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Spectacular South Africa with Rovos Rail

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Fully Guided Small Group Rail Wildlife Scenic Rovos Rail
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 Trip Length
14 Days
 Trip Starts
Cape Town
 Trip Finishes
Johannesburg
14 Day Spectacular South Africa with Rovos Rail Itinerary (Luxury Gold)
Countries Explored: South Africa, Zimbabwe
Accommodation
4.5 - 5 Star
Max. Group Size
16
Guide Level
Fully Guided
Trip Code
F663

Overview

Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Luxury Gold's 14 Day Spectacular South Africa with Rovos Rail. Discover two of the world’s seven wonders as you enjoy a spectacular sunset over Cape Town from Table Mountain and marvel at the natural power of Victoria Falls. Considered to be the largest in the world—Victoria Falls stuns the senses as your Local Expert guides you alongside the roaring waters, refreshing mists and plummeting ravines. Step back in time to a more elegant era of travel as you board an exquisite vintage train, departing from Pretoria’s Rovos Rail Station. Journeying north, adventurers...read more pass the warm mineral waters of Bela-Bela, cross the Tropic of Capricorn and take in Zimbabwe’s second city—Bulawayo, before arriving into Hwange National Park. Here an open-air safari led by professional trackers, seeks out the Big Five in the park’s teak forests and acadia filled vleis.

Itinerary

Welcome to Cape Town, the crown jewel of the African continent, with its spectacular scenery, exotic cultures and delicious flavours. On arrival at Cape Town International, transfer to The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa, nestled between Table mountain and Twelve Apostles mountain range, offering amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean.

This evening join your Travelling Concierge and travel companions for a dazzling Welcome Dinner, hosted at the hotel's Azure restaurant. Enjoy expansive ocean views from the terrace as you experience fine dining of modern South African cuisine infused with international influences. Inspired by the ocean, the menu boasts an array of dishes prepared with seasonally organic ingredients. (DW) Stay: Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa, Cape Town.

Embark on one of the world's most legendary drives, journeying from the Hotel through the fishing village of Hout Bay. Winding along Chapman's Peak, continue past colourful Kalk Bay later in the afternoon, when we return to the other side of the Peninsula for lunch. to the majestic Cape Point Nature Reserve, one of the world's most pristine wildernesses. Stroll along the trails and keep an eye out for reebok, Cape Mountain zebra, bontebok and the elusive eland. Explore Boulders Beach and learn about the local residents, a colony of African penguins.

You're invited to an exquisite lunch with wine at the Harbour House restaurant in Kalk Bay. Admire views overlooking False Bay and the Hottentots Mountain Range, as you dine as close to the water as possible. Take in beautiful views of the ocean and mountains, as you travel to your hotel overlooking the Atlantic. See the cosmopolitan suburbs of Sea Point, Clifton and Camps Bay before returning to your Hotel. Your Travelling Concierge is a treasure trove of local knowledge and will happily make dinner reservations on your behalf at recommended restaurants. (B/LW)

Known for being one of Africa's most desirable and vibrant cities, Cape Town is yours to explore. Your Journey, Your Way. Choose to join a Local Expert for a visit of trendy The Old Biscuit Mill, a vibrant market and creative hub in the city. Meet some of the vendors, browse the stalls and sample culinary delights. Alternatively, visit the District Six Museum, a memorial dedicated to the area destroyed during the Apartheid era and the 60,000 inhabitants who were forced to relocate.

In the afternoon, join your Travelling Concierge and travel to the base of Table Mountain, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Enjoy 360-degree views of the city from the famous cable car, before stepping off onto the summit just in time for a spectacular African Sunset, should weather permit. This evening, venture to a nearby restaurant for an opulent culinary journey, accented by daring decor and whispers of history. (B/DW)

World famous for crisp white and French-style red wines, the fertile wine valleys of the Cape are also a treasury of rustic beauty and sprawling estates shaded by giant oak trees. Travel into the heart of the winelands, starting in historic Paarl and Stellenbosch and on to the beautiful town of Franschhoek, founded in 1688 by French immigrants fleeing the Huguenot religious persecution in Europe. These very settlers produced the fine wines once sought after by Napoleon, Bismarck and royalty such as Edward VII, the Prince of Wales. Start at the Vergelegen Estate and appreciate the Cape Dutch architecture of the manor house.

Your Journey, Your Way. Choose to indulge in a wine tasting hosted by the estate's winemaker in a private cellar. Alternatively, get on a bike and explore the the lovely gardens and the vineyard. Continue on to the Boschendal Wine Estate, one of the oldest farms in the country, for a delicious seasonal Farm-to-Table lunch served at The Werf Restaurant, located in the beautifully revamped cellar of The Manor House. Guided by the rhythm of the seasons, Chef Allistaire Lawrence creates a contemporary menu from the best available local and ethically sourced produce. Organic vegetables are harvested daily from the Werf Food Garden, which can be viewed from the restaurant balcony.

Relax and enjoy a scenic drive, as you are chauffeured back to your hotel in a vintage car. With an evening at leisure, your Travelling Concierge is on hand to assist you with restaurant recommendations and reservations. (B/LW)

South Africa has for centuries been a land of dreams and complexities, diversity and ideas, and intoxicating landscapes drawing travellers from afar. Step onboard a ferry and journey to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Robben Island, best known for its prison where Nelson Mandela and many other famous anti-apartheid activists were imprisoned. Join a local guide for an insightful tour of the former prison and meet an ex-political prisoner who will share personal anecdotes as you explore the island on a guided coach tour.

Return to the mainland and join Christo Brand, a former prison guard at the Victor Verster prison, where Nelson Mandela spent the last 14 months of his 27-year-long imprisonment, for lunch at the Amy Foundation and hear fascinating stories about one of history's most heroic figures. You then visit the Amy Foundation, a non-profit organisation, and witness how the lives of vulnerable young people are being transformed through a variety of empowering programmes. Visit an African township and school where you'll meet some of the inspiring beneficiaries. Enjoy the evening at your leisure, perhaps head to trendy Bree Street for dinner? (B/L)

Fly from Cape Town into the heart of the African bushveld, as you touch down at Skukuza Airport. At more than 2 million hectares, Kruger National Park is the same size as Belgium and one of the world's largest game reserves. Enjoy a short drive through Big Five territory to the luxurious Lion Sands Lodge, located on the banks of the Sabie River, where lunch will be served with wine. Settle into your chic suite and enjoy time at your leisure. Experience your first evening game drive, hosted by a professionally qualified ranger and tracker.

Enjoy the drive on your private open-air safari vehicle, as you venture through the Lion Sands Game Reserve, which forms part of an ecosystem boasting the largest concentration of wild animal species in the Southern Hemisphere. Learn about the complexities of a termite colony or perhaps see a pride of lions roaming through the savanna, as your ranger shares fascinating insights into the lives of small and large creatures. Stop en route for a gin-and-tonic and snacks, served in the heart of the African bushveld.

In the evening, gather round for a spectacular feast of slow-cooked meats, seasonal vegetables and sweet treats, before falling asleep to the distant calls of hyenas. (B/LW/DW) Stay: Lion Sands Game Reserve, Kruger National Park / Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge, Sabi Sands Game Reserve.

Arise with sunrise to a cup of freshly-brewed coffee and depart on your morning game drive. Marvel at your tracker's skills, as he analyses animal spoor and reads the bush, like a book, in search of the Big Five. Keep your eyes peeled for leopard, as you pass rocky outcrops, and listen for the sounds of elephants munching on mopane leaves. See crocodiles and hippopotamus at watering holes and look out for the many exotic bird species found in the area.

Return to your lodge just in time for a spectacular breakfast spread overlooking the river. Savour lunch before enjoying the afternoon. Your Journey, Your Way. Choose to relax over high tea. Alternatively, join your ranger for a bush walk. Afterwards you will have some time at leisure, perhaps opting for a rejuvenating massage at the Africology Spa? Then prepare for your second game drive for the day. Early evening is the ideal time to spot members of the Big Five, including rhinoceros, buffalo and lion. Sit tight, as your ranger leads the way to unforgettable game sightings.

Drink a toast to nature's bounties, as the sun dips beyond the savannah, returning to your lodge in time for yet another magnificent dinner, set by candle-light. The in-house chefs specialise in a variety of cuisines and are able to offer you everything from vegetarian to traditional fare. (B/LW/DW)

Awake at sunrise, the best time to spot predators, for your morning game drive. Huddle under blankets, as you're driven through the fresh morning mist in search of wildlife. Perhaps stop along the Sabie River to enjoy a cup of coffee, while keeping an eye out for buck and giraffes. Upon returning to your lodge, savour breakfast, served on the deck, and enjoy some time at leisure. Perhaps shop at the curio shop, go on a birding walk or enjoy a siesta, before lunch and afternoon tea are served.

