Rovos Rail Coast & Safari

ABOUT THIS TRIP

A trip on Rovos Rail, the "Pride Of Africa", is a very special experience. In the most luxurious train in the world, you will cross South Africa from Pretoria to the always-warm Dolphin Coast (or vice versa) through the diverse landscapes of the Highveld, the Natal Midlands and subtropical Zululand. On the way you will take part in two excursions: in the Nambiti Private Game Reserve near Ladysmith you will discover the Big Five on a guided game drive and in the Spionkopdam Nature Reserve you will have the opportunity to visit an old battlefield from the time of the Boer Wars. After the train ride, the safari continues in Hluhluwe Imfolozi Park and iSimangaliso Wetland Park, where you can experience the Big Five as well as all other African wildlife. You will then have time to relax on the beautiful beaches of the warm Indian Ocean.

You stay in upmarket accommodation with first-class service. The same naturally applies to the Rovos Rail. This tour starts on certain fixed dates in Johannesburg or Durban. Please ask for your personal offer. This trip can be customized around the train journey according to your wishes.

OVERNIGHT STATIONS

• 1x Pretoria
• 2x Rovos Rail
• 1x Ballito
• 2x Hluhluwe
• 2x St. Lucia
• 1x Ballito

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• 9x overnight stay in the Superior Plus category ****/*****
• 9x breakfast, 5x lunch, 4x dinner
• private transfers
• Rovos Rail journey with activities as per program
• four game drives Hluhluwe Imfolozi Park
• Sunset cruise iSimangaliso Wetland Park
• Day game drive iSimangaliso Wetland Park
• Access to the airport lounge on the day of departure
• Comprehensive travel documents according to the booked tour itinerary
• Local offices with 24-hour hotline (German/English)
• Travel insurance certificate

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• Meals not mentioned
• not mentioned or optional activities
• Flight performance
• Entrance fees and conservation fees not mentioned
• other personal expenses, tips
• personal travel insurance
• Continuous tour guide

DAY 1: JOHANNESBURG

ONEWAY TRANSFER TO PRETORIA

This private transfer is operated by a qualified English-speaking driver. The vehicle is air-conditioned and corresponds to your private group size, there are no other passengers. The transfer company has all the necessary licenses and insurance for its vehicles and drivers to guarantee legal passenger transportation (no Uber or similar).

In the case of a transfer from your accommodation, you will be picked up at the entrance of your guesthouse, lodge or hotel at the agreed time. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation or at the airport.

For transfers from the airport, you will be met personally in the arrivals hall. Please look out for a person carrying a sign with your name on it. If an explicit pick-up point or meeting point is mentioned in your tour book, please go there. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation.

DAY 1 TO DAY 2:

PRETORIA

Pretoria is the capital of South Africa and shares the seat of government with Cape Town and Bloemfontein. In contrast to vibrant Johannesburg, Pretoria shines with its diverse history. The most important sights are the Union Buildings on a hill with a great view of the city, the former home of state founder Paul Kruger, the central Church Square and the Voortrekker Monument. As a major city, Pretoria naturally also has countless shopping opportunities, restaurants and cafés to offer. A visual highlight is the month of October, when the blossoms of the Jakaranda trees transform entire streets into purple avenues.

Stay at the luxurious Bohemian House, a beautiful property with a cozy garden in the quiet suburb of Waterkloof Ridge. The highlights of Pretoria can be reached in about 15 minutes by car. The ten rooms all have their own bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a minibar, a tea/coffee maker, a TV and free WiFi. A separate door leads to your private balcony or veranda. The accommodation offers a pool, a sun terrace, a garden, a spa area (for a fee) and a lounge. There are restaurants and shops within walking distance.

BOHEMIAN HOUSE (LUXURY GARDEN ROOM)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 2: PRETORIA

ONEWAY TRANSFER PRETORIA LOCAL

This private transfer is operated by a qualified English-speaking driver. The vehicle is air-conditioned and corresponds to your private group size, there are no other passengers. The transfer company has all the necessary licenses and insurance for its vehicles and drivers to guarantee legal passenger transportation (no Uber or similar).

In the case of a transfer from your accommodation, you will be picked up at the entrance of your guesthouse, lodge or hotel at the agreed time. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation or at the airport.

For transfers from the airport, you will be met personally in the arrivals hall. Please look out for a person carrying a sign with your name on it. If an explicit pick-up point or meeting point is mentioned in your tour book, please go there. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation.

