Rovos Rail Station & Museum (Capital Park) - Image 1
1 / 10

Rovos Rail Station & Museum Capital Park

4.7
·522 reviews·Pretoria, South Africa

Experience Africa's most luxurious train, a meticulously restored vintage journey offering gourmet dining, impeccable service, and breathtaking landsc...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Formal dining & elegant atmosphere

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Rovos Rail Station & Museum (Capital Park) - Image 1

Rovos Rail Station & Museum Capital Park

Best Time

Evenings

Formal dining & elegant atmosphere

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience Africa's most luxurious train, a meticulously restored vintage journey offering gourmet dining, impeccable service, and breathtaking landscapes.

4.7
(522 reviews)

"This is a trip of elegance and decadence. The owner founder of Rovos rail does an excellent guided tour."

Vertical photo
TIP

Book Deluxe Suites

Opt for deluxe suites for a permanently made-up, full-sized bed and a more spacious experience. :bed:

Pack for Formal Evenings

Dress code: shirt, tie, optional jacket for men; evening/cocktail dress for ladies. :dress:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Rovos Rail Train Itself

The Rovos Rail Train Itself

Experience the epitome of luxury on meticulously restored vintage carriages, a true 'hotel on wheels'.

Capital Park Station Museum

Capital Park Station Museum

Explore an ever-expanding railway museum showcasing the history and grandeur of steam locomotion.

Gourmet Dining Experience

Gourmet Dining Experience

Indulge in silver service dining with exquisite meals and perfectly paired wines, a culinary journey.

Scenic African Landscapes

Scenic African Landscapes

Witness breathtaking vistas of the African continent unfold from the comfort of your luxurious suite.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Book in Advance for Luxury

Rovos Rail is a premier luxury experience, and bookings, especially for popular routes and suites, fill up months, sometimes even a year, in advance. Secure your spot early to avoid disappointment and ensure you get your preferred travel dates and accommodation.

Dress Code for Elegance

Embrace the 'bygone era' of train travel by packing accordingly. Evenings call for formal dress: shirts, ties, and optional jackets for men, and evening or cocktail dresses for ladies. Daytime is more relaxed, but smart casual is recommended.

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Formal dining & elegant atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Daytime Tours
Why
Explore the museum & station
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Welcome aboard the worlds most luxurious train🚂👏🏼’ an experience of a lifetime! #rovosrail #luxurytrain #travel #africa
@aaliyaadam
58.5K likes • 1.3M views

Book Deluxe Suites

Opt for deluxe suites for a permanently made-up, full-sized bed and a more spacious experience. :bed:

Pack for Formal Evenings

Dress code: shirt, tie, optional jacket for men; evening/cocktail dress for ladies. :dress:

Have you ever thought about going on a luxury sleeper train? The rovos rail goes on a lot of southern african train journeys! We went from zimbabwe to south africa and it was such an amazing experience! #travel #africa #luxurytrain #southafrica #zimbabwe
@campsbaygirl
53.5K likes • 813.9K views
Embark on a journey aboard the world’s most luxurious train with Rovos Rail, travelling through the heart of Southern Africa. Departing from the elegant Capital Park Station near Pretoria, Rovos Rail’s two beautifully restored Classic trains accommodate just 72 guests in opulent, period-style suites, offering a blend of luxury, comfort, and timeless charm. Popular routes include the 3-night Preto...
capetoursltd
3 likes • 158 views

All-Inclusive Package

Enjoy all food and drinks included in your fare – a true pampered experience. :wine_glass:

Laundry Service Available

A laundry service is offered for a small additional cost, keeping your travel wardrobe fresh. :washing_machine:

For Rovos Rail passengers, one of the highlights of their journey is a visit to the private station at Capital Park, Pretoria. This once-bustling hub of steam locomotion now serves as the headquarters for Rovos Rail. The property boasts an ever-expanding railway museum, locomotive sheds and more. Should you wish to visit our museum or do a site tour, which will show you the nuts and bolts of the ...
rovosrail
342 likes • 7.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Deluxe Suites

Opt for deluxe suites for a permanently made-up, full-sized bed and a more spacious experience. :bed:

Pack for Formal Evenings

Dress code: shirt, tie, optional jacket for men; evening/cocktail dress for ladies. :dress:

All-Inclusive Package

Enjoy all food and drinks included in your fare – a true pampered experience. :wine_glass:

Laundry Service Available

A laundry service is offered for a small additional cost, keeping your travel wardrobe fresh. :washing_machine:

Visit the Observation Deck

Don't miss the small observation platform at the rear for unique views. :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(522 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Rovos Rail is overwhelmingly praised as a 'trip of a lifetime' and a dream come true, offering unparalleled luxury, elegance, and exceptional service. Guests rave about the gourmet dining, meticulously restored vintage carriages, and the immersive 'bygone era' atmosphere. While the price point is high, most feel the experience is worth every penny for the pampering and unique memories created.

