16 day Good Hope Adventure, Johannesburg to Cape Town

Lesedi Cultural Village:

Guests will visit the multi-cultural African Village called Lesedi. It is set among pristine bushveld and rocky hills. This is a great chance to experience the culture of five of South Africa’s major indigenous tribes: the Zulu, the Xhosa, the Pedi, the Ndebele and the Basotho. Lunch will be included.

Sandton City:

Explore the South African financial district within Sandton City, have a look at the surrounding five star hotels and conference centres. Sandton is a shopping paradise for the rich and famous people of the Gauteng province. Eat in one of the numerous restaurants at nelson Mandela Square which also boasts Nelson Mandela statue.

Gold Reef City and Apartheid museum:

Gold Reef City is an entertainment centre in Johannesburg. It is situated on the previous Crown mine which closed in the 1970’s. This complex is showing the “city of gold” as it was at the time of the “Gold Rush”. Guests have the opportunity to go down a gold mine (at guests’ own account) or enjoy various other activities. The Apartheid Museum displays photos, videos and other media the South African political regime until 1994. Transfer, entrance fee to Gold Reef City and to the Apartheid Museum will be included..

Day 1: Panorama Route, Mpumalanga, South Africa

Mpumalanga means 'Land of the Rising Sun'. Take in the extraordinary natural beauty of this province while on your luxury train safari.

Panorama Route:
On your luxury train safari you will visit the village of Pilgrim's Rest, a living museum and declared National Monument. Gold was discovered in this area in 1873, attracting 1500 diggers. Today, many of the restored miner's houses serve as shops. Further along the escarpment you will find the great Blyde River Canyon, a gorge of 26 kilometres (16 miles) long and 800 metres deep, carved from the face of the escarpment.

The Three Rondavels present an unforgettable view of three huge rock spirals rising out of the far wall of the canyon, looking like African huts. Bourke's Luck Potholes are strange deep cylindrical cavities formed by river erosion and floodwater. From the vantage point of God's Window you'll gaze across sweeps of the Lowveld, where subtle fragrances of the lower region rise to merge with the crisp winds of the Highveld. Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 280 kilometres (173 miles)

Day 2: Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga, South Africa

The world famous Kruger National Park offers a wildlife experience that equals the best anywhere. Its 2 million hectares are unrivalled in diversity of life forms and the park is a world leader in advanced environmental management techniques.

View an impressive number of species while on your Africa safari, e.g. 336 species of trees, 49 species of fish, 34 species of amphibians, 114 species of reptiles, 507 species of birds and 147 species of mammals. (Full-day activity; departure time depends on the season, as gates open and close with sunrise and sunset; distance travelled: +/- 220 kilometres (136 miles))

Mountain Lodge:
In the late morning, you will be taken to the Mountain Lodge. The area around this lodge in Mpumalanga is populated by Leopard, Elephant, Rhino and Buffalo. This activity includes two game drives in open vehicles as well as lunch, dinner and breakfast on the following morning. After departure from the lodge the next day, you will be able to explore the Kruger National Park in our Rovos Rail air-conditioned vehicles before rejoining the train. (Bookings are subject to availability; due to the 24-hour cycle of this option, which starts before lunchtime, the Panorama Route experience will not be possible).

Private Game Reserve:
Late morning, at around 11h00, you will be transferred to a luxury lodge, situated in a private game reserve near Kruger Park. This private reserve is situated on the banks of the Sabi River, where you will enjoy lunch. After a siesta, followed by coffee and cake, you will depart on a sunset safari, in search of the Big Five, Elephant, Leopard, Lion, Buffalo and Rhino. Encounters with all spheres of the eco-system, from the smallest insect to the majestic African Elephant, are possible.

After a sundowner drink in the bush you will return to the lodge. A delightful dinner awaits you. Early the next morning (just before sunrise) you will depart on a game drive in open safari vehicles. This enables you to fully experience the African fauna at its most active. A mouth-watering breakfast will round off this safari experience. After the game drive, you will be taken to join the rest of the group in the Kruger Park.

