Cape Townmadikwe Game reserveVictoria Falls Lusaka Dar Es Salaam
This epic train journey travels through South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Tanzania and is one of the most famous in the world. The sojourn begins in Cape Town, taking guests to the historic village of Matjiesfontein, the diamond town of Kimberley and the capital city of Pretoria for short tours followed by two nights in the Madikwe Game Reserve. Continue through Botswana into Zimbabwe, where guests stay overnight at the Victoria Falls Hotel. After crossing the mighty Zambezi River, the train joins the Tazara line in Zambia and continues to Chisimba Falls, where guests enjoy a bush walk. The train climbs to the Tanzanian border and then descends into the Great Rift Valley, negotiating the spectacular escarpment’s tunnels, switchbacks, and viaducts. Climbing again, it traverses the Selous Game Reserve – the largest on the continent and a vision of timeless Africa – before the bustling arrival in Dar es Salaam the following day.
Itinerary Highlights
Madikwe Reserve game drives and overnight stay
Traverse the Udzungwa Mountains
Journey through the Cape Winelands
Travel over Kafue Railway Bridge
Kimberley Diamond Mine Museum tour
What’s included
Accommodation: all meals; all beverages on board
Luxury off-train accommodation
Luxury Cabins
Expert guides in each destination
flexibility
This is an example itinerary. It is fully flexible; you can add or detract days and include hotels at your chosen budget. It departs daily.
14
Nights
Price Guide
$23,000 – $39,500+ pp
Our quotes are bespoke for your customised trip. The prices displayed are indicative only, read more
Day 1
Fly to Cape Town
Day 1
Cape Town
16:30 – Check-in at Rovos Rail Lounge
18:00 – Depart from Cape Town Station.
19:30 – Dinner is served in the dining cars. (Dress: Formal)
Day 2
Matjiesfontein
07:00 – Breakfast is served in the dining cars until 10:00. Disembark at Matjiesfontein for an opportunity to stroll through the historic village. Of special interest is the museum on the platform and a collection of historic cars and railway carriages to the right of the Lord Milner Hotel.
10:00 – The train traverses the Karoo, a vast semi-desert region that was once an enormous inland sea. Over millions of years, volcanic matter was ground down and deposited as silt upon the seabed to form what geologists call the Karoo system. 13:00 – Lunch is served in the dining cars.
16:30 – Tea in the lounge and observation cars.
19:30 – Dinner is served in the dining cars.
Day 3
Kimberley
07:00 Breakfast is served in the dining cars until 10:00.
12:30 Lunch is served in the dining cars. Enjoy a tour of Kimberley’s Diamond Mine Museum and the Big Hole. The capital of the Northern Cape, Kimberley, is well known for the discovery of diamonds that led to its establishment in 1871.
16:30 Tea in the lounge and observation cars.
19:30 Dinner is served in the dining cars en route to Klerksdorp.
Day 4
Pretoria
07:00 Breakfast is served in the dining cars.
08:30 Transfer (±60 min) to Pretoria for a city tour and lunch on the Rovos Rail Station platform. Enjoy a walking tour of the station and locomotive workshops (weather permitting). Return (±60 min) to the train.
19:30 Dinner is served in the dining cars en route to Zeerust.
Day 5
Madikwe Game Reserve
07:00 Breakfast is served in the dining cars until 10:00.
11:00 Transfer (±90 min) to a lodge in Madikwe for a two-night stay. Lunch is served on arrival. Afternoon tea and game drive (approximately 3 hours).
19:00 Dinner at the lodge.
Day 6
Madikwe Game Reserve
04:00 Early morning game drive (approximately 3 hours).
07:00 Breakfast is served at the lodge until 09:30.
12:30 Lunch at the lodge.
15:00 Afternoon tea and game drive (approximately 3 hours).
19:00 Dinner at the lodge.
Day 7
Madikwe Game Reserve
05:00 Early morning game drive (approximately 2 hours).
07:00 Breakfast is served until 09:30.
10:30 Depart the lodge. Transfer to the train at Gaborone in Botswana.
13:00 Lunch is served in the dining cars. The train crosses the Tropic of Capricorn and the eastern edge of the Kalahari Basin. Known as ‘Kgalagadi’ in Botswana, the Kalahari (which extends to 900 000km2 and covers much of Botswana, parts of Namibia and South Africa) is not a true desert as it does experience small amounts of rain, with some areas enjoying up to 250mm. The surrounding basin covers over 2 500 000km2, extending farther into Botswana, Namibia and South Africa and encroaching into parts of Angola, Zambia and Zimbabwe. It is part desert, part plateau. The only constant river, the Okavango, flows into a delta in the northwest, forming marshes rich in wildlife.
