Rovos Rail, Durban & Big Five

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 Umhlanga
• 2x Hluhluwe
• 2x iSimangaliso Wetland Park
• 1x Umhlanga

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• 9x overnight stay in the Superior Plus category ****/*****
• 9x breakfast, 6x lunch, 6x dinner
• private transfers according to program
• one-way trip on Rovos Rail with activities
• Four game drives in the Big Five Manyoni Game Reserve
• four guided activities in the 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

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.

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). For long-distance transfers, toilet and catering stops are made as required (catering not included in the price).

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 elegant Castello Di Monte, a luxurious Tuscan-style property with a cozy garden in the quiet suburb of Waterkloof Ridge. The highlights of Pretoria can be reached in around 15 minutes by car. The nine rooms have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a minibar, a tea/coffee maker, a TV, a safe and free WiFi. The Terrace Rooms also have a balcony or terrace. The suites are more spacious with their own lounge area. The accommodation offers a pool, a sun terrace, a garden, a restaurant and a lounge.

CASTELLO DI MONTE (TERRACE ROOM)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 2: PRETORIA

ONEWAY TRANSFER PRETORIA LOCAL

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.

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). For long-distance transfers, toilet and catering stops are made as required (catering not included in the price).

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

OPTIONAL UPGRADE FROM €1,480 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

ONE-WAY TRANSFER IN THE DURBAN AREA

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.

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). For long-distance transfers, toilet and catering stops are made as required (catering not included in the price).

DAY 4 TO DAY 5:

UMHLANGA

Continue to the metropolitan area of the lively metropolis of Durban. Visit the colorful markets or simply relax on one of the many excellent city beaches on the warm Indian Ocean, which invites you to swim here all year round. It is also worth visiting uShaka Marine World, a large aquarium and amusement park with stores and restaurants. The Moses Mabhida Stadium, inaugurated in 2010 for the World Cup, has become a tourist attraction.

The luxurious Teremok Lodge is located in the quiet suburb of Umhlanga, just a few meters from the sea with a great view of the subtropical nature. The beach with the famous lighthouse, stores and restaurants are all within walking distance. The eight suites are individually furnished and all have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a coffee/tea maker, a TV, a minibar, a safe and a balcony or veranda. The accommodation has a pool with sun loungers, a subtropical garden, a lounge, a bar and a spa area (for a fee).

TEREMOK MARINE (SUITE)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 5: UMHLANGA

ONEWAY TRANSFER TO HLUHLUWE

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.

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). For long-distance transfers, toilet and catering stops are made as required (catering not included in the price).

DAY 5 TO DAY 7:

HLUHLUWE

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 perched on a hilltop and offers breathtaking views of the African bush, the Msunduze River in the valley, and the mighty Lebombo Mountains in the background. The nine detached luxury chalet suites feature an open-plan bathroom with a shower and separate toilet, air conditioning, a minibar, tea/coffee making facilities, and a veranda with an outdoor shower, seating, a hammock, a private plunge pool, and stunning views. The lodge offers a viewing deck, a bar, a restaurant, a boma (traditional dining area around a campfire), a spa area (available for a fee), and free Wi-Fi.

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.

LEOPARD MOUNTAIN LODGE (LUXURY SUITE)

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

DAY 7: HLUHLUWE

One-way transfer to Isimangaloso

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.

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). For long-distance transfers, toilet and catering stops are made as required (catering not included in the price).

DAY 7 TO DAY 9:

ISIMANGALISO WETLAND PARK

The iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a unique nature park consisting of wetlands and coastal areas, the likes of which cannot be found anywhere else in Africa. The park has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. Covering an area of over 13,000 square kilometers, including 850 square kilometers of marine protected areas and a coastline of 220 kilometers, it offers breathtaking insights into various ecosystems and animal worlds. From the clear waters of the Indian Ocean and the largely untouched sandy beaches, there is a transition to forested dune areas and a mosaic of wetlands, grasslands, forests, lakes and savannah. Of the 6,500 animal and plant species most recently recorded, some are found only here or only in South Africa.

The luxurious Makakatana Bay Lodge is located about 30 minutes by car from the small town of St. Lucia in the middle of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park on the shores of Lake St. Lucia. The mixture of seclusion in nature as well as game viewing opportunities on land and water make this safari lodge a very special experience. The seven detached chalets offer maximum privacy and have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, safe, tea/coffee maker, minibar and an outdoor deck with outdoor shower and outdoor bathtub. The Family Suites have two separate bedrooms that share a bathroom/WC. The lodge offers an outdoor deck with pool, a lounge, a bar, a boma (traditional campfire dining area) and free Wi-Fi.

You will take part in two guided activities per overnight stay (game drives in an open off-road vehicle, boat trips on Lake St. Lucia, beach safaris), which are conducted in English with other people.

MAKAKATANA BAY LODGE (LUXURY SUITE)

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

DAY 9: ISIMANGALISO WETLAND PARK

ONE-WAY TRANSFER TO THE DURBAN AREA

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.

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). For long-distance transfers, toilet and catering stops are made as required (catering not included in the price).

DAY 9 TO DAY 10:

UMHLANGA

Continue to the metropolitan area of the lively metropolis of Durban. Visit the colorful markets or simply relax on one of the many excellent city beaches on the warm Indian Ocean, which invites you to swim here all year round. It is also worth visiting uShaka Marine World, a large aquarium and amusement park with stores and restaurants. The Moses Mabhida Stadium, inaugurated in 2010 for the World Cup, has become a tourist attraction.

The luxurious Teremok Lodge is located in the quiet suburb of Umhlanga, just a few meters from the sea with a great view of the subtropical nature. The beach with the famous lighthouse, stores and restaurants are all within walking distance. The eight suites are individually furnished and all have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a coffee/tea maker, a TV, a minibar, a safe and a balcony or veranda. The accommodation has a pool with sun loungers, a subtropical garden, a lounge, a bar and a spa area (for a fee).

TEREMOK MARINE (SUITE)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 10: UMHLANGA

ONE-WAY TRANSFER TO THE DURBAN AREA

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.

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). For long-distance transfers, toilet and catering stops are made as required (catering not included in the price).

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 Johannesburg, Cape Town or 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 four 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 and are based on the number of participants stated. 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 about 5 EUR (small salad, soup) to 8 EUR (pizza, pasta, burger) per person; dinner costs about 10 EUR (pizza, pasta, burger, large salad) to over 12 EUR (steak, fish) up to 22 EUR (three-course meal) per person. Coffee, tea, beer, or soft drinks cost about 1.70 EUR per cup or glass. Prices may vary up or down 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.