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 the luxurious Thanda Game Reserve near Hluhluwe, where you can experience not only the Big Five but also all other African wildlife. Afterwards, you will have time to relax on the beautiful beaches of the warm Indian Ocean.

You stay in luxury class accommodation with perfect service. The same naturally applies to the Rovos Rail. This trip 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 Kosi Bay
• 1x Ballito

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• 9x overnight stay in the Deluxe 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 Phinda 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 (PRESIDENTIAL SUITE)

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 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.

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

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

DAY 2 TO DAY 4:

PRETORIA

OPTIONAL UPGRADE STARTING AT €1,610 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 Royal Suites are approx. 16 square meters in size and have a comfortable bed and a 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 and separate bathtub, a tea/coffee maker, minibar, safe and 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) (ROYAL 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:

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 luxurious Sala Beach House is located directly on the beach in the small district of Shakas Rock and offers a breathtaking view of the sea. The seven modern and individually furnished rooms and suites have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a minibar, a tea/coffee maker, a TV, a safe and a balcony or terrace with seating. The Pool View Rooms are located on the first floor with direct pool access and overlook the sea. The Ocean View Rooms are located on the first floor and overlook the sea. The Courtyard Suite overlooks the inner courtyard and garden. The two spacious Ocean Suites and Sala Suites offer uninterrupted sea views. The boutique guest house offers a restaurant, a wellness area (for a fee), a subtropical garden with pool, a fire pit, direct beach access and free Wi-Fi.

SALA BEACH HOUSE (OCEAN VIEW ROOM)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 5: BALLITO

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 Munywana Safari Conservancy near Hluhluwe in northern KwaZulu-Natal, which covers around 30,000 hectares. The game reserve, which borders the iSimangaliso Weiland Park, emerged from the three private reserves of Phinda, Zuka and Bumbeni, with Phinda still holding the largest share. It is home to the Big Five as well as many other African wild animals. In contrast to the state-run Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, only overnight guests have access to the private reserve. This is 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 luxurious Phinda Mountain Lodge is situated on top of a mountain ridge with fantastic views of the valley below. The 23 cottages and suites have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a minibar, a tea/coffee maker, a safe and a veranda with seating, an outdoor shower and a private plunge pool. The cottages are about 65sqm in size, the suites about 115sqm. The family units are more spacious and have two bedrooms, each with its own bathroom/WC. The lodge offers a pool, a restaurant, a bar, a lounge, a boma (traditional campfire dining area), a fitness room, a spa area for a fee and free WiFi.

You take part in two guided game drives in an open off-road vehicle per overnight stay (English-speaking, participation with other people), which take place in the afternoon before dinner and in the morning before breakfast. It is also possible to take part in guided game walks (subject to availability).

PHINDA MOUNTAIN LODGE (SUITE)

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

DAY 5 TO DAY 7:

HLUHLUWE

OPTIONAL UPGRADE STARTING AT €635 PER PERSON

Your destination is the Munywana Safari Conservancy near Hluhluwe in northern KwaZulu-Natal, which covers around 30,000 hectares. The game reserve, which borders the iSimangaliso Weiland Park, emerged from the three private reserves of Phinda, Zuka and Bumbeni, with Phinda still holding the largest share. It is home to the Big Five as well as many other African wild animals. In contrast to the state-run Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, only overnight guests have access to the private reserve. This is 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 luxurious and intimate Phinda Rock Lodge is situated on a hill with a dramatic view of the Lebombo Mountains valley. The six detached opulent suites have a bath/WC, air-conditioning, minibar, tea/coffee maker, safe and a veranda with seating, outdoor shower and plunge pool. The lodge offers a restaurant, a bar, a lounge, a viewing deck, a fitness room, spa treatments for a fee and free Wi-Fi.

You take part in two guided game drives in an open off-road vehicle per overnight stay (English-speaking, participation with other people), which take place in the afternoon before dinner and in the morning before breakfast. It is also possible to take part in guided game walks (subject to availability).

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

PHINDA ROCK LODGE (SUITE)

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

DAY 7: HLUHLUWE

ONEWAY TRANSFER HLUHLUWE TO THONGA BEACH LODGE

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:

KOSI BAY

Kosi Bay is situated in the far north of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is a magical place of lakes, rivers, pristine beaches, bushveld and coastal forests. This 11,000ha and little-visited nature reserve on the border with Mozambique is a subtropical paradise that is home to over 250 bird species. A four-wheel drive vehicle or transfer is required to visit Kosi Bay.

Thonga Beach Lodge is not a typical beach resort, such as those found in Mozambique or Mauritius. Lovers of solitude and endless nature will get their money's worth here. The lodge is nestled between the endless white sandy beach and the untouched forests in the hinterland. A short boardwalk leads directly to the Indian Ocean, which is warm all year round. The elegantly rustic lodge has twelve rooms with bath/WC, air conditioning, minibar, safe, tea/coffee maker, safe and veranda. The Forest Rooms overlook the pristine forest. The Ocean View Rooms have a sea view. The Deluxe Ocean View Rooms also have a plunge pool on the veranda. The family units have two separate bedrooms, each with its own bathroom/WC. The lodge offers a restaurant, a bar, a lounge, a spa (for a fee), a pool, a terrace, a sun deck on the beach and free Wi-Fi in the communal area.

The accommodation price includes selected activities such as guided snorkeling tours, hikes, sunset cruises, cultural visits, and seasonal turtle excursions from November to February. The activities are conducted in English and take place with other participants. Conservation fees are payable on site.

THONGA BEACH LODGE (DELUXE OCEAN VIEW ROOM)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND 4 ACTIVITIES

DAY 9: KOSI BAY

ONEWAY TRANSFER TO BALLITO

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:

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 luxurious Sala Beach House is located directly on the beach in the small district of Shakas Rock and offers a breathtaking view of the sea. The seven modern and individually furnished rooms and suites have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a minibar, a tea/coffee maker, a TV, a safe and a balcony or terrace with seating. The Pool View Rooms are located on the first floor with direct pool access and overlook the sea. The Ocean View Rooms are located on the first floor and overlook the sea. The Courtyard Suite overlooks the inner courtyard and garden. The two spacious Ocean Suites and Sala Suites offer uninterrupted sea views. The boutique guest house offers a restaurant, a wellness area (for a fee), a subtropical garden with pool, a fire pit, direct beach access and free Wi-Fi.

SALA BEACH HOUSE (OCEAN VIEW ROOM)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 10: BALLITO

ONEWAY TRANSFER TO DURBAN

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.