EXPLORING AFRICA BY RAIL
Table of Contents
8 10 12 16 6
Discover Africa’s Most Scenic Train Journeys
Franschhoek’s Scenic Wine Tram
TNA STAYS @ Shepherds Tree Game Lodge
The Ultimate African Rail Adventure: Cape Town to Dar es Salaam
A Rail Map for the Brave
Editor’s Letter
Welcome to this month’s issue of Tourism News Africa, where we embark on a captivating journey through the heart of our extraordinary continent with our theme, All Aboard – Exploring Africa by Rail. In an age of fastpaced travel, Africa’s railways offer a refreshing invitation to slow down, immerse yourself in the continent’s soul, and rediscover the romance of exploration. From luxurious locomotives to rugged cross-country routes, this issue celebrates the rails that connect Africa’s diverse landscapes, cultures, and histories, delivering adventures that linger long after the journey ends.
Our feature articles showcase the unparalleled diversity of Africa’s rail experiences. Climb aboard Rovos Rail’s Pride of Africa for a 5,600km odyssey from Cape Town to Dar es Salaam, weaving through five countries with stops at iconic sites like Victoria Falls and Tanzania’s Nyerere National Park. Experience the timeless elegance of the Blue Train, gliding 1,600km from Pretoria to Cape Town, where the Great Karoo’s vastness and the Cape Winelands’ lush beauty unfold outside your window. For those seeking a more intrepid adventure, the TAZARA Railway offers a raw, immersive ride from Dar es Salaam to Zambia’s Kapiri Mposhi, passing through wildlife-rich reserves and dramatic mountain passes. Meanwhile, Kenya’s modernized NairobiMombasa Madaraka Express blends efficiency with stunning views of Tsavo National Park and the distant Kilimanjaro, while Namibia’s Desert Express reveals the surreal beauty of the Namib Desert’s red dunes.
Closer to home, the Franschhoek Wine Tram invites you to hop on and off through South Africa’s historic winelands, where Huguenot heritage meets world-class vintages against the backdrop of the Drakenstein Mountains. Complementing these rail journeys, we spotlight Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge in Pilanesberg Game Reserve, a luxurious safari retreat where the thrill of spotting the Big Five pairs perfectly with the reflective pace of rail-inspired travel. From gourmet dining under starlit skies to cultural immersions like interactive drumming sessions, these experiences capture Africa’s vibrant spirit.
Africa’s rail journeys are more than transportation—they’re a celebration of the continent’s past and present, blending nostalgia with modern comforts. Whether you’re a luxury traveller craving five-star opulence, a history buff tracing the legacy of the gold and diamond rush, or an adventurer eager to connect with local communities, these routes offer something for everyone. As you explore this issue, let the rhythm of the rails spark your wanderlust and inspire your next great adventure. Pack your curiosity, gaze out at the ever-changing landscapes, and let Africa’s trains carry you into the heart of her wild, untamed beauty.
Derek Martin Editor
Discover Africa’s Most Scenic Train Journeys
There are very few trains in the world that evoke luxury like South Africa’s Blue Train. Running between Pretoria and Cape Town, this 1,600 km journey unfolds over two days, offering passengers a front-row seat to the country’s dramatic landscapes.
Mama Africa, the continent of human origin and a place like no other. A continent of vast deserts, rolling savannahs, and towering mountains, offering some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes. While safaris, road trips and air travel often steal the spotlight, there’s a slower, sometimes forgotten way to explore our beautiful continent - by rail. Train journeys across Africa combine stunning scenery with a touch of nostalgia taking travellers back to what has often been called, the golden age of travel. From luxurious locomotives to overnight rides, here’s our guide to some of Mama Africa’s most scenic rail adventures.
Rovos Rail: The Pride of Africa
For those seeking a grander adventure, Rovos Rail - often called “The Pride of Africa” - delivers unmatched elegance. Since 1989, this luxury line has offered bespoke journeys ranging from a “quick” 48 hours to 15 nights, connecting iconic destinations like Cape Town, Pretoria, Victoria Falls, and even Dar es Salaam in Tanzania. The train carriages consist of beautifully restored wood-panelled carriages, pulled by either diesel or electric locomotives, carrying up to 72 passengers in opulent suites, complete with fine dining and observation cars for taking in the views.
