When I think back on my trip from Victoria Falls to Pretoria aboard the Rovos Rail, the first thing that comes to mind is this: it felt like living inside a moving luxury hotel. Every moment was designed for comfort and elegance, yet the real magic came from the way the train allowed me to slow down and soak it all in.
Switching Off to Tune In
There’s no WiFi on the train—something I thought might bother me at first. But honestly? It became one of the best parts of the whole trip. With no screens or notifications pulling me away, I had the chance to be fully present. I spent afternoons reading in the lounge, chatting with fellow travelers over a glass of wine, and simply staring out at the ever-changing landscapes. It reminded me that travel isn’t just about the destination—it’s about the pause in between.
The Comforts of a Moving Hotel
Just because there’s no WiFi doesn’t mean you’re giving up on comfort. Quite the opposite—Rovos Rail has all the little luxuries you’d expect at a five-star hotel. My cabin came with hot water, a hair dryer, soft towels, and toiletries, plus a bed that made falling asleep to the rhythm of the tracks feel like the most natural thing in the world.
It was cozy, elegant, and designed so that every detail felt taken care of.
Dressing Up for Dinner
One of my favorite parts of the journey was the evening ritual of dressing up for dinner. The train has a black-tie dress code at night, and while it felt unusual to pack formal wear for a train ride, I ended up loving it. There’s something so special about stepping into the dining car in your best clothes, sipping on fine wine, and enjoying a beautifully prepared four-course meal as the world outside glides past.
Breakfast and lunch were more relaxed—casual attire was fine—but dinners made me feel like I’d stepped back into a more glamorous era of travel.
Views That Stay With You
From the observation car, I watched sunsets that are still etched in my memory. The sky would shift from fiery orange to dusky pink as the train curved through landscapes so wide and untouched, it felt like they stretched on forever.
The journey wasn’t just beautiful—it was wild. We passed hippos lounging by the riverbanks, crossed the iconic Limpopo River, and even went on a game drive in Hwange National Park, where I came face to face with some of Africa’s most incredible wildlife
Surprises Along the Way
One of the most unexpected highlights happened at the Beitbridge border, where we were greeted by locals playing the traditional Mbira instrument. The sound was soft, melodic, and completely enchanting—it’s the kind of moment that catches you off guard and makes you smile long after it’s passed.
And then there was afternoon high tea on board: delicate pastries, steaming cups of tea, and that calm, unhurried feeling that makes you want to linger just a little longer.
Practical Things to Know
If you’re planning this trip, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- You’ll need a passport (and a visa, depending on your nationality).
- Dinner is black tie—so pack your formal wear.
- There’s no WiFi—which is a blessing in disguise.
- Cabins have all the amenities you’ll need, from hot showers to hair dryers and limited laundry services.
Conclusion
If I had to sum up Rovos Rail in just a few words, it would be this: the epitome of luxury travel. It’s not just a way to get from Victoria Falls to Pretoria—it’s a chance to step back in time, slow down, and savor every detail of the journey.
And if you’re tempted to try it for yourself, we’d love to help. At Dinny & The Explorers, we assist travelers in planning and booking their Rovos Rail journeys—making the process simple so that you can focus on the adventure.
Contact us today to start planning your own Rovos Rail experience.