Game viewing in Kruger Park will be done en-route in our air-conditioned vehicle before rejoining the train. (Bookings subject to availability; due to the 24-hour cycle of the private reserve, which starts before lunchtime, the Panorama Route experience will not be possible).

Sunrise Balloon Experience:
Early in the morning you will be picked up and transferred to the balloon
launch site. On arrival, tea, coffee and biscuits will be served, followed by a scenic balloon flight lasting about an hour. Enjoy sparkling Cape wine upon landing. This is followed by a breakfast at a country lodge and a transfer back to meet the rest of the group. (This activity is weather dependent). The train remains stationary at Kaapmuiden.

Day 3: Kruger National Park, South Africa or Swaziland

Today guests have the option of either visiting the Kruger National Park again (see day 2) or of exploring the kingdom of Swaziland. If you decide for the second option: Please note: For this activity in Swaziland your passport is needed.

The drive from Kaapmuiden offers majestic views of the Piggs Peak. Visit the Swazi Market which displays a wide variety of skilfully crafted woodcarvings, colourful textiles and wonderful basketwork for which Swazis are renowned. This day activity in Swaziland will introduce you to everyday life in Africa’s smallest kingdom. (Full day; distance travelled: ± 350 km (218 miles)).

Open Vehicle Safari in Kruger Park:
You can enjoy game drives in open safari vehicles. They are specifically designed to ensure safety and optimum game viewing. Your professional guides have expert knowledge of the fauna and flora. Lunch is at your own expense and will be at one of the rest camps in Kruger National Park. You can continue with game-viewing after lunch. In the evening, Rovos Rail departs Mpumalanga for Johannesburg.

Day 4: Pretoria / Johannesburg / Soweto, South Africa

Gauteng is the economic powerhouse of the South Africa. It is home to some of Africa’s greatest cities. The name of the province derives from the Sotho word meaning “Place of Gold”. This fits perfectly since much of the wealth of Gauteng has come from this precious metal.

Pretoria and Soweto:
We will spend the morning in Pretoria, the administrative capital of South Africa. We have the chance to visit the Union Buildings, housing the offices of the President and Ministers. They were designed by the famous colonial English architect, Sir Herbert Baker, and completed in 1913. The buildings overlook Pretoria city towards the once fortified hills to the south. The grand bronze statue of “Oom Paul (Paul Kruger)”, the patriarch president of the ZAR or old Transvaal Republic, surrounded by his Boer fighters, dominates the central point of the city, Church Square.

Before leaving the South African capital behind, we visit the Voortrekker Monument that commemorates the “Great Trek” of the 1830s. In the afternoon we head to Soweto. here, we visit the Hector Petersen Memorial, named after one of the first students to be killed in the 1976 uprising against the Apartheid regime. (Full day; distance travelled: ± 200 km (124 miles)).

Johannesburg and Soweto:
This day starts at Constitution Hill in Braamfontein in the centre of Johannesburg. This is the new home of the Constitutional Court. This is also the site of Johannesburg’s notorious Old Fort Prison Complex, where many of South Africa’s leading political activists were imprisoned. We head onto the Newtown precinct and visit Museum Africa previously known as the market of Johannesburg. This all belongs to the history of the “City of Gold”.

We will have a lunch break (guests’ own expense) in the suburb of Rosebank. Here, you can experience the multi-cultural “Rainbow Nation” in a modern, yet ethnocentric setting. The Johannesburg suburb of Rosebank shows you the mix of first and third world cultures and showcases crafts and arts from all over the African continent. In the afternoon, we travel to Soweto. Experience the heartbeat of this township, which comprises one million people and was made famous by the Apartheid laws.

