This adventure begins with the train’s departure from Rovos Rail Station in Pretoria. Travel north through Warmbaths (Bela-Bela), so named for its mineral waters, and Nylstroom (Modimolle), christened by the Voortrekkers as the source of the Nile River as the town’s river happened to be north-flowing. Cross the Tropic of Capricorn and Limpopo River towards Bulawayo, the second city of Zimbabwe, capital of Matabeleland and industrial capital of the country. Enjoy a game drive (4-night journey only) in Matobo National Park, a World Heritage Site with bushmen caves, rock art and dramatic granite hills. It is also the site of Cecil John Rhodes’ grave atop the summit of Malindidzimu – a ‘hill of benevolent spirits’ with a ‘view of the world’. Travel along one of the world’s longest stretches of straight railway line – 114km – before traversing Hwange National Park. In this rich and diverse wildlife sanctuary, a game drive excursion is enjoyed. Arrive at the incomparable Victoria Falls on the mighty Zambezi River, where this vacation ends. The surrounding areas offer travellers many recreational opportunities, including cruises, whitewater rafting, superb game viewing, and photo safaris. Available in reverse.
Itinerary Highlights
Hwange Reserve game drive
Traverse the Limpopo province
Matobo National Park game drive
Explore the edge of the Kalahari Basin
Visit Victoria Falls
What’s included
Tours at each stop
All-inclusive
Luxury cabin
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.
3
Nights
Price Guide
$4500 – $7700 pp
Our quotes are bespoke for your customised trip. The prices displayed are indicative only, read more
Day 1
Fly to Johannesburg
Day 2
Pretoria
Depart Rovos Rail Station, Pretoria. Guests may freshen up in their suites before joining fellow travellers in the lounge or observation car at the train’s rear. Travel through Warmbaths (Bela-Bela) – so named for its mineral waters– and Nylstroom (Modimolle), christened by the Voortrekkers as the source of the Nile River as the town’s river happened to be north flowing. Pass the edge of the escarpment where the Highveld drops precipitously. Dinner is served in the dining cars en route to Polokwane.
Day 3
At Leisure on Board
Breakfast is served in the dining cars. The train crosses the Tropic of Capricorn en route to Louis Trichardt. Lunch is served in the dining cars. Border formalities with South Africa. Tea in the lounge and observation cars. The train crosses the Limpopo River en route to Beitbridge for border formalities with Zimbabwe. In Rudyard Kipling’s Just So Stories, the ‘Elephant’s Child’ departs his family for the “great grey-green, greasy Limpopo River, all set about with fever-trees, to find out what the Crocodile has for dinner.” Dinner is served in the dining cars en route to Gwanda
Day 4
Matobo National Park
Breakfast is served in the dining cars until 09:00. The train travels to Baobab country. It ascends to Bulawayo, the second city of Zimbabwe, the capital of Matabeleland and the country’s industrial capital. Lunch is served in the dining cars. Transfer (±45 min) to Matobo National Park to see bushmen caves, rock art and the grave of Cecil John Rhodes. Depart for Sawmills. Dinner is served in the dining cars.
Day 5
Hwange National Park
Breakfast is served in the dining cars until 10:00. The train travels between Gwaai and Dete along one of the world’s most extended stretches of straight railway line – 114 kilometres –along the eastern edge of Hwange Park. Lunch is served in the dining cars. Enjoy a game drive in Hwange National Park, the nation’s largest wildlife area at 1 462 000ha. Dinner is served in the dining cars en route to Thompsons Junction.
Day 6
Victoria Falls
Arrive in Victoria Falls today; here, you can take a private tour of the falls or go on a day safari.
Day 7
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 $4500 – $7700 per person
When to travel
janfebmaraprmayjunjulaugsepoctnovdec
South Africa has a temperate climate with the majority of the country experiencing warm, sunny days. The summer months (November to March) are generally hot with temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. Winter (May to August) is mild with temperatures ranging from 3 to 20 degrees Celsius. Rainfall is highest in the summer months, with the Western Cape seeing the most rain. The Eastern Cape and Northern Cape tend to be dryer.
In January, South Africa experiences warm and pleasant weather, making it an ideal time to explore the country. The summer season brings average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C popular destinations like Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban. The days are long and sunny, perfect for beach activities, hiking, and wildlife safaris. However, it's important to note that South Africa can also experience occasional rainfall during this time, so it's advisable to pack some light rain gear.
In February, South Africa experiences warm and pleasant weather, making it an ideal time for travel. The country's diverse landscapes offer a range of activities to suit all interests. Whether you're exploring the vibrant city of Cape Town, embarking on a safari in Kruger National Park, or relaxing on the stunning beaches of Durban, you can expect comfortable temperatures and plenty of sunshine.
