Luxury on rails: Journey from Cape Town to Dar es Salaam

Embark on a 5,530-kilometer journey through some of Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes aboard Rovos Rail, one of the world’s most luxurious trains.

Experience the breathtaking Victoria Falls on an unforgettable journey from Cape Town, South Africa, to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, crossing five countries—South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Tanzania. flowcomm, Flickr CC BY 2.0

Embark on a 5,530-kilometer journey through some of Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes aboard Rovos Rail, one of the world’s most luxurious trains.

This 15-day adventure takes travelers from Cape Town, South Africa, to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, passing through five countries—South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Tanzania.

The Rovos Rail glides through the stunning Hex River Valley, surrounded by rugged mountains and rolling vineyards, offering passengers a scenic start to their luxury journey. Photo: Rovos Rail

The route

Starting in Cape Town, the train traverses the diverse terrains of South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Tanzania.

Highlights include the historic town of Kimberley, known for its diamond mines; a safari experience in Madikwe Game Reserve; a visit to the majestic Victoria Falls; and a journey through the Great Rift Valley before concluding in Dar es Salaam.

Rovos Rail comfort

Rovos Rail is renowned for its vintage carriages, meticulously restored to exude old-world charm while providing modern amenities.

Rovos Rail offers luxurious suites in three categories—Pullman, Deluxe, and Royal—each elegantly designed with vintage charm, private en-suite bathrooms, and panoramic windows for an unforgettable journey through Africa. Photo> Rovos Rail

The Rovos Rail rolls through the breathtaking Serengeti, offering a unique opportunity for sightseeing and wildlife viewing in unparalleled luxury. Photo by Hu Chen on Unsplash

From the Cape to the Serengeti

South Africa

Cape Town – The journey begins at Rovos Rail’s private station, taking passengers through the scenic Cape Winelands and Hex River Valley.

Kimberley – A stop in this historic diamond mining town allows visitors to explore the Big Hole and the Kimberley Mine Museum.

The Karoo – The train crosses this vast semi-desert region, known for its dramatic landscapes and unique wildlife.

Pretoria – A short stop at Rovos Rail’s headquarters at Capital Park Station.

Madikwe Game Reserve – A safari stop near the Botswana border, offering a chance to see the Big Five in a malaria-free zone.

Botswana

Plains of Botswana – The train travels across the Kalahari Desert, passing through remote landscapes and small settlements.

The Rovos Rail passes through Bulawayo, one of Zimbabwe’s oldest cities, founded in the 19th century, rich in colonial history and cultural heritage. Photo by Omoniyi David on Unsplash

Zimbabwe

Bulawayo – One of Zimbabwe’s oldest cities, offering a glimpse into colonial history.

Hwange National Park – A full-day game drive through Zimbabwe’s largest wildlife reserve, home to elephants, lions, and rhinos.

Victoria Falls – A highlight of the journey, with an overnight stay near the majestic falls, offering optional boat cruises on the Zambezi River.

Zambia

Livingstone – Named after explorer David Livingstone, this town marks the beginning of the train’s crossing through Zambia.

Kafue River – The journey passes over the impressive Kafue railway bridge, built in 1905.

Chisimba Falls – A short stop to view these stunning waterfalls in northern Zambia.

The Rovos Rail journeys through the vast Selous Game Reserve, a UNESCO-listed wilderness teeming with elephants, lions, and diverse wildlife, offering passengers an unforgettable safari experience from the comfort of the train. Photo by Bart van der Lugt on Unsplash

Tanzania

Great Rift Valley – As the train enters Tanzania, it descends into the Great Rift Valley, offering breathtaking views of mountain ranges and escarpments.

Selous Game Reserve – The train traverses this UNESCO-listed wilderness, home to hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife.

Dar es Salaam – The journey ends in Tanzania’s bustling port city, a gateway to Zanzibar and East Africa.

The Rovos Rail restaurants offer an elegant fine-dining experience, featuring gourmet cuisine paired with South African wines, all served in vintage-style dining cars with polished wood and classic charm. Photo: Rovos Rail

Onboard experience: A palace on wheels

Rovos Rail is famous for its old-world luxury, offering vintage wood-paneled carriages, fine dining, and personalized service.

• Observation Car Large windows and an open-air balcony for the best views.

• Lounge Car A perfect place to unwind with a cocktail and meet fellow travelers.

• Dining Car Serves gourmet meals paired with South African wines.

Accommodations include

• Pullman Suites (76 sq. ft.) – Compact, with an en-suite bathroom.

