Rovos Rail is arguably the most luxurious train in the world, offering glamorous journeys throughout Southern Africa, as well as an annual 22-day voyage across Africa from Cape Town to Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, stopping over at Madikwe Game Reserve, and the mighty Victoria Falls, among other destinations.

The most expensive and luxurious train ride in Africa is generally considered to be the Rovos Rail "Pride of Africa," specifically the epic 16-night journey from Cape Town, South Africa, to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. As of 2026, a "Royal Suite" on this route can cost upwards of $25,000 to $30,000 per person. This journey covers approximately 5,800 kilometers and traverses five countries, including South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Tanzania. The experience is designed to replicate the "golden age of travel," featuring beautifully restored wood-paneled coaches, fine dining with crystal and linen, and off-train excursions to iconic landmarks like Victoria Falls and the Madikwe Game Reserve. Another contender for high-end rail travel is the Blue Train in South Africa, which offers a "window to the soul of Africa" between Pretoria and Cape Town; while shorter (usually 2 nights), its all-inclusive luxury and personalized butler service command thousands of dollars per ticket. Both services cater to a high-end international clientele seeking a slow-travel experience that emphasizes comfort, history, and breathtaking scenery over speed.