See Africa by train

Road and air travel can be tiresome and time consuming and, often, after you have returned from a great vacation, you get off the plane or out of the car feeling like you could do with another holiday. Train travel is becoming an increasingly popular way to travel throughout Africa, from Johannesburg to the Victoria Falls. A luxury train offers you the opportunity to relax and be pampered right from the get go.

The ultimate in exclusivity, the Rovos Rail, offers five-star luxury in an old-world setting. The train’s coaches are wood paneled and opulent while a Victorian dining car, a lounge area and an open-air observation deck can also be found onboard. By travelling on Rovos Rail, guests can really enjoy the luxury of a bygone era while taking in the scenery of each African town the train passes through. The train travels between Cape Town and Pretoria, Pretoria and Victoria Falls, Pretoria and Durban, Pretoria and Namibia as well on a variety of other exciting routes. 

The Blue Train which operates between Pretoria and Cape Town is one of South Africa’s most iconic trains. The train offers guests the opportunity to visit Kimberley’s famous “big hole” as well as to see many other attractions along the way. The train offers guests gourmet dining, luxury living spaces and a butler service.

The Victoria Falls Steam Train allows visitors a unique way in which to explore this majestic wonder. This stunning first-class steam train offers guests a chance to take in the history of the falls and the surrounding region, all while enjoying spectacular cuisine and a glass of bubbly.

 The Royal Livingstone Express Train operates in Zambia and is a great way to spend a relaxing evening while enjoying the country side. This unique dinner venue can be the highlight of your stay in Africa. The train exudes the charm and romance of centuries old rail travel.

Often when people recall train trips in Africa, they tend to think of overcrowded cabins and harrowing experiences but not anymore! These luxurious trains scream of a forgotten era and are bound to awaken a sense of nostalgia in even the most hardened of travelers.

This guest article was contributed by Janine Mare of South African Hotels.

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Guest Post: 5 Reasons to Visit Cape Town, South Africa

The city of Cape Town, South Africa came onto the world’s radar after the success of the FIFA Soccer World Cup held in 2010, which offered a chance for visitors to discover the many attractions and activities that can be enjoyed in this beautiful city. With a warm Mediterranean climate, plenty of beaches, the iconic Table Mountain and a thriving night-life, Cape Town is fast becoming a popular holiday destination for visitors from all over the world.

Here are some of the top reasons to visit Cape Town:

1. Climb Table Mountain

The looming presence of Table Mountain has led to this mountain being nominated for one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. While many prefer to use the cable way as a means of getting up and down, travellers who are fit and ready for a challenge can take the longer and more difficult route up with a hike. Be warned however – this is not something that anyone should try alone, or without the help of a guide who knows the mountain well. Thick fog can descend very quickly, causing you to lose your bearings – falls are not entirely unheard of on the mountain, so plan your hike as part of a Cape Town tour, and aim for a clear day.

2. Surf the Indian Ocean

With both the Indian Ocean and Atlantic Ocean to be found in the Cape, surfing offers a range of different conditions. Typically, the warmer Indian Ocean offers a better surfing spot, especially around False Bay. Beginner surfers can learn this skill at Muizenberg beach, before heading out to catch a wave. If you are not a strong swimmer, you may want to sit this one out however.

3. Cruise the Atlantic Ocean

On the cooler Atlantic Ocean side, the best way to explore this ocean is by boat – a cruise around the beautiful Atlantic Seaboard offers a great Cape Town day tour idea, with charters departing from the Waterfront every few hours. Try a breakfast cruise, champagne cruise or sun downer cruise, and look out for seals, jellyfish and great views along the coast, from Camps Bay to Hout Bay.

4. Shop the V&A Waterfront

For a dose of retail therapy, the V&A Waterfront offers a mecca of shopping opportunities, with plenty of high-end designer stores such as Hugo Boss, Guess, Armani Jeans and more, along with department stores, gift stores and curio stores. There are also restaurants, coffee shops, movies and other entertainment options, with the ever-present marimba bands and other sidewalk musicians to add some festive cheer.

5. Try a Township Tour

To get a better understanding on how life is on the other side of the fence, a popular Cape Town township tour is not to be missed. While these areas live in extreme poverty, the culture, tradition, cuisine and undeniable spirit shows another side to life in the townships, where you can enjoy local dancing, delicious food and if you’re lucky, the strong local beer. It’s best to make sure that you only visit these area as part of a Cape Town tour however, and never on your own.

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