Luxury Rail & Safari: Kruger, Johannesburg & Rovos Rail to Victoria Falls (Tour code: 15573)

On arrival at O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB), an English-speaking Guest Service Officer will meet you holding a board with your name. After collecting your luggage, you will be assisted and guided to your onward service.

Enjoy a complimentary scheduled shuttle transfer (seat-in-shared vehicle) with an English-speaking driver to the Southern Sun O.R. Tambo International Airport Hotel.

The shuttle operates every 15 minutes, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The pick-up point is located behind the InterContinental Hotel at the bus/shuttle terminal.

Overnight in Johannesburg at Southern Sun O.R Tambo International Airport Hotel. 

Johannesburg

Begin the day with a complimentary scheduled shuttle transfer (seat-in-coach) from Southern Sun O.R. Tambo International Airport Hotel to O.R. Tambo International Airport. The shuttle operates every 15 minutes, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with pick-up at the bus/shuttle terminal behind the InterContinental Hotel.

Fly from Johannesburg to Nelspruit (Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport). On arrival, enjoy a private transfer to Mdluli Safari Lodge*, located inside the south-western region of the Kruger National Park – one of South Africa’s most iconic safari destinations and home to the Big Five.

Settle into luxury tented accommodation featuring private patios, indoor and outdoor showers, and uninterrupted views over the park.

Overnight stay at Mdluli Safari Lodge.

*Mdluli Safari Lodge
Full board at Mdluli Safari Lodge includes two shared game drives daily (morning and afternoon) in open 10-seater safari vehicles with lodge guests. Private drives can be arranged at an additional cost.
Day of Arrival: Lunch, dinner, and the afternoon game drive are included if flight arrival timings allow.

Kruger National Park

Wake up to the sounds of the African bush and enjoy a hearty breakfast before embarking on your next adventure. Over the next two days, immerse yourself in the natural splendour of Mpumalanga, aptly named “the place where the sun rises.” This province showcases some of South Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes—dramatic canyons, winding rivers, majestic mountains, and cascading waterfalls.

Spend your days exploring the wonders of Kruger National Park on unforgettable game drives, with opportunities to spot the Big Five and other incredible wildlife. Between safaris, unwind at Mdluli Safari Lodge, where you can relax by the rock pool, indulge in spa treatments, enjoy fireside evenings in the boma, or savour exquisite dining in the heart of the bush.

Your luxury tented suite offers a serene retreat with private patios, indoor and outdoor showers, and uninterrupted views over the park—perfect for soaking up the magic of the African wilderness.

Overnight stay at Mdluli Safari Lodge.

Kruger National Park

After breakfast, enjoy a private transfer from Mdluli Safari Lodge to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport for the short flight back to Johannesburg. 

On arrival, a Silver Welcome Meet & Greet Service ensures a smooth transition. An English-speaking representative will be waiting in the arrivals hall after luggage collection to assist with onward arrangements.

From the airport, travel by private sedan transfer to 54 on Bath Hotel, a stylish retreat in the heart of Johannesburg. Known for its striking red-brick facade and elegant interiors, this award-winning hotel blends modern design with classic sophistication. Highlights include South Africa’s only Veuve Clicquot Champagne Bar, a tranquil fourth-floor Garden Terrace with panoramic views, a rooftop pool, and a refined lobby lounge offering complimentary tea, coffee, and canapés.

Unwind with sunset cocktails (at own expense) while taking in Johannesburg’s skyline – the perfect end to a day of travel.

Overnight stay in Johannesburg at 54 on Bath Hotel.

Important note: Breakfast and lunch are included today at Mdluli Safari Lodge if flight timings allow.

Veuve Clicquot

Enjoy a day at leisure, or choose from two Option Excursions* (additional charge) that offer an excellent introduction to and exploration of the area.

Option 1: Half-Day Johannesburg & Soweto Highlights Tour
Explore Johannesburg’s rich history and the vibrant atmosphere of Soweto. Highlights include Constitution Hill and the Old Fort Prison, Walter Sisulu Square – Kliptown Open Air Museum, Hector Pieterson Memorial, the iconic Soweto Towers, and lively Vilakazi Street with its authentic street market.

Option 2: Half-Day Soweto & Apartheid Museum Tour
Explore the historic township of Soweto and learn about South Africa’s journey to democracy. Drive past notable landmarks such as Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, Orlando Power Station, Regina Mundi Church and Walter Sisulu Freedom Square. Visit the Hector Pieterson Memorial & Museum, Mandela House Museum, Desmond Tutu’s House, and experience the vibrant streets of Kliptown. Conclude the tour at the renowned Apartheid Museum, where you’ll have time to explore the exhibits at your own pace.

Overnight in Johannesburg at 54 Bath Hotel. 

*This is an optional experience and is not included in your package price.

Johannesburg

Begin the day with a seamless private transfer by standard sedan, accompanied by an English-speaking driver, from 54 on Bath Hotel to Capital Park Railway Station, the departure point for the Rovos Rail journey.

