Filling Fast!
Apr 7 - Apr 23, 2025
South Africa / Zimbabwe / Mozambique / Eswatini
Southern Africa by Train: South Africa, Mozambique, Eswatini & Zimbabwe
Program No. 22912RJ
On an epic train trek across four nations in southern Africa, learn about life and culture in small African villages and capital cities and visit national parks and reserves for safari.
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800-454-5768
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Prices displayed below are based on per person,doubleoccupancy.
DATES & PRICES
Jun 2 - Jun 18, 2025
Sep 1 - Sep 17, 2025
Jan 10 - Jan 26, 2026
Apr 6 - Apr 22, 2026
May 18 - Jun 3, 2026
Aug 10 - Aug 26, 2026
Aug 31 - Sep 16, 2026
DATES & PRICES
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Apr 7 - Apr 23, 2025Jun 2 - Jun 18, 2025
Sep 1 - Sep 17, 2025
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Jan 10 - Jan 26, 2026Filling Fast!
Apr 6 - Apr 22, 2026Filling Fast!
May 18 - Jun 3, 2026Filling Fast!
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This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!
17 days
16 nights
42 meals
14B 14L 14D
1
In Transit to Program
In Flight
3
Soweto, Pretoria, History of Apartheid
Johannesburg
4
Board Rovos Rail, Travel through Mpumalanga Province
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
5
Pilgrim’s Rest, Panorama Route
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
6
Safari in Kruger National Park
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
7
Maputo – Mozambique, City Exploration
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
8
Eswatini, Swazi Candles, Mantenga Cultural Village
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
9
Safari in Kapama Game Reserve, Cheetah & Wild Dog Project
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
10
Travel Northern Limpopo Province, Enter Zimbabwe
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
11
Great Zimbabwe Ruins, Conservation Projects
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
12
Antelope Park, Elephant Interaction and Rhino Encounter
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
13
Matobo National Park, Cecil Rhodes' Grave, Cave Paintings
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
14
Hwange National Park Game Drives
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
15
Disembark Train, Local Community Projects, Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
17
In Transit from Program
In Flight
At a Glance
This epic journey will take you through four countries in the southern tip of Africa to meet local artisans and animals alike and to see incredible landscapes and wildlife found nowhere else in the world. Board the Rovos Rail in Pretoria and ride the rails to the stunning cliff-tops of Blyde River Canyon. Stop in Mozambique and Eswatini along the way to visit local markets and monuments, and visit three national parks and two game reserves to learn about conservation and see wildlife roaming across savannahs and rocky hills while on safari game drives. End your journey in Zimbabwe, home to the cascading waters of Africa’s greatest waterfall and the historic Great Zimbabwe Ruins.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Due to the rough train tracks in southern Africa, the train sways and rolls, with the potential for sudden jerks, stops and starts, which can make walking in the train challenging. The train will continue to travel at night for periods of time, which results in squeaking and creaking noises, as well as swaying. The train may well be delayed due to factors beyond our control, which can result in the schedule of events being altered. Please be flexible in timing and daily itinerary.
Standing for extended periods, potentially bumpy 4x4 rides. Long rides in open-air safari vehicles, requiring stamina and stability getting in/out of vehicles. Walking two miles, often on uneven terrain with no handholds. You must be agile and be able to walk on a train that sways and stops/starts suddenly.
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Catch sightings of “The Big Five” — lions, buffalo, leopards, rhinos and elephants — on 4x4 wildlife safaris in three national parks and a game reserve.
- Learn about 20th-century South African history and the country’s new era of hope and freedom as a democracy during visits to Soweto and Pretoria.
- Visit the Great Zimbabwe Ruins, the largest ancient monument south of the Egyptian pyramids, and Victoria Falls — one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
General Notes
Due to the special nature of the program, we regret that we are unable to match solo participants with roommates. Please refer to the “Travel Information” section on the Road Scholar website, the start/end time listed in your first informational packet or contact the provider if you plan on booking your own flights for correct arrival and departure dates. Due to the nature of this program, listening devices are not available. Please note that Rovos Rail has a dress code - days on board the train are smart casual, while dinner attire is more formal. Some evenings are themed attire, where guests can dress up accordingly or opt for smart casual instead.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Lisa Reed
Lisa Reed was born in Zimbabwe, spent her school years in South Africa, and now lives in Botswana. She has worked or visited most Southern and East African safari destinations, and has managed safari camps on her own and with others since being in Botswana. Lisa has a natural affinity with adults and children, and enjoys passing on her years of experience and knowledge to the next generation. She has been leading safaris for Road Scholar for more than 15 years.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Lisa Reed
View biography
Lisa Reed was born in Zimbabwe, spent her school years in South Africa, and now lives in Botswana. She has worked or visited most Southern and East African safari destinations, and has managed safari camps on her own and with others since being in Botswana. Lisa has a natural affinity with adults and children, and enjoys passing on her years of experience and knowledge to the next generation. She has been leading safaris for Road Scholar for more than 15 years.
