| Right then, picture this: you've booked yourself a rather spiffing 12-day Rovo Rail journey from Pretoria all the way to the majestic Victoria Falls. Forget your dusty Land Rovers and lukewarm gin and tonics; this is safari with a capital S, and a rather hefty dose of L. We're talking pure, unadulterated luxury, the kind that makes you wonder if you've accidentally stumbled into a rather well appointed film set. The adventure kicks off in Pretoria, where you’ll board the Rovo Rail. It’s less a train and more a rolling five star hotel. Think polished wood, crisp linens, and service so attentive you’ll start to feel a tad guilty for not having a personal butler at home. The suites are divine, a far cry from any cramped carriage you might have endured in the past. You can actually stretch out, perhaps with a good book and a glass of something sparkling, as the South African landscape begins to unfurl outside your window. As the train glides through the countryside, the meals are an event in themselves. Expect gourmet cuisine, artfully presented, and paired with wines that would make a sommelier weep with joy. I confess, I spent a good portion of my time simply contemplating the culinary brilliance whilst simultaneously trying to spot a passing giraffe. It’s a demanding double act, I assure you. The Rovo Rail isn't just about the journey; it’s the gateway to some rather breathtaking excursions. We’re talking game drives, of course, but not just any game drives. These are curated experiences, designed to get you up close and personal with the African wildlife, but with all the comforts discreetly provided. Imagine sipping champagne from the back of a perfectly appointed open vehicle, watching a pride of lions lounge in the golden afternoon light. It’s the sort of scene that makes you feel incredibly sophisticated, even if you’re wearing rather too much khaki. One of the highlights is undoubtedly the stop at the Matobo National Park. Here, you’ll encounter rhinos, a rather humbling experience. The guides are incredibly knowledgeable, sharing insights into the delicate ecosystem with a passion that’s infectious. It’s a chance to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with something far more ancient and powerful. I found myself reflecting on just how small we are in the grand scheme of things, which is a rather sobering thought after a particularly decadent breakfast. Then, of course, there’s Victoria Falls. Oh, the Falls. They are, quite simply, spectacular. The sheer power and spray are immense, earning their local moniker, ‘Mosi oa Tunya’ or ‘The Smoke That Thunders’. You can experience them from various viewpoints, each offering a different, jaw dropping perspective. Perhaps a helicopter ride for an aerial view that will leave you speechless, or a sundowner cruise on the Zambezi, with hippos for company. Yes, hippos. They are surprisingly chatty when you’re not expecting them. This Rovo Rail safari is less about roughing it and more about being pampered whilst experiencing the raw beauty of Africa. It’s for those who appreciate the finer things, who believe that a safari should involve fine dining as much as game viewing. It’s an investment, certainly, but one that delivers memories that will last a lifetime. You’ll return home feeling utterly refreshed, perhaps a little bit spoiled, and with a newfound appreciation for a well made bed and a truly exceptional cup of tea after a day of observing nature’s grandeur. It’s quite the way to see the world, if you ask me. |























