Overview
A luxurious traverse through Africa's ancient heart.
You step aboard the Rovos Rail, leaving the Walvis Bay coast behind, and immediately a different rhythm takes over. The train becomes your luxurious home, a moving sanctuary from which Namibia’s ancient deserts and South Africa’s vibrant landscapes unfold. You find yourself gazing out at ochre dunes, then spotting a cheetah in the wild, the contrast a constant whisper of the continent's raw beauty. Each day brings a new sensory experience, from the scent of desert air at dawn to the clinking of crystal glasses at a formal dinner, accompanied by the gentle sway of the carriage.
This isn't just a journey; it's a profound connection to the land. You feel the vastness of the Namib, the history etched into Kolmanskop's abandoned buildings, and the sheer scale of the Fish River Canyon. You witness the legacy of diamonds in Kimberley and cruise the mighty Orange River, each moment deepening your appreciation for Southern Africa's natural wonders and human stories. As you arrive in Pretoria, you carry not just memories, but a renewed sense of wonder and the quiet luxury of time well spent.
Images: Courtesy - Rovos Rail
Itinerary
Your Itinerary
NAMIB DESERT & OTJIWARONGO & WALVIS BAY
You feel the gentle rumble beneath you as the train pulls away from Walvis Bay, the salty air of the coast giving way to the dry, vast expanse of the Namib. Settling into your suite, a sense of anticipation builds as the landscape outside transforms from coastal towns to endless, ancient desert. The light shifts, painting the dunes in hues of gold and rust, a silent promise of the wonders to come.Later, as the observation car leads the way, you find yourself captivated by the receding horizon.
The desert's quiet grandeur fills the panoramic windows, inviting introspection.
OTJIWARONGO & TSUMEB
The morning air is crisp as you transfer to the cheetah conservation project, a palpable sense of purpose in the air. You watch these magnificent big cats, learning about the crucial work being done to protect them, and feel a deep connection to Namibia's wildlife heritage. It’s a moment of quiet awe, witnessing the dedication firsthand.
Returning to the train, a feeling of contentment settles in. The rhythmic clickety-clack of the wheels becomes a soothing backdrop to the passing scenery. As tea is served, you might reflect on the cheetahs, carrying their image with you as the sun begins its slow descent, painting the sky in fiery hues.
ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK
The anticipation builds as you pack your small bag, ready to leave the train for a night in the wild heart of Etosha. The transfer to the lodge is a transition, and then, suddenly, you’re amidst it all. On your first game drive, the air vibrates with the sounds of the bush, and you hold your breath as a herd of elephants emerges from the acacia, their sheer size humbling.Dinner at the lodge, casual and relaxed, feels like a natural extension of the day's adventures.
You might share stories of sightings, the vastness of the 'Great White Place' settling around you.
ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK & TSUMEB
You wake early, the African dawn painting the sky in soft pastels, ready for another game drive. The air is cool and crisp, carrying the scent of wild grasses. You might witness a lioness on the hunt or giraffes silhouetted against the rising sun, moments of raw, untamed beauty that etch themselves into your memory.Returning to the train, there’s a quiet satisfaction, a feeling of having truly experienced the wild.
The familiar comfort of your suite welcomes you back.
NAMIB DESERT & SOSSUSVLEI
The light aircraft soars above the ancient Namib, revealing a tapestry of red dunes stretching to the horizon – a sight that makes your breath catch. Landing amidst this surreal landscape, you feel the vastness, the quiet power of geological time. The afternoon desert drive, as the sun dips low, paints the dunes in ever-changing hues, a painter's palette of light and shadow.As darkness falls, a bush dinner under the infinite desert sky becomes a moment of pure magic.
The stars emerge, impossibly bright, creating a canopy over your dining experience.
KALAHARI DESERT & MARIENTAL & SOSSUSVLEI & WINDHOEK
The morning desert drive, with breakfast served amidst the towering dunes, feels like a private farewell to Sossusvlei. The air is cool, the light soft, revealing textures you hadn't noticed before. From the quiet grandeur of the desert, you're whisked away by air, the landscape transforming beneath you from arid beauty to the bustling energy of Windhoek.Exploring Windhoek, you gain a sense of Namibia's vibrant culture and history, a stark yet fascinating contrast to the wilderness.
Rejoining the train, you feel a renewed appreciation for its luxurious embrace.
KEETMANSHOOP
As the train glides through the arid landscapes, you anticipate the unique sight of the Quiver Trees. Standing among these ancient, sculptural plants in Garas Park, you feel a connection to a primeval past, their stark silhouettes against the vast sky making for truly striking photographs. The silence here is profound, broken only by the gentle rustle of the wind.
Returning to the train, there’s a quiet satisfaction, a feeling of having witnessed something truly unique to this part of the world. The afternoon tea offers a moment of reflection, and later, a formal dinner provides a chance to share stories and images of the day's botanical marvels.
KOLMANSKOP
Stepping into Kolmanskop feels like walking onto a film set, the desert sands whispering through abandoned homes.
You can almost hear the echoes of its diamond-rush past, the contrast between former opulence and current desolation is striking. Later, the charm of Lüderitz, with its colonial architecture and coastal breezes, offers a refreshing change of pace, a reminder of human resilience against the elements.As the train departs for Holoog, the observation car once again leads the way, a fitting perspective as you reflect on the day's journey through history.
FISH RIVER CANYON & UPINGTON
Standing at the edge of the Fish River Canyon, the sheer scale of it makes you feel tiny, the ancient rock formations a testament to millions of years of geological drama. The wind whispers past, carrying the scent of dry earth, and the silence is profound, a moment of deep connection with the planet's raw power.
The vistas stretch endlessly, a panorama of rugged beauty.Later, as the train crosses into South Africa, there's a subtle shift in the air, a new country unfolding. The border formalities are a gentle reminder of your incredible journey across nations.
KIMBERLEY & UPINGTON
The morning begins with the observation car leading the way, a unique perspective as you enjoy breakfast. In Upington, the cool breeze from the Orange River is a welcome sensation as you embark on a leisurely cruise, the water reflecting the clear blue sky. The rhythm of the river, gentle and slow, offers a peaceful contrast to the train's journey.As the train continues through the vast, ancient Karoo, you feel the weight of geological time in the landscape.
It's a land of quiet beauty and immense history, once an inland sea.
KIMBERLEY & PRETORIA
Standing at the edge of the Big Hole in Kimberley, you can almost hear the echoes of picks and shovels, the frantic energy of the diamond rush. The museum brings the history to life, revealing the stories of fortunes made and lost, of a city born from the earth's glittering treasures. It's a tangible connection to a pivotal moment in South African history.Back on the train, a sense of winding down begins to settle.
The landscape outside becomes more populated, a gentle reminder of civilization's approach.
PRETORIA
You wake to the gentle movement of the train, knowing this is the final morning.
As breakfast is served, the goldfields of the Witwatersrand pass by your window, a landscape steeped in history and industry. There’s a bittersweet feeling, the anticipation of arrival mixed with the desire to hold onto these last moments of rail luxury.The final lunch is a quiet celebration, a chance to reflect on the incredible odyssey from the Namibian coast to the heart of South Africa.
Book This Tour
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Terms & Conditions
Payment Terms
25% of total tour cost due at the time of booking. 75% balance due no later than 65 days prior to tour departure date. All reservations are subject to availability and will be confirmed upon receipt of the required deposit. A provisional booking will be held for 14 days, after which the 25% deposit is due.
Cancellation Fees
| Timeframe Before Departure | Cancellation Fee |
|---|---|
| More than 95 days | 10% of total tour price |
| 95–66 days | 25% of total tour price |
| 65–36 days | 50% of total tour price |
| 35 days or less / failure to travel | 100% of total tour price (no refund) |
A 5% Administrative Fee will be charged by Palace Tours on any applicable refunds. All cancellation fees apply to the full tour price before any discounts or coupons. Cancellation insurance is compulsory as these fees will not be waived. All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing.
Change of Date / Name / Occupancy
Changes may be requested up to 125 days prior to departure and are subject to availability and supplier approval. No changes will be permitted within 65 days prior to departure. Any request within this period will be treated as a cancellation and subject to the applicable cancellation fees. All changes may incur additional costs, which will be advised prior to confirmation. No changes will be processed without written authorization and payment of any applicable fees.