Mark Geraghty
View biography
Mark Geraghty was born in Ndola, Northern Zambia where his father was stationed in the British Army. He grew up in Zambia, until his family moved to Harare, Zimbabwe. Not only has Mark traveled extensively throughout Southern Africa, but he has also spent time in Kenya and the Congo. His marriage into a prominent Zimbabwean family sparked an interest in Africa’s early history, specifically the “Scramble for Africa.” Mark is a passionate storyteller with a piercing insight and great sense of humor.
Suggested Reading List
(13 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Southern Africa by Train: South Africa, Mozambique, Eswatini & Zimbabwe
Program Number: 22912
Long Walk to Freedom
An unpretentious tale of an extraordinary life, Mandela's autobiography is essential reading for an understanding of South Africa. His grace and his love for his country shine throughout.
The Last Elephants
African savanna elephants--among the most magnificent and beloved of our fellow mammals--are an extraordinary, social, and intelligent species. The Last Elephants, an homage to these animals and a clarion call for their preservation, is based upon a shocking finding: savanna elephant populations across Africa are being decimated, with two to three murdered every hour for their ivory. Without action, these elephants soon will vanish from our world. They are a species in imminent danger of extinction, and it is up to us to save them.
No Future Without Forgiveness
Winner of the 1994 Nobel Peace Prize, Desmond Tutu writes with insight and compassion in this memoir of his work for reconciliation in post-apartheid South Africa.
Africa Is Not a Country: Notes on a Bright Continent
So often, Africa has been depicted simplistically as a uniform land of famines and safaris, poverty and strife, stripped of all nuance. This book offers stories that bring to life Africa’s rich diversity, communities, and histories.
The Big Conservation Lie
This book takes the reader through Kenya’s conservation ‘industry’ and the players therein with all their prejudices, weaknesses and commitment to causes. It is a call to indigenous Africans to claim their place at the table where the management of their natural resources is being discussed, and invites well-meaning donors to look beyond the romantic images and detect the possible role of their money in the disenfranchisement of a people.
The Safari Companion
An invaluable encyclopedic guide to Africa's mammals by a noted scientist, this perennial bestseller includes black-and-white drawings, an overview of each animal group and in-depth information. Written with the typical safari-goer in mind.
South Africa, A Traveler's Literary Companion
This diverse collection of short stories reveals South Africa through the eyes of its writers, including Nadine Gordimer, J.M. Coetzee and Alan Paton.
Out of Darkness, Shining Light
So begins Petina Gappah's powerful novel of exploration and adventure in nineteenth-century Africa—the captivating story of the loyal men and women who carried explorer and missionary Dr. Livingstone's body, his papers and maps, fifteen hundred miles across the continent of Africa, so his remains could be returned home to England and his work preserved there.
Southern Africa Map
Scaled at 1:2,500,000, this shaded relief map covers South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe and southern portions of Angola, Zambia and Mozambique.
Lonely Planet Southern Africa
This hefty practical guide to the nine nations of southern Africa, including Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Swaziland (Eswatini), Malawi, Mozambique and Lesotho, is ideal for independent travelers on a multi-country tour.
Sleepwalking Land
Written by a native Mozambican in Portuguese, this highly-acclaimed novel of turmoil and civil war is rich with magical realism.
Glory
Award-winning author follows the fall of the Old Horse, the long-serving leader of a fictional country, and the drama that follows for a nation of animals on the path to true liberation. Inspired by the unexpected fall by coup in 2017 of Robert G. Mugabe, Zimbabwe’s president of nearly four decades, Glory shows a country's imploding, narrated by a chorus of animal voices.
Killing for Profit
A terrifying true story of greed, corruption, depravity and ruthless criminal enterprise . . . On the black markets of Southeast Asia, rhino horn is worth more than gold, cocaine and heroin. This is the chilling story of a two-year-long investigation into a dangerous criminal underworld where merciless syndicates will stop at nothing to attain their prize. It is a tale of greed, folly and corruption, and of an increasingly desperate battle to save the rhino - which has survived for more than 50 million years - from extinction.
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
17 days
16 nights
What's Included
42 meals (
14B, 14L, 14D
)
7 expert-led lectures
13 expert-led field trips
1 flight during the program
An experienced Group Leader
14 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
In Transit to Program
Location:
In Flight
Day
2
Arrive Johannesburg, Check-in, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Location:
Johannesburg
Meals:
D
Stay:
City Lodge Hotel Eastgate
Activity Note
Hotel check-in available from 2:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
After clearing customs and immigration, we will transfer the short distance to the hotel where we’ll check in and relax before the welcome dinner.
Dinner:
Our welcome dinner at the hotel will be our choice to order off an a la carte menu. Bottled water and a welcome drink will be included; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
Orientation: The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. We are fortunate to have a knowledgeable expert as our Group Leader who will also serve as our primary lecturer for most of the program. In addition, we will have the benefit of local experts who will join us at different sites. Periods in the daily schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful, rewarding, and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. Continue getting to know your fellow participants, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Day
3
Soweto, Pretoria, History of Apartheid
Location:
Johannesburg
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
City Lodge Hotel Eastgate
Activity Note
Minimal walking on flat terrain. Getting on/off motorcoach; drive about 120 miles total, approx. 3 hours.
