Traveling by rail is one way to see more in one trip. Looking through the window of the car, the landscapes, like the frames of a movie, are quickly replaced. Not only the usual European countries have such an abundance of beauty and landscape. Today we will talk about Africa. It offers an abundance of landscapes that will change from arid brown to juicy green throughout the trip. And this contrast is perfectly noticeable from the driving train. Therefore, we offer you to get acquainted with three routes in which not only the destination is important, but also the path itself.
Operated by the Rovos railway company from Pretoria, the train "The Pride of Africa" (The Pride of Africa) goes to countries such as Namibia and even Tanzania. Most of his trips, however, are in South Africa. Its main feature is that it is one of the most luxurious trains in the whole world. Therefore, its price is impressive and starts from $ 2500-3000. Moreover, tickets must be purchased in advance, at least six months in advance, and in some compartments even a couple of years in advance. Apart from luxury, its biggest attraction is the landscapes it has to offer its travelers. In addition, the Pride of Africa stops at places that can only be reached by a small plane. For example, he makes stops in hunting reserves. The trip from Cape Town to Pretoria takes several days.
The last car, a lobby with a bar, also allows you to go outside and watch the scenery. Closer to the middle of the train, you can find another such car, with a library where tea is served in the afternoon. It is worth noting that all the principles of afternoon tea are observed so that passengers enjoy a trip on one of the most exciting railway journeys. Built in 1911, the dining car is home to fine cuisine and even more refined wines.
The Blue Train crosses South Africa and its breathtaking landscapes in a manner that matches the mysticism that has grown up around it. Kings and presidents have treated themselves to this magnificent, mobile five-star hotel on wheels. From newlyweds in love to adored celebrities. And even ordinary people who dream of a life of breathtaking luxury, a life that seemed painfully inaccessible. Still... This train defined a new era of luxury travel, making the transition from steam to electric and diesel, linking the Veld with the sea, tradition with progress, with a sense of style, elegance and mesmerizing power that never came close to matching. The route between Pretoria and Cape Town is a 31-hour journey of 1,600 km, through some of the most diverse and spectacular landscapes offered by the African subcontinent. The Blue Train also departs to the South African province of Limpopo, where Kruger National Park is located, one of the world's best parks for games, and where the Big five of Africa is located. These 19-hour one-way trips take place during certain months of the year and offer guests the opportunity to get some fantastic new combined rail safari packages with many private safari lodges located in the Greater Kruger and Sabi Sands areas.On the train you can also order the famous Montecristo cigars, directly from Havana and a large wine list, in addition, the train can be rented for your individual event.
Desert Express ("Desert Express" or "Desert Train") is a truly comprehensive African rail journey in itself. It starts in Windhoek, and as the wheels spin faster and the carriages grab onto each other, the locomotive looks ahead, 220 miles, which it will cross until it reaches Swakopmund, the pearl of Namibia overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. On its long journey, the Desert Express crosses gravel plains, desert and Savannah, heading through Namibia. Waking up on board this train can be a surreal experience. The heat distorts the landscape, and the people outside seem only silhouettes.At your destination, in Swakopmund, the collision of ocean and sand should cause awe. The bright blue water, so close to the golden sand dunes, makes this place a fitting end to a long journey.
Namibia's unique rail experience offers a weekend night break from Windhoek to the coastal towns of Swakopmund and Walvis Bay. Desert Express also offers a seven-day tour from Windhoek to Swakopmund, Etosha and back to Windhoek on selected dates. The tour includes: accommodation on board, an elegant restaurant and a tour of the magnificent landscape of Namibia.Traveling across Africa is an unforgettable adventure. The presented trains will give you not only luxury and comfort of movement. They will first of all show the unexplored and unique corners of this continent. The routes allow passengers to enjoy nature and local beauties that will make your trip unforgettable.
Based on materials from the website: tourism-review.com