The standout route is the 15-night Cape Town to Dar es Salaam trip, covering over 4 000km, and spanning five countries. Passengers will experience South Africa’s rugged mountains,
Botswana’s wild plains, Zimbabwe’s misty Victoria Falls, and Tanzania’s Selous Game Reserve (the largest in Africa). Along the journey, the train negotiates the Great Rift Valley’s dramatic switchbacks and viaducts, offering glimpses of elephants, giraffes, and lions against a backdrop of ancient landscapes. It’s a journey that blends raw wilderness with refined comfort.
The Blue Train: South Africa’s Rolling Masterpiece
There are very few trains in the world that evoke luxury like South Africa’s Blue Train. Running between Pretoria and Cape Town, this 1,600km journey unfolds over two days, offering passengers a front-row seat to the country’s dramatic landscapes. Departing from Pretoria, the train winds through the golden Highveld grasslands before descending into the vast expanse of the Great Karoo. As it nears Cape Town, the scenery shifts to the lush, vineyarddraped Cape Winelands, with the iconic Table Mountain looming in the distance.
The Blue Train isn’t just about the views - it’s a fivestar experience. With gourmet meals paired with the best South African wines, plush suites with full-sized baths, and super attentive service that sets the journey apart. Stops at historic sites like Kimberley’s Big Hole or the charming Victorian village of Matjiesfonteins add cultural depth to this scenic odyssey.
TAZARA Railway: Tanzania to Zambia
For a more rugged experience, the Tanzania-Zambia Railway (TAZARA) offers a 1 860km ride from Dar es Salaam to Kapiri Mposhi. Built in the 1970s with Chinese assistance, this line is less focused on luxury and more focused on delivering a truly immersive experience. The two-day, two-night trip cuts through Tanzania’s Selous Game Reserve, where wildlife sightings are common, and climbs into Zambia’s mountainous interior, dotted with bridges and tunnels. The train offers both sleeper cars and dining options, and the locals jokingly say it may not always run on time, but the beauty and local interactions make it unforgettable.
Nairobi to Mombasa: Kenya’s Classic Route
K enya’s Nairobi-Mombasa railway, was recently modernised with the Madaraka Express, offers a nearly 600km journey from the Kenyan highlands to the coast in just over five hours. Starting at Nairobi’s bustling station, the train descends through the Kapiti Plains and Tsavo National Park, where zebras, ostriches, and elephants roam freely. The air-conditioned carriages provide comfort, while the trains large windows frame views of Kilimanjaro’s distant peak and the Indian Ocean as you approach Mombasa. Whilst this is a quicker, day journey, it is certainly a scenic escape to Kenya’s tropical shores.
The Desert Express: Namibia’s Landscapes
Namibia’s Desert Express is a true hidden gem. Running between the capital Windhoek and Swakopmund, this journey crosses the Namib Desert - one of the world’s oldest and driest deserts. On this journey you will experience the stark beauty of red dunes, rocky outcrops, and a vast emptiness unfolds over 10 days (when part of select Rovos Rail itineraries), with stops at Sossusvlei’s towering dunes and Etosha National Park’s wildlife-rich plains. The train’s modern comforts contrast with
the stark terrain, making it a surreal ride through a land time forgot.
Why Travel Africa by Rail?
Africa’s rail journeys offer more than just transportation – they are a window into the continent’s soul. Whether you’re sipping wine aboard a luxury train or swaying through the bush on a sleeper car, these routes showcase both nature’s grandeur and humanity’s ingenuity. Travelling by rail invites you to slow down, gaze out, and let the landscape tell its story. So, pack your binoculars, pick your route, and let the rails lead you through Mama Africa’s wild heart.
“Africa’s rail journeys offer more than just transportation – they are a window into the continent’s soul.”
FRANSCHHOEK’S SCENIC WINE TRAM
Nestled in the heart of South Africa’s Western Cape, the Franschhoek Valley is a paradise for wine enthusiasts, boasting a rich history dating back to the late 17th century. Founded by French Huguenot settlers in 1688, who brought viticultural expertise from France, the region quickly became synonymous with world-class wines. Today, the Franschhoek Wine Tram offers a unique way to explore this heritage - a hop-on, hopoff journey that combines vintage rail travel with scenic bus transfers, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the valley’s historic estates, rolling vineyards, and breathtaking mountain vistas.