We pass the Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital. This is the largest hospital in the Southern Hemisphere. Our drive continues and we pass the only street in Africa that once housed two Nobel Peace Laureates, Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. We then visit the Hector Petersen Memorial, which is named after one of the first students to be killed in the 1976 uprising against the Apartheid government. (Full day; distance travelled: ± 150 km (93 miles)). In the evening, the train departs Johannesburg for Durban.

Day 5: Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Durban City Tour:
Durban is the third largest city of South Africa and enjoys great importance due to its industry and its very large port. Thanks to the subtropical climate and the long stretches of beautiful beaches large numbers of 'uplanders' retreat to Durban in winter. An orientation tour of the city will allow you to see a very good mix of old and new, African, Orient and the West while on this luxury train safari.

You'll drive along the 'Golden Mile' promenade where numerous hotels and restaurants are situated. A visit to the Victoria Market will also be included. At the end of the morning you will be dropped at either the botanical gardens or at uShaka Marine World, Africa's largest marine theme park, where you can have lunch and spend your afternoon (all entrances for your own account). You will be picked up again at an arranged time later in the afternoon.(Morning activity; distance travelled: +/- 50 kilometres (31 miles))

Durban Spiritual Tour:
Guests depart for Mariannhill to visit the monastery for a guided tour and to spend time in this beautiful, tranquil setting while listening to the sound of chanting monks in the background. Take time out to relax on this leg of your luxury train safari. You'll return to Durban, the centre of Indian culture in South Africa, with its vast array of Hindu, Sufi and Muslim temples, including the most opulent Hindu structure in the Southern Hemisphere.

Prepare for some spiritual enlightenment while on your luxury train safari. You'll visit Phoenix, the spiritual settlement created by Mahatma Gandhi and see the Juma Musjid, the largest mosque in the Southern Hemisphere, whose twin minarets are a striking city feature. You will be able to visit the Hari Krishna 'Temple of Understanding', as well as the Kendra Hindu Temple and Community Centre. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 150 kilometres (93 miles))

Umgeni River Bird Park & Beach Day:
On your way to the beaches north of Durban, you will stop at the Umgeni River Bird Park, which is worth a visit while on your luxury train safari. The rest of the day can be spent on the beach, or if you choose, you could go shopping in the late afternoon at the nearby Gateway Shopping Centre, before returning to pick up the beach bums and return to the train after a laid-back day in the sun. The train travels to Pietermaritzburg in the evening. (Full day of relaxation; distance travelled: +/- 60 kilometres (37 miles))

Day 6: Northern Zululand

Shakaland or Dumazulu and Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Park:
Guests leave the train early morning and drive in the Rovos Rail air-conditioned vehicles to Shakaland or Dumazulu, nestled amongst the aloes and mimosa trees of the Mlatuze River Valley. The Shakaland or Dumazulu Cultural Village offers amazing views. Guests stop at Shakaland or Dumazulu for a cultural experience and then head on towards Zulu Nyala Heritage Safari Lodge. After the check in guests have lunch (at own expense). This is followed by a visit to the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Reserve in the afternoon.

The park lies in the heart of Zululand. Ancient trails lead through the thorn veld and along the mighty rivers of Africa’s oldest established wilderness area. Once the exclusive royal hunting ground of King Shaka, it is now a tapestry of cultural and natural history.

Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Park is a treasure trove of African wildlife species including Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Buffalo, Wildebeest, Zebra, Giraffe, Kudu, Bushbuck, Cheetah, Hyena and many others. Over 300 bird species have been recorded. Game drives will be conducted in our air-conditioned vehicles. (Full day; distance travelled: ± 200 km (124 miles)). Guests overnight at Zulu Nyala Heritage Safari Lodge.

Day 7: Southern Zululand

Zulu Nyala Game Reserve and St Lucia:

We go on an early morning game drive in the lodge’s 4X4 game drive vehicles. After breakfast we check out and head with the Shongololo vehicles towards the St. Lucia Wetlands, a World Heritage Site. In the morning, we will take a cruise on the St Lucia Estuary, looking for Hippos, Crocodiles and a large variety of water birds. (Full day; distance travelled: ± 250 km (155 miles)).

