First Class Rail Africa – An African Adventure Aboard the Pride of Africa – Planet Rail
An African Adventure Aboard the Pride of Africa – Planet Rail
Straddling 1.2 million square kilometres across the southernmost tip of Africa, South Africa is the world’s 25th largest country. It is a place of beauty and wealth, where the weather is warm and spirits are warmer. Over the last twelve years SA has undergone a remarkable transformation; the end of apartheid brought with it stability and positivity, which in turn sparked a wave of ambition and success across its various landscapes.
South Africa is one of the world’s top megadiverse countries. Spanning the topography spectrum, its craggy mountains roll into lush valleys, arid patches of semi-desert sweep into glittering coastlines, and its urban jungles exist harmoniously alongside sandy savannahs and grassland. As such, you can work, dine and shop a mere hour away from where the Big Five roam!
This superb destination has witnessed a huge surge in popularity and the tourist industry continues to boom. Holidaymakers are intrigued by its diversity, relishing the opportunity to see lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards and rhinos in their wild habitat, before returning to luxury accommodation to a glass of local wine. Visitors can choose from a hip city break, an exciting safari or a relaxing week on the beach, though most opt for an extended holiday that incorporates all of the above.
Discovering Africa by First Class Rail
The Planet Rail Pride of Africa journey is one of adventure and discovery. A magical holiday that blends wild landscapes with supreme luxury, the tour allows travellers to immerse themselves in the unique culture and untouched scenery of South Africa, without compromising the comforts of a 5* hotel.
Whisking you through the breath-taking settings of the Cape and the Great Karoo, the Pride of Africa takes you north east into the heart of SA. You’ll pass the extraordinary structures of Johannesburg, the bustling boomtowns of Witwatersrand, and eventually cross the Tropic of Capricorn. Panoramas of the Kalahari Desert and Zambezi River will then greet you, followed by a remarkable experience of Victoria Falls.
We can’t deny the magic of the South African railway, but this holiday offers more than a train journey. The tour highlights the true beauty and diversity of South Africa, enabling travellers to appreciate unforgettable sights, enjoy authentic activities, and sample fine food and wine. We explain a little more about the opportunities you’ll have to explore this magnificent region aboard Rovos Rail’s Pride of Africa…
Cape Town – First Class Rail Africa
Your adventure begins when you touch down at Cape Town International Airport, ready and raring for a two night stay in the Western Cape’s coastal capital. There’s plenty to keep you busy during your time here. We wholeheartedly recommend catching a cable car up Table Mountain, where you’ll discover a 360-degree view of Cape Town. A trip to the beach is perfect for catching a few rays before your impending train journey, or you can indulge in some retail therapy at the Cape Quarter mall of the funky stalls of the Watershed. The Museum Mile is a must-see for those desiring a little more culture, offering the National Gallery, the Iziko Museum and Iziko Planetarium, along with the Houses of Parliament and the Iziko Slave Lodge.
When you’re feeling peckish, choose from a huge range of cuisines including Asian-fusion, Italian and Spanish. With a variety of fine dining establishments, bustling bistros and relaxed restaurants on offer, you’re guaranteed to find something to suit and satisfy. Willoughby’s serves Cape Towns best sushi, while the likes of 95 Keerom offer game and steak. Excellent seafood isn’t hard to find, nor is a spicy curry, great burger or pizza!
Matjiesfontein – First Class Rail Africa
After two nights at the 5* Table Bay Hotel, travellers board the Pride of Africa at Cape Town Station. The train commences its journey through the Cape Winelands, passing Paarl and Worcester before arriving in Matjiesfontein. This tiny village is a living history of Victoriana. Once the centre of the British Empire in South Africa, it is a mesmerizing place that remains frozen in a bygone time of Lords and Ladies. Matjiesfontein was initially built as a rail connection to South Africa’s infamous diamond mines, but quickly gained traction as holiday destination that offered fresh air and a fun, relaxed atmosphere.
Though time in Matjiesfontein is fleeting for our passengers, you’ll still enjoy a healthy dose of South African heritage. Picture perfect gardens and a charming pub allow for a pleasant stroll and a glass of ale, while the museum offers interesting artefacts and good-humoured ghost stories.
Kimberley, Pretoria and Victoria Falls – First Class Rail Africa
Next stop Kimberley, a spearhead of late 19th century’s diamond rush. Travellers enjoy a tour of the city, focusing on the Diamond Mine Museum and the Big Hole, a 200-metre-deep excavation. The historical adventure continues in the next destination of Pretoria, where the day can be spent enjoying monuments and museums, exploring botanical and zoological gardens, and of course sampling tasty food.
As your trip draws to an end, you’ll experience an exciting game drive at Hwange National Park. As the largest game reserve in Zimbabwe, it covers an astonishing 14,600 square kilometres, and boasts more animals and species that any other park in the country. After taking in the sights, sounds and smells of wild Africa, you’ll then be whisked onwards to the finale of your African adventure: a visit to one of the world’s Seven Natural Wonders, Victoria Falls. Observe the most spectacular waterfall on the planet, which is twice as wide and deep as Niagara Falls, and spans the entire breadth of the Zambezi river at its widest point. It is certainly a sight to behold, and the perfect way to complete your African adventure.
South Africa showcases some of the world’s most magnificent sites, and you holiday with us, you can experience these wonders without the drawbacks of other international travel methods. Find out how you can explore South Africa by First Class Rail by calling one of our friendly experts on 01347 825292.