Board the train in Pretoria and settle into a luxurious suite before relaxing in the lounge or observation car. Travel through Warmbaths, known for its mineral springs, and Nylstroom, named for its north-flowing river. Continue past the dramatic edge of the escarpment as the Highveld drops away. Dinner is served on board en route to Polokwane.

Overnight aboard Rovos Rail.

Enjoy breakfast as the train crosses the Tropic of Capricorn toward Louis Trichardt. After lunch, complete South African border formalities at Musina. Afternoon tea is served as the train crosses the Limpopo River heading to Beitbridge for Zimbabwean border formalities. Reflect on Kipling’s tale of the Limpopo while dining enroute to Gwanda. 

Overnight aboard Rovos Rail.

Rovos Rail Lounge Car

Breakfast is served as the train journeys through baobab country to Bulawayo, Zimbabwe’s second city. After lunch onboard, transfer to Matobo National Park to explore ancient bushmen caves, rock art, and Cecil John Rhodes’ resting place. Return to the train at Sawmills for a formal dinner.

Overnight aboard Rovos Rail.

Rovos Rail Lounge Area

Breakfast is served as the train travels along a remarkable 114-kilometer straight railway line near Hwange National Park’s eastern boundary. After lunch, enjoy an exciting game drive in Hwange, Zimbabwe’s largest wildlife reserve. Dinner is served as the train heads toward Thompsons Junction.

Overnight aboard Rovos Rail.

Elephant at Hwange National Park

Ensure luggage is packed and ready 15 minutes before departure, with passports at hand. Breakfast is served on board until 09:30am, enjoyed from the observation car at the front of the train – a rare treat for rail enthusiasts.

The journey concludes with arrival at the spectacular Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, one of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders.

Zimbabwe is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, exceptional safaris and rich wildlife. Home to national parks teeming with hippos, rhinos and an extraordinary variety of birdlife, it is a paradise for nature lovers.

The country’s crown jewel, Victoria Falls – known locally as “The Smoke That Thunders” – plunges 108 metres into Batoka Gorge, creating one of the most breathtaking sights in Africa. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, from white-water rafting and river cruises to bungee jumping, scenic picnics and birdwatching.

On arrival, a private transfer is waiting (5-seater vehicle with English-speaking driver) from Victoria Falls Railway Station to Insika Lodge for a 3-night stay, perfectly positioned to explore this iconic destination.

Overnight stay in Victoria Falls at Insika Lodge.  

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Discover why Victoria Falls is celebrated as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. This 2-hour scheduled tour takes guests along the Zimbabwean side of the Falls, where a series of breathtaking viewpoints showcase the full width and power of this iconic landmark. Note: This is a shared tour, not a private one.

Stroll through the lush, mist-covered rainforest that borders the Falls and stop at famous vantage points including the Main Falls, Horseshoe Falls, Rainbow Falls, the Boiling Pot, Cataract Island, and Livingstone Island. Hear the thunderous roar, feel the cool spray on your skin, and witness millions of litres of water plunging into the dramatic gorges below. This unforgettable experience captures the sheer scale and beauty of one of the planet’s most awe-inspiring natural spectacles.

Overnight stay in Victoria Falls at Insika Lodge.  

Victoria Falls

Enjoy a free day at leisure in Victoria Falls, relaxing at Insika Lodge or exploring the surrounding area. Insika Lodge, whose name means “Pillar of Strength” in isi-Ndebele, is beautifully situated next to the golf course and draws inspiration from the awe of Victoria Falls, which can sometimes be seen from as far as 50 kilometres away as it rises like a pillar of mist.

Guests may also choose an Optional Extra full-day excursion*:
An unforgettable wildlife experience Chobe National Park in Botswana, one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations. This unforgettable excursion begins with a transfer from Victoria Falls to the Kazungula Border Post, where your Botswana guide will meet you and escort you to the banks of the Chobe River.

Start your day with a morning river cruise, gliding along the water as you spot elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and an incredible array of birdlife. Tea, coffee, and biscuits are served on board to enhance your experience.

At midday, enjoy a delicious lunch at the Chobe Safari Lodge, set on the river’s edge with stunning views. After lunch, the adventure continues with an afternoon game drive through Chobe National Park, offering up-close encounters with the park’s famous wildlife, including large herds of elephants, predators, and antelope species.

The day concludes with your transfer back across the border, arriving in Victoria Falls at approximately 6:30pm -with unforgettable memories in tow.

Overnight stay in Victoria Falls at Insika Lodge.  

*This is an optional experience and is not included in your package price.

Victoria Falls

Enjoy a seamless end to your journey with a private transfer from Insika Lodge to Victoria Falls Airport (VFA). Travel in comfort in a five-seater vehicle with an English-speaking driver, ensuring a smooth and stress-free transfer to the airport for your onward flight.