Luxury Rovos Rail Cape Town Journey: 4 Days, 3 Nights

Cape Town Journey : Rovos Rail (Southbound)

Overview

For many visitors to South Africa, there is no finer way to see the country than on the popular 48-hour weekly journeys between Pretoria and Cape Town. This 1 600-kilometre meander is a perfect illustration of South Africa as a world in one country.

Travel the grasslands of the gold-rich Highveld to the haunting barrenness of the Great Karoo; trundle through the spectacular mountain ranges and scenic winelands of the Cape. Journey’s end is Cape Town, the Mother City of South Africa, cradled by the imposing bulk of Table Mountain, Devil’s Peak and Lion’s Head. Highlights of the north- and southbound routes include a visit to the historic village of Matjiesfontein; this authentic perfectly preserved Victorian Village, which was founded by Mr Logan as a refreshment stop in 1890, also boasts an impressive museum on the platform. Another stop is made in Kimberley providing an opportunity to enjoy a city tour and a visit to the Diamond Mine Museum and the world’s largest man-made excavation, the Big Hole.

Itinerary

DAY 1

PRETORIA

Please check-in a minimum of one hour before departure. Should you wish to visit our museum or do a station tour at
Rovos Rail Station, we suggest arriving two hours prior to departure.
Depart Rovos Rail Station, Pretoria. Travel across the goldfields of the Witwatersrand and the broad grassland plains of
the Highveld. Guests may freshen up in their suites before joining fellow travellers in the lounge and observation cars.
Lunch is served in the dining cars.
Tea in the lounge and observation cars.
Dinner is served in the dining cars en route to Klerksdorp.
Overnight on board.
Dress: Formal

DAY 2

KIMBERLEY

Breakfast is served in the dining cars until 10:00 en route to Kimberley.
Lunch is served in the dining cars.
Enjoy a tour of Kimberley’s Diamond Mine Museum and the Big Hole. Capital of the Northern Cape, Kimberley is well
known for the discovery of diamonds that led to its establishment in 1871.
Dinner is served in the dining cars.
Overnight on board.
Dress: Formal

DAY 3

MATJIESFONTEIN

Breakfast is served in the dining cars until 10:00. The train travels through 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.
Lunch is served in the dining cars. After lunch, there is a chance for guests to disembark the train at Whitehill Siding and
walk the 5km into Matjiesfontein. A member of staff will accompany the group.
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.
Tea in the lounge and observation cars.
About an hour after Matjiesfontein, the train arrives at the first of four tunnels on the pass. The first tunnel is 13.5km long
so guests are to be careful when walking through the train and may wish to turn on necessary lights.
Dinner is served as the train climbs ±750m down the escarpment towards Worcester.
Dress: Formal

DAY 4

CAPE TOWN

Breakfast is served in the dining cars until 09:30.
The train travels through the Hex River Valley.
Arrive at journey’s end at Cape Town Station.

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Terms & Conditions

Booking Conditions

Deposit & Confirmation: A 25% non-refundable deposit is required at booking. Booking confirmed upon receipt and written confirmation.
Final Payment: Balance due 120 days before departure. Full payment required if booking within 120 days.
Pricing: Per person, subject to availability, may change before confirmation.

Cancellation Terms

All cancellations must be in writing.
More than 120 days before departure: Loss of deposit (25%)
120-61 days before departure: 50% of total
60-31 days before departure: 75% of total
30 days or fewer / no-show: 100% (no refund)

Important Notes

Travel insurance strongly recommended.
Passport/visa requirements are traveler\'s responsibility.
Palace Tours may modify itinerary if necessary.
Prices exclude international airfare unless stated.