Breakfast:
At the hotel, we’ll enjoy an expansive buffet featuring a variety of cold cereals, fresh fruit, cold meats and cheeses, pastries and hot items such as breakfast meats and vegetables, plus omelets, eggs and waffles will be cooked on demand. Fruit juices, coffee, tea and water will also be included.
Morning:
We will set out via motorcoach with our Group Leader and a local expert to explore Soweto (SOuth WEstern TOwnship), the largest black residential area in South Africa. They will offer commentary as we go. This “city within a city” consists of 50 suburbs, or sections, and essentially acts as a labor reservoir for the greater metropolitan area of the Witwatersrand. In many ways, the story of Soweto is the story of South Africa. While here, we’ll visit major points of interest such as Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, Baragwanath taxi rank, Freedom Square, and Hector Peterson Memorial. Over the course of the morning en route, we’ll engage in a discussion on the history of South Africa and apartheid.
Lunch:
Light lunch at a local restaurant; bottled water will be included.
Afternoon:
This afternoon, we will explore Pretoria, South Africa’s administrative capital, just north of Johannesburg. The city of Pretoria provides a complete contrast to Johannesburg, the City of Gold. Pretoria was founded in 1855 and named after the Voortrekker leader, Andries Pretorius. It is often referred to as the “Jacaranda City,” a nickname derived from the thousands of trees which line the streets, their purple blossoms announcing the approach of summer each October. While here, we’ll visit the Voortrekker Monument, an impressive memorial constructed in honor of the early pioneers, before carrying on to the dramatic Union Building, which houses the offices of the State President and Ministers, as well as provides an impactful view over the city. Our Group Leader will accompany us as we explore the outside grounds of the building and the Nelson Mandela statue. We’ll also enjoy expert en route commentary as we make our way to and through Pretoria. In the late afternoon, we will return to the hotel with time to freshen up prior to dinner.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
4
Board Rovos Rail, Travel through Mpumalanga Province
Location:
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
Activity Note
Minimal walking. Getting on/off motorcoach; drive about 40 miles, approx. 1 hour.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will check out of the hotel and board our motorcoach for the transfer to Rovos Rail Station in Pretoria. Upon arrival at the colonial-style train station, we’ll check in and board the train. The massive locomotive carriage sheds and workshops command about 10,000 square meters (107,640 square feet) and spread across 15 railway lines. Complete with inspection pits and a diligent repair and maintenance staff to keep things moving with precision, this facility in the old Transvaal (the land north of the Vaal River) holds true to its legacy as a once lively hub for steam trains. The train will depart mid-morning, and we will have time to settle into our suites as the train heads along the eastern line that was built by the Dutch railway building company NZASM (Nederlandsche Zuid-Afrikaansche Spoorweg-Maatschappij).
Lunch:
Aboard train.
Afternoon:
As the train continues east through the mining and industrial areas of eMalahleni and Middleburg, we will take some time to relax, take in the changing scenery of the Mpumalanga Province from our private suites or the observation car, and appreciate the amenities of the Rovos Rail. High tea will be served at 4:30pm, consisting of tea/coffee, scones, cakes and other delicious offerings. The train will continue the journey towards Emgwenya (Waterval Boven), a small town where the train will stop on a siding for the night.
Dinner:
Each evening in the dining car aboard the train, we’ll enjoy a 3-course plated meal. All alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages will be included.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
5
Pilgrim’s Rest, Panorama Route
Location:
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
Activity Note
Walking about 2 miles throughout the day; uneven, rocky and potentially slippery terrain at certain stops. Walking shoes with good tread recommended (no flip-flops; hiking boots not necessary). Water provided on the coach; sunscreen and insect repellent are recommended. Driving approx. 175 miles total round trip; about 5 hours total on board, with stops.
Breakfast:
In the dining car aboard the train each morning, the breakfast buffet will offer choices including a variety of cold cereals, yogurt and fruit, plus hot breakfast items that can be ordered off of an a la carte menu; all beverages included.
Morning:
Today, we will discover South Africa's Panorama Route during a full day, off-train field trip. Departing via motorcoach from the train station in Nelspruit, we will drive to Pilgrim's Rest, a small town where, in 1873, the discovery of gold attracted 1,500 diggers to the area. As we drive, we’ll hear commentary covering the history of gold panning in the area with a focus on the discovery’s effects on the region as well as on the geography and geology of the canyon a bit later. While here, we will have the opportunity to stroll down the main street of town, which is now a living museum and national monument. The drive will then continue along the Panorama Route, threading its way along the cliff tops of the high escarpment, which stands 2,600 feet above the spectacular Blyde River Canyon. Landmarks along the route include the Pinnacle and Bourke's Luck Potholes. Ultimately, we will discover amazing views and the beautiful scenery of the Lowveld, as seen from God's Window.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant along the Panorama Route, we’ll have a plated meal chosen from a select menu with bottled water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
We’ll continue exploring the Panorama Route until late in the afternoon when we will return to the train in Nelspruit and depart for Malelane, our overnight stop.
