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What makes Rovos Rail unique?

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.



Rovos Rail, often called "The Most Luxurious Train in the World," is unique for its commitment to the "Golden Age" of travel. Unlike modern high-speed trains, Rovos focuses on the journey itself, traveling through Southern Africa at a leisurely maximum speed of just 60km/h to ensure passenger comfort and scenic appreciation. It is one of the few trains in the world where every suite features a full, private en-suite bathroom with a shower (and in the Royal Suites, a Victorian claw-foot bathtub). To preserve the nostalgic atmosphere, there is a strict no-technology policy in public areas—no Wi-Fi, radios, or televisions—and guests are expected to dress in formal attire for dinner. This creates an immersive, timeless social environment where passengers truly disconnect and engage with each other while traversing stunning landscapes like Victoria Falls or the Great Karoo.

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Rovos Suites All these luxurious suites are air-conditioned with en-suite facilities, decorated in beautiful wood panelling and period Edwardian features. There are three styles that guests can choose from (Royal, Deluxe, Pullman), with varying levels of luxury.

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What is the dress code on board Rovos Rail? For days on the train, dress is smart casual. Evening attire is more formal – for the gentlemen, a jacket and tie is a minimum requirement while for ladies we suggest cocktail/evening dresses or suits. Please include warm clothing for cold mornings and evenings.

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There's a story behind all of the Rovos Rail locomotives, their acquisition and restoration. Each one has a distinctive character and charm and all are named after members of owner Rohan Vos' family. The first engine acquired was No 2702 Bianca, a Class 19D locomotive built by Borsig in 1938.

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The Venice Simplon-Orient Express (VSOE) is the world's most authentic luxury train.

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If you're looking for the most beautiful train ride on earth, you know that Switzerland has to be number one on this list. The Bernina Express is a scenic train route unlike no other. It's a four-hour trip from start to finish and covers a total of 76 miles (or 122 km) of the track.

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The Japan Railway West Co., better known as JR West, debuted a Hello Kitty bullet train service on its Sanyo Shinkansen line on June 2018.

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And don't forget Rovos Rail packages, rates and prices are fully inclusive of all meals and beverages on board, with suggested food and wine pairing recommendations given on all menus.

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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.

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