Tips & FAQ

Will I require visas for my trip on board Rovos Rail? Visas are required for passengers traveling though <?xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" /><st1:country-region w:st="on">South Africa</st1:country-region>, <st1:country-region w:st="on">Swaziland</st1:country-region>, <st1:country-region w:st="on">Namibia</st1:country-region>, <st1:country-region w:st="on">Zimbabwe</st1:country-region>, <st1:country-region w:st="on">Botswana</st1:country-region>, <st1:country-region w:st="on">Zambia</st1:country-region> and <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Tanzania</st1:place></st1:country-region> on the various rail and air journeys. If you require a visa for a particular African country, the visa will still be needed even if you are only in transit through that country. It is the passenger’s own responsibility to ensure that they comply with any necessary visa or vaccination requirements. All passengers must be in possession of a full 10-year passport. Passengers traveling to <st1:country-region w:st="on">Zimbabwe</st1:country-region>, <st1:country-region w:st="on">Zambia</st1:country-region> and <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Tanzania</st1:place></st1:country-region> will have their visas taken care of by Rovos Rail providing that full passport information is provided on the booking form. Please check with the relevant embassies or consulates in good time.    <A name=eight></A>Are there different levels of accommodation on board? The rebuilt sleeper coaches contain the most spacious train suites in the world, offering every modern convenience and comfort. The epitome of luxury, with handsome wood paneling and period Edwardian features, the air-conditioned suites accommodate two people offering the option of twin or spacious double beds. All are equipped with a writing surface and, for valuables, a personal safe. There is also a bar fridge filled with beverages of the passengers’ choice and room service is available 24 hours a day. In the en suite bathrooms original fittings combine with the modern technology of hot showers, hair dryers and shaver plugs. There are three levels of accommodation available. The Royal Suites, each of which take up half a carriage, are spacious and elegant, measuring about 16 sq meters in size (172 sq ft). Each has its own private lounge area and full bathroom with Victorian bath and separate shower. The Deluxe Suites (approx. 11 sq meters/118 sq feet) also accommodate two passengers in either twin or double beds and have a lounge area and en-suite bathroom with shower. A third level of accommodation, the Pullman Suite, is approximately 7 square meters (76 sq feet) in size and while it will include the identical bathroom to that of the deluxe suites, the bedroom will be smaller with a one up one down bed for twin requirements or a double bed for couples. During the day this can be converted into a comfortable couch. Please see our “Photo Gallery” for pictures of all suites.   <A name=nine></A>Are all meals, drinks and excursions included in the price? The rate includes accommodation, meals and excursions during the train journey, as well as alcoholic beverages while on board the train.<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p></o:p> <o:p> </o:p> What type of cuisine is served on board?<o:p></o:p> There is an emphasis on fresh local ingredients and traditional dishes such as game are a specialty. Every morning you will enjoy a full breakfast with dishes cooked to order. A selection of cold meats, croissants, pastries, fresh fruit, yogurts, cereals and preserves make up a tempting breakfast buffet. For lunch and dinner there is a starter and a choice of fish, meat or vegetarian dishes, followed by a tempting dessert and these are complemented by a selection of excellent South African wines. All meals are served in one sitting only in the charming Victorian atmosphere of the Dining Cars.<o:p></o:p>     <A name=ten></A>Can you cater for special dietary requirements? We will do our best to cater for special dietary requirements such as vegetarians, vegans, diabetics etc., provided a detailed request has been made at the time of your reservation. If a special request has not been made, the chefs will endeavor to prepare suitable meals with the ingredients available on board. We do however regret that we are unable to provide meals requiring strict religious observance in the preparation.<A name=eleven></A>   <A name=twelve></A>Do I need to leave a gratuity for the Rovos Rail Staff? There will be an envelope addressed to the Train Manager in your suite which may, at your discretion, be used for gratuities.<A name=thirteen></A><o:p></o:p> <o:p> </o:p> Does Rovos Rail take children? Rovos Rail does accommodate children but we ask parents to be mindful of the sophisticated adult atmosphere we endeavor to maintain. This is particularly pertinent to our long journeys.   <A name=fourteen></A>Can disabled people travel on Rovos Rail? We regret that the dimensions of the passages and layout of the train are not suitable for wheelchair-bound passengers. We are able to accommodate passengers with slight walking difficulties although we recommend that an able-bodied passenger accompany them. Should you have any special requirements please inform us at the time of booking.   <A name=fifteen></A>Is there room in my suite for my luggage? Yes there is enough space for 6 large suitcases. These can be stored on the overhead luggage rack or under the bed.     <A name=sixteen></A>What is the dress code on board Rovos Rail? During the day, the dress is smart, casual and comfortable. Attire that is more formal is worn in the evening on the “Pride of Africa”.  A jacket and tie is a minimum requirement, please.   <A name=seventeen></A>Are there showers on board Rovos Rail? All the suites have an en suite shower with the Royal Suites having a shower and a separate Victorian bath. <A name=eighteen></A>What currency do I need on board Rovos Rail? Although Rovos Rail prices are all inclusive it is recommended that passengers have a small amount of <st1:place w:st="on">Rands</st1:place> for on board or off-train purchases.   <A name=nineteen></A>Can I smoke on board Rovos Rail? You may smoke in the privacy of your suites or in the Club Lounge situated towards the rear of the Train. Smoking is strictly forbidden in all other parts of the Train.   <A name=twenty></A>What service can I expect on board Rovos Rail? A dedicated Host/ess will be available for full 24-hour room service and bar facilities. He/she can be called on the phone in your suite. The Train Manager and Deputy Train Manager are on hand throughout the journey to help with any queries.<A href="http://www.rovos.co.za/faqs.html#top#top"></A>   <A name=twentyone></A>What languages do the staff speak on board the Train? Mainly English with some German and Spanish.   <A name=twentytwo></A>Is there an on-board Gift Shop? There is an on-board Gift shop situated in the Lounge Car/Royal Suite coach. Due to fluctuating exchange rates we prefer <st1:place w:st="on">Rands</st1:place> or credit cards for any on-board gift shop purchases. We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Diners Club.     <A name=twentythree></A>Is there an on-board safe? An electronic safe is provided in the cupboard in each suite.     <A name=twentyfour></A>Is there a laundry service on the train? There is a LIMITED laundry service on board comprised of household washers, dryers and steam irons. The turn around time is 48 hours so the staff are not able to handle a week’s worth of washing. <A name=twentyfive></A>Do you provide dressing gowns onboard?  We provide a thick terry toweling one-size-fits-all gown plus slippers for each guest. <A name=twentysix></A>How is the temperature controlled on the Train? All the public cars are fitted with gas-filled air-conditioning systems. Although each air-conditioner is individually controlled, where necessary we endeavor to maintain a standard internal temperature of between 20 to 21°C (70 to 72°F) throughout the journey. For the comfort of guests, each suite has and individual air-conditioner with individual temperature controls which range from 18 to 24°C (65 to 77°F). Fresh air intake is simply solved by opening a window! During cold periods, all systems are provided with heating cycles from the air-conditioning units, as well as under-floor heating and electric underblankets.   <A name=twentyseven></A>What is the electricity voltage on the Train? The electricity on the train is as follows: 220V AC 50Hz. The plugs are 3 point round pronged wall plugs. International adaptors are also available on board.   <A name=twentyeight></A>Are there shaving plugs? There are 110V 2 prong plugs for shavers. <A name=twentynine></A>Is there a TV on the train? In keeping with the bygone era of the Train there are no televisions, radios, newspaper or Internet access.   <A name=thirty></A>Is there cell phone reception? The reception is poor while the Train is moving, but does improve when we are stationery or near main roads. Please note that the use of mobile telephones and laptop computers is forbidden in all the public areas. Please use your phone and computer in the privacy of your suite.   <A name=thirtyone></A>Does the train have security? When on board the train we encourage our guests to close the shutters and windows in the suites.  If left open the temptation provided for anyone standing on the platform might be too great.  Safes are provided in your suite for valuables. The train doors in the passages are all locked from the inside. Your suite door can also lock from the inside.   <A name=thirtytwo></A>Is there secure parking at Rovos Rail Station at <st1:PlaceName w:st="on">Capital</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType w:st="on">Park</st1:PlaceType> in <st1:City w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Pretoria</st1:place></st1:City>? Yes there is but Rovos Rail cannot be held liable for the safety of your vehicles or any possessions left in the vehicles. <A name=thirtythree></A><A name=thirtyfour></A>Will I need insurance for my trip? Yes, travel insurance is strongly advised.<A name=thirtyfive></A>   <A name=thirtysix></A>Do I need to take anti-malaria medication? Anti malaria precautions are advisable for travel to <st1:place w:st="on">Africa</st1:place>. Please consult your medical practitioner.<A name=thirtyseven></A><A name=thirtynine></A><A name=fourty></A><o:p></o:p>