Join your ranger and tracker for your final evening game drive and soak up the magic of the African bushveld illuminated by the sinking sun. Raise a glass in the evening to an outstanding adventure, as you savour your Celebration Dinner beneath a blanket of stars. (B/LW/DW)

Appreciate the skill and in-depth knowledge of your ranger and tracker on your final morning game-drive. Perhaps appreciate the sight of a colourful bird or a warthog running across the road with its tail upright. After breakfast, you're driven to Skukuza Airport for your included flight to Johannesburg.

On arrival, transfer to your stunning inner-city hotel, the Michelangelo, known for being a member of the Leading Hotels of the World. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Perhaps enjoy a massage at the luxurious spa, venture into Sandton for a glitzy shopping experience or head into the multi-cultural old city with its traditional medicine shops, Chinese restaurants, taxi ranks and ultra-modern skyscrapers. (B)

You are transferred to Pretoria Rovos Rail Station to board your exquisite vintage train and embark on an unforgettable journey to Victoria Falls. With discreet and friendly service, top cuisine and a selection of South Africa's finest wines, Rovos Rail harks back to a simpler, more elegant era encompassing the timeless grace and high romance of African exploration.

Travel through Warmbaths (Bela-Bela) – so named for its mineral waters – and Nylstroom, christened by the Voortrekkers as the source of the Nile River as the town's river happened to be north flowing. Pass the edge of the escarpment where the Highveld drops precipitously. Cross the Tropic of Capricorn and cross the Limpopo River to Beitbridge. (B/L/DW) Stay: Rovos Rail.

It's the perfect opportunity to relax in your private suite or mingle with your fellow travellers in the luxurious lounge with its big picture windows, sofas and booths. Head to the observation car and its open-air balcony to soak up the sensational scenery as you journey through the baobab country. Travel towards Bulawayo, the capital of Matabeleland and the second city of Zimbabwe. (B/L/DW)

Journey along one of the world's longest stretches of straight railway line – 114km – before traversing Hwange National Park, a rich and diverse wildlife sanctuary where you will revel in a game drive excursion. Hwange is the largest national park in Zimbabwe and one of the world's last great elephant sanctuaries. It also is known for regular sightings of cheetah, leopard and lion, as well as one of Africa's largest populations of the endangered wild dog, and rare species such as roan and sable. (B/L/DW)

Arrive at the incomparable Victoria Falls on the mighty Zambezi River and disembark your train. Get up close to the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls on a guided walk alongside a Local Expert. The sheer magnitude of the waterfalls, considered the largest in the world, will take your breath away. In the evening, gather in the Livingstone Room at your hotel for a magical Celebration Dinner with your fellow travellers. (B/DW) Stay: The Stanley and Livingstone (Luxury Suite).

Enjoy a hearty breakfast and leisurely morning, before transferring to the airport where your journey comes to an end. Please do not book onward flights from Johannesburg before 19.00 if travelling from Victoria Falls. (B)

Trip Inclusions

  • Cape Peninsula: Take the sweeping roads connecting the scenic bays of Cape Peninsula on one of the world's legendary drives. Slip through the quaint beauty of Hout Bay and traverse the mountain road of Chapman's Peak on your journey to Cape Point.
  • Cape Point Nature Reserve: Wander the immaculate wilderness and distinctive flora of Cape Point Nature Reserve in the invigorating ocean breeze. Spot resident creatures from the sprightly reebok to the evasive eland alongside the striking Cape Mountain zebra and the legendary Cape baboons.
  • Cape Point Nature Reserve: Pay a visit to the secluded Boulders Beach with a park ranger who knows all about the flora and fauna of the area. Marvel at its local residents, a colony of African penguins who can be seen frolicking in the water.
  • Table Mountain: Rise to the summit of Table Mountain in the famous cable car and look out to 360-degree views across Cape Town, Lion's Head, and the Atlantic Ocean. Watch the sunset with glass in hand at a private mountaintop drinks reception.
  • Cape Winelands: Meander through the luscious green countryside north of Cape Town on a scenic drive through the wineland towns of Paarl, Stellenbosch, and Franschhoek. See the valley spread before you as you pass the region's numerous vineyards, wineries, and cheese farm stalls.
  • Winelands: Relax and enjoy the view as you are returned to Cape Town in a chauffeur-driven vintage car. Gaze out to the beauty of the passing scenery in the late afternoon sun as you reflect on your day's adventure in the winelands.
  • Robben Island: Enjoy a visit to the Amy Foundation, a non-profit organisation. On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience witness how the lives of vulnerable young people are being transformed through a variety of empowering programmes.
  • Robben Island: Meet an ex-political prisoner and hear their first-hand stories on your visit to the poignant historical facility of Robben Island. Explore the former jail under the guidance of a knowledgeable Local Expert and discover the tales of Nelson Mandela's famous exile.
  • Kruger National Park: Venture deep into the heart of one of the world's largest game reserves on a thrilling three-day safari. Experience six game drives in a private, open-air safari vehicle and keep your eyes peeled for any of the Big Five.
  • Hwange National Park: Head out with your expert guides and search for Hwange's Big Five among acaica-filled vleis and teak forests.
  • Victoria Falls (Zambia): See the awe inspiring Victoria Falls alongside a Local Expert who will share intriguing stories about the area's history and folklore with you. Feel the spray as you marvel at the sheer magnitude of the waterfalls, thundering to the rocks below.
  • Cape Town: Join Christo Brand, a former prison guard of Nelson Mandela, for lunch at the Amy Foundation to hear fascinating stories about South Africa's first Black President, a heroic figure who stood for freedom and justice throughout the late 20th century.