Dinner:
Aboard train.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
6
Safari in Kruger National Park
Location:
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
Activity Note
Off-train field trip will last up to 10 hours. Safari game drives are conducted in open air, 4x4 vehicles along both paved and gravel roads; ride can be bumpy at times. Minimal walking; getting in and out of game drive vehicles.
Breakfast:
Aboard train.
Morning:
The train will stop at the Malelane Station where our game drive vehicles will pick us up for transfer to the Malelane Gate. We will start out the day with a game drive in the world-renowned Kruger National Park, established in 1898. The park is now surrounded to the west by several game reserves, making it part of the largest protected wildlife area in the world. The greater Kruger National Park area is known for its concentration of the "Big Five" and an abundance of other wildlife and birdlife, making it a prime destination for game viewing. Our local safari experts will provide commentary on the wildlife and environment as discovered on the drive. As is the nature of game drives, every vehicle will have a unique experience and subject matter of talks will depend on the animals we see.
Lunch:
At a local lodge, we will enjoy a buffet lunch with bottled water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
Our exploration of Kruger National Park will continue this afternoon as we embark on our continued game drive. We will then travel back to Malelane to re-board the train and depart for Mozambique.
Dinner:
Aboard train.
Evening:
We will complete Mozambique border formalities, entering Mozambique at the Ressano Garcia border post, before continuing on towards Maputo.
Day
7
Maputo – Mozambique, City Exploration
Location:
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
Activity Note
Off-train field trip is approximately 6.5 hours, with opportunities to exit the vehicle and explore at various spots. Driving about 10 miles total; heavy traffic in city; up to approx. ½ hour spent aboard between multiple stops. Walking less than 2 miles throughout the day; mostly flat, paved, busy city streets.
Breakfast:
Aboard train.
Morning:
After getting off the train, we will begin our day with an exploration via motorcoach of Mozambique's capital, Maputo, a city that has an exciting history and varied culture. Our local train expert will lead us throughout the city where we will see African, Portuguese and early colonial influences and traditions, Catholic churches, mosques, fortresses, Victorian mansions, and other buildings reminiscent of times-gone-by. Our first stop today will be at the city’s municipal market where we’ll explore this bustling, colorful marketplace with its rows upon rows of vendors. Next, we will visit the Fortaleza de Maputo, which dates back to 1769. A walk along the top wall of the fort provides stunning views across the Bay of Maputo, out to the islands in the distance. Further, a drive along the Marginal will take us along the Costa do Sol, a beautiful road along the ocean, lined with palm trees. During the field trip, we will see some of the city’s major sites of interest as we pass including the Catholic Cathedral, the Civic Centre, Louis Trichardt Trek Memorial, Samora Machel Statue, the Jardim Tunduru (Botanical Gardens) and Eiffel's Iron House (Casa do Ferro). Commentary on recent events in Maputo and history of Mozambique will be provided by our expert train leader.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant in Maputo, we’ll enjoy a buffet lunch with bottled water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
We will return to the train in the mid-afternoon where high tea will be served as we begin our journey towards Eswatini. Our Group Leader will then lead a lecture on the history, culture and current events of Mozambique and Eswatini.
Dinner:
Aboard train.
Evening:
The train will exit Mozambique via the Goba border post and continue to Eswatini.
Day
8
Eswatini, Swazi Candles, Mantenga Cultural Village
Location:
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
Activity Note
Off-train field trip is approximately 7 hours, with opportunities to get off the vehicle and explore in various spots. Driving time today is approximately 3 hours total, which will include winding, mountainside roads. Walking less than 2 miles throughout the day; mostly flat, paved surfaces.
Breakfast:
Aboard train.
Morning:
Today, we will be introduced to the second-smallest country in Africa, Eswatini. After disembarking the train in Mpaka, we'll board our motorcoach for our journey through the stunning Ezulwini Valley ("Ezulwini" means "place of heaven"). We will pass through Manzini, the Hub of Eswatini, en route to Swazi Candles, a fair-trade business started in 1981 by two young South Africans. In the workshop, each and every candle is made by hand using the millefiore ("thousand flowers") technique perfected by talented artisans, many of whom are liSwati, before being shipped to customers around the world. From here, we will continue to Mantenga Cultural Village, which brings liSwati traditions and lifestyles from the 1800’s to life. We will gain valuable insight to the classic liSwati traditions, customs, dance, language and art as we explore this sixteen-hut traditional homestead.
Lunch:
At a local lodge in Eswatini, we’ll enjoy a plated lunch with bottled water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
We will return to the train at Mpaka Station. Commentary throughout the day will discuss liSwati culture and traditions, the monarchy and current events. Upon reboarding the train, we will enjoy high tea with our fellow participants as the train departs for Klaserie, near Hoedspruit, for our overnight stop in South Africa.
Dinner:
Aboard train.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
9
Safari in Kapama Game Reserve, Cheetah & Wild Dog Project
Location:
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
Activity Note
Off-train field trip lasts approximately 6 hours. Game drives conducted in open-air, 4x4 vehicles; getting in/out of vehicles. Minimal walking.
Breakfast:
Early continental breakfast aboard the train.