DAY 2 TO DAY 4:

PRETORIA

The Rovos Rail is definitely the most luxurious way to spend your vacation in South Africa. The trains with their lovingly restored nostalgic carriages are a five-star hotel on wheels. All carriages are air-conditioned and offer every conceivable comfort. Each train has a dining car, a lounge car and a viewing car at the end of the train. Breakfast and lunch are served buffet style, extras can be ordered. In the afternoon, cakes are served in the lounge car. Dinner is a multi-course menu. A 24-hour butler service is also available to every guest.

On the drive between Pretoria and Durban, there are stops at the Nambiti Game Reserve (a private Big Five game reserve) and the Spioenkop Nature Reserve (a state-owned national park), each with game drives in open off-road vehicles or a visit to an old battlefield from the Boer Wars. The trip starts in Pretoria on day 1 at 10:00 and ends in Durban on day 3 at 16:00.

The Pullman suites are approx. 7 square meters in size and have a comfortable bed that can be converted into a couch during the day. Two single beds (bunk beds) can also be booked on request. The suite is air-conditioned (hot/cold) and has its own bathroom with shower/WC, a tea/coffee maker, a safe and a hairdryer. High-quality toiletries and small treats round off the perfect facilities.

ROVOS RAIL PRETORIA TO DURBAN (2 NIGHTS) (PULLMAN SUITE)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND DRINKS AND 2 ACTIVITIES

DAY 2 TO DAY 4:

PRETORIA

OPTIONALLY UPGRADEABLE FROM 1.115 € PER PERSON

The Rovos Rail is definitely the most luxurious way to spend your vacation in South Africa. The trains with their lovingly restored nostalgic carriages are a five-star hotel on wheels. All carriages are air-conditioned and offer every conceivable comfort. Each train has a dining car, a lounge car and a viewing car at the end of the train. Breakfast and lunch are served buffet style, extras can be ordered. In the afternoon, cakes are served in the lounge car. Dinner is a multi-course menu. A 24-hour butler service is also available to every guest.

On the drive between Pretoria and Durban, there are stops at the Nambiti Game Reserve (a private Big Five game reserve) and the Spioenkop Nature Reserve (a state-owned national park), each with game drives in open off-road vehicles or a visit to an old battlefield from the Boer Wars. The trip starts in Pretoria on day 1 at 10:00 and ends in Durban on day 3 at 16:00.

The deluxe suites are approx. 10 square meters in size and have a comfortable bed and a small lounge area. Two single beds can also be booked on request. The suite is air-conditioned (hot/cold) and has its own bathroom with shower/WC, a tea/coffee maker, a minibar, a safe and a hairdryer. High-quality toiletries and small treats round off the perfect facilities.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

ROVOS RAIL PRETORIA TO DURBAN (2 NIGHTS) (DELUXE SUITE)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND DRINKS AND 2 ACTIVITIES

DAY 4: DURBAN

ONEWAY TRANSFER TO BALLITO

This private transfer is operated by a qualified English-speaking driver. The vehicle is air-conditioned and corresponds to your private group size, there are no other passengers. The transfer company has all the necessary licenses and insurance for its vehicles and drivers to guarantee legal passenger transportation (no Uber or similar).

In the case of a transfer from your accommodation, you will be picked up at the entrance of your guesthouse, lodge or hotel at the agreed time. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation or at the airport.

For transfers from the airport, you will be met personally in the arrivals hall. Please look out for a person carrying a sign with your name on it. If an explicit pick-up point or meeting point is mentioned in your tour book, please go there. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation.

DAY 4 TO DAY 5:

BALLITO

The cozy vacation resort of Ballito is located around 40 km north of Durban on the warm Indian Ocean with its endless golden beaches. The so-called Dolphin Coast offers year-round bathing pleasure. It is a wonderful place to relax and unwind. Nevertheless, the city of Durban with Shaka Marine World and the Moses Madhiba World Cup Stadium can be reached in just under 45 minutes by car. The Gateway Shopping Center in Umhlanga, South Africa's largest mall, can be reached in around 30 minutes by car.