The Scenic Wine Tram experience revives the charm of early 20th-century rail travel, operating on restored tracks that wind through the picturesque winelands. Launched in 2012, it has become a flagship attraction featuring five colour-coded lines - Pink, Blue, Red, Orange, and Navy - each covering a distinct loop of up to eight wine estates from a network of over 30. Passengers travel via a double-decker tram or openair bus, stopping at terminals in Franschhoek or Groot Drakenstein, with departures starting as early as 8:45 AM. The hop-on, hop-off format provides flexibility: disembark at any stop for wine tastings, cellar tours, gourmet lunches, or vineyard strolls, then catch the next vehicle, which runs hourly. This seamless integration of tram and bus ensures access to estates not directly on the tracks, all while a narrated audio guide shares insights into the valley’s Huguenot roots and wine-making evolution.
A typical day begins at the Franschhoek Terminal, where visitors can grab a coffee and French-inspired beignets at Café Beignet to fuel up. Choose a line based on preferences - the Blue Line, for instance, visits iconic spots like Grande Provence, a historic estate dating to 1694 with award-winning Cap Classique sparkling wines and chocolate pairings; Rickety Bridge, known for its Shiraz and scenic river views; and Franschhoek Cellar, offering cheese-andwine tastings amid Huguenot-inspired architecture.
The Orange Line might include Boschendal, a 1685 farmstead famed for organic wines and farm-to-table picnics, or La Motte, with its elegant reds and cultural museum.
As the tram chugs along, framed by the dramatic DrakensteiWn Mountains, this journey isn’t just about wine - it’s a portal to Franschhoek’s soul. Whether savouring a bold Cabernet at a centuries-old manor or picnicking amid lavender fields, the Scenic Wine Tram promises an unforgettable blend of history, flavour, and serenity.
Check out winetram.co.za for more information
Your Perfect Midway Mountain Getaway
Nestled in the heart of the majestic Northern Drakensberg, perfectly positioned between Durban and Johannesburg, aha Alpine Heath Resort & Conference Centre o ers more than just a stay — it’s an unforgettable winter escape.
Whether you’re cuddled up in a cosy chalet, exploring crisp mountain trails, or sipping hot chocolate by the fire, Alpine Heath delivers warm hospitality with breathtaking views.
Take advantage of our limited-time winter specials, designed to help you escape the chill of the city without compromising on comfort or luxury.
Mid-week Berg Break: R5,399.00 per chalet
Valid Sunday to Thursday until 11 December 2025.
Weekend Berg Break: R6,599.00 per chalet per night DBB sleeping 1-6 people
Valid Friday and Saturday until 07 December 2025
Snow Break: R3,810.00 per chalet per night
BB sleeping 1-6 people
Valid Sunday to Thursday until 31 August 2025 per night DBB sleeping 1-6 people
CHARM WITH FIVE-STAR OPULENCE SHEPHERDS TREE GAME LODGE
“The
TNA stay at Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge was a perfect blend of adventure, luxury, and cultural immersion. The thrill of spotting the Big 5, combined with the lodge’s diverse activities and exceptional dining, created memories
we’ll cherish forever”
Tucked away in an exclusive-use zone of the Pilanesberg Game Reserve, Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge offers a luxurious safari escape combining rustic charm with five-star opulence. Our recent stay at this breathtaking lodge was an unforgettable adventure filled with thrilling wildlife encounters, diverse activities, and warm African hospitality.
We were fortunate to spot the Big 5, making our experience truly extraordinary. Here’s a glimpse into our incredible journey.
Arrival and Warm Welcome
From the moment we arrived at Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge, just two hours from Johannesburg, we were enveloped in genuine hospitality. The staff greeted us with refreshing drinks and warm smiles, instantly making us feel at ease. The lodge’s exquisite architecture, flawless finishes and African-inspired design, commands stunning views of the bushveld amphitheatre. The team from TNA were treated to stay in suites that were a haven of luxury, featuring an en-suite bathroomx, a double outdoor shower, even a private patio with a heated pool. The attention to detail and serene setting set the stage for an exceptional stay.
Game Drives: Tracking the Big 5
The cornerstone of our adventure was the twicedaily game drives, included in our package, where we were able to explore the malaria-free Pilanesberg Game Reserve. Our morning game drives, offered a mesmerising sunrise, with a highlight being a close encounter with a leopard. The evening drive, saw us stopping for drinks and snacks under a fiery sunset. Each drive was a perfect blend of education and excitement.
Relaxation and Cultural Immersion
For relaxation, the team was treated to the award-winning health and beauty spa, a tranquil retreat with two couples’ treatment rooms and one single room. Our massage, set against the backdrop of the Pilanesberg wilderness, was a rejuvenating escape to soothe both body and soul. To connect with local culture, we participated in an interactive drumming session, where the powerful rhythms and communal energy left us with a deeper appreciation for African traditions, making it a real highlight of our stay.