Morning:
After getting off the train and transferring a short distance to the gate, our game drive vehicles will pick us up to set out on our adventure in Kapama Game Reserve. The reserve is a vast, private concession located west of the famous Kruger National Park. The Reserve is home to the Big Five (lion, buffalo, leopard, rhino and elephant) as well as over 40 species of mammals and 350 types of birds. Following the game drive, we will visit the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre, where our local staff will show us around the center (via our 4x4 vehicles) and teach us about the rehabilitation and conservation efforts being undertaken at the center. The center has a number of rare and endangered species on site, including the king cheetah and African wild dog. We will have the opportunity to learn about these species and see them up close. We will return to the train by mid-day in time for lunch.
Lunch:
Aboard the train, we’ll enjoy a 3-course plated meal. All alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages will be included.
Afternoon:
The train will continue north, towards Tzaneen and Louis Trichardt, the destination for the overnight stop. As the train continues its journey, our Group Leader will lead a lecture on elephant behavior and social structure; in a few days’ time, we will likely see many of these great grey giants during our visit to Hwange National Park.
Dinner:
Aboard train.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
10
Travel Northern Limpopo Province, Enter Zimbabwe
Location:
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
Activity Note
Full day aboard the train.
Breakfast:
Aboard train.
Morning:
On this full day of travel aboard the train, take some time to relax, take in the beautiful changing scenery of the Limpopo Province and appreciate the amenities of the Rovos Rail. In the mid-morning, we’ll gather with our Group Leader for a lecture on the significant colonial influences in the early development of South Africa.
Lunch:
Aboard train.
Afternoon:
As the train continues the journey north, we will join our Group Leader for an overview of Zimbabwe including its history and current political situation.
Dinner:
Aboard train.
Evening:
The train will arrive at Beitbridge for Zimbabwe border formalities, after which it will continue to Oreti for the overnight stop.
Day
11
Great Zimbabwe Ruins, Conservation Projects
Location:
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
Activity Note
Field trip duration approx. 9 hours. Driving about 200 miles total. Walking up to 2-3 miles over the course of 2-3 hours. Two choices for visiting ruins. Choice 1: Shorter, less strenuous hike to lower ruins, museum, and Karanga Village; about 2 miles; approx. 1.5 hours; relatively flat terrain and dirt pathways. Choice 2: Same as Choice 1, plus upper ruins on top of hill complex to add 1 mile and 1 hour; uneven and rocky terrain, ancient stone steps, pathways, inclines.
Breakfast:
Aboard train.
Morning:
After getting off the train, we will board a motorcoach and drive through granite hills en-route to the Great Zimbabwe Ruins, the largest ancient monument in Africa south of the Egyptian pyramids. Though much about Great Zimbabwe remains a mystery, the site is impressive to behold, with its granite walls, turrets, towers and platforms still standing. Built between the 11th and 15th centuries, the city remains a source of pride for Zimbabweans, due to the advanced engineering techniques evidenced there. As we explore the site itself accompanied by local experts, we will learn about Great Zimbabwe's role in African history and about the archaeological discoveries that have been made over the years.
Lunch:
At a local lodge, we will enjoy a lunch buffet with bottled water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
Next, we will drive back to Oreti where we will rejoin the train. Once boarded, our Group Leader will facilitate a two-part discussion. First, we will learn about lion behavior and social structure. Then, we will continue our discussion, shifting to current events and the effects of local conservation projects on wildlife. There are long-standing debates regarding specific projects and initiatives and whether or not they actually benefit the wildlife. We will be encouraged to see the debate from all sides, and will be presented with the arguments both for and against projects of this nature.
Dinner:
Aboard train.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
12
Antelope Park, Elephant Interaction and Rhino Encounter
Location:
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
Activity Note
Off-train field trip lasts approximately 8 hours. Minimal walking for group activities; more dependent on personal preference; mostly flat ground. Driving approx. 40 miles round trip to/from Antelope Park; ½ hour each way.
Breakfast:
Aboard train.
Morning:
After getting off the train and transferring the short way via motorcoach, we’ll set out for a full day in Antelope Park, a private game reserve set on over 3,000 acres of open savanna grassland in Zimbabwe. The morning will begin with a short introduction to the African Lion and Environmental Research Trust (ALERT) program, where we will be introduced to the program’s initiative and have a chance to view the project’s facilities in the company of a local volunteer. ALERT describes itself as a conservation program, but there is large debate in the conservation community as to if projects such as this one actually benefit the species. Later this morning, we will have an opportunity to spend time and interact with Antelope Park’s four resident elephants. We’ll learn about each elephant individually, as they all have their own histories, personalities and daily routines. Before lunch, we will join our Group Leader to discuss the explorations of David Livingstone and the formation of Victoria Falls.
Lunch:
At the restaurant in Antelope Park, we’ll enjoy a buffet lunch with bottled water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
Following lunch and a bit of relaxation on the terrace, we will drive a few minutes into the reserve to the rhino enclosure. From a safe distance, we will have the chance to view these special creatures up close while our Group Leader provides commentary on their behavior and social structure. We will return to the train in the late afternoon, after which the train will depart for Bulawayo, today’s overnight stopping point.