Payment Methods
Payments may be made via bank transfer or credit card. All payments must reference the booking number and be supported by proof of payment. Refunds, when applicable, will be processed to the original form of payment. Any exchange rate fluctuations or bank charges are the responsibility of the client.
What's Included
- Accommodation on board
- All meals on board
- All beverages on board
- Room service
- Limited laundry
- Excursions with a qualified guide (where applicable)
- Entrance fees as per itinerary
- Government tax
- Flights to/from Sossusvlei
- Overnight bag
- Off-train accommodation (Sossusvlei and Etosha) including meals, water, tea/coffee, and breakfast juices
What's Not Included
- All off-train beverages (excluding water, tea/coffee, and breakfast juices at lodges)
- International sparkling wine
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
- Visas
- Travel insurance
- Pre- and post-tour transfers, accommodation, and flights
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is strongly recommended and is required to cover cancellation fees, medical emergencies, and unforeseen circumstances. Clients are responsible for securing their own insurance coverage and should travel with a copy of their policy including the insurance company name, policy number, and 24-hour medical emergency telephone number.
Passports & Visas
Valid passports and any required visas are the sole responsibility of the client and must be obtained prior to departure. Passports must have at least five blank visa pages and must be valid for at least six months from the return-home date. This tour passes through South Africa and Namibia; please confirm visa requirements for your nationality well in advance.
Health & Medical
Guests are solely responsible for ensuring they are capable of undertaking the tours and activities. Please inform us at the time of booking if you have any medical conditions, physical disabilities, or allergies. Anti-malarial precautions are recommended for certain areas visited on this itinerary, including Etosha National Park. Please consult your clinic or doctor for the latest medical advice prior to travel.
General Conditions
All services are provided subject to availability and supplier terms and conditions. Schedules, routing, and excursions are subject to change and cannot be guaranteed. Times are approximate and excursion arrangements may be altered due to operational, weather, or other factors beyond our control. The operator is not liable for loss, damage, injury, delays, or unforeseen events beyond its control. Participation in tours and related activities is voluntary and at the client's own risk.
Guest Indemnity
Although certain limited insurances have been arranged, the operator and its agents, servants, or employees shall not be liable for any loss or damage to passengers' luggage or effects. The passenger waives any claim against the operator, its servants, agents, employees, or subcontractors for any injury and/or loss of any nature whatsoever (including consequential loss) arising directly or indirectly from any aspect of the tour, including any form of transport used. This waiver binds the passenger's executors, heirs, trustees, and dependants. The passenger accepts all services and facilities voluntarily, with full knowledge that they may expose them to injury, danger, or loss.
Important Note
All timeframes are based on the local time of the destination. To allow sufficient processing time, clients must submit payment or cancellation requests with a minimum 5-day advance margin prior to the applicable deadlines.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Your Tour Price Includes
- Accommodation
- All meals
- All beverages on board
- Room service
- Limited laundry
- Excursions with a qualified guide (where applicable)
- Entrance fees as per itinerary
- Government tax
- Flights to/from Sossusvlei (for off-train accommodation)
- Overnight bag (for off-train accommodation)
- Accommodation (for off-train accommodation)
- Meals, water, tea/coffee and breakfast juices (for off-train accommodation)
Your Tour Price Excludes
- All off-train beverages
- International sparkling wine
- Gratuities (suggested ±ZAR450/US$25 per guest per night on board, and similar for lodge staff/guides)
- Personal expenses
- Visas
- Travel insurance
- Pre- and post-tour transfers
- Accommodation and flights (unless specified for Sossusvlei)
- All other beverages (for off-train accommodation)
- Laundry (for off-train accommodation)
- Personal expenses (for off-train accommodation)
Accommodations
Accommodation Overview
Each Rovos Rail train features dedicated accommodation carriages, elegant dining cars, a sophisticated lounge car (seating ±26), a curated small gift shop, a smoking lounge (seating ±11), and an observation car (seating ±32) with an open-air balcony. The three distinct types of suites are designed for privacy, comfort, and luxury, offering double or twin beds, and fitted to the highest standards. All suites include en-suite facilities with a shower, toilet, and basin (Royal Suites also feature a bath), tea facilities, a safe, air conditioning, and are serviced daily. Ample storage is provided with cupboards and hangers.
