Essential South Africa and Victoria Falls by Rail
This remarkable journey begins with an unforgettable safari in the largest “Big 5” private game reserve adjoining Kruger National Park, followed by a visit to scenic Cape Town. Then enjoy a luxury train journey starting at the from magnificent Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe to Pretoria in South Africa, which traverses some incredibly beautiful landscapes.
13 days/12 nights
Hotels/Lodges/Luxury Train
Departs daily ex Johannesburg
Highlights:
- Exciting big game safaris in an exclusive reserve adjoining the Kruger National Park
- Beautiful Cape Town and its iconic Table Mountain
- The magnificent Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe
- A memorable sunset cruise on the mighty Zambezi River
- Journey aboard a fabulously restored vintage luxury train
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Essential South Africa and Victoria Falls by Rail
13 days/12 nights
Hotels/Lodges/Luxury Train
Days 1-3: South Africa, Sabi Sand Private Reserves
Fly from Johannesburg to Skukuza where you are met and transferred by road to the exclusive Rattray’s on Mala Mala. Famous for its incredible abundance of wildlife including all of the “Big 5”, the camp features 8 lavish, elevated suites with private plunge pools and verandas. Enjoy morning and afternoon game drives. LD (Day 1) / BLD (Days 2/3)
Days 4-6: South Africa, Cape Town
Fly to Cape Town, one of the world’s most beautiful cities. Transfer to the Queen Victoria Hotel, a small and stylish boutique hotel overlooking the vibrant Victoria & Alfred waterfront area. On Day 5, ascend to the summit of Table Mountain by cableway (weather permitting) and stroll the photogenic Malay Quarter. On Day 6, enjoy a day tour of the scenic Cape Peninsula, including Cape Point. B
Days 7/8: Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls
Transfer to the airport for a flight to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. You are met and transferred to the Victoria Falls Hotel, the country’s grandest and oldest luxury hotel. Enjoy its Edwardian grandeur, established gardens and sweeping views of the famous waterfall. On Day 8, take a half-day tour of Victoria Falls concluding with a sunset Zambezi River cruise aboard the elegant Ra-Ikane riverboat. B
Days 9-11: Rovos Rail
Transfer to the railway station where a gleaming Rovos Rail locomotive awaits. Be transported to another era, when trains were the ultimate way to travel. This extravagant 3-night rail adventure takes you across magnificent landscapes, crossing Botswana to reach South Africa. BLD
Day 12: Pretoria
Disembark at the dedicated Rovos Rail Station in Pretoria, where you are met and transferred to the tasteful 131 on Herbert Baker Boutique Hotel for the night. B
Day 13: Tour ends Johannesburg
Your trip concludes with a transfer to Johannesburg airport. B
Featured Private South Africa Sample Experiences
Best of South Africa
Experience the very best of South Africa from vibrant Johannesburg and spectacular Cape Town to seeking out the 'Big 5' on safari and discovering the beautiful Cape Peninsula.
Essential South Africa and Victoria Falls by Rail
Experience an unforgettable safari in the Sabi Sand Private Reserves, be awed by Victoria Falls then journey aboard Rovos Rail back to Johannesburg.
Kruger and The Cape
Discover some of South Africa's best known attractions on this journey that begins with a big game safari in the world-renowned Sabi Sands and concludes in beautiful Cape Town.
South Africa Overview
Why South Africa: Described as “a world in one country” South Africa is more than just a safari destination. The wildlife of Kruger and the many private reserves throughout the country are complemented by South Africa’s fascinating history and diverse cultures, the beautiful coastline and majestic landscapes of the Cape.
Game Viewing: Gameviewing is best during the dry season (May-Oct); however the summer months are good for general touring and sightseeing.
Culture: Many different cultures including Zulu, Swazi, Xhosa, Indian, Cape Malay and European. A unique cuisine, as well as distinct music and dance. Elegant Cape Dutch architecture.
Climate: The inland plateau has a temperate climate (17°-30°C), whilst the coast is subtropical and more humid (22°-30°C). The seasons are the same as Australia, however most of the rain falls in summer. Winters are dry and sunny, but nights can be very cold. The Western Cape is the exception, with a “Mediterranean” climate – cool, wet winters and warm dry summers (17°-24°C).
Combine With: South Africa is easily combined with neighbouring Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Mozambique, Zambia or the nearby tropical island of Mauritius. Johannesburg is a very popular gateway to most of southern and eastern Africa.
Getting There: Many major airlines including South African Airways, Qantas, Etihad, Emirates, Kenya Airways, Qatar, Singapore Airways and British Airways fly into Johannesburg. There are also many regional airlines such as Air Botswana, and domestic carriers that service local cities such as Cape Town and the Kruger National Park area.
