photo: The Society of International Railway Travelers/Pride of Africa: An Opulent Journey Through Time with Rovos Rail
Rovos Rail's Pride of Africa train offers elegance and luxury on a scale never surpassed in the 1920s. The carriages have been carefully rebuilt and modernised with fine panelling, traditional furniture and period decor.
Not only is this train renowned for its charm, but it can also rightly boast fine cuisine, an amazing selection of South African wines and a friendly cabin crew. In short, the whole experience consistently meets the highest standards of luxury.
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Accommodation
Passengers have three types of accommodation, some of the most spacious in the industry, with the train having a total capacity of a maximum of 72 passengers. All cabins are equipped with a writing surface, a safe for valuables and USB ports for charging electronic devices.
Pullman Gold Suites
In 2020, these cabins underwent an upgrade, becoming much more comfortable. The cabins feature two single or double beds, while the beds can convert into a sofa. The cabins also have a desk and feature a full bathroom.
Deluxe Suites
For many years, these were Rovos Rail's 'standard' cabins, but they are huge and beautifully appointed compared to other luxury trains. There are three in each carriage. Deluxe Suites have either two twin single beds or a large double bed with its own toilet, basin and shower. These suites also have a small living area with a desk and two chairs.
Royal Suites
Royal suites take up half of the carriage. The bed can be either a king bed or two single beds placed side by side. Special features include an en-suite bathroom with a Victorian bath and shower and a separate private lounge with a table and two chairs. Until the Maharaja's Express was introduced in India, these were the largest train suites in the world.
Dining
Depending on the total number of passengers, there are always one or two dining cars, each seating 42 at tables of two and four. All meals and drinks on board are included in the tour price. So if any foodies choose this train, they will definitely not be disappointed. There is a dress code at dinner time, with men expected to wear suits and ladies also expected to wear formal wear.
Fresh local ingredients and traditional dishes, such as venison, are often on the menu. A cooked-to-order breakfast is served each morning in the dining car. Lunch and dinner are served in several courses on beautiful china and silverware. South African wines are carefully selected and paired with the meals.
Lounges
The observation carriage at the end of the train has a bar and seating area and an open 'terrace' at the rear for watching the passing scenery, and this is a very popular spot with passengers. There is also a separate lounge where lectures are held on longer journeys; there are comfortable sofas, armchairs and a small gift shop. These lounges are non-smoking; there is, among other things, a separate, fully enclosed club area where smoking is allowed. All drinks are included in the ticket price.
Source of information: The Society of International Railway Travelers