16:30 Tea in the lounge and observation cars.
19:30 Dinner is served in the dining cars.
Day 8
At Leisure on Board
07:00 Breakfast is served in the dining cars until 10:00. Border formalities occur.
13:00 Lunch is served in the dining cars.
16:30 Tea in the lounge and observation cars. Pass Gwaai and Dete along one of Africa’s longest stretches of straight railway line – 114 kilometres – and along the eastern edge of the Hwange National Park.
19:30 Dinner is served in the dining cars.
Day 9
Victoria Falls
07:00 Breakfast is served in the dining cars until 10:00.
12:00 Arrive at the incomparable Victoria Falls. Disembark with an overnight bag and walk across to the hotel. The welcome address is on the lawn, followed by lunch at Jungle Junction. Luggage will be delivered to the rooms. 15:45 WINTER / 16:15 SUMMER Meet in the hotel foyer before departing for the Zambezi sunset cruise.
19:30 Dinner at the Livingstone Room, Victoria Falls Hotel
Day 10
Victoria Falls
06:30 Breakfast is served at the Jungle Junction Restaurant until 10:00. Day at leisure in Victoria Falls.
13:00 Lunch at Jungle Junction.
15:00 Meet on the station platform for departure to Zambia.
16:00 Cross the Victoria Falls Bridge—tea in the lounge and observation cars. Border formalities take place.
19:30 Dinner is served in the dining cars.
Day 11-12
At Leisure On Board
07:00 Breakfast is served in the dining cars until 10:00
13:00 Lunch is served in the dining cars.
16:30 Tea in the lounge and observation cars.
19:30 Dinner is served in the dining cars.
Day 13
Chisimba Falls
06:00 Breakfast is served in the dining cars until departure.
08:00 Enjoy a visit to Chisimba Falls where guests can take a pleasant walk down to the rock pools at the base of the falls or admire them from various viewpoints.
11:30 The train climbs to the border, almost exactly the midpoint between Africa’s two Great Rift Valley lakes.
13:00 Lunch is served in the dining cars.
16:30 Tea in the lounge and observation cars. Border formalities take place.
19:30 Dinner is served. The train passes Baobab forests and descends the Rift Valley towards Mbeya.
Day 14
Makambako
07:00 Breakfast is served in the dining cars until 10:00.
09:00 Arrive at Makambako and stroll through the town (time permitting).
11:00 The train travels towards the jungled Udzungwa Mountains and negotiates the escarpment’s dramatic switchbacks, viaducts, and tunnels.
13:00 Lunch is served in the dining cars.
16:30 Tea in the lounge and observation cars.
19:30 Dinner is served in the dining cars.
Day 15
Selous Game Reserve
07:00 Continental breakfast is served in the dining cars until 08:00. The train descends into the highlands and traverses the fertile lands of Tanzania towards the Selous.
10:30 Brunch is served in the dining cars until 11:45.
12:00 Enjoy a game visit in the Selous Game Reserve, the largest in Africa at 55 000km2 (time permitting).
18:00 Return to the train.
19:30 Dinner is served in the dining cars en route to Gwata.
Day 16
Dar Es Salaam
07:00 Breakfast is served in the dining cars until 10:00. Travel in an easterly direction towards the coast.
11:00 Arrive at the journey’s end at Tazara Station in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Day 17
Fly home
A note on price
The prices outlined above are a rough guide to give you an idea of costs and enable you to budget for your trip.
Guide prices are generally for private arrangements based on twin share, in well located, good quality accommodation (excluding international flights).
Please note costs are indicative and may vary due to a number of factors such as; travel date, hotel choice, room category, number of people travelling and prevailing exchange rates.
Price Guide $23,000 – $39,500+ per person
When to travel
janfebmaraprmayjunjulaugsepoctnovdec
Botswana has a semi-arid climate, which means warm temperatures and sparse rainfall throughout the year. The rainy season runs from November to April, with most of the rain falling during the months of December and January. The summers are hot and dry, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C. The winters are mild and dry, with temperatures dropping to an average of around 20°C.
Botswana in January is characterised by hot and dry conditions. January falls within the summer season in Botswana, and temperatures can reach their peak during this time. The average high temperature ranges from 30 to 35 degrees Celsius, making it important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. Rainfall is minimal, and the skies are mostly clear, allowing for plenty of sunshine. It is advisable to pack lightweight and breathable clothing, along with sunscreen and a hat, to stay comfortable in the heat.
In February, Botswana experiences warm and dry weather, making it an ideal time to visit for travellers seeking outdoor adventures. The average temperature ranges from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius, providing a pleasant climate for exploring the country's diverse landscapes and wildlife. With minimal rainfall, February offers clear skies and ample sunshine, perfect for activities such as game drives in national parks like Chobe and Moremi or exploring the iconic Okavango Delta. It is advisable to pack lightweight and breathable clothing, as well as sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun's rays.
