Rovos Rail Pretoria to Cape Town: The African Collage Journey (With Golf)
Most travellers who take Rovos Rail from Pretoria to Cape Town choose the classic three-night journey across the Karoo. For those with more time, the African Collage takes the long way round: a panoramic, multi-day loop through some of South Africa’s most varied landscapes, from the Lowveld and the Kingdom of Eswatini to Zululand, the Drakensberg, the Eastern Cape and the Garden Route. Golfers can add rounds at celebrated courses along the way.
Classic route or African Collage?
- Classic Pretoria to Cape Town (about three nights): the direct route via Kimberley’s Big Hole and the Victorian village of Matjiesfontein.
- African Collage (about 12 nights): a slow, scenic route taking in game reserves, mountain passes and coastal towns, with off-train excursions most days.
Read our full Rovos Rail guide for more on suites and life on board.
Highlights of the African Collage
The route varies by departure, but typically includes:
Mpumalanga and the Kruger
The train descends the Drakensberg escarpment into the Lowveld, with a game drive in or near Kruger National Park. Golfers may play the renowned Leopard Creek.
Eswatini
Mountain scenery, Swazi crafts and a game drive in a reserve such as Mkhaya.
Zululand and Durban
An early-morning game drive in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi, then the sugar-cane fields of KwaZulu-Natal. Golfers can play coastal courses such as Zimbali or Durban Country Club.
The Midlands and the Drakensberg
The train passes through the Valley of a Thousand Hills, with a visit to the Midlands’ art and craft studios, and travels past Lesotho’s mountains.
The Free State and the Eastern Cape
Stops may include Bloemfontein and Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), with a game drive in Addo Elephant National Park, or a round on the classic Humewood links for golfers.
The Little Karoo and the Garden Route
Visit an ostrich farm in Oudtshoorn, then take a spectacular descent over the Montagu Pass to George. Golfers can play Fancourt or the Ernie Els–designed Oubaai, while others explore Knysna.
Into Cape Town
The journey ends in the Mother City beneath Table Mountain, often with a stop in the Cape Winelands on the way.
Golf on the African Collage
The African Collage suits couples where one partner plays golf: golfers peel off for a round while non-golfers enjoy excursions, and everyone rejoins the train later. Prefer golf every day? The dedicated Rovos Rail golf safari is built around golf. Extend your trip in the Cape with a Garden Route golf stay.
FAQ
How often does the African Collage run?
Departures are limited, typically just a few a year. Book early.
Can I travel in the other direction?
Some journeys run in both directions. Ask us about upcoming departures.
Are golf fees included?
Golf is usually an optional add-on. We’ll confirm green fees, transfers and club handling when you book.
Contact us for African Collage dates and fares, or explore more adventure and outdoors ideas.