"This is a trip of elegance and decadence. From the moment you arrive to the moment you depart. The owner founder of Rovos rail does an excellent guided tour and explains the origins of the railway. Also visit the small museum its very informative. The old style carriages are fully restored and carry all the original features. The dinning car is silver service and there is a butler service available. Evening meals are formal dress, shirt , tie and optional jacket for men. Evening or cocktail dress for the ladies. There is a small observation platform at the rear of the train. There are various stops on the way including an afternoon/ evening game drive. The inclusive package covers all food and drinks on the train. The staff are all very professional and attentive. The food is extremely well prepared and presented, nothing is too much trouble for the staff. There is a laundry service available at a small extra cost. The cabins are well appointed and luxurious. There was an unexpected celebration of mine and others who had a birthday. To go the extra mile to make a train journey into a life time wonderful experience is amazing. I would recommend Rovos Rail for all the reasons above. If you love trains, being pampered and really want to try the experience it's a must do."

Jon Watts

"Amazing, amazing experience. Was my dream come true after many years and combined with Victoria falls - this was epic"

Nashira Cevikmen

"Glamorous, wonderful opportunity to dress up for an excellent dinner with superb wine. How luxury train used to be and perhaps still should ;) service excellent"

Pete Murray

What People Like

Exceptional service and pampering
Gourmet dining and fine wines
Luxurious and historic carriages

What People Dislike

High cost of the journey

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Rovos Rail Station is located in Capital Park, Pretoria. While specific public transport details can be scarce, most visitors arrive via pre-booked transfers or taxis from their accommodation in Pretoria. It's advisable to confirm the exact location and best arrival method with Rovos Rail when booking. TikTokInstagram

The station is a distinctive landmark, especially for train enthusiasts. Following GPS or asking local taxi drivers for 'Rovos Rail Station, Capital Park' should guide you effectively. Instagram

Yes, parking is generally available at the station for those arriving by private vehicle. It's recommended to check with Rovos Rail for specific parking arrangements. Instagram

The closest major airport is O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg, approximately an hour's drive from Pretoria. From there, you can arrange transport to Capital Park. TikTok

Pretoria offers a range of hotels and guesthouses. It's best to book accommodation in advance, especially if your train departure or arrival is at an inconvenient time. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Bookings are made directly through the Rovos Rail website or via authorized travel agents. Popular routes and suites, like the Deluxe Suite, sell out far in advance, so early booking is crucial. TikTokInstagram

Your ticket typically includes all meals, fine wines, and other alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages served on board. It also covers off-train excursions and scheduled sightseeing. TikTokReddit

Yes, Rovos Rail offers various suites, including the Pullman Suite, Deluxe Suite, and the opulent Royal Suite, each offering different levels of space and amenities. TikTokReddit

The museum is primarily accessible to passengers before their journey or for pre-arranged tours. It's best to inquire directly with Rovos Rail about specific visiting hours for non-passengers. Instagram

While the station serves as Rovos Rail's headquarters, access to the museum and sheds is often tied to passenger tours or specific pre-booked visits. Contact Rovos Rail for tour availability. Instagram

🎫 🧳 Onboard Experience

Evenings require formal attire: gentlemen should wear shirts, ties, and optional jackets, while ladies are encouraged to wear evening or cocktail dresses. Daytime is smart casual. Reddit

Expect gourmet cuisine served silver-service style, with an emphasis on fine dining and expertly paired wines. Meals are a highlight of the experience. TikTokReddit

Journeys often include stops for game drives (like Big Five safaris), visits to historical sites, and other unique cultural experiences tailored to the route. TikTokReddit

Suites are luxuriously appointed with en-suite bathrooms, comfortable bedding, and thoughtful amenities. Deluxe Suites offer a full-sized, permanently made-up bed. Reddit

Connectivity can be limited as the train travels through remote areas. It's best to disconnect and enjoy the experience, or download content beforehand. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The observation deck at the rear of the train offers unique perspectives. Inside, the vintage carriages, dining car, and lounges provide stunning backdrops. Don't forget to capture the landscapes passing by your window. TikTokInstagram

Always be respectful and ask for permission before photographing other passengers, especially during formal dining or private moments. TikTok

A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing both interior details and distant landscapes. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the opulent interiors. TikTok

Generally, photography for personal use is permitted. However, avoid intrusive photography during private moments or when it might disturb other guests. TikTok