In March, Botswana experiences the transition from the rainy season to the dry season. The weather in Botswana during this time is generally warm, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 26 to 32 degrees Celsius. However, it is important to note that evenings and early mornings can be cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 15 degrees Celsius. Travellers visiting Botswana in March can expect mostly clear skies and a lower chance of rain compared to the previous months. It is a good time to explore the country's national parks and wildlife reserves, as vegetation is still lush and animals are easier to spot. Travellers should pack light and breathable clothing, along with a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings.
In April, Botswana experiences pleasant weather conditions for travel. The country enters its autumn season, bringing milder temperatures and a decrease in rainfall. Daytime temperatures range from around 25 to 30 degrees Celsius, making it a comfortable time to explore the wildlife reserves and national parks. However, it is advisable to pack some warm clothing for the cooler evenings and early mornings. With the drier weather, the landscapes are still lush and green, providing a picturesque backdrop for safari adventures. April is an ideal time to visit Botswana for those seeking a balance between wildlife sightings and comfortable weather conditions.
In May, Botswana experiences the transition from autumn to winter, resulting in pleasant weather conditions for travel. The average temperature in Botswana during this time ranges from 15°C to 25°C making it comfortable for outdoor activities. The days are sunny and warm, while the nights can be cooler. It is advisable to pack both light clothing for the daytime and warmer layers for the evenings. There is minimal rainfall in May, ensuring clear skies and minimal disruptions to travel plans.
In June, Botswana experiences its dry winter season, making it an ideal time for travel. The weather is generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 12 to 26 degrees Celsius. The days are mostly sunny, allowing visitors to explore the country's diverse landscapes and wildlife. However, it's important to note that June is also the start of Botswana's peak tourist season, so popular destinations may be crowded.
The weather in Botswana in July is characterized by cool temperatures and dry conditions. July falls within the winter season in Botswana, and temperatures during this time range from around 5 to 25 degrees Celsius. The days are generally sunny and clear, making it a great time for outdoor activities such as safaris and exploring the country's stunning national parks. However, it is important to note that the nights can be quite cold, so it is advisable to pack warm clothing. Additionally, July is part of the dry season in Botswana, with little to no rainfall expected.
In August, Botswana experiences its dry winter season, making it an ideal time for travel. The weather during this time is generally warm and sunny, with low chances of rainfall. Daytime temperatures can range from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius, while evenings and nights may cool down to around 10 to 15 degrees Celsius. It is recommended to pack lightweight clothing for the daytime, but also bring some warm layers for the cooler evenings. The dry weather also means that wildlife congregates around water sources, making it a great time for game viewing and safari adventures.
In September, Botswana experiences a transition from the dry season to the hot season. The weather during this time is generally warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 35 degrees Celsius. However, it is important to note that September marks the end of the dry winter months, and occasional showers can occur, especially towards the end of the month. These brief rain showers can provide some relief from the heat and bring a refreshing change to the landscape. Travellers visiting Botswana in September should pack light and breathable clothing, sunscreen, and a hat to protect themselves from the intense sun. It is also advisable to carry a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
In October, Botswana experiences the transition from the dry winter season to the hot summer season. The weather in Botswana during this time is generally warm and dry, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius. It is a great time to visit as the landscape is still relatively green from the previous rainy season, making it an ideal time for wildlife viewing. However, it is important to note that October is also known for occasional thunderstorms, so it is advisable to pack a waterproof jacket and be prepared for sudden showers.
In November, Botswana experiences the transition from spring to summer, bringing with it warm and pleasant weather. The average temperature ranges from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius, making it an ideal time to visit. The days are mostly sunny, with minimal rainfall, allowing travellers to explore the country's stunning landscapes and wildlife. It is recommended to pack light and breathable clothing, along with sunscreen and a hat, as the sun can be quite strong.
In December, Botswana experiences warm and dry weather, making it an ideal time to visit for travellers who prefer sunny and pleasant conditions. The average temperature ranges from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius, providing comfortable conditions for exploring the country's diverse landscapes and wildlife reserves. However, it is important to note that December falls within Botswana's summer season, so visitors should be prepared for occasional afternoon thunderstorms. Nonetheless, with its abundance of wildlife, stunning national parks, and vibrant cultural experiences, Botswana in December offers a captivating travel destination for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Add on’s
There are a multitude of add on holiday options to this Rail itinerary, for example you could head to Zanzibar and spend a few glorious days relaxing on the beach.
Want a quote on a trip like this?
Speak to one of our travel specialists and we’ll create your personalised itinerary just for you