St Lucia Boat Based Whale Tours:

As a tour add-on we can go on a whale-watching boat tour in St. Lucia. Every year from about July to November whales visit the coastal waters near St. Lucia. Don't miss this great opportunity. From just 50 metres from the boat you can see Southern Right and Humpback Whales as they spray a fine vapour of salt water into the air. You can even feel the wind rushing out of the huge lungs.
Please note: For this activity, a ski boat is launched from the beach. This activity is not recommended for the elderly guests.

After this morning activity in St. Lucia, you will return to Durban where the train departs for Ladysmith.

Day 8: Ladysmith, Midlands / Southern Drakensburg

We head to the eastern peaks of the Drakensberg and ollow the waterways as they drop and cascade down the mountains. The journey continues through hidden valleys and the hills that extend through the Midlands.

Battlefields:
One is able to trace the course of the Anglo Boer War by visiting the Siege Museum as well as sites of famous battles such as Spioenkop, while on your luxury train safari. Other highlights include Wagon Hill, where British and Boers suffered heavy losses. The site of the battle was proclaimed a National Monument in 1938. Visitors also gain insight into the early lives of Winston Churchill and Ghandi on this leg of the Africa tour. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 200 kilometres (124 miles))

Midlands Meander:
The famous Midlands Meander in KwaZulu-Natal is a unique mix of more than 160 places to eat, drink, sleep, shop, play and generally have fun. Started many years ago as a voluntary collection of crafters, who wondered if they could attract visitors to leave the beaten track and explore their studios and galleries. Take the opportunity to admire the crafts while on your luxury train safari. The Midlands Meander has grown into an eclectic and fascinating mix of arts and crafts, world-class restaurants and homely comforts.

It offers a wide range of sporting, environmental and historical pursuits. Physical, culinary or cerebral, there is no limit to the experiences you'll find here, while on your luxury train safari. Among your stops will be a visit to the Howick Falls as well as beer tasting in Nottingham Road. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 300 kilometres (186 miles))

Southern Drakensberg Walking Trails:
We will drive towards Creighton in the southern Drakensberg region. We will then do a guided walk in the Xumeni Forest dominated by Yellowwood trees. It is the habitat of the rare Cape Parrot (350 of the 800 left in the world live here). Many different bird species, such as the Sakabula, Bald Ibis and Grey Crown Crane could be spotted here. Lunch will be at Creighton (for guests’ own account). (Full day; distance travelled: ± 300 km (186 miles))

Sani Pass, Lesotho:
As a tour add-on you can drive to the Sani Pass in Lesotho. Rovos Rail's vehicles will take you to the town of Underberg. From here, you will board other vehicles that will take you up the magnificent Sani Pass. You start at 1540 metres above sea level and will follow the deep valley incised by the Mkhomazana River. You reach the summit at 2873m - in the last 8 km of your trip the vehicle almost climbs 1000m up.

This pass is the only road link between KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa and the Mountain Kingdom of Lesotho. After reaching the summit, we will turn around for the spectacular descent. (Full day; distance travelled: ± 300 km (186 miles)).

Please note: You need to bring your passport for this activity.
The train will depart in the evening for Bloemfontein.

Day 9: Bloemfontein, Free State, South Africa

You will spend the morning on board and arrive in Bloemfontein sometime around lunchtime. After lunch (guest's own account) at the Waterfront a city tour follows: Bloemfontein is the seat of the South African judicial system.

