Explore Southern Africa: Cape Town & Pretoria to Victoria Falls by Private Train
Explore Southern Africa: Cape Town & Pretoria to Victoria Falls by Private Train
Southern Africa: Cape Town & The African Voyager
3 Days in Cape Town followed by a 4-Day Railway Journey from Pretoria (South Africa) to Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe), and an Overnight in Victoria Falls
Our route: Cape Town, Pretoria, Matobo National Park, Hwange National Park, Victoria Falls
Upcoming Dates:
September 4-13, 2026
Land-Train Package $7,495 per person (Giraffe Cabin, 76 sq-ft), $8,695 per person (Lion Cabin, 108 sq-ft)
Botswana/Chobe NP Add-On $1,950 per person
Above rates are per person in shared double/twin hotel rooms and train cabins; a small number of single cabins may be available upon request, Single Supplement applies.
Embark on an extraordinary adventure through two captivating African countries in just one unforgettable train journey! Experience the breathtaking diversity of South Africa and Zimbabwe, as you delve into a tapestry of remarkable sights and wonders. This exclusive expedition guarantees a seamless and hassle-free exploration of this fascinating route, eliminating the need for inland flights or daily suitcase repacking.
Explore cosmopolitan Cape Town, and the surrounding wine country, and stay in one of South Africa’s finest hotels right in the heart of the V&A Waterfront.
Prepare to be enthralled by the legendary Matobo National Park, where you’ll encounter the majesty of Africa’s wildlife up close. Marvel at the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, a magnificent cascade on the mighty Zambezi River. But the journey doesn’t stop at these renowned attractions. Your African Expedition Train grants you the opportunity to venture beyond the standard tourist trail and discover hidden gems.
As you slumber peacefully in your private compartment, your private train covers longer distances overnight, maximizing your time for memorable excursions during the day. Explore the enchantment of these two captivating countries, immersing yourself in their rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and extraordinary wildlife encounters. Embark on extended wildlife safaris and witness the untamed beauty of Africa’s diverse ecosystems.
DAY 1 (September 4) – DEPART USA
Board your overnight flight to South Africa, and Cape Town (wholesale airfare available in Business, Premium Economy, and Economy Class through CTN on all leading airlines from U.S. and Canadian gateways)
DAY 2 (September 5) – WELCOME TO CAPE TOWN
As you descend from the skies and land at the bustling Cape Town International Airport, a warm and friendly English-speaking representative awaits you in the Arrivals Hall, assisting you to board your transfer to your hotel. Sit back and take in the sights and sounds of this vibrant city. From the bustling streets to the stunning natural beauty, Cape Town is a feast for the senses.
Upon arrival at your hotel, you will be greeted with a refreshing welcome drink, a symbol of the warm hospitality that awaits you in this stunning city. The evening is yours to enjoy as you please, whether you want to unwind and explore the local area, or simply relax in the comfort of your hotel.
Overnight: Cape Grace Hotel
DAY 3 (September 6) – EXPLORE CAPE TOWN & TABLE MOUNTAIN
After breakfast, meet your knowledgeable guide in the lobby and step aboard your air-conditioned vehicle. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable full-day tour of this beautiful city, with a return cable car ride up Table Mountain (weather permitting) as the highlight of the trip.
Overnight: Cape Grace Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 4 (September 7) – PENGUINS & CAPE WINELAND
With your expert guide visit the quirky penguins at Boulders Beach, between Simon’s Town and Cape Point. The colony, which lives incongruously in the middle of a residential area, is one of the few sites where African penguins – previously called Jackass penguins because of their braying call – can be observed at close range, as they wander freely in a protected natural environment.
Later delve into the heart of South Africa’s renowned wine region, where centuries of winemaking traditions, stunning landscapes, and world-class wines await.
