There are few countries as varied as South Africa. Pristine beaches home to penguins, wild savannah where the 'Big Five' roam, glistening vineyards producing world-renowned wines, and laid-back coastal cities brimming with culture.
And what better way to explore this breathtaking country than on one of the world's most luxurious trains? Our Product Manager, Emma Nabbs, recently experienced an unforgettable journey aboard Rovos Rail, enjoying five-star service on board and uncovering just some of the treasures of South Africa.
Rovos Rail is the passion of owner Rohan Vos, who founded the company in 1989. Now very much a family affair, Rohan, his wife Anthea and his four children have helped Rovos Rail create a reputation for magnificent rail explorations across South Africa, Botswana, Victoria Falls and even further afield to Namibia and Tanzania.
Boarding Rovos Rail in Pretoria
Rohan's hands-on approach stretches to the welcome at Rovos Rail's private station in Pretoria.
Emma says: "Rohan personally greeted us at the station - something he tries to do for passengers whenever possible. He walked us around the yard, explaining the history of the company, the carriages and engines.
"Everything on the train is handmade by their skilled staff. There's real attention to detail.
"We were then provided with a glass of fizz in the lounge area before being escorted to our cabins. Our train was 18 carriages long, made up of cabins, multiple lounge cars with sofas and an amazing open-air balcony at the back.
"With a staff member for every four customers, you want for nothing whilst on board. Snacks and drinks are being constantly provided whenever you want them."
Dining aboard Rovos Rail
One of the pleasures of luxury rail travel is sampling indulgent gastronomy, and Rovos Rail is no exception!
"The food and drink on board is incredible," says Emma. "Breakfast is made to order, while each lunch and dinner is four courses - and each course is paired with a different wine.
"There's a very extensive wine list, mostly South African but not all. Staff are really informed about everything to do with the meal and they're really accommodating for dietary requirements. They made incredible off-menu dishes even on a train. The kitchen looked spotless but tiny, so it's amazing they can make such good food on a moving train.
"It's all local produce too. The train stops off to pick up fresh ingredients from trusted producers. My favourite dish was a bobotie. While the food was international, this was a traditional taste of South Africa - although a really fancy version! It was a delicious blend of curried meat with fruit and a golden topping."
Highlights of a journey on Rovos Rail
"I went to experience one of the world's most luxurious trains," says Emma about her visit to South Africa. "It's on a par with the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.
"Travelling through rather than over is a great way to cover a lot of the highlights without missing the scenery."
Journeying on Rovos Rail is not just about getting from one beautiful place to another, it's a highlight of the holiday in itself. Harking back to a bygone time, passengers can embrace the elegance of eras past while enjoying modern amenities and world-class service.
Whether savouring a glass of wine or talking to other passengers in the large-windowed lounge cars, reading a book in the observation car or unwinding on the open-air balcony, keep an eye out for the wonderful sights passing by.
"From the train windows, we saw ostriches and flamingos in the wild," says Emma. "On the final morning, coming into Cape Town through the Cape winelands, we woke up surrounded by lush vineyards and mountains. It was a real contrast from the wild karoo, where there are animals roaming."
Ending the journey in Cape Town certainly softens the blow of concluding such an iconic trip.
"People had told me Cape Town was amazing, but I wasn't sure if it was right for me," continues Emma. "Now, I can't wait to go back!
"The centre is called the 'city bowl', with sea on one side and Table Mountain wrapped around it.
"It's a city that has everything - certainly helped by the blue skies when I was there. If you want shopping and a lively city, the V&A Waterfront is right there. If you want a day at the beach, you're 20 minutes from pure white sand, turquoise water and colourful beach huts. With so many vineyards nearby, it's great for food and drink too.
"It's amazing - you can even see humpback whales from the shore at certain times. There's something for everyone. I get what people mean now."
Why travel with Rovos Rail?
"It's a luxurious and convenient way of seeing South Africa," explains Emma. "The country is so big and there aren't really any intercity passenger trains. It's a great way to see more - and in incredible style!
"But it's mostly about the experience and preserving the relaxing atmosphere of travel. The lounge cars are always staffed, so you can unwind on the sofas and talk to your fellow travellers. At the very back is the bar and the observation area - lots of people gather there.
"If you're hesitant about sleeper trains and spending time on them, the observation car might change your mind! The fact that you can go to the back, sit down and watch the scenery pass by doesn't feel like being on a train."
One of the appeals of luxury trains is that you can be as sociable as you wish but always have your elegant cabin to return to when you like.
"It's a very sociable journey but you are free to go to your cabin at any point and read a book or watch the world go by. During the daytime, there are seats in your cabin, and you can ring your concierge who'll bring you whatever you want.
"Switch off and enjoy being taken care of and not having to lift a finger!"
How to experience Rovos Rail
There are many ways to enjoy an unforgettable journey aboard Rovos Rail with Great Rail Journeys.
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through incredible safari reserves on our Landmark escorted Grand Tour of South Africa or travel to Victoria Falls on our Classic Victoria Falls, Cape Town and Botswana Safari tour.
For those looking to experience the luxury train on an independent holiday, you can discover South Africa and beyond - uncovering the delights of Namibia, Zambia and Tanzania in exquisite style.