The Canelands Beach Club & SPA is located directly on the beach in the small district of Salt Rock and offers a breathtaking view of the sea. The name is a little misleading, as the luxurious boutique hotel consists of just ten spacious rooms, all of which have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a TV, a coffee/tea maker, a minibar, a safe and free Wi-Fi. The Standard Rooms are approximately 30 square meters in size and have a small balcony or terrace with garden view. The Superior Rooms are about 40 square meters in size and have a balcony with sea view. The Deluxe Rooms are about 75 square meters in size and also have a balcony with sea view. The hotel offers a pool, a garden, a lounge, a restaurant (if you don't want to go out in the evening) and a spa for a fee.

CANELANDS BEACH CLUB & SPA (SUPERIOR ROOM SEA VIEW)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 5: BALLITO

ONEWAY TRANSFER TO HLUHLUWE

This private transfer is operated by a qualified English-speaking driver. The vehicle is air-conditioned and corresponds to your private group size, there are no other passengers. The transfer company has all the necessary licenses and insurance for its vehicles and drivers to guarantee legal passenger transportation (no Uber or similar).

In the case of a transfer from your accommodation, you will be picked up at the entrance of your guesthouse, lodge or hotel at the agreed time. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation or at the airport.

For transfers from the airport, you will be met personally in the arrivals hall. Please look out for a person carrying a sign with your name on it. If an explicit pick-up point or meeting point is mentioned in your tour book, please go there. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation.

DAY 5 TO DAY 7:

HLUHLUWE

Your next destination is the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, which is divided into the northern Hluhluwe section and the southern Umfolozi section. The two rivers of the same name gave the park its name. The park is home to the Big Five, including elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos and buffalo. The rhino population in particular is larger here than anywhere else in the world. With over 20000 hectares of rolling hills and open savannah, the park is one of the most beautiful game reserves in South Africa.

The luxurious Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge is the only private lodge in the Hluhluwe section of the park and offers breathtaking views over the African bush. The lodge has an outdoor pool, sun deck, fire pit, bar, restaurant and spa area (for a fee). The 16 modern rooms have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a fan, a minibar, a tea/coffee maker, a safe, a private outdoor deck and free Wi-Fi. The Family Rooms have two separate bedrooms, each with its own bathroom/WC. The Luxury Bush Villas have an additional lounge area with fireplace and a larger outdoor deck. The Honeymoon Bush Villas also offer a private plunge pool on the outside deck.

For each overnight stay you take part in two guided game drives in an open off-road vehicle (English-speaking, participation with other people), which take place in the afternoon before dinner and in the morning before breakfast.

RHINO RIDGE SAFARI LODGE (LUXURY BUSH VILLA)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND 4 ACTIVITIES

DAY 5 TO DAY 7:

HLUHLUWE

OPTIONALLY UPGRADEABLE FROM 290 € PER PERSON

Your destination is the private Manyoni Game Reserve near Hluhluwe in northern KwaZulu-Natal, which covers around 24,000 hectares. The reserve is home to the Big Five and many other African wild animals. In contrast to the state-run Hluhluwe Imfolozi Park, only overnight guests have access to the private reserves. These are therefore much better suited to a short stay for unique game viewing. The small lodges also offer a very personal atmosphere. Specially trained rangers ensure a first-class nature experience.

The exclusive Leopard Mountain Lodge is situated on a hill and offers breathtaking views of the African bush, the Msunduze River in the valley and the mighty Lebombo Mountains in the background. The eight detached luxury chalet suites have an open bathroom with shower and separate toilet, air conditioning, minibar, tea/coffee making facilities and a veranda with outdoor shower, seating, hammock, private plunge pool and unique views. The lodge offers a viewing deck, a bar, a restaurant, a boma (traditional campfire dining area), a spa area for a fee and free WiFi.

For each overnight stay you take part in two guided game drives in an open off-road vehicle (English-speaking, participation with other people), which take place in the afternoon before dinner and in the morning before breakfast.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

LEOPARD MOUNTAIN LODGE (LUXURY SUITE)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND DRINKS AND 4 ACTIVITIES

DAY 7: HLUHLUWE

ONEWAY TRANSFER TO ST. LUCIA

This private transfer is operated by a qualified English-speaking driver. The vehicle is air-conditioned and corresponds to your private group size, there are no other passengers. The transfer company has all the necessary licenses and insurance for its vehicles and drivers to guarantee legal passenger transportation (no Uber or similar).

In the case of a transfer from your accommodation, you will be picked up at the entrance of your guesthouse, lodge or hotel at the agreed time. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation or at the airport.