Dining: A Taste of Africa
Dining at Shepherd’s Tree was a culinary journey that celebrated African flavours. The gourmet restaurant offered refined elegance with panoramic views, serving delectable dishes crafted from fresh, local ingredients. The outdoor Boma, illuminated by lanterns and a crackling bonfire, was a magical setting for authentic African cuisine, from succulent grilled meats to delicious stews. Live performances of African drumming added to the enchanting ambiance. We also enjoyed gin and wine stops during game drives, a delightful touch that elevated our bush dining experiences. The outdoor cocktail bar and entertainment deck, overlooking a rimflow swimming pool, was the perfect spot for sundowners.
Conferences and Weddings: A Versatile Destination
The TNA team was also shown the impressive facilities Shepherd’s Tree offers for events. The state-of-the-art conference centre accommodates up to 70 delegates in a classroom-style seating, making it ideal for corporate retreats. The lodge is also a stunning wedding venue, where you could host up to 140 guests, with 32 bedrooms for 64 sharing guests on your special day. The romantic bushveld backdrop and impeccable service make it a dream setting for special occasions, from vows under a golden sunset to opulent lodge cerem
Final Reflections
The TNA stay at Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge was a perfect blend of adventure, luxury, and cultural immersion. The thrill of spotting the Big 5, combined with the lodge’s diverse activities and exceptional dining, created memories we’ll cherish forever. Whether you’re seeking wildlife thrills, relaxation, or a romantic getaway, Shepherd’s Tree delivers an unparalleled experience in the heart of the Pilanesberg Game Reserve.
For more details or to book your own safari adventure, visit shepherdstreegamelodge.com.
“Whether it is staring into a lava pit, plunging off a bridge, or conquering a peak, Africa’s wild side dares you to test your limits.”
Chris Midgley News Correspondent
TNA STAYS @ aha Shepherds Tree Game Lodge
THE ULTIMATE AFRICAN RAIL ADVENTURE CAPE TOWN TO
DAR ES SALAAM
Rovos Rail is well known throughout the world for its luxurious train trips that provide an unmatched experience across Africa’s interior. The 16-day Cape Town to Dar es Salaam route is probably the greatest African rail journey accessible among the many itineraries available. A once-in-a-lifetime experience steeped in the romance of vintage rail travel, the 5 600km journey on the Pride of Africa train combines beautiful scenery, rich cultural experiences, and luxurious comfort. The route passes through South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Tanzania.
THE JOURNEY
The trip starts with stunning views of Table Mountain and the beautiful Cape Winelands from Cape Town’s iconic station. In order to see the historic Big Hole and Diamond Mine Museum, the train makes a stop at Kimberley as it winds through the dry Karoo. Passengers are treated to the varied landscape of the Kalahari region when the train reaches Botswana. A highlight is the stop at Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, where travellers can experience at one of the seven natural wonders of the world.
The train journeys through Zambia, passing through the Udzungwa Mountains’ beautiful tunnels, viaducts, and switchbacks, which provide breathtaking views of the Great Rift Valley. A game drive in Tanzania’s Nyerere National Park introduces visitors to Africa’s fauna and offers the chance to see the Big Five. After travelling through beautiful landscapes and historic towns like Makambako, the trip comes to an end in Dar es Salaam, leaving passengers with memories of an adventure that carried them across the continent.
ONBOARD EXPERIENCE
With its transformed Edwardian and Victorian-era wood-paneled carriages, Rovos Rail’s Pride of Africa is the definition of luxury. Pullman (7 sqm), Deluxe (10 sqm), and Royal (16 sqm) suites, each with air conditioning, en suite bathrooms, and tasteful furniture, can hold up to 72 passengers. The ultimate in comfort is ensured by the private lounges and bathtubs found in Royal Suites. Gourmet meals with South African classics like bobotie and milk pie, accompanied by excellent local wines, make dining an elegant occasion. Breakfast and lunch are provided in smart-casual style, while five-course meals are offered in formal dress in exquisite dining carriages.
The non-smoking lounge has a library and vintage games for unwinding, while the observation car’s openair balcony is ideal for taking in Africa’s scenery. The lack of radios, TVs, and Wi-Fi promotes a digital detox and heightens the nostalgic atmosphere.