Learn some historical facts while on your luxury train safari. At the Anglo-Boer War Museum visitors get a glimpse of life in the concentration camps and a memorial commemorates the 27 000 women and children who died in these camps. 'Naval Hill' presents several beautiful panoramic views. The train departs in the early evening from Bloemfontein to Port Elizabeth. (Afternoon activity; distance travelled: +/- 30 kilometres (18 miles))

Day 10: Port Elizabeth

A short drive brings you to the Addo Elephant National Park. The original Elephant reserve was proclaimed in 1931 when only 11 animals remained in the area. Today it is sanctuary to over 350 Elephant. You may also see Cape Buffalo, Black Rhino and a variety of antelope species while on your luxury train safari. The afternoon is spent at leisure back in Port Elizabeth. (Morning activity; distance travelled: +/- 160 kilometres (99 miles))

Port Elizabeth City Tour and time at leisure:
Port Elizabeth, which forms part of the Nelson Mandela Metropole, is known as the 'Friendly City' and it is a major seaport with diverse eco and adventure attractions. There are beautiful beaches, lovely hotels and restaurants. Off this coast the first Coelacanth was caught. You will visit several interesting historical buildings in the city centre while on your luxury train safari. The rest of the afternoon is spent at leisure. (Morning activity; distance travelled: +/- 50 kilometres (31 miles))

Addo Elephant Park and Port Elizabeth City Tour:
A combination of Addo and the Port Elizabeth City tour with an extended lunch at the beachfront (own account) is highly recommended, while on your luxury train safari. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 170 kilometres (105 miles)).

Township Tour:
Experience some true local living while on your luxury train safari. Your visit includes townships within the Nelson Mandela Metropole, which have become the pulsating beat of an emerging united city. This half-day tour will bring a better understanding of the 'New South Africa'. The train travels over night to Oudtshoorn. (Afternoon activity combinable; distance travelled: +/- 80 kilometres (49 miles))

Day 11: Klein Karoo

Surrounded by natural beauty, Oudtshoorn is situated at the foot of the majestic Swartberg Mountain range. Numerous rivers, streams and falls have their origins in the Swartberg, Outeniqua and Kammanassie ranges around the town. Oudtshoorn is regarded as the centre of the Klein Karoo and is world famous for the Cango Caves and the breeding of Ostriches.

Cango Caves and Swartberg Pass:
Oudtshoorn is famous for its ostrich boom in the early 20th century – it feathered the world in the time of the boa and the grand hats, making many millionaires who, in turn, created elaborate lifestyles in this remote place in Africa. A great natural wonder awaits us while on your luxury train safari, the Cango Caves - a series of great colourful underground chambers with breathtaking limestone formations.

You will continue via the Swartberg Pass to Prince Albert and return to Oudtshoorn via the spectacular Meiringspoort drive, before descending the Robinson Pass towards Mossel Bay. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 280 kilometres (173 miles))

Oudtshoorn and Ostrich Farm, Mossel Bay:
Oudtshoorn is famous for its ostrich boom in the early 20th century – it feathered the world in the time of the boa and the grand hats, making many millionaires who, in turn, created elaborate lifestyles in this remote African village. You will be taken on an unforgettable tour at an Ostrich Show Farm on this leg of your luxury train safari.

Travelling via the Robertson Pass you'll continue to Mossel Bay. The first meeting between Europeans and Africans on Southern African soil occurred at Mossel Bay in 1488 when Dias set foot ashore and encountered the ancient Khoi-San people. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 200 kilometres (124 miles)

Ostrich Farm visit and train ride to Mossel Bay:
On your luxury train safari, you'll be taken for a morning visit to an Ostrich Show Farm, where the well-informed guides will conduct an unforgettable tour. Back on board your the scenic beauty of the spectacular Outeniqua Pass and the Outeniqua Mountain range can be enjoyed on your luxury train safari as you journey towards Mossel Bay. (Morning activity before departure for Mossel Bay; distance travelled: +/-20 kilometres (12 miles))

Cango Crocodile and Cheetah Land:
Leave your fears behind while on your luxury train safari and meet some scary creatures. In the company of guides visit this reptile farm accommodating over 300 Nile crocodiles ranging in size from hatchlings of 50 cm to fully-grown 4 metre specimens. You will then proceed to Cheetahland, to see a collection of magnificent big cats on view in large natural enclosures.