Royal Suites
Spacious at ±16m² (±172ft²), these suites occupy half a carriage and boast their own private lounge area. They offer an elegant and expansive retreat during your journey.
Amenities
- Minibar
- Air conditioning
- Writing desk
- Luggage shelf
- Cupboards
- Safe
- En-suite bathroom with toilet, basin, bath and shower
Bed Configurations
Double: 200x189cm, Split Twin: 200x75cm
Deluxe Suites
Measuring ±10m² (±108ft²), Deluxe Suites provide a comfortable lounge area within your private space, ideal for relaxation as the Namibian landscapes unfold outside your window.
Amenities
- Minibar
- Air conditioning
- Writing desk
- Luggage shelf
- Cupboards
- Safe
- En-suite bathroom with toilet, basin, shower
Bed Configurations
Double Lengthways: 189x189cm, Double Crosswise: 189x160cm, Split Twin: 189x75cm
Pullman Gold Suites
These suites, ±7m² (±76ft²), are designed for longer journeys. During the day, the split twin beds are configured as comfortable couches, transforming the space into a versatile living area.
Amenities
- Minibar
- Air conditioning
- Fold-out writing desk
- Luggage shelf
- Cupboards
- Safe
- En-suite bathroom with toilet, basin, shower
Bed Configurations
Double: 189x189cm, Split Twin: 189x75cm
Pullman Suites
Also ±7m² (±76ft²), these suites are typically available for shorter journeys. The daytime setup features a comfortable couch that easily converts into sleeping options for the night.
Amenities
- Safe
- Air conditioning
- Linen
- Basic amenities (as per general suite description)
- Minibar (implied)
- Writing desk (implied)
- Luggage shelf (implied)
- Cupboards (implied)
- En-suite bathroom with toilet, basin, shower
Bed Configurations
Crosswise Double: 189x150cm, Side-by-side Twin: 189x75cm (made up with single-bed linen), Single Lower Bunk: 189x94cm, Single Upper Bunk: 189x60cm
Frequently Asked Questions & Tips
The dress code on Rovos Rail varies between daytime and evening. During the day, smart casual attire is recommended – neat, conventional, yet relatively informal clothing. For dinner, the dress code is formal: gentlemen are required to wear a collar and tie (a jacket is optional), while ladies should opt for cocktail/evening dresses or suits. Some long journeys, including this one, feature themed evenings such as 'Africa' or '1920s', where guests can dress accordingly or choose smart casual. For off-train excursions, comfortable walking shoes, sun lotion, hats, and warm clothing (especially for game drives) are advised.
Yes, all meals are included and served in the dining cars at set times: Breakfast 07:00-10:00, Lunch 13:00, Tea 16:30, and Dinner 19:30. All beverages on board are also included, encompassing a curated selection of local and international wines, brandies, gins, whiskies, spirits, and non-alcoholic options. Special requests, such as international sparkling wine, can be pre-ordered at an additional cost at least 30 days before departure. Please note that off-train beverages are generally excluded, except for water, tea/coffee, and breakfast juices during off-train accommodation stays.
Guests are solely responsible for their physical capability to undertake the tours and activities. Rovos Rail trains carry a standard medical kit, oxygen, an automated external defibrillator, and a wheelchair. Train Managers are trained in Level 3 First Aid. Anti-malarial precautions are recommended for regions visited, including Etosha National Park. Recommended (but not required) immunizations include Hepatitis A+B, Polio, Tetanus, and Cholera (low risk). A Yellow Fever/Medical Exemption Certificate is essential for travel to/from DRC and Angola, and may be required by other countries for re-entry. It is strongly advised to consult your clinic or doctor prior to travel. Travel Doctor Africa can be reached at 0861 300 911 (local) or +27 (0) 11 214 9030 (international).
There are no strict luggage restrictions on board the train, and ample storage is available under beds or on luggage racks in your suite. However, it is not recommended to bring more than two large suitcases. For sections of the journey involving light aircraft transfers (such as to Sossusvlei), a soft bag is preferable, and a luggage weight restriction of 15kg per person applies. A Rovos Rail tog bag is provided in your suite for convenience during overnight off-train excursions.