OFF-TRAIN EXCURSIONS
The journey is enhanced by the thoughtfully chosen activities on the schedule. Travellers experience South Africa’s mining history at the Diamond Mine Museum in Kimberley. Activities in Victoria Falls include wildlife safaris in Hwange National Park and guided tours of the falls. In Tanzania, a visit to Nyerere National Park provides a safari experience, while a stroll through Makambako introduces local culture. These trips provide a thorough examination of Southern and Eastern Africa by striking a balance between history, nature, and adventure.
WHY IT’S ARGUABLY THE BEST (IN OUR OPINION AT LEAST)
The most popular Rovos Rail route is from Cape Town to Dar es Salaam, which connects five different countries’ ecosystems, cultural history, and wildlife encounters. Its 16-day duration enables a full-on adventure, travelling in unparalleled luxury from Tanzania’s savannahs to South Africa’s winelands. For those looking for elegance and exploration, this trip is the perfect rail adventure as it embodies both Africa’s history and present.
For bookings and more detailed itineraries, visit rovos.com
Lizelle Smith News Correspondent
The Golden Age of Leisure Travel
Since its establishment in 1989, Rovos Rail has earned an international reputation for its truly world-class travel experiences. Bespoke train safaris through the heart of Africa combine magnificent scenery with the glamour and excitement of the golden age of leisure travel. In a series of journeys lasting from 48 hours to 16 nights, Rovos Rail links some of the continent’s greatest destinations with a variety of off-train excursions. The beautifully rebuilt wood-panelled trains, which may be hauled by diesel or electric locos, each carry a maximum of 72 passengers in 36 superbly appointed suites and are also available for charter, while the Events Train caters for up to 250 guests and is suitable for daytime journeys. Create itineraries by combining our short and long journeys and receive a 5% discount or explore our specials and collections that link our journeys with other entertaining products.
Rovos Rail is offering residents of South Africa and neighbouring countries a two-for-one special on board a Cape Town, Victoria Falls or Durban Safari on selected departures in 2025.
South Africa Eswatini Lesotho Namibia Botswana Zimbabwe Mozambique
Q & A Blue Train Interview with Joseph
The Blue Train, South Africa’s iconic luxury rail experience, offers a journey that blends elegance, adventure, and breathtaking scenery, making it an exceptional choice for your next holiday. Traversing some of the countries most stunning landscapes, this “hotel-on-wheels” combines oldworld charm with modern comforts, creating an unforgettable travel experience.
UNPARALLELED LUXURY AND COMFORT
The Blue Train redefines luxury travel with its meticulously designed suites, gourmet dining, and attentive service. Each De Luxe or Luxury Suite transforms from a cozy daytime lounge to an elegant bedroom, complete with en-suite bathrooms featuring marble finishes, scented bath salts, and, in some cases, full-sized bathtubs. Complimentary Wi-Fi, underfloor heating, and personalised butler service ensure every need is met. The train’s polished wood panelling, plush furnishings, and panoramic windows create an ambiance of timeless sophistication, reminiscent of the golden age of rail travel.
Dining aboard the Blue Train is a highlight for any foodie, with gourmet meals showcasing South Africa’s finest ingredients, such as Karoo lamb, Knysna oysters, and local wines from boutique vineyards. Served on fine China with crisp linens, meals in the Dining Car are a celebration of culinary artistry. The Lounge Car’s high tea and the Club Car’s cigars and top-shelf drinks add to the indulgent experience.
SPECTACULAR SCENERY AND UNIQUE ROUTES
The Blue Train’s primary route, a 1600 km journey between Pretoria and Cape Town, takes passengers through South Africa’s diverse landscapes over two nights. From the rugged mountains of the Western Cape to the arid Karoo and fertile Hex River Valley, the ever-changing scenery is a feast for the eyes. An off-train excursion to Kimberley’s Big Hole and Diamond Mine Museum adds a historical dimension to the journey.
For safari enthusiasts, the Blue Train offers a special route from Pretoria to Hoedspruit, near Kruger National Park, home to the Big Five (elephant, rhino, lion, leopard, and buffalo). This itinerary includes game drives, blending luxury rail travel with wildlife adventure. The train also offers chartered trips for custom routes, perfect for special occasions or tailored experiences.
A JOURNEY STEEPED IN HISTORY
Since its origins in the 1920s as the Union Limited, the Blue Train has been a symbol of luxury, officially named in 1946 after its distinctive sapphire-blue carriages. It has hosted kings, presidents, and celebrities, earning a reputation as one of the world’s most prestigious trains. Its history is tied to South Africa’s gold and diamond rush, adding a layer of cultural significance to the journey. Travelling on the Blue Train feels like stepping into a bygone era while enjoying modern amenities.
