Traveling through South Africa offers a unique experience of scenery and culture, especially when it comes to luxury train journeys. Two of the most renowned options are the Blue Train and Rovos Rail. Both provide unforgettable experiences, but choosing between the Blue Train or Rovos can be a challenge. In this post, we will explore the highlights, amenities, and routes of each train to help you decide which journey suits your travel style best. Whether you seek breathtaking landscapes or opulent comfort, the choice between the Blue Train or Rovos promises an adventure of a lifetime.

Both offer top-class service, luxurious accommodations, and unforgettable views of the African landscape. Both offer five-star services and scenic routes from Cape Town to various destinations on the African continent. Among the top five differences are their accommodation options, journey duration, and ticket prices. It comes down to personal choice but here are the top five luxury train differences for Southern Africa:

– The Blue Train, operated by Luxrail, a division of Transnet freight rail, has received numerous accolades as one of the world’s leading luxury trains.

It has set the benchmark for opulence with its exquisite interiors, exceptional dining, and world-class service. It features two suite categories: luxury and deluxe, varying in size, bedding, and bathroom layouts. Furthermore, the Blue Train is known for its excellent dining experience and carefully curated wine selection. Blue train ticket prices are generally more affordable than Rovos Rail and boast a faster journey due to its air suspension system. The advanced air suspension system ensures a smooth ride and a faster journey for passengers.

The Blue Train only offers a 2-night journey between Cape Town and Pretoria ; seasonal return trip to Hoedspruit near KNP

– Rovos Rail, a private company operated by the Vos family, specializes in the restoration and operation of classic Victorian-era trains. Rovos Rail is synonymous with elegance, offering travelers a step back in time through its meticulously restored vintage carriages. Also known as the Pride of Africa, it offers a leisurely travel pace across Southern Africa. It provides three suite types: Pullman, Deluxe, and Royal, each with private bathrooms. Each suite on Rovos Rail is elegantly appointed, reflecting the charm and grandeur of a bygone era. More than ninety percent of our clients prefer the product offer Rovos provides, and we get good feedback as well. 

Rovos Rail’s eleven routes are diverse, with trips lasting from 3 to 17 days, reaching destinations such as Victoria Falls, Durban, Namibia, Tanzania, Mozambique, and Angola. This variety allows passengers to explore a wide range of destinations in luxurious comfort.

In 2024, the Shongololo Express, also managed by Rovos Rail, integrated fully their Southern Cross, Dune Express, and Good Hope journeys into the Rovos schedule.  Shongololo Express is now part of the Rovos Rail luxury experience.      

– Both Blue Train and Rovos Rail present an exceptional luxury rail experience, with the choice often coming down to date availability and destination preference. 

The Blue Train is ideal for shorter excursions (2 nights), primarily serving the Cape Town route and offering seasonal trips to Hoedspruit for Kruger Park safaris. Blue Train Johannesburg to Cape Town is for travelers looking for a quick but luxurious escape, this luxury train’s shorter excursions are perfect for a taste of indulgence.

Rovos Rail caters to longer voyages (3 to 15 days) and a broader range of destinations throughout Southern Africa. On the other hand, Rovos Rail provides an extensive travel experience, catering to those with more time to explore and wander. There are 11 journeys to select from providing opportunities to visit Namibia, Victoria Falls, Dar Es Salaam amongst the more popular places. 

Luxury Trains and safaris will assist with the latest pricing in all currencies for luxury train journeys in any currency. There are numerous options available. The 11 Rovos itineraries offer a lot of before, or after, safari and vacation possibilities in Southern and East Africa. 

Whether you’re interested in a scenic journey across Southern Africa or a Botswana safari experience, we cater to diverse travel preferences. Extend Rovos beyond Victoria Falls to Hwange National Park and Belmond Safaris.  Contact Luxury Trains and Safaris today to plan your unforgettable journey through Southern Africa.