Seal Island Trips:
Enjoy a late afternoon Boat Cruise to Seal Island to view the Seal colony basking in the sun or playing in the sea. Sit back and relax with a sunset drink while on your cruise. Dolphins have been spotted on this boat ride as well as the occasional whale. Evening Activity: Sample some authenic African food while on your luxury train safari. A South African 'Fish Braai' (barbecue) is planned for this evening. All guests will be transferred to the Khoi Village for the braai (barbecue) at 19h00. The train remains stationary in Mossel Bay for the night.

Day 12: Garden Route

Mossel Bay lies in the heart of the famous Garden Route and is situated on a spectacular sun-washed peninsula.

Old Passes Route and Knysna:
Admire the natural scenery on your luxury train safari while driving along the coast from Mossel Bay to George, situated on a 10 kilometre (6 mile) plateau between majestic Mountains to the north and the Indian Ocean to the south. Then you'll head via the old Passes route, which winds through the primeval forest of the Homtini to Knysna, lying between lush forests and a peaceful lagoon.

The Heads - 2 sandstone cliffs guarding the mouth of the lagoon connecting the estuary with the sea - is a dramatic viewpoint. In the 'Garden of Eden' you'll take a walk among the 4 metre treeferns and 600 year old trees. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 250 kilometres (155 miles))

Mossel Bay at leisure:
The first meeting between Europeans and Africans on Southern African soil occurred at Mossel Bay in 1488 when Dias set foot ashore and encountered the ancient Khoi-San people. Learn some interesting facts while on your luxury train safari, when visiting the Dias museum with its replica of the caravel in which Dias sailed from Portugal to South Africa more than 500 years ago.

You'll also see the famous 'Old Post Office Tree' where later explorers left post for passing ships. Mossel Bay features in the Guinness Book of Records as having the second mildest all-year climate in the world (second only to Hawaii). (Morning activity; distance travelled: 0 kilometres)

Robberg Nature Reserve:
Robberg means 'mountain of seals' and the reserve is a scenic 4 kilometre (2 miles) promontory of red sandstone that probes finger-like into the blue waters of the Indian Ocean. A number of walks are offered, ranging from reasonably difficult to gentle strolls. Whether you stroll or walk, don't forget to take in the beautiful scenery on this leg of your luxury train safari. Along the way there are caves that were once inhabited by an ancient people called 'strandlopers' (beach walkers).

The northern flank of Robberg is rocky and wild, but the south is the complete opposite with white beaches. On your way back to Mossel Bay, you might stop at the Knysna Quays, depending on the time. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 280 kilometres (173 miles))

Day 13: Winelands / Overberg Region

The fertile green valleys of the Cape Winelands are surrounded by proud mountain ranges. A mediterranean climate and winter rainfall creates some of the best wines in the world. The rich, fertile soils along the Breede River and the Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl areas have become justly famous for their Whites, Reds, Sherries, Ports and Brandies.

Your luxury train safari would not be complete without sampling some of the local, award winning wines. The Overberg region is situated to the southeast. It embraces mountains, valleys and coastal areas and is great to watch Southern Right Whales who visit these waters annually.

Historic Heart of the Winelands:
The day starts with a drive to Franschhoek via Villiersdorp and the Franschhoek Pass. Enjoy wonderful views over vineyards, plantations and rugged peaks. In Franschhoek (meaning “French Corner”) you can visit the Huguenot Memorial, which is commemorating the 1688 settlement of the French Huguenots after fleeing religious persecution in France. We continue our journey over the Hellshoogte Pass through a landscape of fruit farms, vineyards and Cape Dutch houses.