Overnight: Cape Grace Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast, Tastings
DAY 5 – (September 8) – ALL ABOARD
Today fly to Johannesburg, and transfer to Pretoria and Capitol Park Station. As you step aboard the train, allow yourself to become acquainted with your home for the next 4 nights/5 days. The dedicated train staff warmly welcomes you and strives to ensure your utmost comfort throughout the journey. Take a moment to settle in and prepare for the remarkable adventure that lies ahead.
Your journey commences in the afternoon as the train sets off in a northbound direction, bound for the captivating destination of Zimbabwe. As the landscape gracefully unfolds outside your window, immerse yourself in the anticipation of the experiences awaiting you in this vibrant country.
Overnight onboard African Voyager
Meals included: Breakfast, Afternoon Tea, Dinner
DAY 6 (September 9) – ACROSS SOUTHERN AFRICA
All day today is spent in the luxurious environs of your train. Enjoy informative lectures, marvel at the landscape and socialize with your fellow travellers.
Overnight onboard African Voyager
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner
DAY 7 (September 10) – CECIL RHODE’S GRAVE & MATOBO NATIONAL PARK
The train travels baobab country and ascends to Bulawayo: second city of Zimbabwe, capital of Matabeleland and industrial capital of the country. In the afternoon, you’ll have an opportunity to visit the Matobo National Park, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park, whose name means “bald heads”, is renowned for its bare whaleback hills with weathered granite rocks set on top, often balanced in strange formations. This is also the location of the grave of Cecil Rhodes, who founded the colonial territory of Rhodesia, today’s Zimbabwe. It was his last wish to be buried on the hilltop known as World’s View, a magical place with a stunning panorama of the hills around it. There is also a stopover to view some fine rock paintings by the San hunter-gatherers. With over 3,000 known rock art sites, the Matobo Hills have the world’s largest collection of rock paintings… Back on board for dinner after sunset, your private train journey continues on to the north.
Overnight onboard African Voyager
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 8 (September 11) – HWANGE NATIONAL PARK
The train travels between Gwaai and Dete along one of the world’s longest stretches of straight railway line – 79 miles – and along the eastern edge of Hwange Park. Disembark the African Voyager train and step onto the open vehicles for your afternoon safari. Hwange National Park, renowned for its herds of elephants and Cape buffalo, is Zimbabwe’s largest and most important game reserve. With a little luck, that sunset hour could yield sightings of elephants, giraffes and lions, as well as the rare wild dogs and sable antelopes.
Dinner is served in the dining cars en route to Thompsons Junction.
Overnight onboard African Voyager
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 9 (September 12) – VICTORIA FALLS
This day is dedicated to the Victoria Falls. Numerous vantage points provide stunning views of the waters of the Zambezi River pouring into the canyon below. The columns of spray and clouds of mist rising from the world’s largest waterfall led the indigenous Kololo people to call this Mosi-oa-Tunya, “the mist that thunders”. Scottish missionary explorer David Livingstone first set eyes on the waterfall in 1855 on an expedition from the Cape to Luanda, and his written account made the falls world famous. After enjoying the falls Transfer to your lodge. Enjoy the view from your private balcony of the lodge’s on-site waterhole, which attracts many wild animals, and the magnificent panorama of the Zambezi National Park.
Overnight at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge
Meals included: Breakfast
DAY 10 (September 13) – DEPART VICTORIA FALLS OR EXTENSION TO BOTSWANA/CHOBE NATIONAL PARK
Bid Farewell to Africa today as you transfer to Victoria Falls Airport. Alternatively, add a memorable extension to Botswana and Chobe National Park.
Meals included: Breakfast
Journey Highlights
- Unique routing through South Africa and Zimbabwe
- Stunning Cape Town and Cape Wineland
- Superb Accommodations and Dining on the African Voyager Private Train, presented in cooperation with Rovos Rail – all meals and drinks included on the train!
- Safari Game Drives in Motobo National Park & Hwange National Park
- Visit the grave site of Cecil John Rhodes, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Visit Victoria Falls, one of the 7 natural wonders of the world!