Dinner:
Aboard train.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
13
Matobo National Park, Cecil Rhodes' Grave, Cave Paintings
Location:
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
Activity Note
Off-train field trip lasts approximately 7 hours. Walking about 2 miles total throughout the day; approx. 1 mile from the parking lot to the grave site; rocky, dirt paths uneven terrain with inclines/declines; periods of standing. Driving from train to Matobo Gate is approx. 25 miles each way; additional driving within the park in 4x4 vehicles dependent on roads taken but can be up to 6 hours in the vehicles.
Breakfast:
Aboard train.
Morning:
After getting off the train we’ll travel to the park via motorcoach, then board our 4x4 safari vehicles for the day. In the stunning Matobo National Park, we will explore the dramatic hills and rocky, granite formations that lead to the summit of Malindidzimu, the 'hill of benevolent spirits,' where Cecil John Rhodes is buried. His grave is masterfully carved into the solid granite hill and is surrounded by massive boulders. We will stretch our eyes out to the horizon from atop the hill and consider how Rhodes and his explorations impacted the history of the African continent. Our expert local rangers will provide commentary on Cecil Rhodes, Zimbabwean history and Matobo Park. As time allows, we will visit one or more caves, formerly home to Zimbabwe's earliest inhabitants, the San "Bushmen." The caves serve as art galleries, showcasing the early wall paintings of the Bushmen, which date back thousands of years. Our local experts will provide information on the historical and cultural context of the Bushmen.
Lunch:
At a local lodge in the park, we will enjoy a buffet lunch with bottled water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
We’ll continue our visit at Matobo National Park before returning to the train and continuing to Dete.
Dinner:
Aboard train.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
14
Hwange National Park Game Drives
Location:
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Rovos Rail (Southern Cross)
Activity Note
Off-train excursion lasts up to 9 hours. Walking less than 1 mile throughout the day. Morning and afternoon game drives conducted in open-air, 4x4 vehicles; total driving distance varies according to sightings in the park; up to 6 hours of game drives; bumpy terrain, dirt roads.
Breakfast:
Early aboard the train.
Morning:
Getting off the train at Kennedy siding near the entrance to the park, we’ll board our 4x4 vehicles and embark on a full-day of safari game drives in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe's premier safari destination. Hwange, in the northwestern corner of Zimbabwe, is the country’s largest national park, covering more than 5,600 square miles (14,650 square km). The volume and range of wildlife is extraordinary with more than 100 species of mammals and almost 400 bird species. Foremost among them are elephant herds that are among the largest in the world, as well as great herds of Cape buffalo. Seasonally, predators such as lion, leopard, wild dog, and cheetah prey on vast numbers of migrating antelope. Wildlife viewing is generally reliable around shallow pans and waterholes throughout the park.
Lunch:
At a picnic area in Hwange, taking a break from our game drive, we will enjoy a packed lunch with bottled water included.
Afternoon:
In the afternoon, we will continue our game viewing on a second safari drive in Hwange National Park in search of wildlife that may have eluded us this morning. We will return to the train in the late afternoon in time for tea on board.
Dinner:
Aboard train.
Evening:
At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out from the train and transfer in the morning.
Day
15
Disembark Train, Local Community Projects, Victoria Falls
Location:
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Ilala Lodge
Activity Note
Walking about 2 miles in order to see the Falls from all viewpoints; about 2 hours; paths may be slick from mist, but are mostly flat. Standing for extended periods of time at the community visits. Driving approx. 15 miles throughout the day; about 1 hour total with stops.
Breakfast:
Aboard train.
Morning:
The train will arrive in the town of Victoria Falls in the mid-morning. Upon disembarking the train, we will transfer by minibus to visit a community project in Victoria Falls. Here, we will have the chance to meet members of the community and see how they live. Visits to these projects are done on a non-commercialized, authentic and interactive basis with a view to a genuine and meaningful interaction. We will then be driven to our nearby lunch venue.
Lunch:
At a nearby local restaurant with scenic views, we’ll have a 2-course plated meal from a select menu with bottled water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
After lunch, we will transfer by minibus to the magnificent Victoria Falls – one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Here, in the company of our Group Leader, we will see how through the millennia the forces of nature have created this marvelous spectacle, Africa’s greatest waterfall. We will view the Falls today from the Zimbabwean side, with commentary from our Group Leader. We will head to our lodge in the late afternoon to check in and freshen up before dinner.
Dinner:
Our farewell dinner at the lodge will be a 3-course, set menu meal including water, coffee, tea; additional beverages available for purchase. Share some of your favorite experiences from the program with new Road Scholar friends.
Evening:
At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and departures tomorrow.
Day
16
Fly to Johannesburg, Program Concludes
Location:
In Flight
Meals:
B,L
Activity Note
Hotel check-out mid-morning. Drive to the airport is approx. 13 miles; about 20 minutes. Flight duration from Victoria Falls to Johannesburg is approx. 1.5 hours. See your program’s travel details regarding transfers. If you are an independent traveler (POP status), see “Ground Transportation from Last Location.
