Rovos Rail Golf Safari: Luxury Train Travel to South Africa’s Top Golf Courses
Imagine waking up in a wood-panelled train suite, playing a round at one of Africa’s finest courses, and heading out on a game drive in the afternoon. The Rovos Rail Golf Safari combines the luxury of the Pride of Africa with a circuit of South Africa’s top golf courses, while non-golfing partners enjoy safaris, culture and sightseeing.
The Golf Safari route
The journey runs for around nine to ten days on a loop from Rovos Rail’s private station at Capital Park in Pretoria. The exact route and courses vary by departure and are subject to availability, but a typical journey includes:
Sun City and the Pilanesberg
Tee off on the Gary Player Country Club course, home of the Nedbank Golf Challenge, or the Lost City course with its famous crocodile pit. Non-golfers can take a game drive in the Pilanesberg and explore the resort. Read more about Sun City golf.
The Drakensberg and the Battlefields
Play at Champagne Sports Resort in the shadow of the Drakensberg, while non-golfers visit the historic Anglo-Boer War battlefields, such as Spioenkop.
Durban
Play a round at the historic Durban Country Club while non-golfers take a city tour and visit the botanical gardens and Umhlanga.
Zululand
Everyone joins a game drive in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, famous for its rhino.
Eswatini
Golfers play the Royal Swazi course near Ezulwini, while non-golfers enjoy a game drive in Mkhaya Game Reserve and visit local crafts such as Swazi Candles.
Malelane and the Kruger
There’s an optional round at the exclusive Leopard Creek on the banks of the Crocodile River, where hippos and crocodiles watch from the water hazards, or a game drive in Kruger National Park.
Mpumalanga highlands
Play Highland Gate near Dullstroom, a trout-fishing village, before the train returns to Pretoria.
Life on board
Between rounds, enjoy all the hallmarks of Rovos Rail: elegant suites, multi-course meals with fine South African wines, and the open-air observation car. Golf clubs travel with you, and transfers to the courses are arranged.
Who is the Golf Safari for?
It’s ideal for keen golfers who want to play several bucket-list courses in one trip without the hassle of packing and unpacking, and for couples where only one partner plays golf, since the non-golfer programme is just as rewarding.
Rovos Rail golf safari FAQ
How often does the Golf Safari depart?
There are only a handful of departures each year, mainly in the cooler months. Book well in advance.
Are green fees included?
Most green fees are included, but some premium rounds, such as Leopard Creek, may be optional extras. Confirm the details for your departure.
Can I extend my golf holiday?
Yes. Add Cape Town and the Winelands with one of our golf packages, or a scenic journey on the African Collage.
Contact us for current Golf Safari dates and fares.
