordingly. Evening attire is formal – for the gentlemen a jacket and tie is a minimum requirement while for ladies we suggest cocktail/evening dresses or suits. During the day, dress is smart casual and cool, comfortable clothes, shoes and hats are recommended for the excursions, especially in the game reserves where it can get very hot. Please include warm clothing for cold mornings and evenings.

More information

Queen Victoria Hotel

Deluxe

The Queen Victoria Hotel is set in a quiet, historic precinct near the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, close to the heart of Cape Town, and easy access to the airport. The hotel’s regal ambiance is felt throughout the property, from its triple-volume foyer with a dramatic spiral staircase and glass lift, crystal chandeliers, and marble finishes. 

More information

In the unlikely event that a particular hotel is not available, a similar or better hotel may be substituted.

Reviews & Photos

Trip Details

• What should I know before I go? We've compiled a comprehensive checklist, including information on how to pay your balance due, flights & transfers, packing & luggage, and more.
• Do I need a visa or other documents? Are there any entry requirements? Travel visas are required for this package. Please review the visa & entry requirements.
• Can I make changes to my trip? Want to upgrade your seats? Depart from another city? Stay a few extra days? Something else? Just ask!
• Can I bring my kids? Are there any age restrictions? To book this package, you must be 18 or older. Your traveling companions must be 8 or older at time of travel.
• Should I purchase travel insurance? Yes! We recommend you purchase travel insurance to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. For your convenience, we offer a plan provided by Travelex Insurance Services.
• What's the fine print? Review the terms & conditions for this package.
• What should I know about South Africa? Check out our guide for practical travel tips, the best time to go, videos, and more.

Other Packages

Small Group Tour

Best of South Africa

from $4499 w/ Flights from $3499 Tour Only 12 days

per person, double occupancy*

See package map dates

Small Group Tour

Best of South Africa with Victoria Falls

from $6499 w/ Flights from $5499 Tour Only 15 days

per person, double occupancy*

See package map dates

Small Group Tour

Highlights of Southern Africa

from $4399 w/ Flights 11 days

per person, double occupancy*

See package map dates

Small Group Tour

Incredible South Africa with Rovos Luxury Train and Victoria Falls

from $11099 w/ Flights from $9999 Tour Only 18 days

per person, double occupancy*

See package map dates