Pretoria to Durban
Embark on a luxurious 2-night, 3-day journey aboard Rovos Rail from Pretoria to Durban, blending opulent train travel with rich South African experiences.
Highlights of the Journey:
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Nambiti Conservancy:A private, malaria-free reserve spanning 20,000 acres, offering a chance to spot the Big Five amidst diverse landscapes of savannah, grasslands, and thornveld.
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Spionkop Battlefield:Engage in a historical tour led by a world-class historian, delving into the events of the Anglo-Boer War.
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Ardmore Ceramics Gallery:Explore unique African ceramics in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, showcasing the region's artistic heritage.
Itinerary Overview:
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Day 1:Depart from Rovos Rail Station in Pretoria, journeying towards Elandslaagte.
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Day 2:Morning game drive in Nambiti Conservancy; afternoon tour of Spionkop Battlefield.
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Day 3:Visit Ardmore Ceramics Gallery; traverse the Valley of a Thousand Hills en route to Durban.
Onboard Experience:
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Rovos Rail offers restored Rhodesia Railways coaches, featuring lounges, restaurant cars, and private sleeping compartments with en-suite facilities. Accommodations range from Pullman suites (76 sq ft) to Royal Suites (172 sq ft), each equipped with en-suite shower, sink, and toilet.
Departure Details:
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This journey operates during the summer months. Specific departure dates and pricing can be obtained directly from Rovos Rail or authorized travel agents.
Rovos Rail: Pretoria to Durban – Luxury Rail Journey
The Pretoria to Durban route with Rovos Rail is one of South Africa’s most luxurious and scenic train journeys. Known for blending old-world charm with modern comfort, Rovos Rail offers a 3-day, 2-night adventure through breathtaking landscapes, historic sites, and wildlife experiences.
Duration & Departure Schedule
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Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights
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Departure: Usually operates a few times a year (mainly during South Africa’s summer/autumn months – January to April, September to December).
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Departure Point: Rovos Rail Station, Capital Park, Pretoria
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Arrival Point: Durban Station, KwaZulu-Natal
Route Overview
Day 1 – Pretoria → Heidelberg → Elandslaagte
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Departure in the morning from Rovos Rail Station in Pretoria.
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Travel southeast across the Highveld farmlands through Heidelberg (south of Johannesburg).
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Afternoon tea and dinner served onboard.
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Overnight stop near Elandslaagte, just outside Ladysmith in KwaZulu-Natal.
Day 2 – Game Drive in Nambiti Private Reserve
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Morning game drive in the Nambiti Big Five Reserve, a private malaria-free game reserve.
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Return to train for brunch.
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Afternoon visit to Spionkop Lodge for either:
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A battlefield tour (Anglo-Boer War history), or
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Another game drive / guided walk.
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Dinner and overnight on the train.
Day 3 – Valley of a Thousand Hills → Durban
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Morning journey through the stunning Valley of a Thousand Hills.
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Scenic descent through rolling green landscapes dotted with villages.
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Brunch is served before the train arrives at Durban Station around midday.
Onboard Experience
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Luxury Suites: Choose from Pullman, Deluxe, or Royal Suites – all include en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and elegant vintage decor.
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Dining Car: Gourmet meals with fine wines and local cuisine, all included.
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Lounge & Observation Cars: Perfect for relaxing, mingling, and watching the scenery roll by.
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Attire: Smart casual during the day; elegant/formal for dinner (jackets for men encouraged).
Key Highlights
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Travel in vintage 1920s-style coaches, beautifully restored
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All-inclusive luxury: food, drinks, excursions, and accommodation
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Big Five game viewingin Nambiti Reserve
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Learn about South Africa’s rich history with expert-guided tours
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Unforgettable views through the Drakensberg Mountains and KwaZulu-Natal countryside