Breakfast:
At the lodge, we’ll enjoy an expansive buffet with a variety of choices including cereal, fruit, bread, and cold meat and cheese, plus hot items including eggs and breakfast meats. Fruit juice, tea, coffee and water provided.
Morning:
We will have some time to pack before our mid-morning transfer to the Victoria Falls airport for our flight to Johannesburg.
Lunch:
A light snack will be provided on board the flight.
Afternoon:
We will board the early afternoon commercial flight to Johannesburg, arriving in Johannesburg mid-afternoon; in Johannesburg, connect to your international return flight. This concludes our program. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Please join our Facebook page and share photos of your program. Visit us at www.facebook.com/rsadventures. Best wishes for all your journeys!
Day
17
In Transit from Program
Location:
In Flight
Morning:
Early morning arrivals to North America.
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MEALS
42 Meals
14 Breakfasts
14 Lunches
14 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Aug 31, 2026 - Sep 16, 2026
- Apr 07, 2025 - Apr 23, 2025 (Johannesburg to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe)
- Jun 02, 2025 - Jun 18, 2025 (Johannesburg to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe)
- Sep 01, 2025 - Sep 17, 2025 (Johannesburg to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe)
- Jan 10, 2026 - Jan 26, 2026 (Johannesburg to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe)
- Apr 06, 2026 - Apr 22, 2026 (Johannesburg to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe)
- May 18, 2026 - Jun 03, 2026 (Johannesburg to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe)
- Aug 10, 2026 - Aug 26, 2026 (Johannesburg to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe)
- Aug 31, 2026 - Sep 16, 2026 (Johannesburg to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe)
Participant Reviews
Based on 21 Reviews
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A trip of a lifetime! Traveling on Rovos Rail was such a luxurious experience and one that I will never forget. A well balanced itinerary where you get to see southern Africa in a totally unique way. I highly recommend this trip!
— Review left November 27, 2024
Southern Africa by Train: South Africa, Mozambique, Eswatini & Zimbabwe ranks up there among the very best! Might even call this a trip of a lifetime. The itinerary was superb and our Tour Director, Johann, was the best. The 12 of us from Road Scholar were excellent travel companions and we were able to interact with other people on Rovos Rail. All of the sites we visited were top notch. Everyone of us were able to take multiple photographs without problem and some have got to be National Georgraphic quality. The only dificultly on this trip was the wardrobe suggestion from RS. (I wonder if anyone from Boston has ever been on this trip?) That clothing list needs to be updated for three primary wardrobes: casual attire; dressy attire for evening dinners on the train; and safari clothes for riding Land Rovers into the African Bush. Nevertheless, I think anyone with an interest in southern Africa and wildliffe will enjoy this trip.
— Review left November 19, 2024
I concur with the other very positive reviews of the September, 2024 trip, including the challenges with the train due to the poor condition of the track in southern Africa. The train does stop no later than 1:00-2:00 am for the night so you are guaranteed some solid sleep. Lisa Reed is an exceptional group leader. My wife and I have been on 20 Road Scholar trips and I would say she was among the best. It's a once in a lifetime experience to put your hand into the mouth of an elephant and touch its slimy tongue or to be a few feet from a female lion as she passes right beside the 4X4 you are seated in.
— Review left October 8, 2024
This was a wonderful way to visit South Africa, Eswatini, Mozambique and Zimbabwe. The train was beautiful and the staff was excellent and attentive. The food was superb! Our guide Lisa was the BEST tour guide I've ever had. She was very knowledgeable and attentive to everyone in our group. The closeness we came to the elephants and two rhinos was FANTASTIC! ***WARNING- the train is incredibly loud, jerky and sleep can by very difficult to impossible. Sleep medication is recommended. Otherwise it was a fun and exciting trip.
— Review left September 28, 2024
Our recent program, Southern Africa by Train, exceeded my expectations in every way imaginable. Lisa Reed was so knowledgeable, kind and enthusiastic as our group leader, and she made our journey one of discovery and enlightenment in all aspects of the history, culture and wildlife of the countries we visited. Riding the Rosvos Rail was a dream of a lifetime, and we even met Mr. Vos himself who gave us a tour of his lovely train station in Pretoria. This program rates a 10 +.
— Review left September 26, 2024
Over the course of a dozen or more Road Scholar trips we have been uniformly impressed with the quality of the group leaders. That said, Lisa Reed is clearly in the top tier of the group leaders we have traveled with. Her knowledge of wildlife is amazing. Although this was not a birding trip, we still managed to amass a list of 127 birds, most of which were new on our life list. Of course, the high point of the trip was traveling of Rovos Rail itself. The combination of elegance, wonderful food and amazing service, combined with the charm of train travel from a bygone era has to be experienced. It cannot be described.
— Review left September 24, 2024
Program exceeded our expectations. Was worth the investment.
— Review left September 20, 2024
The Train Across Southern Africa was a wonderful way to see a lot in comfort and style. Our guide was fabulous--sharing her depth of knowledge of the area and the animals every minute of the day. Each experience increased our understanding of the challenges facing Southern Africa, and our respect for the people meeting those challenges. And seeing so many animals in their own environments was outstanding. Highly recommend this trip, expecially if you can have Lisa Reed as your guide.
