From the province of Gauteng to South Africa’s mother city of Cape Town, you’ll travel the country in ultimate luxury on the Rovos Rail train. A mixture of action packed city exploring and relaxation through the picturesque plains of South Africa, this journey combines the best of both worlds.
In Gauteng, you’ll first discover the city sights of Johannesburg and Pretoria, visiting significant monuments, museums and shopping centres. Then you’ll travel through South Africa’s spectacular natural landscapes for two days in sublime luxury from the comfort of your cabin. Indulge in fine dining and premium quality service throughout the trip.
On your train journey from Johannesburg to Cape Town, you’ll also visit some of the country’s most fascinating spots. These include Kimberley’s Diamond Mine Museum and the historic settlement of Matjiesfontein.
When you reach the iconic city of Cape Town, you’ll spend three nights at the luxurious and grand Belmond Mount Nelson hotel. During your time in Cape Town, discover all the famous sights that city has to offer. This includes a cable car trip up to Table Mountain, a visit to meet the penguin colony at Boulders Beach, and a trip to Robben Island. The latter is a notorious former prison where Nelson Mandela was famously incarcerated.

Trip Highlights
- Discover the city sights of Johannesburg and Pretoria in the province of Gauteng
- Travel South Africa by luxury train through picturesque terrains and scenic landscapes
- Explore the old Victorian village of Matjiesfontein and Kimberley’s Big Hole and Diamond Mine Museum
- Stay at the grand Belmond Mount Nelson, an idyllic garden estate in Cape Town
Start your Journey
Pretoria and Johannesburg
Begin your South African journey with an overnight stay in Pretoria, the administrative capital of South Africa.
You’ll spend your time exploring all the city has to offer. Visit the iconic statue of Nelson Mandela, before roaming the picturesque Union Buildings. There you can admire the pristine and perfectly cut gardens. Next, you’ll head to the Pretoria Art Museum and the Museum of Natural History to soak up the culture, arts, and history of the city.
Finally, a trip to Pretoria isn’t complete without a visit to the grand Voortrekker Monument. The huge granite structure is one of the most popular cultural and historical visitor attractions found in South Africa.
While in Johannesburg you’ll find plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in history. Take the hop on hop off bus tour and see where Nelson Mandela grew up, as well as visiting the city’s top sights and attractions.
Rovos Rail
The next leg of your South African train journey will involve spending two nights aboard a luxurious cabin on the Rovos Rail train. You’ll be treated to fine dining and a high class premium service throughout your train journey.
Over two days’ travel through the scenic and diverse landscapes of South Africa, you’ll travel past rolling terrains, lush greenery and so much more. Enjoy delicious cocktails and spectacular views as you interact with fellow passengers in the bar cart and get to know the history of South Africa’s rural regions along the way.
On route, you’ll stop off at various fascinating places of interest. These include Kimberley’s Big Hole and Diamond Mine Museum, where you’ll learn about diamond mining in the local area. You’ll also explore the historic village of Matjiesfontein, a settlement founded back in 1884.
On the last day of your train journey you’ll arrive in South Africa’s mother city – Cape Town.
Cape Town
Finish your South Africa multi-centre holiday with three days spent exploring South Africa’s iconic city of Cape Town.
Embark on a Cape Point Tour, where you’ll discover the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, Simons Town, the penguin colony at Boulders Beach and Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.
You’ll also explore all that the city has to offer too, including a cable car visit up to the imposing Table Mountain. From there, you can admire sweeping views of the city and the busy harbour.
From Table Mountain you’ll spot boats cruising to Robben Island, which you’ll also visit. This was once a notorious island where Nelson Mandela famously resided. However, today it’s set up as a living museum for visitors to explore and learn about the history of this fascinating man.
There are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the excellent restaurant scene in Cape Town too. The city is home to fine dining establishments, as well as local joints serving up delicious traditional South African cuisine.
Plan Your Dream Trip
What To Expect
Dream Carefree
Go ahead and dream big. Hayes & Jarvis experts are here to help you plan the ultimate escape. Tell us your vision for the trip of a lifetime and we’ll make it a reality.
Plan Carefree
One of our destination experts will reach out to craft a completely customized itinerary. Book your personalized journey and know that our flexible policies have you covered.
Travel Carefree
Relax and prepare for takeoff, knowing that your trip is perfectly planned and you have a personal concierge on call 24/7. Our experts are here to keep you safe and handle the details.
You might also like these
Take a look at these other inspiring itineraries. Our Destination Specialists would love to create something perfect for you.

Garden Route Holiday Destinations

Cape Town and Botswana by Belmond

South Africa And Zanzibar Holidays

South Africa: Kruger And Cape Town Holidays
Let's Chat
We have answers to all your questions.
Start planning your dream trip by talking to our Destination Specialists
Sign up for our newsletter
Receive the latest travel inspiration and destination news.

Three Easy Steps to a Tailor-made Holiday
The Hayes & Jarvis Way
Since 1952, our travel experts have been traversing the world to connect you with the very best our 60+ destinations have to offer. Tell us what your dream trip entails and we will craft it for you with precision and passion.