- Accommodation: Locomotive
- Activities: Visits to the village of Matjiesfontein, tour of The Big Hole in Kimberley
- Destinations: Cape Town, Worcester, Matjiesfontein, Kimberley, Pretoria (South Africa)
What you can expect from this South Africa Train Travel route
For many visitors to South Africa, there's no finer way to see the country than on the popular weekly journeys between Pretoria and Cape Town. One of the world's top destinations, Cape Town offers a blend of cosmopolitan city life, Table Mountain splendour and scenic Cape Winelands. The twin cities of Pretoria and Johannesburg in Gauteng, form South Africa's economic heartland and the ideal departure point for the Lowveld's world-famous game reserves.
Embark on a magical journey filled with luxury living and grandeur during this 1 600-kilometre route that follows an old pioneering trail carved out of the African bushveld, passing through the Cape Winelands and climbing up to the interior through the Hex River Valley.
This enchanting trip will transport you back to the colonial and Victorian-era, with visits to the historic village of Matjiesfontein, a 100-year-old refreshment stop in the arid Karoo and Kimberley (city of De Beers), the diamond boom-town that's home to the Big Hole and the world's largest man-made excavation.
Comfortable and luxurious accommodation for an exclusive number of 80 passengers is in the Royal Suites, Deluxe Suites and Pullman Suites. Indulge in refined elegance and delicious meals during your three-day luxury train journey.
Opposite direction possible: This Rovos Rail safari tour is also available in the opposite direction from Pretoria to Cape Town (please enquire about specific departure dates or itinerary).
Day 1: Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
You will depart from platform 23 at the Cape Town Station at 16h00 and proceed through the Winelands via Worcester.
At 16:30 Tea is served in the observation cars and lounge. Dinner Will be served at 19:30 in the dining cars, the dress code is formal. The train will arrive at the first of four tunnels around midnight.
Day 2: Mantjiesfontein, Western Cape, South Africa
Breakfast will be served from 7:00 till 10:00 in the dining cars. During this time guests can disembark at Mantjiesfontein for a stroll through the historical village and visit the Transport Museum, situated at the edge of the town. This local attraction features a unique collection of vintage cars and bicycles, a London bus, and a steam train.
The train will travel through the Karoo, which is a vast desert region. Lunch will be served at 13:00 in the dining cars and tea will be served in the lounge and observation cars at 16:30.
Dinner will be served in the dining cars, the dress code is formal. Guest will overnight on board.
Day 3: Kimberley, Northern Cape, South Africa
After a good night's rest in your luxury train charter accommodation, freshen up and enjoy a hearty breakfast served in the elegant Victorian-style dining cars. All meals are prepared with fresh ingredients that will meet every dietary requirement and satisfy fussy taste buds.
Explore Kimberley, the capital of Northern Province in South Africa, board the buses in the city centre for an excursion to the Kimberley Diamond Mine Museum and Big Hole for a tour. Expand your knowledge about the largest man-made excavation in the world during interactive activities at the museum, including a city tour. At 12:00 the train travels northeast towards Klerksdorp as lunch is served in the dining cars, and tea in the lounge and observation cars at 16:30.
Dinner is served in the dining cars in the formal setting. Guest will overnight on board.
Day 4: Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
Delight a late breakfast that is served until 09h30, and enjoy the scenic views of the goldfields of Witwatersand on your way to Pretoria - your journey's end. Arrive at Rovos Rail's colonial-style Capital Park Station in Pretoria at noon and visit the authentic railway museum.
Please note: Excursions may be changed according to the schedule achieved. Times are approximate and cannot be guaranteed.