For transfers from the airport, you will be met personally in the arrivals hall. Please look out for a person carrying a sign with your name on it. If an explicit pick-up point or meeting point is mentioned in your tour book, please go there. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation.

DAY 7 TO DAY 9:

ST. LUCIA

Your destination is the small town of St. Lucia in northern KwaZulu-Natal. This is the ideal starting point for excursions in the surrounding area. Take a boat trip to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and discover hippos, crocodiles and unique birdlife. The Eastern Shore Section with Cape Vidal is a unique nature retreat with a real bush & beach feeling between the ocean and the evergreen hinterland, which is even home to three of the Big Five. The beautiful beach of St. Lucia with subtropical water temperatures invites you to swim all year round. An excursion to the famous Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, the oldest and perhaps most beautiful game reserve in South Africa with its Big Five, is also an absolute highlight.

The modern Serene Estate Boutique Guest House is located on the outskirts of St. Lucia, overlooking the subtropical landscape of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park. The town center with restaurants and stores as well as the beach are within walking distance. The guest house impresses with its minimalist architecture, which nevertheless blends into the landscape. Bright colors and lighting effects were used to create the African ambience. The five rooms have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a fan, a minibar, a TV, a safe, a tea/coffee maker and free WiFi. The Garden Rooms are approximately 35 square meters in size and have a private veranda. The Parkside Suites are approximately 50sqm and offer a private balcony overlooking the Wetland Park. The guest house has a large pool, a modern bright garden and a cozy lounge area.

SERENE ESTATE (LUXURY PARKSIDE SUITE)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 7: ST. LUCIA

ISIMANGALISO SUNSET DRIVE

There is something magical about a sunset in iSimangaliso Wetland Park. In the cooler evening hours, the animals become active again and you have a good chance of spotting leopards, buffalo, hyenas, elephants, rhinos, hippos, zebras, warthogs and numerous species of antelope.

This game drive takes place in an open off-road vehicle and lasts around two and a half hours (English-speaking, conducted with additional persons). You will be picked up at your accommodation at 4 pm and dropped off there afterwards. Conservation fees are included in the price. Please remember to bring a jacket or sweater, as the game drives can get quite chilly in the evenings - even in the South African summer.

DAY 8: ST. LUCIA

CAPE VIDAL BEACH AND BUSH EXPERIENCE

The Eastern Shore Section of iSimangaliso Wetland Park offers a unique beach and bush experience. This unique evergreen sanctuary is home to hippos, elephants, rhinos, buffalos, antelopes, zebras and impressive birdlife and offers one of the most beautiful beaches in the area at Cape Vidal. As only a certain number of guests are granted access to this part of the Wetlands each day, you usually have the beautiful surroundings all to yourself. Also included is a snorkeling trip to discover the interesting underwater world of the Indian Ocean, as well as a traditional bush lunch.

You will be picked up at your accommodation at 8:00 am and dropped off there again in the afternoon. The tour language is English. The tour takes place in an open off-road vehicle. A maximum of ten people take part in this tour. Conservation fees, snorkeling equipment and lunch are included in the price.

DAY 9: ST. LUCIA

ONEWAY TRANSFER TO BALLITO

This private transfer is operated by a qualified English-speaking driver. The vehicle is air-conditioned and corresponds to your private group size, there are no other passengers. The transfer company has all the necessary licenses and insurance for its vehicles and drivers to guarantee legal passenger transportation (no Uber or similar).

In the case of a transfer from your accommodation, you will be picked up at the entrance of your guesthouse, lodge or hotel at the agreed time. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation or at the airport.

For transfers from the airport, you will be met personally in the arrivals hall. Please look out for a person carrying a sign with your name on it. If an explicit pick-up point or meeting point is mentioned in your tour book, please go there. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation.

DAY 9 TO DAY 10:

BALLITO

The cozy vacation resort of Ballito is located around 40 km north of Durban on the warm Indian Ocean with its endless golden beaches. The so-called Dolphin Coast offers year-round bathing pleasure. It is a wonderful place to relax and unwind. Nevertheless, the city of Durban with Shaka Marine World and the Moses Madhiba World Cup Stadium can be reached in just under 45 minutes by car. The Gateway Shopping Center in Umhlanga, South Africa's largest mall, can be reached in around 30 minutes by car.