— Review left January 26, 2024
This trip is fantastic. The description beforehand had me scared but it was really an easy trip (once you got there!) Our leader, Lisa Reed, was the most fantastic leader I have ever had. The service on the train is pure luxury...wine pairings with delicious food, high tea, open bar, and they even do your laundry for free, The train staff is great. We saw over 100 elephants in one place, a lion pride sleeping in the sun near a zebra they had just dined on. Now...things were done on Africa time; the train is noisy and at times rocks pretty bad. Also we saw a lot of awful poverty and learned about the long history and corruption. One way the trip differed from the usual Road Scholar is the trips off the train are run by the train so we got to do a lot of shopping. Oh....there were people on the train from all over the world and we had lots of interesting conversions.
— Review left January 23, 2024
AN AMAZING AND UNUSUAL EXPERIENCE WHICH I WOULD RECOMMEND TO ANYONE.
— Review left November 16, 2023
The Rovos Rail trip through South Eastern Africa was the most memorable and satisfying trip of our lives so far. A comfortable and exciting journey of a lifetime
— Review left September 21, 2023
Gained new insights into the historical, cultural, social, political, and environmental characteristics of Southern Africa. Being able to travel by rail really facilitated a fascinating learning experience. And seeing the wildlife was a real bonus!
— Review left June 23, 2023
This was a wonderful trip. Helen Malison our guide was a master of compassion and facts about all the countries we visited. We were a group of 8 people. We shared the train with a group called RAVA . Their guide was not as good as Helen. Helen is a native South African. She gave me perspective on the problems in the region that someone who was not would have missed.
It did not rain during the time we spent in Africa. We ate at some of the finest hotels during our field trips to the jungle safari's. I learned about things I had never been exposed to. I fed an elephant! Saw lions in there natural habitat.
If you go be prepared for incredible heat. My 1st day I was convinced I had heat stroke. and this was their winter! Later it turned out that it was just dehydration. Bring a hat. If you fly to South Africa get economy plus seats or better. Trust me it will be money well spent.
Have fun during your trip. That will be east to do.
— Review left June 23, 2023
Great trip, Helen was fantastic, group was fun.
— Review left June 22, 2023
A trip of a lifetime! From branches scraping the side of the train in the night to watching 8 lions walk towards us, this trip was full of adventure. We all came home with stories to tell. Our guide Lisa truly made the trip!
— Review left January 28, 2023
The squeaks, sqwalks, swaying of the train added to the charm of our trip. We have not experienced being rocked to sleep in 70 years. The Shongololo Express was a true delight. South Africa has a special treasure in this train.
— Review left January 18, 2020
What a fabulous experience! The people, the culture, the history, the wildlife, to say nothing of the train travel itself. Beyond all expectations!!
Our Rhodesian-born guide, Keith Chisnall, has first-hand knowledge and passion for the struggles of his fellow countrymen, and in large part, following along in Keith's generosity of spirit, we were moved to sponsor a child attending the Lesedi Primary School. We could not have asked for a more experienced or caring leader.
And I wish I could have retained a quarter of the information that Keith and the Shongololo guides imparted. Their lectures were wonderful! We definitely returned home with a richer and fuller perception of southern Africa.
The memories of our experiences on this trip, along with the new friends we made, will be with us for many years to come.
— Review left September 18, 2019
BEWARE: Our fabulous tour had MAJOR SAFETY ISSUES!!
Although knowledgable, our group leader Keith performed far below Road Scholar's standards.
Neither he nor our Rovos Rail bus tour guide gave any security information for the train. Fortunately there was not a fire and no one had a medical emergency while traveling.
One independent-traveler lady on our bus got caught with her arm in the door as the bus departed--no one had counted to realize she was not yet on the bus. Fortunately several people yelled to the driver to stop and the lady boarded the bus. (She was badly bruised and swollen, and quite sore, but nothing was broken.)
Keith did not insure meals for those with serious allergies--even though he was reminded the day before, and these were listed in the personal information form that was submitted to RS.
Keith did not give us his room/cabin numbers in either the hotels or on the train, and was difficult to find. He refused to rotate seats on the bus, never posted any daily updates, frequently did not count to see that we were all there, and orally relayed any information to some members of our group and not to others.
We loved the train trip; it was all we hoped for and more: excellent food, great game drives, fascinating history and culture, warm African people. The train ride was fun and our beautiful cabin was especially nice: good bed, great heat and A/C, plenty of hot water.
The train has no internet, no cell phone service, no TV's, no radios, and no phones in the cabins. Given that most of this trip takes place in developing nations. it is particularly disturbing that Keith appeared to be unconcerned with overall safety and possible health issues.
— Review left September 3, 2019
I would recommend that you just go! It's truly a trip of a lifetime!!
— Review left September 2, 2019
Loved every moment - Just a marvelous experience.
— Review left May 5, 2019
Wonderful program to broaden one's horizon about Southern Africa!
— Review left May 2, 2019
