Luxury Train Routes Africa: Scenic Guide for 2025.

When most people think of Africa, images of safaris, deserts, and bustling cities come to mind. However, some of the continent’s most breathtaking experiences happen on rails. In fact, from the lush winelands of South Africa to the dramatic cliffs of Morocco’s Atlas Mountains and the timeless Nile Valley in Egypt, luxury train journeys in Africa offer a rare mix of comfort, history, and natural beauty. as explored in Africa’s Luxury Train Routes: Cape Town, Cairo & Morocco. Therefore, in this guide, we’ll explore the most scenic luxury train routes in Africa, offering practical details, highlights, and tips for planning an unforgettable journey.

1. Explore Luxury Train Routes Africa: Cape Town to Victoria Falls

Why It’s Special
Few journeys capture Africa’s grandeur like the Cape Town to Victoria Falls route aboard Rovos Rail or the Shongololo Express. Covering over 1,600 km, this legendary passage takes passengers through South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe before arriving at one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. For an in-depth review, see Luxury Train Travel Africa Rovos Rail Review – The Pride of Africa

Scenic Highlights

• Cape Winelands – Rolling vineyards with Table Mountain in the distance.
• Karoo Desert – Stark landscapes stretching endlessly under vast skies.
• Hwange National Park – Spot elephants, lions, and giraffes right from your carriage.
• Victoria Falls – The thunder of “Mosi-oa-Tunya” (The Smoke That Thunders) as the journey’s dramatic finale.

Practical Tips

• Best Time to Go: May to September (dry season, best for wildlife viewing).
• Booking: Rovos Rail often books a year in advance—so plan early.
• Pro Tip: Ask for an observation car seat for uninterrupted views.

2. Journey Through Luxury Train Routes Africa: Cairo to Luxor

Why It’s Special
Egypt’s Cairo to Luxor sleeper train isn’t just transport—it’s a step back into history. Moreover, linking the buzzing capital with the land of pharaohs, this overnight journey parallels the Nile River, bringing centuries of civilization right outside your window.

Scenic Highlights

• Nile River landscapes – Palm groves, fertile fields, and timeless villages.
• Desert contrasts – Golden dunes rising just beyond the greenery.
• Historic arrival – Waking up in Luxor, surrounded by temples and tombs.

Practical Tips

• Operator: Abela Egypt.
• Travel Time: 8–10 hours overnight.
• Best Season: October–April (mild weather).
• Insider Tip: Book a private two-berth cabin for the best comfort.

3. Scenic Luxury Train Routes Africa: Marrakech to Fez via Atlas Mountains

Why This Luxury Train Route Africa Is Special
Morocco may not have as many luxury “named” trains, yet its scenic routes through the Atlas Mountains are breathtaking. In addition, the Al Atlas trains (run by ONCF) and the new Al Boraq high-speed rail make crossing this North African gem both stylish and efficient.

Scenic Highlights Along This Luxury Train Route Africa

• Marrakech to Casablanca – Palm trees, terracotta towns, and Atlantic views.
• Fez via the Middle Atlas – Olive groves, cedar forests, and mountain passes.
• Tangier on Al Boraq – A futuristic glide across plains and coastline.

Practical Tips for Luxury Train Routes Africa

• First-Class Tickets: Affordable and far more comfortable.
• Best Routes for Scenery: Marrakech → Fez and Marrakech → Tangier.
• Timing: Spring and autumn bring the clearest mountain views.

4. Discover Luxury Train Routes Africa: Windhoek to Swakopmund

Why It’s Special
Namibia is famous for its lunar landscapes and desert dunes. The Desert Express train (when operational) links Windhoek with the coastal town of Swakopmund, offering passengers surreal views of the Namib Desert.

Scenic Highlights

• Namib Desert – Vast red dunes stretching endlessly.
• Spitzkoppe Mountains – Dramatic granite peaks.
• Swakopmund Arrival – A German colonial seaside town on the Atlantic.

Practical Tips

• Status: Service has been irregular—therefore, check availability before booking.
• Best Time: May to October (cooler desert weather).

5. Short Luxury Train Routes Africa: Pretoria to Cape Town Experience

What Makes This Luxury Train Route Africa Special
For travelers seeking a shorter luxury experience, the Blue Train is ideal. Compare the top trains in Southern Africa in Rovos Rail vs Blue Train vs Desert Express – Africa Luxury Trains. Not only does it provide comfort, but this 31-hour journey also offers rolling vineyards, mountain ranges, and lush valleys, combining elegance with some of the best scenery in South Africa.

Top Scenic Highlights on This Luxury Train Route Africa

• Hex River Valley – Lush vineyards framed by jagged peaks.
• Karoo Desert – Vast and desolate beauty.
• Cape Town Arrival – The iconic Table Mountain as your final view.

Tips for Traveling on Luxury Train Routes Africa

• Duration: 31 hours.
• Luxury Perks: Butlers, fine dining, cigars, and high-thread-count linens.
• Best Season: Year-round, although autumn (March–May) is especially stunning.

Q1: What is the most luxurious train route in Africa?
The Cape Town to Victoria Falls route with Rovos Rail is considered the most luxurious, combining wildlife, landscapes, and world-class service.

Q2: Which African train journey is best for scenery?
Morocco’s Marrakech to Fez route and South Africa’s Blue Train both rank among the world’s most scenic train rides.

Q3: Is train travel in Africa safe?
Yes—especially luxury trains like Rovos Rail, Blue Train, and ONCF’s Al Boraq. Sleeper cabins offer security and comfort.

Q4: How much does luxury train travel in Africa cost?
Prices range from $400–$1,500 per night on Rovos Rail and the Blue Train. On the other hand, Morocco and Egypt sleeper trains are more budget-friendly ($50–$200).

Conclusion

Luxury train routes in Africa are more than just a means of travel—instead, they’re immersive journeys through landscapes, history, and culture. Whether you’re sipping wine as you glide through South Africa’s vineyards, watching the Nile shimmer under moonlight, or winding through Morocco’s Atlas Mountains, every route offers something unforgettable. Above all, for travelers in 2025, these scenic luxury train journeys remain some of the world’s most captivating slow-travel experiences.\