• Deluxe Suites (118 sq. ft.) – More space, with a sitting area.

• Royal Suites (172 sq. ft.) – Spacious, with a Victorian bathtub and lounge area.

Cost and booking

• Pullman Suite Around $12,820 per person

• Deluxe Suite Around $17,435 per person

• Royal Suite Around $22,095 per person

Prices include accommodation, meals, drinks, excursions, and safaris.

This journey is more than just a train ride—it’s a moving safari, a cultural experience, and a step back in time to the golden age of travel.

Rovos Rail dress code

Rovos Rail maintains a classic and elegant dress code, enhancing the luxury train experience.

Daytime dress code

• Smart casual attire (comfortable but stylish)

• Lightweight clothing for warm weather (linen, cotton)

• Shorts, sundresses, and polo shirts are acceptable

• Comfortable walking shoes for excursions

• Sun hat and sunglasses for outdoor activities

Evening dress code

• Men: Jacket and tie required; suits are preferred

• Women: Cocktail dress, elegant blouse with a skirt or pants, or an evening gown

• No jeans, sneakers, or casual wear allowed at dinner

  
  

Passengers are encouraged to embrace the romance of vintage rail travel, dressing in classic, refined styles reminiscent of the golden age of train journeys.

Packing advice

Clothing

• Daytime: Smart casual outfits like lightweight shirts, blouses, sundresses, chinos, and comfortable walking shoes.

• Evening: Formal attire—men need a jacket and tie, and women should pack a cocktail dress or elegant outfit.

• Outerwear: A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings and higher-altitude areas.

• Safari Attire: Neutral-colored clothing for excursions, a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes for game drives.

Essentials

• Binoculars – Ideal for wildlife spotting.

• Camera – The landscapes and game reserves are breathtaking.

• Sunscreen & lip balm – The African sun can be intense.

• Insect repellent – Especially for safari stops.

• Small backpack or daypack – Handy for excursions.

• Medications & toiletries – Essentials, as there are limited stops for purchases.

• Adapters & power bank – Rovos Rail uses South African three-prong plugs.

Extras

• Books or travel journal – Perfect for enjoying the slow pace of travel.

• Swimwear – Some hotels along the route have pools.

• A few US dollars or local currency – Useful for tips and shopping during stops.

Since the train offers laundry services, you don’t need to overpack. The focus should be on comfort, elegance, and practicality for a truly memorable journey.

Recommended vaccines

Before traveling on Rovos Rail through South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Tanzania, it’s important to check recommended vaccinations.

Routine vaccinations Ensure they are up to date MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)

• DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis)

• Polio

• Influenza
  

• Hepatitis A & B – Spread through contaminated food, water, or bodily fluids.

• Typhoid – Advised for travelers visiting areas with lower hygiene standards.

• Yellow Fever – Required if entering Tanzania from a yellow fever risk country. Some border officials may ask for proof of vaccination.

• Rabies – Optional, but recommended if you plan to visit rural areas or interact with animals.
  

Malaria risk & prevention

Malaria is present in Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Tanzania, especially near Victoria Falls and Selous Game Reserve.

• Take antimalarial medication (consult your doctor for options like Malarone or Doxycycline).

• Use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants in the evenings, and sleep under mosquito nets when necessary.

COVID-19 & other considerations

• While COVID-19 vaccination is not mandatory, it is still recommended.

• Carry a small medical kit with pain relievers, diarrhea medication, and any prescription drugs you may need.

  
  

Always check the latest health requirements for each country on your route before departure!

Rovos Rail features a variety of beautifully restored rail cars, including elegant sleeper coaches, vintage dining cars, an observation car with open-air views, and a luxurious lounge car. Some journeys are even led by a historic Rovos Rail steam engine, celebrating South Africa’s rich railway heritage. Photo: Gary, Bembridge, Flickr CC BY 2.0

Key facts about Rovos Rail

• Founded: 1989 by Rohan Vos

• Headquarters: Pretoria, South Africa

• Train Capacity: Up to 72 passengers per journey

• Suite Categories: Pullman, Deluxe, and Royal (all with en-suite bathrooms)

• Dining Experience: Gourmet meals paired with fine South African wines

• Observation Car: Open-air platform for panoramic views

• Routes: Various routes across South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Tanzania

• Most Famous Journey: Cape Town to Dar es Salaam (15 days)

• Steam Heritage: Occasionally led by a restored steam locomotive

• Luxury Level: Considered one of the most luxurious trains in the world