Distant Journeys are proud to offer some of the world’s best rail tours across our destinations. A unique and memorable journey awaits you on the Rovos Rail.

For more than 30 years, family-run Rovos Rail has operated rail journeys through some of South Africa’s most stunning scenery, in a style redolent of a bygone era of elegance and a spirit of African exploration. Still overseen by Rohan and Anthea Vos, Rovos Rail’s ethos is to share their love of the romance of rail travel with their guests by offering wonderful rail itineraries through Southern Africa.

Today, as you step aboard the beautifully restored vintage wood-panelled coaches and experience discreet and friendly service, top cuisine and a selection of South Africa’s finest wines, you too can discover the delights of rail travel, onboard Rovos Rail, one of the most coveted bucket list experiences in the world.

On our African Rail Adventure, Namibian Rail Safari, South African Rail Discovery and Grand African Rail Journey tours, you can enjoy many incredible nights on Rovos Rail, visiting different countries across southern Africa. and providing memories to last a lifetime.

Distant Journeys also offers the opportunity to join Rovos Rail on our Spectacular South Africa tour. Travelling from Durban to Pretoria over three days, enjoy 800kms of wonderful scenery and fascinating excursions, on this all-inclusive and unforgettable experience.

Your Exquisite Suite
The beautifully rebuilt trains carry a maximum of 72 passengers in 36 superbly-appointed suites. These wood-panelled carriages have all been remodelled and refurbished to pristine condition, with period Edwardian features combined with all the modern amenities; a cosy, comfortable retreat and home-from-home at the end of a fabulous day exploring the wonders of Southern Africa.

Pullman Suites (7m2)
Distant Journeys’ guests will be accommodated in comfortable Pullman Suites. These suites can be configured with double or twin beds (side-by-side or upper and lower bunks).

Deluxe Suites (10m2)
The Deluxe Suites are slightly larger and include their own seating area and bar fridge, which will be filled with on-board beverages of your choice.

Royal Suite (16m2)
The largest of the suites available, The Royal Suites each take up half a carriage with their own private lounge area and en-suite bathroom with Victorian bath.

All suites feature the following facilities;

  • Double or twin beds
  • Private en suite bathroom with shower, washbasin and toilet
  • Bathrobe and slippers
  • Tea-making facilities
  • Power outlets including USB ports
  • Safe
  • Air-conditioning

Life on board Rovos Rail
Savour life in the slow lane throughout your journey. In keeping with the spirit of a bygone era, there are no radios or television sets on board; fewer distractions make for more relaxation. The use of mobiles is confined to the privacy of your personal suite.

During the daytime on board Rovos Rail, guests mingle and socialise in the lounge car and observation car, whose big picture windows allow you to soak up the spectacular scenery.

In keeping with the stylish ambience, days on board are smart casual, with safari clothing and cool linens a popular choice, while evening attire is a little more formal. Enjoy the opportunity to dress up to the nines and revel in the elegance of the evening

Observation and Lounge Cars
Rovos Rail’s observation and lounge cars are the social hub of the train. The comfy sofas and cosy booths are ideal for chatting with friends or whiling away the hours in peace and quiet. Large picture windows make the most of the expansive landscapes, and guests can step out onto the open-air balcony to savour the fresh African air.

Elegant dining
Delicious food and drinks take centre stage on your all-inclusive Rovos Rail journey. An enthusiastic team of chefs take great pride in ensuring guests’ every need is catered for, with an accent on fresh local ingredients to create traditional and speciality dishes as well as international favourites.

The striking of a gong heralds the start of lunch and dinner; the tables are set with crisp linens and sparkling crystal glasses and each delicious course is complemented with a selection of the finest South African wines. Both lunch and dinner are four-course meals, and the well-stocked bar is open from morning to late at night.

Sit back and take a traditional afternoon tea as some of the most varied scenery imaginable unfolds beyond the windows, and after dinner, the Lounge Car is where guests relax with a nightcap before bed.

Inclusions

  • All-inclusive dining, including breakfast, lunch, dinner and afternoon tea
  • All-inclusive wines, beers, spirits and non-alcoholic beverages
  • All off-train experiences

Rovos Rail is featured in the following itineraries:
Spectacular South Africa, including Rovos Rail
African Rail Adventure
Namibian Rail Safari
South African Rail Discovery
Grand African Rail Journey