Rovos Rail Journey From Cape Town – Dar es Salam & Zanzibar

Rovos Rail provides a premium train travel from Cape Town, South Africa, to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The 5,800 mile expedition spans 22 days and crosses five nations: South Africa, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Zanzibar. The Rovos Rail “Pride of Africa” train is renowned for its opulence and picturesque routes, providing a remarkable journey through several terrains.

Embark on a journey through four African nations aboard the opulent Rovos Rail, traversing from Cape Town to Dar es Salaam, and experience the elegance of a bygone era of travel.

This journey through South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Tanzania and Zanzibar is remarkable, showcasing the evolving landscapes and featuring numerous captivating stopovers along the road.

The experience encompasses not only the train travel but also several days in Cape Town prior to the trip, concluding with a traditional beach resort on a private island near Dar es Salaam.

Cape Town to Tanzania by Rovos Rail & Zanzibar £14,620 – £14,985 Per Person Sharing

A Detailed Rovos Rail Journey

Day 1: Arrive in the Mother City | 3 Nights

Upon arrival at Cape Town International Airport, you will be greeted and transported to Ellerman House, your accommodation for the next three nights. Located in the affluent Atlantic Seaboard within the tranquil neighbourhood of Bantry Bay, this is an ideal base for exploring the dynamic city.

Days 2-3: Explore and Discover the Mother City

This diversified metropolis offers numerous ways to spend your days. Relax on renowned beaches such as Camps Bay, embark on a trek up Table Mountain (or utilise the revolving cable car), or participate in a tour of the picturesque Cape Winelands to taste some of the region’s exceptional wines.

The V&A Waterfront is the premier destination for a shopping excursion for African memorabilia, featuring an extensive selection of upscale stores and boutiques. A visit to the Two Oceans Aquarium is strongly advised due to its captivating Atlantic kelp forest, as is a ferry excursion to Robben Island for a tour of the notorious prison where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned. Numerous pleasurable hours might be devoted to wandering through the cosmopolitan city centre, unwinding at the sidewalk cafes, and seeing captivating art galleries.

Day 4: Board Your Luxury Rovos Train

Today, you will journey to Cape Town Station to embark on the Rovos Rail Pride of Africa. This renowned train – arguably more akin to a luxury hotel on wheels – will serve as your residence for the forthcoming 14 nights.

Days 5-17: Watch the Landscape Roll By

Your Rovos expedition traverses some of the most stunning locations in Africa. The train traverses South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Tanzania, ultimately reaching its goal, Dar es Salaam, with planned stops for exploration and sightseeing trips. Highlights comprise a 2-night Big 5 safari in Madikwe Game Reserve, historical lectures, museum excursions, and a tour of Victoria Falls. Relax and appreciate the landscape from the lounge and viewing area, savour exquisite meals in the dining car, or rest in your spacious and comfortable cabin – each day will provide fresh vistas, narratives, and experiences.

Day 18: Disembark the Train and Enjoy Dar es Salaam | 4 Nights

Arrive at Dar es Salaam today, a vibrant port city located on the Indian Ocean coast of Tanzania. Upon disembarkation, you will transfer to Julius Nyerere International Airport and board a light aircraft to Songo Songo airfield. You will be greeted and transported to Fanjove Private Island, a picturesque coastal retreat off the coast of Tanzania. Your final days of the tour will be devoted to relaxation in a tropical beach paradise.

Day 19-21: Sun, Sand and Beach on Fanjove

Following an extensive rail ride, Fanjove Private Island is indeed the ideal location to relax and rejuvenate. Enjoy your days basking in the sun at this picturesque locale, relaxing on fine sandy beaches and swimming in warm tropical waters. Here, you are invited to engage in minimal or extensive activities according to your disposition—ranging from snorkelling and kayaking directly from the beach to sunset dhow cruises, scuba diving expeditions, and leisurely strolls around the island. Should fortune favour you, the clarity of the reefs is optimal for observing pods of inquisitive bottlenose and spinner dolphins, together with endangered green turtles and migrating humpback whales.

Day 22: Set Off for Dar es Salaam

Following a final breakfast in paradise, your transfer will return you to the Songo Songo airstrip for your journey to Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam. You may board your connection aircraft home or go with another Kabira Safaris expedition.

End of the Rovos Rail Journey From Cape Town – Dar es Salam & Zanzibar