Choose between two carefully selected activities

  • Cape Town: Visit the District Six Museum, a memorial dedicated to the area destroyed during the Apartheid era and the 60,000 inhabitants who were forced to relocate.
  • Cape Town: Join a Local Expert for a visit of trendy The Old Biscuit Mill, a vibrant market and creative hub in the city. Meet some of the vendors, browse the stalls and sample culinary delights.

Choose between two carefully selected activities

  • Cape Winelands: Sip the award-winning wines of the Vergelegen Estate during a private tasting with the expert winemaker of the estate. Take a stroll through some of the 18 unique gardens of the manor house while you visit.
  • Cape Winelands: Get on a bike and explore of of the nearby vineyards with a guide.

Choose between two carefully selected activities

  • Kruger National Park: Join your ranger for a bush walk where you can experience the thrill of tracking different wildlife.
  • Kruger National Park: Enjoy a relaxing high tea served in the peaceful surrounds of Lion Sands, with only birdsong for company.

  • You will be escorted by one of our fine Travelling Concierges, handpicked to serve as your expert guide, consummate organiser, and friend overseas.
  • Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary, available on departures with 15 or more guests.
  • At every hotel, you'll be treated to seamless baggage handling, with prompt delivery inside your room.
  • Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
  • Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
  • Complimentary, private airport transfers are included on start and end dates, when flights are included within the itinerary and when additional accommodation has been booked through Luxury Gold. Guests will be transferred with fellow Luxury Gold Travellers that arrive on the same flight.

  • Cape Town: Begin your journey in style with an outstanding Welcome Dinner at the Azure Restaurant. Taste exquisite flavours from executive chef Christo Pretorius as you glimpse spectacular views of the Atlantic from your dazzling vantage point over Camps Bay.
  • Kalk Bay: Take a seat at the elegant Harbour House in Kalk Bay for a sumptuous lunch with wine, accompanied by endless views of False Bay and the Hottentots Mountain Range rising in the distance. Dine on freshly caught fish prepared with flair.
  • Cape Town: Join a Local Expert for a visit of trendy The Old Biscuit Mill, a vibrant market and creative hub in the city. Meet some of the vendors, browse the stalls and sample culinary delights.
  • Boschendal Wine Estate: Savour a delicious Farm-to-Table meal at the award-winning Werf Restaurant, renowned for its sustainability. Chef Allistaire Lawrence presents a menu guided by the seasons with local and ethically sourced produce brought to the fore in each dish.
  • Cape Winelands: Sip the award-winning wines of the Vergelegen Estate during a private tasting with the expert winemaker of the estate. Take a stroll through some of the 18 unique gardens of the manor house while you visit.
  • Kruger National Park: Enjoy a relaxing high tea served in the peaceful surrounds of Lion Sands, with only birdsong for company.
  • Kruger National Park: Dine under the twinkling stars of the Kruger sky as Lion Sands' expert chefs prepare a sumptuous Celebration Dinner. Toast with fine local wines to your adventures in the unspoilt wilderness as you taste mouthwatering modern dishes based on traditional recipes.
  • Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe): Toast your journey over a remarkable Celebration Dinner at the elegant Edwardian-style Livingstone Room.
  • Dining Summary: 9 Dinner with Wine (DW), 13 Breakfast (B), 5 Lunch with Wine (LW), and 4 Lunch (L)

  • Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
  • Experience enhanced hygiene protocols to align with the latest guidance following COVID-19. All Travelling Concierge's and Drivers have completed training in enhanced well-being and hygiene protocols.
  • We only work with establishments we are confident will consistently adhere to our high well-being standards, which include hotels, restaurants and sight-seeing venues.
  • Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.

  • Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
  • Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
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There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and will no longer continue. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view the general release dates for all destinations.

Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Luxury Gold. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Luxury Gold. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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