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Namibian Rail Safari

Home Icon 17-days from only £8,995pp

Join us on an unforgettable adventure with Rovos Rail to discover the true magic of Namibia. Travel at a relaxed pace, reminiscent of a bygone era, and watch the vast and untamed landscapes of Namibia unfold.

From the captivating Atlantic coastline to the dramatic deserts and wild beauty of Damaraland, every moment is a masterpiece. On board, enjoy elegant accommodation, delicious fare and impeccable service as we journey through this untouched African paradise.

Each stop along the way offers unmatched discovery. Explore the spectacular Etosha National Park as we search for lions, elephants and cheetahs, and marvel at the iconic rolling red dunes of Sossusvlei. Go on safari to world-class parks brimming with wildlife and discover the vast Fish River Canyon, the largest canyon in Africa and one of Namibia’s most visited attractions.

Our journey concludes with a taste of South Africa. We enjoy a scenic cruise along the Orange River, the largest in the country, and visit the cities of Kimberley and Pretoria. Those looking to extend their African adventure have a number of options to choose from. Visit the colourful laid-back city of Cape Town, view incredible Victoria Falls, in Zimbabwe or go on safari in Botswana’s Chobe National Park. Or choose to do all three!

Those looking to extend their African adventure have the option to spend three-night stay at Victoria Falls, with a guided walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Victoria Falls and a cruise on the Zambezi included; or add a stay amid Botswana’s abundant wildlife and make it a fabulous six-night extension to Victoria Falls and Chobe National Park; or visit Cape Town with a three-night stay experiencing pristine beaches to rugged mountains, world class cuisine and an incredible waterfront, the perfect addition to your African adventure.

SAVE £200 per person! on departures from September 2025 when you book by 28th February 2025.

Day 1

Depart UK

Namibian Rail Safari Day 1

Depart from London Heathrow with British Airways for an overnight flight to Johannesburg, South Africa. Connecting flights to London Heathrow from Manchester, Newcastle, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen or Belfast City are available at no extra cost.

Included meals:

In-flight meals and drinks

Day 2

Swakopmund, 2 nights

Namibian Rail Safari Day 2

Connect via Johannesburg for an onward flight to Walvis Bay, Namibia. After clearing customs, we will be met at the airport and transferred to the coastal town of Swakopmund, where we spend our first two nights in Africa at the Swakopmund Hotel. A colonial port town full of seaside charm and old German architecture, settle in and explore the delights of Swakopmund for yourself.

Included meals:

In-flight meals and drinks

Day 3

Swakopmund

Namibian Rail Safari Day 3

Walvis Bay is home to a great natural lagoon which attracts tens of thousands of birds, including pelicans and flamingos that flock together by the thousands. This morning, following breakfast, we visit the lagoon to learn more about this fascinating area, the stunning flamingos providing some great photo opportunities. We continue to Pink Lake, another hotspot for birdlife, and continue to Sandwich Harbour where dramatic 100m-high sand dunes run straight into the ocean. Following an adventurous drive on the dunes, we return to Swakopmund where the remainder of our day is at leisure. Perhaps dine in one of the towns many excellent seafood restaurants or enjoy a Bavarian beer and a bratwurst!

Included meals:

Breakfast

Day 4

Walvis Bay

Namibian Rail Safari Day 4

Following breakfast, we transfer to Walvis Bay train station, where the magnificent Rovos Rail awaits our arrival. Following check-in formalities, board and settle in for the adventure of a lifetime. As the train departs for Otjiwarongo, admire the geological wonder of the ancient Namib desert, from the panoramic windows in our suites. Estimated at somewhere between 55-88 million years, it may well be the oldest desert in the world. Lunch is served in the dining car. Meals are all freshly prepared by expert chefs, harnessing the flavours of local produce. As our journey continues into the afternoon, head to the observation car for a better view of the endless Nabi desert and appreciate the timeless grace of Rovos and understand first-hand why it enjoys its stellar reputation for unparalleled hospitality and comfort. Following dinner, we retire to our suites.

Included meals:

Breakfast, lunch and dinner PLUS selected on-board drinks

Day 5

Cheetah Conservation Fund

Namibian Rail Safari Day 5

Following breakfast, we transfer to the Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF) in Otjiwarongo. Founded in 1990, the CCF is singularly dedicated to protecting wild cheetahs. These exquisite creatures, known for their astonishing speed, have seen their numbers dramatically fall, with 90% of the world’s wild cheetahs lost in the last century. Through this conservation project, we discover exactly what is being done to preserve and, hopefully, restore their population. We return to our train for lunch and spend an afternoon relaxing and enjoying the onboard comforts as we continue our journey.

