When it comes to luxury train travel, few experiences can rival the majestic journeys offered by trains to Africa. With their opulent interiors, impeccable service, and breathtaking landscapes, these trains transport passengers to a bygone era of elegance and adventure. In this article, we will explore two of the most renowned trains in Africa: Rovos Rail and the Blue Train.
Rovos Rail, often hailed as the epitome of luxury train travel, offers a range of glamorous journeys throughout Southern Africa. From its meticulously restored vintage carriages to its gourmet dining and impeccable service, Rovos Rail exudes old-world charm and sophistication. One of its most coveted trips is the annual 22-day voyage from Cape Town to Dar es Salaam in Tanzania. This epic journey takes passengers through diverse landscapes, including the Madikwe Game Reserve and the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls. The 2023/2024 prices for this extraordinary adventure range from R210,000 per person for the Royal Suite to R107,500 per person for the Pullman Suite.
On the other hand, the Mauritania train offers a unique and captivating experience for adventure seekers. Known as the longest train in the world, this iron ore transport train stretches an astounding 2.5 kilometers across the vast Sahara desert. While not as luxurious as Rovos Rail or the Blue Train, the Mauritania train provides a fascinating insight into the harsh and remote landscapes of Africa. It takes passengers on a captivating journey from the Sahara mines to the picturesque west coast, offering a glimpse into the untamed beauty of the continent.
Meanwhile, the Blue Train in South Africa offers a truly unforgettable experience for those seeking a blend of luxury and natural splendor. This iconic train embarks on a 1,600-kilometer journey from Pretoria to Cape Town, showcasing the stunning landscapes of South Africa. With its well-appointed sleeping accommodations, exquisite dining options, and impeccable service, the Blue Train ranks among the most luxurious train journeys in the world. Passengers can revel in the breathtaking scenery of the South African countryside, including the majestic Drakensberg Mountains and the picturesque vineyards of the Cape Winelands.
Whether you choose Rovos Rail, the Mauritania train, or the Blue Train, a journey to Africa by train promises an unforgettable adventure. From the opulent luxury of Rovos Rail to the rugged beauty of the Mauritania train and the captivating landscapes of the Blue Train, these experiences allow travelers to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of African culture, history, and natural wonders. So, if you’re seeking a truly extraordinary travel experience, hop aboard one of these magnificent trains and let Africa unfold before your eyes.
Can You Take A Train Across Africa?
It is possible to take a train across Africa. Rovos Rail offers an annual 22-day journey from Cape Town to Dar es Salaam, which allows travelers to experience the diverse landscapes and cultures of Southern Africa. This luxurious train journey stops at various destinations along the way, including the Madikwe Game Reserve and the Victoria Falls.
Here is a breakdown of the itinerary for the Rovos Rail journey across Africa:
1. Cape Town, South Africa: The journey starts in the beautiful city of Cape Town, where travelers board the Rovos Rail train.
2. Matjiesfontein, South Africa: The train makes a stop at Matjiesfontein, a small town known for its Victorian-era buildings and old-world charm.
3. Kimberley, South Africa: Next, the train stops at Kimberley, famous for its diamond mines and the Big Hole, a massive open-pit mine.
4. Pretoria, South Africa: The train continues to Pretoria, the administrative capital of South Africa, where passengers can explore the city’s historical attractions.
5. Madikwe Game Reserve, South Africa: A visit to Madikwe Game Reserve allows travelers to experience a safari adventure and witness the incredible wildlife of Africa.
6. Botswana: The train crosses the border into Botswana, offering passengers the opportunity to explore the country’s unique landscapes and wildlife.
7. Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe: One of the highlights of the journey is a stop at the magnificent Victoria Falls, one of the world’s largest waterfalls. Passengers can witness the awe-inspiring beauty of this natural wonder.
8. Zambia: The train then travels through Zambia, providing stunning views of the Zambezi River and the surrounding landscapes.
9. Tanzania: The final destination of the journey is Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, where passengers disembark and can explore the city’s vibrant culture and beautiful beaches.
Throughout the journey, Rovos Rail provides luxurious accommodations, excellent onboard dining, and attentive service. The train offers a unique and comfortable way to experience the vastness and diversity of Africa, with stunning views from the train windows and carefully selected excursions at each stop.
Please note that this specific journey offered by Rovos Rail is an exclusive and annual trip. However, there are other train routes and options available for exploring different parts of Africa by rail.
How Much Does The Pride Of Africa Train Cost?
The Pride of Africa train, also known as the Rovos Rail, offers luxurious and unforgettable journeys through Africa. The cost of the train varies depending on the type of suite you choose and the specific itinerary and dates you select.
