Luxury Trains of South Africa

There is something timeless about experiencing the world from a luxury train. Certainly, since the days of old, rail journeys have provided the ultimate in glamour, luxury and travelling pleasure. South Africa has two superb luxury trains with various routes that crisscross South and Southern Africa that one may chose from. Both trains are completely unique and entirely different from each other but bother offer outstanding service, cruise and attention to detail with beautiful accommodation, dining and lounge carriages.

Rovos Rail

Since 1989, Rovos Rail has specialised in offering luxury train experiences all over southern Africa. For good reason, it has been referred to as ‘The Most Luxurious Train in the World’.

There really is something special about the Rovos experience. Think wood-paneled coaches, five-star service and delectable cuisine. The interior of the train consists of rebuilt sleeper coaches that offer spacious comfort with all the luxuries imaginable. Suites are air-conditioned and come complete with writing desk, bar fridge and double bed. And the Royal Suites boast a Victorian bath.

A highlight of any Rovos Rail journey is the cuisine. A skilled team of chefs ensure the finest dining experiences with all the extras: fine china, crisp linen and polished silver to create an atmosphere evocative of Victorian sumptuousness. There is also a lounge cart and a bar for pre-dinner sundowners, giving guests the opportunity to taste some of South Africa’s finest wines.

Another fantastic feature is the Observation lounge. This is the perfect place to while away the hours as you enjoy the South African landscape rushing by.

The Blue Train

The Blue Train, with personal butler service, is a South African travel icon. Launched in 1946, it prides itself on being an ‘inclusive luxury rail cruise’. Suites have all the splendours imaginable, including air conditioning or under-floor heating.

The Main Lounge and Club Lounge are the perfect places to socialise with other guests. For connoisseurs, the Club Lounge offers imported cigars. An innovative feature is the huge television monitor in the Main Lounge, which broadcasts the unfolding landscape from a track camera mounted on the front of the train.

Wining and dining is a highlight of the Blue Train, which has won many awards. Included amongst these is the Diner’s Club accolade for its delectable selection of South African wines. Meals focus on traditionally South African and include such delicacies as Cape crayfish, Karoo lamb and Knysna oysters.

The Blue Train offers travellers the ultimate journey between Pretoria and Cape Town, as well as other popular routes around the country.

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