In keeping with the traditional spirit of train travel, there is no WiFi, radio, or television on board the Rovos Rail train itself. The use of mobile phones and laptops is permitted within the privacy of your suite only. Mobile reception can be poor while the train is moving. WiFi is generally available at the Rovos Rail lounges in Cape Town and Pretoria, and at most off-train accommodation facilities, though not always guaranteed.
On board the train in South Africa, only Rands are accepted. Rands are also accepted in Namibia and eSwatini. US Dollars are accepted in Zimbabwe, Tanzania (Dar es Salaam only), DRC, and Angola. Cash is highly recommended in these countries. Please note that US Dollar notes printed before 2013 or those that appear worn will not be accepted. It is advisable to carry low denominations for shopping and gratuities, and larger denominations for exchanging money to local currency, especially in Tanzania.
For this Namibia Safari, check-in is at Walvis Bay Station, Corner 6th Street and 11th Road, Namibia, at 10:00 on Day 1. It is recommended to check-in a minimum of one hour before departure. Passports are required at check-in. Luggage will be tagged and placed directly into your suite on board the train. Upon arrival in Pretoria on Day 12, the train will conclude its journey at Rovos Rail Station, 1 Transnet Avenue, Capital Park.
Yes, cancellation insurance is compulsory for all guests on Rovos Rail journeys, and these fees will not be waived. Rovos Rail offers insurance options for South African residents. For international guests, it is strongly advised to contact your local insurance agent for suitable coverage. You should bring a copy of your travel insurance policy, clearly stating the company, policy number, and the 24-hour medical emergency telephone number.
Each suite is equipped with 220V AC 50Hz 3-point round-pronged wall plugs. Additionally, 110V/220V 2-pin plugs are available for shavers and chargers. USB ports are also provided in each suite for convenient device charging. International adaptors are available upon request from the staff. Power is supplied by a generator, and occasional brief breaks in power may occur when servicing is required.
Each suite is well-appointed with a range of amenities. These include a minibar, air conditioning, a writing desk, luggage shelf, and cupboards. All suites have an electronic safe for valuables. En-suite bathrooms are standard, featuring a shower, toilet, and basin (Royal Suites also include a bath). Guests will find biodegradable and/or recyclable toiletries such as soap, shampoo, hand and body wash, lotion, lip balm, insect repellent spray, bamboo rounds, ear buds, a compostable shower cap, ear plugs, sun cream, razors, and nail files. Plug-in hairdryers are also available. Suites are serviced daily, and a nightly turndown service is provided.
Check-in Information
For your departure from Walvis Bay, check-in at Walvis Bay Station, located at the Corner of 6th Street and 11th Road, Namibia. If your journey concludes in Pretoria, you will arrive at Rovos Rail Station, 1 Transnet Avenue, Capital Park. It is recommended to check-in a minimum of one hour before departure. Passports are required at check-in, and luggage will be tagged and placed directly into your suite on board the train.
Dining Schedule
Meals on board are served in one sitting in the elegant dining cars. Breakfast is available from 07:00 to 10:00. Lunch is served promptly at 13:00, and tea is offered at 16:30. Formal dinner is served at 19:30. The bar service operates from 07:00 until approximately 01:00. A distinctive gong announces lunch and dinner service. These times are adhered to unless otherwise specified in the daily timetable.
Dress Code
During the day on board, the dress code is smart casual, encouraging neat, conventional, yet relatively informal attire. For evening dinners, a formal dress code is mandatory: gentlemen are required to wear a collar and tie (a jacket is optional), while ladies are encouraged to wear cocktail/evening dresses or suits. Long journeys often feature themed evenings, such as 'Africa' or '1920s' themes, where guests can dress accordingly or opt for smart casual. For off-train excursions, comfortable walking shoes, sun lotion, and hats are recommended. Warm clothing is advised for game drives, as mornings can be cool.