“The Blue Train is more than a mode of transport - it’s a journey that captures the soul of South Africa.”
EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE AND ATTENTION TO DETAIL
From the moment you step into the pre-departure lounges in Pretoria or Cape Town, the Blue Train’s staff delivers warm, personalised service. Butlers cater to every whim, from morning wake-up calls to pressing clothes, while the train manager and onboard technicians ensure a smooth journey. The attention to detail, from the engraved sherry glasses given as mementos to the elegant dress code, creates a refined atmosphere that elevates the entire experience.
A PRACTICAL AND ALL-INCLUSIVE EXPERIENCE
The Blue Train’s all-inclusive fare covers meals, drinks (excluding French champagne and caviar), and off-train excursions, making it a hassle-free holiday option. With departures on select days from Pretoria and Cape Town, and special packages like the free night hotel offer for 2025-2026, planning is straightforward. The train’s modern amenities, like air suspension for a smooth ride and soundproofed cabins, ensure comfort, while the ability to tailor packages with safaris or city stays in Cape Town enhances flexibility.
WHY IT’S WORTH IT
The Blue Train is more than a mode of transport - it’s a journey that captures the soul of South Africa. Whether you’re a honeymooner, a retiree, foodie or a traveller seeking a unique adventure, it offers a perfect blend of relaxation, luxury, and exploration. The combination of world-class service, breathtaking scenery, delicious food and cultural excursions makes it an ideal holiday choice for those looking to experience Africa in style.
Discussing The Blue Train with Joseph
For more information visit www.bluetrain.co.za Jesse Morris News Correspondent
A Rail Map for the Brave From Cape Town to Kenya
In Europe, rail travel is recognised for its romance, from sipping espresso on a Eurostar headed for Paris to looking out over Alpine peaks from a Swiss train window. But Africa, too, holds a journey of epic scale— one that spans thousands of kilometres of shifting landscapes and cultures. This dream path is not a predetermined itinerary or tour; rather, it is a loosely mapped and interpretive route. For those with time, curiosity, and a taste for the long way around, this is Africa by train.
South Africa
Train: Cape Town - Pretoria
Operators: Rovos Rail, The Blue Train
Duration: 2–3 days
Start your rail journey across the heartland of South Africa. The Blue Train and Rovos Rail offer an opulent ride through the winelands, Karoo, and diamond-rich Kimberley.
Tip: Book luxury options 3–6 months in advance.
South Africa to Zimbabwe (via Botswana)
Train: Pretoria - Victoria Falls
Operator: Rovos Rail
Duration: 3 days
Before reaching the majestic Victoria Falls, Rovos Rail’s journey to Zimbabwe includes stops for wildlife viewing in Botswana and Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park. Though you don’t stop in Botswana, the journey slices through its terrain, offering glimpses of the Kalahari.
Tip: Budget travellers can consider buses and local trains but expect basic amenities.
Zimbabwe to Zambia
Train or Bus: Victoria Falls - Lusaka
Train: Zambia Railways (local stations)
Bus: Intercape, local operators
Duration: 8–10 hours
Cross the border into Zambia via road or train, enjoying views of the Zambezi River and the Copperbelt region.
Tip: Train schedules can be unpredictable, whereas buses tend to be more reliable.
Zambia to Tanzania
Train: Lusaka - Dar es Salaam
Operator: TAZARA Railway
Duration: 2 days
Hop aboard the legendary TAZARA line for a scenic ride through villages, woodlands, and valleys.
Tip: Sleeper cabins are worth the extra cost. Book at TAZARA stations or via agents.
Tanzania to Kenya
Train + Bus: Dar es Salaam - Arusha - Nairobi
Train: Tanzania Railways
Operator: Tanzania Railways Corporation
Bus: Nairobi Arusha Shuttle
Duration: 2 days
Travel by train toward Arusha, then continue overland by bus through the Great Rift Valley to Kenya’s capital.
Tip: Trains are booked locally; buses have online options and are comfortable.
This Cape to Kenya journey blends luxury trains, local buses, and ever-changing landscapes. The 20day timeline includes buffer days for layovers, local exploration, and unexpected delays. Keep a power bank handy, pack light with a secure bag, and be ready for changing train setups. Offline maps and translation apps will keep you connected when signal drops. Most of all, bring patience and a spirit of adventure - delays and detours are part of the charm. It’s not your average holiday, and that’s exactly why it’s something I’d try in a heartbeat. .