We arrive in the second oldest town in South Africa, Stellenbosch. It is beautifully located in the heart of the Winelands. The lunch break in Stellenbosch is at your own expense. In the afternoon we drive to Paarl, which is named after the huge granite dome of rock overlooking the town. This excursion includes one winetasting. (Full day; distance travelled: ± 275 km (171 miles))

Scenic Mountain Passes and Hermanus:
Our journey continues over scenic mountain passes such as the Rooihoogte and Floorshoogte Pass. We travel via the towns of Villiersdorp and Botrivier in the Overberg region to Hermanus, which was once a renowned fish market and whaling station. In 1935, the hunts for whales were stopped by international treaty. Spot Whales from 5 metres away in the natural cliffs during Whale season (from about July to November each year).

The WWF lists Hermanus as one of the best 12 whale-viewing sites in the world, but it tops the list when it comes to land based whale watching. In the afternoon we leave Hermanus and travel on the scenic coastal road past Betty’s Bay onto Clarence Drive towards Cape Town terrain where we meet the train again. This excursion also included one winetasting.

Shark Cage Diving (Gansbaai):
Adventurous guests will be picked up in Hermanus and transferred to Gansbaai, where their encounter with the “Great White Shark” awaits them. Before the cage is put down into the water you will be briefed about caging procedures. The bait lines are drawn in once the first shark is spottet. Get your cameras out and admire this magnificent predator of the sea. (Full day, which can be combined with the Scenic Passes and Hermanus excursion, however, large parts of that option will not be possible then; weather dependent)

Whale Watching Boat Cruise (Hermanus):
Every year from about June to November the magnificent Southern Right Whales calve in the bay in Hermanus. Spot them within 50 metres from the whale watching boat. (This tour can be combined with the Scenic Passes and Hermanus excursion and is weather dependent). In the morning, the train leaves Worcester and travels towards Cape Town station. Here, guests join the train and travel to Muizenberg. Guests will spend the night on the train in Muizenberg.

Day 14: Cape Town

Cape Town is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world with the paternal presence of Table Mountain overlooking all.

Please Note:
The activities as described in the options below could also be executed in a different order.

Cape Point:
You will visit the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, which are world famous for the beauty and diversity of the Cape flora and for the magnificent setting against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain. The estate of 528 hectares supports a diverse fynbos flora and natural forest. This is followed by a visit to Hout Bay, where a large fleet of colourful fishing vessels enhance the bustling ambience of this attractive resort. Give your tastebuds a whirl while on your Africa safari, where fresh seafood is a speciality at Mariner's Wharf.

Chapman's Peak Drive is one of the most spectacular sea cliff routes in the world. It was built between 1915 and 1922 and recently upgraded. You'll follow this drive to Simon's Town. In years gone by, sailing fleets from Europe soon discovered that Table Bay was extremely dangerous during the winter months. While exploring, Governor Simon van der Stel discovered the bay, which could give safe anchor to the visiting sailing ships during winter.

Simon's Town is a charming little coastal town. It became a naval base in 1814 and is home to the SA navy today. A visit to the Boulder's Penguin Colony will form part of this option as well: In 1983 a pair of African Penguins was spotted on Foxy Beach at Boulders and in 1985 they began to lay eggs. Since then the colony has grown rapidly, increasing initially at about 60% a year. By 1997 there were 2 350 adult birds. They are remarkably untroubled by people and Boulders is the only place in the world where one can actually swim amongst the penguins.

This day will not be complete without a visit to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve: Sir Francis Drake called it 'the fairest cape in the whole circumference of the earth'. Yet many vessels, wrecked by the turbulent seas, have found their resting-place along this rocky coastline.