In March, South Africa experiences pleasant weather for travel. The country enjoys the transition from summer to autumn during this time, leading to moderate temperatures and comfortable conditions. The coastal regions, such as Cape Town and Durban, have average temperatures ranging from 18 to 25 degrees Celsius. Inland areas, including Johannesburg and Kruger National Park, have slightly higher temperatures, ranging from 20 to 28 degrees Celsius.
South Africa experiences mild and pleasant weather in April, making it a great time to visit. The country is transitioning from summer to autumn during this month, resulting in comfortable temperatures and minimal rainfall. In the eastern coastal areas, such as Durban, the weather remains warm with temperatures ranging from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. In the western parts, like Cape Town, the temperatures are slightly cooler, averaging around 18 to 22 degrees Celsius. It's advisable to pack light clothing, but also include a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings.
The weather in South Africa during May is generally mild and pleasant, making it a great time to visit. The country experiences the transition from autumn to winter during this month, resulting in comfortable temperatures and minimal rainfall. In most regions, including popular tourist destinations like Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Kruger National Park, temperatures range from around 10 to 20 degrees Celsius. The days are often sunny, with clear skies and low humidity.
In June, South Africa experiences its winter season, which brings cooler temperatures and drier conditions to the country. The weather in South Africa during this time varies depending on the region. In coastal areas, such as Cape Town and Durban, temperatures range from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius during the day, with cooler evenings. The interior regions, including Johannesburg and Kruger National Park, tend to be slightly cooler, with daytime temperatures ranging from 5 to 15 degrees Celsius. It is recommended to pack warm clothing, as well as a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings.
In July, South Africa experiences its winter season, which brings cooler temperatures and drier conditions. Travellers can expect mild to cool weather across the country, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C However, it is important to note that the weather can vary depending on the region. In coastal areas such as Cape Town and Durban, temperatures are generally milder, while inland regions like Johannesburg and Kruger National Park can be colder.
In August, South Africa experiences its winter season, which brings cooler temperatures and drier conditions. The weather varies across the country, with regions like Cape Town and Johannesburg having average temperatures ranging from 5 to 20 degrees Celsius. The coastal areas, such as Durban and Port Elizabeth, enjoy milder temperatures of around 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. Travellers planning a trip to South Africa in August should pack warm clothing for the cooler evenings and early mornings, along with sunscreen for the sunnier days.
South Africa experiences pleasant weather in September, making it an ideal time to visit for travellers. The country is transitioning from the cooler winter months, with temperatures gradually rising and the days becoming longer. The climate is generally mild and comfortable, with an average temperature ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. However, it is important to note that weather conditions can vary across different regions of South Africa. In the northern parts, such as Johannesburg and Kruger National Park, temperatures can be warmer, reaching around 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). In contrast, coastal areas like Cape Town and Durban tend to be cooler, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 20 degrees Celsius. Additionally, September marks the end of the dry season, so visitors can expect less rainfall and enjoy clear skies and sunny days.
In October, South Africa experiences pleasant travel weather, making it an ideal time to explore the country. The temperatures are generally warm, with average highs ranging from 21 to 26 degrees Celsius. The days are longer, allowing for more daylight hours to explore the stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and diverse wildlife. While some regions may experience occasional rainfall, it is typically short and doesn't hinder outdoor activities. The coastal areas, such as Cape Town and Durban, offer pleasant beach weather, while the national parks, like Kruger National Park, provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing.
In November, South Africa experiences pleasant travel weather. The country is transitioning from spring to summer, and temperatures are generally warm and comfortable. In the northern parts, such as Johannesburg and Pretoria, temperatures can range from 15°C to 30°C. In the coastal areas, like Cape Town and Durban, temperatures are slightly cooler, ranging from 12°C to 25°C. Rainfall is low during this time, making it an ideal period to explore the country's diverse landscapes and wildlife.
In December, South Africa experiences pleasant travel weather, making it an ideal destination for holidaymakers. With summer in full swing, visitors can expect warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. Coastal areas such as Cape Town and Durban offer beautiful beaches and clear waters, perfect for swimming and water sports. Inland regions like Johannesburg and Kruger National Park also enjoy favourable weather conditions, allowing for outdoor activities such as game drives and hiking. However, it's worth noting that December falls within the rainy season in some parts of the country, so it's advisable to pack a light raincoat or umbrella.
Add on’s
There are a multitude of add-on holiday options to this Rail itinerary, for example, you could head to Kruger National Park and go on daily safaris exploring the national park while spotting the Big 5.
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