Golden hour (sunrise and sunset) offers beautiful light for landscape shots. Inside, the ambient lighting of the carriages creates a warm, inviting atmosphere for photography. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Rovos Rail is primarily an adult-focused luxury experience, families with older children who appreciate history and unique travel can find it rewarding. The novelty of a luxury train journey, the chance to see wildlife on excursions, and the elegant dining can be exciting. However, the formal dress code and long hours might be challenging for very young children. TikTok+1

Consider booking a Deluxe Suite for more space. The museum at Capital Park Station can also be a fascinating introduction to the world of trains for curious young minds. It's essential to manage expectations regarding the pace of travel and the sophisticated atmosphere. Instagram

💍 Couples & Honeymooners

Rovos Rail offers an incredibly romantic and luxurious escape, making it a perfect choice for honeymoons, anniversaries, or special romantic getaways. The intimate setting, fine dining, and the chance to witness stunning sunsets from the observation deck create an unforgettable ambiance. TikTokReddit

Opting for a Deluxe or Royal Suite enhances the romantic experience with added space and privacy. The journey itself, with its slow pace and focus on pampering, allows couples to reconnect and enjoy quality time together amidst breathtaking scenery. Reddit

🚂 Train Enthusiasts

For anyone with a passion for trains, Rovos Rail is an absolute dream come true. The meticulously restored vintage locomotives and carriages, the historical significance of the Capital Park Station museum, and the sheer operational scale of the railway offer an unparalleled experience. TikTokInstagram

Being aboard one of the world's most luxurious trains, experiencing its mechanics and history firsthand, is a profound joy. The opportunity to learn about the origins of the railway from the founder himself and explore the locomotive sheds provides deep insight into the world of heritage rail. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Rovos Rail Experience: Luxury on Rails

Rovos Rail is renowned as 'Africa's Most Luxurious Train', offering an unparalleled journey through the continent's diverse landscapes. The experience is designed to evoke the golden age of rail travel, with meticulously restored vintage carriages that exude elegance and comfort. Each journey is a carefully curated blend of fine dining, impeccable service, and breathtaking scenery. TikTokInstagram+1

The trains themselves are a marvel, featuring opulent suites, elegant dining cars, and comfortable lounge areas. Passengers are treated to a 'five-star hotel on wheels' experience, complete with gourmet meals, premium wines, and attentive staff catering to every need. The emphasis is on slow travel, allowing guests to truly immerse themselves in the journey and the surrounding environment. TikTokReddit

Beyond the onboard luxury, Rovos Rail journeys often include unique off-train excursions. These can range from Big Five game drives in renowned wildlife reserves to visits to historical sites and cultural encounters, providing a comprehensive taste of Southern Africa. The entire experience is crafted to create lifelong memories, making it a bucket-list adventure for many. TikTokReddit

Capital Park Station: A Hub of History and Luxury

The Rovos Rail Station in Capital Park, Pretoria, is more than just a departure point; it's the operational heart and a historical monument to railway heritage. This former bustling steam locomotive hub has been transformed into the headquarters for Rovos Rail, housing an impressive and ever-expanding railway museum. Instagram+1

Visitors can explore the museum's collection, which showcases the evolution of rail travel in Southern Africa. The locomotive sheds and workshops offer a glimpse into the meticulous restoration and maintenance that keeps these vintage trains in pristine condition. For passengers, it's the starting point of their luxurious adventure, offering a chance to soak in the atmosphere before boarding. Instagram+1

Instagram Reels and TikTok videos often highlight the grandeur of the station and its museum, with creators sharing their excitement about exploring this unique railway hub. It serves as a testament to the enduring romance of trains and the dedication of Rovos Rail to preserving this rich history while offering a modern luxury experience. TikTokInstagram+1

The Rovos Rail Dining Experience

Dining on Rovos Rail is a highlight, characterized by its silver service and exquisite culinary offerings. The dining cars are elegantly appointed, setting the stage for a memorable gastronomic journey. The menu features a selection of dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients, reflecting the diverse flavors of Southern Africa. TikTokReddit

Each meal is accompanied by a carefully curated selection of fine wines, chosen to complement the flavors of the dishes. The staff are highly professional and attentive, ensuring that every guest's dining experience is exceptional. The formal dress code for evening meals adds to the sense of occasion, transporting diners back to an era of sophisticated travel. TikTokReddit

From breakfast overlooking the passing landscapes to multi-course dinners, the food and beverage service on Rovos Rail is consistently praised for its quality and presentation. It's an integral part of the luxury experience, contributing significantly to the overall 'pampered' feeling that guests enjoy. TikTokReddit

You may also like

1 of 2