Electricity & Connectivity
All suites are equipped with 220V AC 50Hz 3-point round-pronged wall plugs, as well as 110V/220V 2-pin plugs for shavers and chargers. USB ports are also available in each suite. International adaptors are provided upon request. Power is supplied by a generator, though occasional breaks for servicing may occur. In keeping with the spirit of train travel, there is no radio, television, or onboard WiFi. The use of mobile phones and laptops is confined to the privacy of your suites. WiFi is available at the Rovos Rail lounges in Cape Town and Pretoria, and generally at off-train accommodations.
Climate & Weather
The journey traverses diverse climates. In Walvis Bay, average temperatures range from 16-22°C (Min/Max) in March to 10-20°C in July. Etosha Pan sees averages from 18-31°C in Jan-Mar, and 10-27°C in May-Jun. Pretoria experiences 18-30°C in Jan-Mar and 7-23°C in May-Jun. All public cars are fitted with gas-filled air-conditioning, and suites have individual climate controls with heating options. Electric under-blankets are provided. For game drives, mornings can be cool, warming up considerably, while afternoons can be warm before cooling down. Pack warm clothing, hats, comfortable shoes, and sun protection.
Onboard Amenities
A range of South African biodegradable and/or recyclable amenities are provided, including 40g soap, 50ml shampoo, hand and body wash, and lotion, 15ml lip balm, insect repellent spray (for journeys over 4 days), bamboo rounds, ear buds, compostable shower cap, ear plugs, sun cream, razors, and nail files. Plug-in hairdryers are available. Dressing gowns and slippers are provided for use on board, and can be purchased from the gift shop. A small gift shop is available on the train and at Rovos Rail Station in Pretoria. A limited laundry service (10 items per day) is available with a 48-hour turnaround; dry-cleaning is not offered.
Medical Information
Each train is equipped with a standard medical kit, oxygen, automated external defibrillator, and a wheelchair. Train Managers are trained in Level 3 First Aid. While private healthcare hospitals can be arranged for evacuation (at your own cost), these are not guaranteed outside South Africa. Guests are solely responsible for ensuring they are capable of undertaking tours and activities. Anti-malarial precautions are recommended for areas like Etosha, eSwatini, Kruger Park, Northern Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Tanzania, and Angola. Recommended (not required) immunizations include Hepatitis A+B, Polio, Tetanus, and Cholera (low risk). A Yellow Fever/Medical Exemption Certificate is essential for DRC and Angola, and may be required by other countries for re-entry. Consult your clinic or doctor; Travel Doctor Africa can be reached at 0861 300 911 (local) or +27 (0) 11 214 9030 (international).
Luggage
Luggage can be stored under the bed or on the luggage rack above the door in your suite. While there are no strict restrictions on board, it is recommended not to bring more than two large suitcases. For overnight trips or plane transfers, a Rovos Rail tog bag is provided, and a soft bag is preferable for flights, which often have a 15kg weight restriction.
Currency
In South Africa, only Rands are accepted. Rands are also accepted in Namibia and eSwatini. US Dollars are accepted in Zimbabwe, Tanzania (Dar es Salaam only), DRC, and Angola, with cash highly recommended. Please note that US Dollar bills printed before 2013 or those that appear worn will not be accepted. Low denominations are best for shopping and gratuities, while larger denominations are better for exchanging to local currency, especially in Tanzania.
Media Gallery
Rovos Rail Suites - Images - Deluxe Split Twin
Rovos Rail Suites - Images - Deluxe Double
Rovos Rail Suites - Images - Deluxe Bathroom
Rovos Rail Suites - Cutaways - PULLMAN GOLD Double
Rovos Rail Suites - Cutaways - PULLMAN GOLD Split Twin
Rovos Rail Suites - Cutaways - PULLMAN Double
Rovos Rail Suites - Cutaways - PULLMAN Daytime
Rovos Rail Suites - Cutaways - PULLMAN Bunks
Rovos Rail Suites - Cutaways - DELUXE Split Twin
Rovos Rail Suites - Cutaways - DELUXE Lengthways
Rovos Rail Suites - Cutaways - DELUXE Crosswise
Rovos Rail Suites - Images - Royal Split Twin
Rovos Rail Suites - Cutaways - ROYAL Double
Rovos Rail Suites - Cutaways - ROYAL Split Twin