Rovos Rail Station & Museum Capital Park
Experience Africa's most luxurious train, a meticulously restored vintage journey offering gourmet dining, impeccable service, and breathtaking landsc...
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Formal dining & elegant atmosphere
Rovos Rail Station & Museum Capital Park
Best Time
Formal dining & elegant atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience Africa's most luxurious train, a meticulously restored vintage journey offering gourmet dining, impeccable service, and breathtaking landscapes.
"This is a trip of elegance and decadence. The owner founder of Rovos rail does an excellent guided tour."
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:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Rovos Rail Train Itself
Experience the epitome of luxury on meticulously restored vintage carriages, a true 'hotel on wheels'.
Capital Park Station Museum
Explore an ever-expanding railway museum showcasing the history and grandeur of steam locomotion.
Gourmet Dining Experience
Indulge in silver service dining with exquisite meals and perfectly paired wines, a culinary journey.
Scenic African Landscapes
Witness breathtaking vistas of the African continent unfold from the comfort of your luxurious suite.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book in Advance for Luxury
Dress Code for Elegance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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:
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
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🧳 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.
Expect gourmet cuisine served silver-service style, with an emphasis on fine dining and expertly paired wines. Meals are a highlight of the experience.
Journeys often include stops for game drives (like Big Five safaris), visits to historical sites, and other unique cultural experiences tailored to the route.
Suites are luxuriously appointed with en-suite bathrooms, comfortable bedding, and thoughtful amenities. Deluxe Suites offer a full-sized, permanently made-up bed.
Connectivity can be limited as the train travels through remote areas. It's best to disconnect and enjoy the experience, or download content beforehand.
📸 📸 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.
Always be respectful and ask for permission before photographing other passengers, especially during formal dining or private moments.
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.
Generally, photography for personal use is permitted. However, avoid intrusive photography during private moments or when it might disturb other guests.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
💍 Couples & Honeymooners
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.
🚂 Train Enthusiasts
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Rovos Rail Experience: Luxury on Rails
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.
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.
Capital Park Station: A Hub of History and Luxury
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 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.
The Rovos Rail Dining Experience
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit