The Rovos Rail Namibia Safari is an unforgettable 11-night, 3,400km journey from Pretoria to Walvis Bay, tracing a path from South Africa’s open savannah to the spectacular dunes of the Namib Desert to end at the Atlantic Ocean. Combining the golden age of rail with the romance of Africa’s desert wilderness, this 12-day expedition delivers a seamless blend of luxury, discovery, and adventure across two captivating countries.
The glorious 3800km Rovos Rail Namibia Safari begins in Pretoria, heading first to Kimberley. Here you’ll step back into the madness of the diamond rush of the 1870s at the Big Hole Museum. Continue to Upington, on banks of the longest river in South Africa, the Orange, for a walking tour and sunset cruise. Before you start to traverse the stark beauty of the Northern Cape into Namibia.
Arriving at the Fish River Canyon in Southern Namibia - second only to the Grand Canyon in size - you’ll marvel at its vast, sculpted landscapes and vistas. Next you’ll explore the fascinating ghost town of Kolmanskop and Lüderitz, famed for its slightly surreal German colonial architecture and windswept coast. Visit Garas Park, home to a forest of quiver trees, leaving the train and fly to the world-famous Sossusvlei Dunes, a stunning pan in the Namib Desert surrounded by enormous red sand dunes. After a night’s stay with desert drives and a bush dinner, you fly to Windhoek, Namibia's capital. A lively, cosmopolitan city with a strong German flavour!
The journey continues north to Otjiwarongo for a cheetah conservation project visit, followed by an overnight stay in Etosha National Park, where abundant wildlife gathers around shimmering pans. Finally, the train glides through the ancient Namib Desert, ending at the perfectly preserved 19th-century German town of Swakopmund and the fishing town of Walvis Bay - a fitting finale to this extraordinary rail safari.
Travelling aboard the Pride of Africa, you enjoy the perfect fusion of Edwardian refinement and contemporary comfort. The Observation car allows you to watch the unfolding scenery of the great interior of South Africa and. Whilst the air-conditioned Lounge Cars invite you to relax with a book or afternoon tea. Deep sofas and wingback chairs create a space of quiet indulgence.
Each suite combines Edwardian charm with modern indulgence: polished wood panelling, air conditioning, and en-suite bathrooms.
Choose from Three Suite Options:
All suites feature air conditioning, writing desks, personal safes, bar fridge filled with the drinks of your choice, and 24-hour room service. All whilst seamlessly blending vintage charm with contemporary luxury. The bathrooms combine original fittings with hot showers, hair dryers and shaver plugs.
Pretoria to Walvis Bay:
2026: 7-18 April, 9-20 Nov (Cape Town to Walvis Bay)
2027: 6-17 April (Cape Town-Walvis Special), 4-15 May
Walvis Bay to Pretoria:
2026: 21 Feb-4 Mar (Walvis to Cape Town), 19-30 Mar, 20 April -1May, 22 Nov-3 Dec
2027: 19-30 April, 17-28 May, 23 Oct-3 Nov
Note that some departures are from Cape Town.
Use the scroll button to see the full itinerary.
This is a set tour using specific camps. However many tours can be adapted. Chat to us about your options. It excludes international flights but includes an estimate for all domestic or regional flights within the tour.
Accommodation; all meals; all beverages on board; room service; limited laundry; excursions with a qualified guide (where applicable); entrance fees as per itinerary; government tax; flights to/from Sossusvlei; overnight bag
EXCLUDESAll off-train beverages; international sparkling wine; gratuities; personal expenses; visas; travel insurance; pre- and post-tour transfers, accommodation and flights; items of a personal nature
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