If you are a globetrotter who has yet to experience the African continent and this unique part of the world is on your list, 2023 can be the year when you experience South Africa and the best way to do that is on a luxury train.
The African Explorer
There are more than 3,000km of railway tracks throughout South Africa and the African Explorer is the luxury locomotive that will take you from Cape Town to Windhoek, with many interesting stops on the way. Luxury train holidays in South Africa are very popular, so do book as early as you can. If you search online, you will find an established South African tour operator who offers a range of packages covering the African continent on a luxury train.
Typical Tour Itinerary
The African Explorer departs from Cape Town and takes you through the Hex River Mountains, stopping at the quaint town of Matjiesfonteine, which was built for the railway. Admire the colonial architecture and see where Edgar Wallace once stayed, then it’s on to Upington and the amazing Augrabies National Park where you can wonder at the amazing Augrabies Falls. After a night near the roaring falls, the train heads north to Namibia, the jewel of the African continent.
Namibia
This unique nation has become the number one destination for foreign tourists, with landscapes that defy description – clear blue skies, red and brown rock, with lush green areas. Experience Fish River Canyon, where you can walk along the largest canyon in Africa with insane views; then a visit to Quiver Tree Forest and a coach trip to see some old mines; the following day you arrive at Namib-Naukluft National Park.
Namib-Naukluft National Park
This unique region borders the Atlantic Ocean and is on the edge of the Great Escarpment, a large ridge that formed millions of years ago. The Namib Desert is spectacular, with an impressive list of wildlife. Small safaris allow you to see animals in their natural habitat, and the guides know all the best locations for wildlife, with several species of wild cats, foxes and baboons.
Walvis Bay & Swakopmund
It’s an ancient port, Walvis Bay, where southern right whales naturally congregate in the deep waters; the guide shows you where the wildlife is, and there are some spectacular views along the coastline. Experience Walvis Bay Lagoon, where the pink flamingos hang out, great place for photographers, so have your long lens digital camera ready. The town of Swakopmund is of German colonial origin with stunning architecture; enjoy afternoon tea in what is a grand place, then return to the train.
Namib Desert Exploration
Drive to Usakos, then onto the Spitzkopp, which is a huge sand dune that you can ascend for an amazing view of the desert surroundings. The next stop is Park Lodge, where you can watch elephants, giraffes and deer as they go about their day. Spend a day on safari with your English-speaking guide, who knows the history and the wildlife, which enriches your experience.
Windhoek is the final destination and your holiday ends with a tour of this unique city. Spend another day enjoying a little luxury before leaving for the airport.
When looking for a complete package, book your luxury train holiday in South Africa with a reputable tour operator, where you can download PDF details of each package. There are many to choose from when you find the right holiday experience, check the dates and you can make an early booking.