Train Travel South Africa: Scenic Routes from Cape Town to Durban

Discover the elegance of luxury train travel in South Africa, where iconic routes blend history, comfort, and breathtaking landscapes.

Train Travel South Africa: Railway Heritage and Luxury Foundations

South Africa’s railway heritage is one of the richest on the continent. Built during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the rail network shaped the country’s economy, connected distant regions, and laid the groundwork for today’s luxury train journeys.

Two iconic names, Rovos Rail and The Blue Train, now carry this legacy forward. They transform historic routes once used for trade and resource transport into unforgettable luxury travel experiences.

To understand this transformation, it helps to look back at the History of African Railways, where the story of ambition, engineering, and endurance first began.

South Africa offers some of the world’s most memorable luxury train journeys. Whether you choose the legendary Rovos Rail or the iconic Blue Train, each experience blends comfort, heritage, and breathtaking scenery.

Rovos Rail – The Pride of Africa

  • Vintage-style luxury sleeper cabins with private bathrooms

  • Fine dining with award-winning South African wines

  • Routes from Pretoria to Cape Town, and extended journeys to Victoria Falls or Dar es Salaam

  • Observation car with panoramic views of mountains, savannas, and coastlines

The Blue Train – A Moving Five-Star Hotel

  • Elegant suites with butler service and modern luxury amenities.

  • Gourmet dining paired with South African wine tasting

  • Core route between Pretoria and Cape Town (27-hour journey)

  • Known for blending timeless luxury with contemporary design

Scenic view of Namibia’s desert landscape under a clear blue sky, showcasing the vast dunes and wilderness.

Luxury rail travel starts where the ocean meets the mountains — in vibrant Cape Town.’

NAMIBIA DESERT ESCAPE

Set out on an 11-night Namibian rail safari, where vast deserts meet the Atlantic coast and wildlife roams free.

DURBAN SAFARI

Experience two unforgettable nights exploring the wildlife and landscapes of KwaZulu-Natal by luxury rail.

Zambian man with striking eyes wearing sunglasses, admiring Victoria Falls in Zambia.

VICTORIA FALLS

A 3–4 night escape that combines elegant rail travel with the breathtaking spectacle of Victoria Falls.

Fairways & Wildlife Journey: ROVOS Rail’s Golf Safari Experience

What is a Fairways & Wildlife Journey (Golf Safari)?
This journey blends world-class golf with Africa’s stunning landscapes and wildlife. Play on scenic or prestigious courses, then explore iconic national parks, mountains, and cultural highlights between rounds. It’s the ultimate combination of sport, luxury, and adventure on the rails.

Offer Details

Offered by ROVOS Rail

Routes Overview

This exclusive journey explores northeastern South Africa, designed for golfers and non-playing guests alike. Begin in Pretoria and travel to Sun City for golf and game drives in the Pilanesberg hills. Next, cross the majestic Drakensberg Mountains to Spionkop, where you can explore bush, mountains, and historical sites. Continue through the scenic Valley of a Thousand Hills to Durban for city tours, botanical gardens, and artisan experiences. The adventure continues at Hluhluwe in Zululand and the famous Kruger Park in Malelane for thrilling wildlife viewing. Visit the Kingdom of eSwatini and Dullstroom for arts and crafts. The journey concludes with fly-fishing, whisky tasting, and a return to Pretoria.

Course selection depends on availability: Sun City (Gary Player/Lost City), Champagne Sports Resort, Durban Country Club (Mount Edgecombe/Cotswold Downs), Royal Swazi, and Highland Gate.

COLLECTIONS

African Trilogy

African Collage

Dar es Salaam

Copper Trail

Combinations

Southern Cross