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Whether you would like to experience the exclusive comfort of a moving five-star hotel with the world renowned Blue Train or step back in time and enjoy the golden age of romantic travel by exquisite and luxurious Edwardian steam train with Rovos Rail, Southern Africa has it all. If you are looking for absolute peace and quiet and are visiting Namibia, then a desert safari with The Desert Express is what you are looking for. For the more adventurous, the Shongololo Express is an excellent option. For a shorter and much simpler journey take a ride on the Outeniqua Choo Tjioe steam train in the heart of the Cape’s Garden Route!

Southern Africa train journeys map

Please note:
Due to the currently unpredictable political situation in Zimbabwe most train operators have either suspended or re-routed the Victoria Falls section of their itineraries. Rovos Rail offers a historic DC-3 flight from Polokwane directly into Victoria Falls. The Blue Train has suspended its Victoria Falls service altogether until further notice. This notice does not affect South African and Namibian train journeys in any way.

The Blue Train

For over half a century South Africa’s Blue Train has enjoyed an international reputation as one of the world’s pre-eminent traveling experiences. Traversing Southern Africa’s varied landscapes the train combines all the comfort and luxury of a five-star hotel with a globally unparalleled journey. The uncompromising elegance of the train is enhanced by an observation and conference car, fully-equipped to provide a unique meeting facility for groups of up to 22 people. Scheduled departures between Cape Town & Pretoria, and between Cape Town & Port Elizabeth.

Rovos Rail - Pride of Africa

Rovos Rail’s unique train safaris through the heart of Africa combine magnificent scenery with the glamour and excitement of the golden age of rail travel. Rovos Rail operates splendidly refurbished trains each carrying up to a maximum of 72 passengers. The most spacious train suites in the world have a lounge area and bathroom en-suite. The use of traditional furnishings, fine wood paneling, period Edwardian features as well as every modern convenience and comfort ensure an atmosphere of elegance and romance. First-class chefs prepare superb meals which are served with the best South African wines. Regular scheduled departures throughout Southern Africa.

Shongololo Express

Experience the best of what southern Africa has to offer traveling in comfortable train cabins at night and touring in air-conditioned vehicles during the day. Multilingual guides and air-conditioned Mercedes minibuses travel at night on board of the train and take you on excursions during the day, making this a unique concept worldwide! The packages include a multitude of excursions, giving you unprecedented freedom of choice. Dine on uniquely Southern African cuisine, ranging from Cape Dutch to Malay and authentic African dishes. Experience the best of southern Africa without having to constantly pack and unpack! Regular scheduled departures throughout Southern Africa.

Shongololo Express train journeys map

Desert Express

A luxury train service offered between Windhoek and Swakopmund with various excursions en route in the Namib Desert. The Desert Express has two luxury classes, both offering quality accommodation. The elegant Welwitschia Restaurant serves both Namibian and international cuisine, complemented with South African wines. Spacious Spitzkoppe Lounge allows passengers to relax enjoying the view. So if you want to explore the natural wonders and discover the tranquility of the ancient Namib, make sure you catch the Desert Express. On most alternate days between Windhoek & Swakopmund in Namibia.

Outenique Choo-Tjoe

The Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe is South Africa’s last scheduled mixed steam train service and operates on the Outeniqualand Preserved Railway between George and Knysna on the Garden Route. This is two and half a hour trip with a profusion of scenic delights. The railway follows the shore line on a cliff face before crossing the mouth of the Kaaimans River on a curved bridge. As the train emerges from the last tunnel, the scene opens up in all its glory – the view including the golden beaches and enticing woodlands of the Wilderness. The rails traverse what may be termed an African Lakeland, so numerous are the sheets of water. After negotiating the forested climb, the spectacle of Knysna and its lagoon unfold before the traveler’s eye. Daily between George & Knysna along the Garden Route in South Africa.

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