Glamour on the Rails: Rovos Rail & The Maharajas' Express

Rovos Rail 

A brilliant add-on to an African safari, the acclaimed Rovos Rail's two luxury trains traverse points in Southern Africa on a host of unique multi-night itineraries, including the 15-night, 5,000-kilometre African Trilogy, which visits Durban, the Valley of a Thousand Hills, the Fish River Canyon and Namibia's dramatic coastline as well as some of the region's top safari parks. 

An undeniably luxurious foray, the Rovos Rail caters to just 72 passengers across 36 beautifully appointed suites, as well as its elegant lounge cars, Observation cars and refined dining carriages, where South African produce is under the spotlight. 

The Maharajas' Express

While it has stiff competition from the likes of the Deccan Odyssey and the Palace on Wheels, the Maharajas' Express is multi-award-winning train that offers two wholly different itineraries - the week-long Indian Panorama, which delves into picturesque Rajasthan, and the week-long Indian Splendor route, which travels from Delhi to Mumbai.

Along the way, you'll enjoy fascinating daily excursions, from visits to local jewellery artisan workshops to behind-the-scenes explorations of working palaces and time-weathered temples. Back on the train, staterooms are well-appointed and feature ensuites and air-conditioning, while the lounges and dining rooms capture the essence of Indian hospitality, with vibrant colours, hand-crafted furniture and menus laced with traditional favourites.