Lets talk about the most Luxurious train in the World- Rovos Rail.
Picture this: you’re gliding across Africa’s breath-taking landscapes in a five-star hotel on wheels, surrounded by elegance, sipping on fine wine, and savouring gourmet meals prepared with precision. Its not just a train journey, its an unforgettable experience, the kind that leaves you in awe of life’s possibilities.
As someone who has been on this extraordinary train, let me tell you why it should be at the top of your bucket list and why I would love for you to experience it for yourself with Soft Life Travel.
There are many luxury train experiences around the world, but Rovos Rail? Its in a league of its own. Here’s why:
Old-World Elegance Meets Modern Luxury
The moment you step aboard, you’re transported back to the golden age of travel. The carriages are beautifully restored from the 1920s and 1930s, featuring rich wooden panelling, vintage décor, and an air of timeless sophistication. Yet, there’s no compromise on modern comforts.
Each Suite is a sanctuary:
- Spacious, with en-suite bathrooms and plush double or twin beds.
- Fully air conditioned, so you’re comfortable no matter the weather.
- Some even come with Victorian Bathtubs so yes you can soak whilst watching the African Landscape roll by.
It is this perfect blend of history and modernity that makes Rovos Rail so unique.
The Service: Where Excellence Feels Effortless
Now this is what blew me away. The staff on Rovos Rail are in a league of their own. They anticipate your needs before you even think of them. I quickly realised that service on Rovos Rail isn’t just exceptional its personal. Each guest is allocated their own butler, dedicated to ensuring that breakfast, lunch and dinner are exactly how you like them.
They don’t just serve meals, they learn. Your favourite drink? They’ll have it ready before you even ask. Dietary preferences? They’ll remember what you like, what you don’t and even the little details like what you’d rather leave out of your dish.
Now here’s the truth: I don’t drink alcohol. Always felt like it taste like battery acid so it has never been my thing and no I don’t like cocktails either. So if you ever see me posing with a wine glass just know that its for the picture haha.
Anyways back to the story. The staff on Rovos Rail? they didn’t judge. Instead, they took it as a fun challenge. They had me taste so many wines, trying to find one i’d enjoy ( Spoiler: we did find one that was surprisingly nice.. though I’ve completely forgotten its name). Honestly, I think they were more worried about accidently getting me drunk than anything else.
What really stood out for me was the mocktails they created for me. Let me tell you now it was absolutely AMAZING. So SWEET, REFRESHING AND BURSTING WITH SO MUCH FLAVOUR. They honestly weren’t just slapping juice into a glass; they were crafting something special just for me.
That’s the Magic of Rovos Rail. They take your preferences whether you’re a wine lover, a non drinker, or somewhere in between and create an experience that feels uniquely yours. Its thoughtful, its fun and its oh so delicious !.
Now let me tell you a short story and i promise i won’t be long. One morning, as the train glided peacefully though the Karoo, a staff member brought me a bowl of passion fruit and blackberries. It wasn’t on the menu. It wasn’t a standard offering but of course if it is what you want you can ask and you will most definitely get it but the thing is I’d only casually mentioned in conversation that these were my favourite fruits. Yet there it was waiting for me.
To some, it might seem small. But to me, it was everything. It wasn’t just service it was a genuine effort to make me feel seen and valued.
That’s Rovos Rail for you. The staff aren’t just attentive, they’re intuitive. They don’t just cater to your needs, they anticipate them, ensuring every moment on board feels effortless, personal and unforgettable.
A Culinary Journey Like No Other
Guys, can we be real here? I eat. And I love to eat good. I’m not about tiny portions that leave you dreaming about your next meal. Sure fine dining can be fabulous, but let’s be honest, its not always filling.
So imagine my surprise when Rovos Rail delivered every single meal to perfection. Not just in taste, but in portions too. Breakfast, lunch, high tea, dinner, even snacks in between it was all so satisfying. I didn’t even have to call for room service once ( and trust me, those that follow me know that’s rare for me).
Every plate that came out of the kitchen? Wiped clean. I’m not kidding, if it wasn’t for the level of sophistication around me, I might’ve just licked the plates.
One of the things I absolutely loved is how involved you are in planning your meals. During breakfast, they show you the menu for Lunch, and during Lunch they present the menu for dinner. It’s like having a sneak peek into your next gourmet adventure, and you get to choose exactly what you want and how you want it. It’s such a thoughtful touch that made me feel even more excited for every meal.
And let me tell you, the food doesn’t disappoint. The chefs craft meals with such care, using fresh, local ingredients that showcase the best of South Africa’s culinary traditions. Think rich flavours, beautifully plated dishes, and the perfect balance of indulgence and elegance.
Breakfast was always a highlight for me. And if you know me, you know I love my eggs but a damn good omelette. I am a simple girl and yes its the same thing, every day, every trip, every country, without fail. “Tomatoes, peppers and onions, no cheese no milk” Ding Ding !! The Chefs on Rovos Rail delivered it perfectly every single morning. Its those little touches that made me feel so at home, even while travelling in unmatched luxury.
Lunch? A three-course masterpiece, perfectly paired with wine ( or in my case, a gorgeous mocktail). One lunch that I really enjoyed was herbed kingklip on a tabbouleh salad with hummus and coriander yoghurt. Of course I had to tweak it, bye bye humus and yoghurt ( sorry, not sorry) but even with those changes it was incredible.
Then came the duo of Huguenot and Amabutho cheddar cheeses, served with tomato and chilli jam, fresh grapes, and a toasted baguette. That jam ? a flavour explosion. And just when I thought it couldn’t get any better, dessert arrived, a mini berry pavlova with whipped Chantilly cream. Light, sweet, and just the perfect touch to end the meal.
And the best part? This level of care and creativity wasn’t reserved for special meals, it was every meal. You never felt rushed, hungry, or underwhelmed. It’s like the chefs were saying, “Relax, we’ve got you covered.”
It’s not just dining on Rovos Rail, its an experience. You’re not just eating, you’re savouring every bite, every course, every moment feels intentional, like it was made just for you.
So if you’re someone who loves food ( and I mean really loves food ), trust me you’re going to be in heaven here.
The Glamour of Dressing Up
Let’s talk about one of the most delightful traditions of Rovos Rail: dressing up for dinner. In a world where casual has become the norm, there’s something so refreshing, almost enchanting about slipping into formal attire for an evening on the train.
Imagine this, the sun is setting, the train is gliding through breath-taking African landscapes, and you’re stepping into the dining car dressed to the nines. Men in jackets and ties, women in elegant dresses, it feels like stepping into another era, where travel was as much about the journey as the destination.
For someone like me, who loves an excuse to dress up, it was one of my favourite parts of the trip. It’s not just about the clothes, its the whole atmosphere. The dining car, with its crisp white tablecloths and softly glowing chandeliers, becomes the perfect backdrop for an evening of grace.
If you are lucky you may also catch Junior singing.
Anyways don’t worry if formal isn’t your usual style. It’s not about being over-the-top, its about embracing the moment and adding a touch of glamour to an already magical experience. Trust me, even if you’re someone who lives in causal wear ( like me on most days), you’ll love the ritual of dressing up for dinner on Rovos Rail.
And it’s not just about the dining car. The entire train feels like an ode to a more elegant time, from the polished wood panelling to the vintage details. Dressing up just fits its like becoming part of the train’s story.
So, pack that cocktail dress or blazer you’ve been saving for a special occasion, because on Rovos Rail, every evening is a special occasion.
The Journey Itself: A Moving Masterpiece
Lets be honest, because we only deal with truth over on this side. The Cape Town to Pretoria route is a short trip, and there are definitely better, more adventurous Rovos Rail Journeys to choose from. But, that doesn’t mean its not worth doing.
This route is perfect for downtime. If you’re looking to relax, unwind and enjoy a slower pace, this is the one. It’s great for romance too, whether it’s reconnecting with a partner, celebrating an anniversary , or simply soaking in the tranquility.