The Canelands Beach Club & SPA is located directly on the beach in the small district of Salt Rock and offers a breathtaking view of the sea. The name is a little misleading, as the luxurious boutique hotel consists of just ten spacious rooms, all of which have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a TV, a coffee/tea maker, a minibar, a safe and free Wi-Fi. The Standard Rooms are approximately 30 square meters in size and have a small balcony or terrace with garden view. The Superior Rooms are about 40 square meters in size and have a balcony with sea view. The Deluxe Rooms are about 75 square meters in size and also have a balcony with sea view. The hotel offers a pool, a garden, a lounge, a restaurant (if you don't want to go out in the evening) and a spa for a fee.

CANELANDS BEACH CLUB & SPA (SUPERIOR ROOM SEA VIEW)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 10: BALLITO

ONEWAY TRANSFER DURBAN AIRPORT

This private transfer is operated by a qualified English-speaking driver. The vehicle is air-conditioned and corresponds to your private group size, there are no other passengers. The transfer company has all the necessary licenses and insurance for its vehicles and drivers to guarantee legal passenger transportation (no Uber or similar).

In the case of a transfer from your accommodation, you will be picked up at the entrance of your guesthouse, lodge or hotel at the agreed time. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation or at the airport.

For transfers from the airport, you will be met personally in the arrivals hall. Please look out for a person carrying a sign with your name on it. If an explicit pick-up point or meeting point is mentioned in your tour book, please go there. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation.

DAY 10: DURBAN

INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT LOUNGE

As an SA Travel customer, you are something very special and enjoy the comfort that otherwise only Business or First Class travelers can enjoy. Take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle at the airport on the day of departure and keep your vacation relaxation going for as long as possible.

You will have access to the airport lounge at your international departure airport in Durban. The lounge offers free drinks, snacks, newspapers, TV, WiFi and washing and shower facilities (facilities may vary depending on the lounge). You can use the lounge at the earliest three hours before your departure. Please note that lounge capacity is limited, especially at smaller airports, and access cannot always be guaranteed or there may be waiting times at the entrance.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THIS TRIP

All prices quoted are subject to availability before booking. Errors excepted. Alternative availability, seasonal overlaps or exchange rate fluctuations may lead to price changes. Please request your personal tour offer with your desired travel dates. This tour offer does not include flights.

The child rate applies to one child under the age of 12 staying in their parents' room. One child under the age of two stays free of charge. For children aged 12 and over, the adult rate generally applies. Not all accommodation allows children of all ages.

We recommend that you take out travel cancellation insurance and travel health insurance to cover the costs of assistance, including repatriation in the event of accident, illness or death. We can provide a corresponding offer on request.

A passport is required to enter the country. Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a visa in advance. Minors under the age of 18 may need to carry additional documents. We will inform you of the exact requirements before you book. Travelers who have stayed in an area at risk of yellow fever must provide proof of a yellow fever vaccination.

The regions around the Kruger Park, the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and eastern Eswatini are malaria endangered areas.

This trip is not suitable for people with reduced mobility. Please ask for suitable offers.

The organizer of this trip is South Africa Travel GmbH & Co. KG, Buddestraße 9, 33602 Bielefeld, Germany, Tel +49 521 33676880.

START DATES OF OUR TRAIN SAFARIS

The start dates of our train safaris depend on the respective departures of the Rovos Rails. Please enquire about your preferred period and we will send you an individual offer. The pre- and post-train program can be adapted to your wishes at any point.

APPROXIMATE ADDITIONAL COSTS THAT ARE NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

Long-haul flights to Southern Africa in Economy Class cost from EUR 900, while prices can be well over EUR 1000 in the high season. Flights in Premium Economy Class are available from 1500 EUR, in Business Class flights cost from 2500 EUR (per person for outward and return flights). All prices are average values depending on the airline and season. The actual prices at a given time depend on the number of bookings and may vary. Early booking is recommended, especially in the high season.

A light lunch costs around EUR 5 (small salad, soup) to EUR 8 (pizza, pasta, burger) per person, a dinner around EUR 9 (pizza, pasta, burger, large salad) to EUR 12 (steak, fish) to EUR 21 (three-course meal) per person. Coffee, tea, beer or soft drinks cost around EUR 1.60 per cup or glass. Prices may vary upwards or downwards depending on the region or type of restaurant.

Entrance fees to national parks cost between EUR 5 and EUR 25 per person per day, depending on the size and popularity of the park. Entrance fees to museums or other attractions cost between EUR 3 and EUR 20 per person. Children under the age of 12 usually pay half price.