The Nature Reserve is situated at the southern tip of the peninsula. The 7 675 hectare reserve is filled with priceless indigenous flora and fauna, some 2 700 species of indigenous plants and over 250 species of birds as well as troops of baboons and many species of antelope. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 150 kilometres (93 miles))

Cape Town City Tour:
Your Africa safari wouldn't be complete without a visit to a World Heritage Site - Table Mountain. Your city tour will commence with an exhilarating cable car ascent of Table Mountain (weather permitting and at your own cost). It provides breathtaking views over the city and its beaches. The panorama stretches from Table Bay to False Bay and around the mountain to the Hottentots Holland Mountains. The mountain is home to over 1 500 species of plants, many of these are found nowhere else on earth.

Your city tour continues with a walk through the Company Gardens, followed by a visit to the 'Bo-Kaap Museum': The first Malays arrived in the Cape as political refugees and slaves during the 17th century. Nearly two centuries later after emancipation, these Islamic people moved into the area known today as the Bo-Kaap, building mosques with picturesque minarets and their own style Georgian houses with Dutch influence. One of the oldest Cape Town buildings houses the museum. It is furnished as a Muslim house of the 19th century and documents the history of the Cape Malays.

On your way to the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, you will stop at Diamond Works, where you'll follow a tour of the diamond cutting studio, a jewellery manufacturing workshop, a jewellery design studio as well as a gemmological laboratory.

Your lunch stop will be at the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, a development that has brought new life to the old harbour of the Dutch East India Company in Table Bay. On your Africa safari you can take time out to indulge in some serious retail therapy at the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. The complex offers shops, craft markets, restaurants, taverns, cinemas, theatres as well as delightful views over the harbour.

In the afternoon you will drive through District 6. By 1900 the largest group of people then referred to as 'Malay', 'Mixed and Other' or 'Coloured' lived in poor conditions here. Yet the area was vibrant and full of colour with busy streets and vivacious lifestyles. Various religions and cultural heritages flourished and mingled. In the 40s the apartheid government removed the residents and most of the buildings. Today the city still grapples with the problem of what to do with this valuable real estate, but also to deal with the strong emotions that still charges the issue.

You will end your city tour with a visit to the Castle of Good Hope, the oldest surviving building in South Africa. This pentagonal fortification replaced a small clay and timber fort built by Commander Jan van Riebeeck in 1652 as a maritime replenishment station for the ships of the Dutch East India Company. The stone walls between the bastions are 150 metres long and 12 metres high.(Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 100 kilometres (62 miles))

The below specialised activities can only be done on the day of the Cape Town City Tour excursion:

Two Oceans Aquarium:
The Aquarium is located at the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront and offers an exciting insight into the indigenous fresh and seawater creatures of South Africa.

Robben Island Tour:
Visit a world famous historical site on your luxury train safari. For nearly 400 years, Robben Island was a place of banishment, exile, isolation and imprisonment. During the apartheid years Robben Island became internationally known as the place where Nelson Mandela and the other heroes of the struggle were imprisoned.

Helicopter Flights:
Various helicopter flight options from the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront and back, starting from only 15 minutes (including only the city bowl) to half an hour or longer (also including the Cape Peninsula) are offered. An evening shuttle service will be available to go to the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. The train remains stationary in Muizenberg for the night.

Table Mountain:
Experience an awesome ride up Table Mountain in the cable car. Enjoy spectacular views from the top of Table Mountain. This activity is weather dependent.

Day 15: Cape Town

Cape Point:
See Day 14

Cape Town City Tour:
See Day 14

Two Oceans Aquarium:
See Day 14

Robben Island Tour:
See Day 14

Helicopter Flights:
See Day 14

Table Mountain:
See Day 14

The train will remain stationary in Muizenberg for the night.

Day 16: Transfer Day

If guests are transferring to a hotel, this will be arranged for them in the morning. If guests are flying from Cape Town International Airport, their flight may only be in the afternoon. In this case guests still have the chance to undertake some activities in the morning, like: A stroll around the False Bay area or a leisurely walk along the beach walkway to St. James, where a variety of small restaurants are situated. Another option is a short walk to the beach for a refreshing swim.