Here are the prices for the 2023/2024 season:
1. Royal Suite: The Royal Suite is the most luxurious option on the train, offering spacious accommodations and exclusive amenities. The cost for this suite is R210,000 per person.
2. Deluxe Suite: The Deluxe Suite provides elegant and comfortable surroundings during your journey. The price for this suite is R158,000 per person.
3. Pullman Suite: The Pullman Suite offers cozy and stylish accommodations on the train. The cost for this suite is R107,500 per person.
It is important to note that these prices are subject to change and may vary depending on the specific itinerary and dates you choose. It is recommended to check with the Rovos Rail official website or contact their customer service for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information.
The Pride of Africa train offers a luxurious and unforgettable experience, but it is important to consider your budget and personal preferences when selecting a suite.
What Is The Longest Train Journey In Africa?
The longest train journey in Africa is the Mauritania train, which transports iron ore from the mines in the Sahara desert to the west coast of Africa. This train covers a distance of approximately 704 kilometers, making it the longest train journey on the continent.
The Mauritania train is a vital transportation link for the country’s iron ore industry. It consists of numerous wagons loaded with iron ore, pulled by powerful locomotives. The train’s length can reach up to an astonishing 2.5 kilometers, making it a truly remarkable sight.
The journey begins at the Zouérat iron ore mines, located in the heart of the Sahara desert. From there, the train travels across the vast desert landscape, passing through remote and desolate areas. The train crosses rugged terrains, sandy dunes, and occasionally encounters extreme weather conditions.
During this long journey, the train makes several stops at various iron ore loading stations along the way. These loading stations are strategically located near the mines, allowing for efficient loading of the iron ore onto the wagons. The loading process is carried out using massive machinery, ensuring a continuous flow of iron ore onto the train.
The train finally reaches its destination at the port city of Nouadhibou, on the west coast of Mauritania. At the port, the iron ore is unloaded from the train and transferred onto ships for export to various destinations around the world. The entire journey, from the mines to the port, can take several days to complete.
The Mauritania train is not only a crucial economic lifeline for the country but also a source of fascination for travelers and railway enthusiasts. Many tourists visit Mauritania specifically to witness the sheer size and spectacle of this extraordinary train journey.
The longest train journey in Africa is the Mauritania train, which transports iron ore from the Sahara desert to the west coast of Mauritania. This remarkable train covers a distance of approximately 704 kilometers, making it a remarkable feat of engineering and an essential part of Mauritania’s iron ore industry.
What Is The Train In Africa?
The train in Africa that we are referring to is known as the Blue Train. It is renowned for offering one of the most luxurious and memorable train journeys in the world. This train travels between Pretoria and Cape Town in South Africa, covering a distance of approximately 1,600 kilometers or 990 miles. The average journey time for this remarkable experience is around 27 hours.
The Blue Train provides a range of onboard services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey. Passengers can avail themselves of sleeping arrangements, allowing them to rest and rejuvenate during the trip. Additionally, catering facilities are available to provide delicious meals and refreshments throughout the journey.
The train in Africa that we are discussing is the Blue Train, offering a luxurious and unforgettable travel experience between Pretoria and Cape Town. With its range of onboard services, passengers can relax in comfortable sleeping arrangements and indulge in delectable meals and refreshments.
Conclusion
A train journey to Africa offers an unparalleled experience of luxury, adventure, and breathtaking landscapes. Rovos Rail stands out as the epitome of opulence, providing a glamorous and unforgettable journey throughout Southern Africa. With its annual 22-day voyage from Cape Town to Dar es Salaam, passengers have the opportunity to explore iconic destinations such as Madikwe Game Reserve and the majestic Victoria Falls. The itineraries, prices, and dates for 2023/2024 are available, offering different suite options to suit individual preferences and budgets.
On the other hand, the Mauritania train showcases a unique and awe-inspiring experience, as it transports iron ore from the Sahara desert to the west coast of Africa. With its extraordinary length of 2.5km, this train holds the title of the longest train in the world. While it may not offer the same luxurious amenities as Rovos Rail, it provides a fascinating glimpse into the industrial operations of the region.
For those seeking an unforgettable train journey in South Africa, the Blue Train offers a remarkable 1,600-kilometer journey between Pretoria and Cape Town. Renowned for its luxurious accommodations and impeccable service, this train journey is considered one of the most opulent in the world. Passengers can expect a comfortable sleeping arrangement and excellent catering facilities throughout the approximately 27-hour journey.
Whether it’s the lavish experience of Rovos Rail, the industrial marvel of the Mauritania train, or the luxurious escapade of the Blue Train, a train journey to Africa promises an adventure like no other. From stunning landscapes to exceptional service, these trains offer an extraordinary way to explore the diverse beauty and rich heritage of the African continent.