The excursions? They’re light, which means you won’t feel rushed or overwhelmed with activities. Instead this journey is all about the onboard experience. It’s about lounging in the observation car with a glass of your favourite drink, watching South Africa’s breath-taking landscapes roll by. Its about slowing down, savouring the fine dining, and enjoying the peaceful rhythm of train travel.
What to Expect on this Route
Over three days, you’ll cover around 1,600 kilometres, passing through some iconic South African scenery:
Cape Winelands: Rolling vineyards and charming countryside its literally picture perfect
The Karoo: This vast semi- desert landscape is both stark and mesmerizing, a unique contrast to the lush greenery of the winelands.
Mountain Passes: The dramatic mountain ranges and winding passes are jaw dropping, especially as the train snakes through the landscapes.
While the pace is slower and the focus is on the journey itself, there’s still plenty to enjoy:
A stop at Matjiesfontein, a quirky little Victorian village, for a quick taste of history and charm.
A visit to Kimberley’s Big Hole, an open pit diamond mine that’s a fascinating look into South Africa’s mining heritage.
Its not an adventure- packed route, but its far from boring. Its calming, visually stunning, and a great introduction to the Rovos Rail Experience.
Our Top Rovos Rail Recommendation
If you’re looking for the ultimate Rovos Rail journey, though, my top pick has to be the Dar es Salaam to Cape Town route. Its the longest and most iconic route, spanning 15 days and crossing multiple countries, from South Africa to Tanzania. Along the way, you’ll see Victoria Falls, go on a safari in Zambia, and travel through the breath-taking Great Rift Valley. It’s the pinnacle of luxury train travel, combining adventure, culture, and unparalleled scenery.
But that’s the beauty of Rovos Rail, there’s a route for everyone. Whether you’re after relaxation, romance, or grand adventure, they’ve got it all.
There are other luxury trains out there, sure.
But Rovos Rail isn’t trying to compete. It’s in a class of its own.
- Space and Comfort: Unlike other trains, Rovos offers unparalleled room in its suites’ giving you true privacy and comfort.
- Personalisation: From tailoring meals to accommodating your preferences, every aspect of the journey feels like it’s made just for you.
- Heritage: This isn’t just a train ride; its a journey through time, with each carriage telling a story.
Many luxury trains focus on the destination, but Rovos Rail makes the journey the highlight.
Why It Should Be On Your Bucket List
Let’s be real, this isn’t just another travel experience. This is a once- in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse yourself in luxury, explore Africa in the most elegant way possible, and make memories you’ll talk about forever.
Rovos Rail is for travellers who want more than just a trip. It’s for those who value:
- Exclusivity: With limited passengers, you feel like part of an intimate club.
- Authenticity: This isn’t just a curated luxury, its genuine, heartfelt and steeped in tradition.
- Unparalleled Relaxation: There’s no Wi-Fi onboard. And trust me, that’s a blessing. It’s about disconnecting to reconnect with the moment. ( I am not going to lie and act like i didn’t have data but i HARDLY checked in online )
Experience Rovos Rail with Soft Life Travel
At Soft Life Travel we believe in crafting journeys that go beyond expectations. Rovos Rail is one of those rare expectations. Rovos Rail is one of those rare experiences that perfectly aligns with our philosophy of luxury, comfort, and unforgettable adventures.
Whether you’re dreaming of:
- A serene journey like the Cape Town to Pretoria route.
- A multi-country adventure from Cape Town to Dar es Salaam.
- Exploring Namibia or Victoria Falls in style.
We’ll handle every detail, so all you need to do is relax and enjoy the ride.
Let's Make It Happen
Trust me, Rovos Rail is more than a bucket list tick. Its a life-changing journey. And I’d love for you to experience it the way I did, with every detail taken care of, so you can just immerse yourself in the magic.
Ready to step abroad the world’s most luxurious train? Let Soft Life Travel turn this dream into your reality. Reach out today, and lets start planning your ultimate African adventure.
Leave a Reply