Included meals:

Breakfast, lunch and dinner PLUS selected on-board drinks

Day 6

Etosha National Park, Overnight

Namibian Rail Safari Day 6

Tour Highlight

After breakfast this morning, we pack our overnight bags (Rovos will provide tog bags in our suites for our convenience) as we make our way into the heart of Etosha National Park for an overnight lodge stay. Etosha National Park is a sublime game viewing experience with 114 mammal species as well as 340 bird species. Following lunch at our lodge, we embark on an afternoon game drive. Keep a keen eye out for the elusive black rhino, tragically nearing extinction but remarkably stable in this region. Meaning ‘great white place’, Etosha is part of the Kalahari basin and salt pan, and is so large that it’s visible from space. The absence of trees makes for abundant game viewing as the animals are unobscured. This evening enjoy dinner and share stories from the day’s sightings.

Included meals:

Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 7

Etosha National Park

Namibian Rail Safari Day 7

An early morning game drive awaits. Etosha not only boasts lions, elephants, cheetahs and leopards, but rarer species like the black-faced impala, Hartmann’s mountain zebra, and the adorable Damara dik-dik (the smallest antelope in the world). Between animal sightings, learn about the remarkable landscape. Afterwards, we return to the train to enjoy the onboard facilities. Take tea in the lounge or observation car at your leisure, but save space for the feast that awaits in the dining car this evening.

Included meals:

Breakfast, lunch and dinner PLUS selected on-board drinks

Day 8

Sossusvlei, Overnight

Namibian Rail Safari Day 8

Tour Highlight

This morning we find ourselves approaching Windhoek, the charming capital of Namibia. With our small overnight bag packed for our next adventure we transfer to the airstrip for our short flight to Sossusvlei. The red dunes, loaded with iron oxide, are made of sand blown from the coast and are millions of years old. One of Namibia’s best known attractions, the spectacular red sand dunes of Sossusvlei are a photographer’s delight! Following lunch at our lodge, we venture out for an afternoon desert drive. Following sunset, a magnificent bush dinner brings our day to a close.

Included meals:

Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 9

Deadvlei and Windhoek

Namibian Rail Safari Day 9

Our desert drive this morning takes us Deadvlei, where petrified camel thorn trees stand starkly against the mesmerising red dunes and vivid blue sky. Admire these exquisite trees up close and take in the hypnotic beauty of the region. Afterwards, we take our short return flight back to Windhoek. Following lunch at the Windhoek Country Club, embark on a tour of the city. Visit the Trans-Namib Transport Museum, the Independence Memorial Museum, the beautiful Evangelical Lutheran Church, and the Namibia Craft Centre, housed in a former brewery. We return to the haven of our Rovos Rail hotel-on-wheels, settling in for our onward journey.

Included meals:

Breakfast, lunch and dinner PLUS selected on-board drinks

Day 10

Keetmanshoop and Garas Park

Namibian Rail Safari Day 10

Following the excitement of the last few days, enjoy a leisurely morning on board as we continue our journey across the Nabi desert. This afternoon, disembark to visit the town of Keetmanshoop and Garas Park. Home to roughly 300 specimens of Aloe dichotomy, otherwise known as Quiver trees, these distinctive plants make a serene oasis, resplendent against a backdrop of ancient rocks. Returning to the train, enjoy high tea in the observation car, or the comfortable lounge.

Included meals:

Breakfast, lunch and dinner PLUS selected on-board drinks

Day 11

Luderitz and Kolmanskop

Namibian Rail Safari Day 11

This morning, we travel to the ghost town of Kolmanskop. An abandoned German mining town which was once at the forefront of Namibia’s diamond trade, we learn of Kolmanskop’s history as we stroll around the town’s buildings now taken over by the Nambi desert. We lunch in nearby Luderitz before returning to our train. Take a seat in the observation car, or relax with a cocktail before dinner.

Included meals:

Breakfast, lunch and dinner PLUS selected on-board drinks

 

Day 12

Fish River Canyon

Namibian Rail Safari Day 12

Tour Highlight

This morning we arrive at the awe-inspiring Fish River Canyon. The largest canyon in the southern hemisphere and second only to the Grand Canyon when it comes to sheer magnitude. We return for lunch on board and mid-afternoon we say goodbye to Namibia as we cross the border into South Africa.

Included meals:

Breakfast, lunch and dinner PLUS selected on-board drinks

Day 13

Upington and the Orange River

Namibian Rail Safari Day 13

After all our Namibian adventures, it’s time for a taste of South Africa! We head for Upington and enjoy a walking tour of this quaint city, named after Attorney General of the Cape, Sir Thomas Upington who captured the notorious Orange River pirate leader, Klaas Lucas. Enjoy a (pirate-free) scenic cruise along the serene Orange River, prior to lunch. Settle in for a relaxing afternoon on board, followed by a sumptuous dinner this evening.

Included meals:

Breakfast, lunch and dinner PLUS selected on-board drinks

Day 14

Kimberley

Namibian Rail Safari Day 14

It’s time to explore the diamond city of Kimberley. Following breakfast, embark on a tour of the Diamond Mine Museum and the Big Hole. 150 years ago, word spread that diamonds had been discovered in the area and a flood of prospectors descended to create the largest hand-dug excavation in the world! It’s truly a remarkable sight. We return to the train to enjoy the ever-changing vistas as Rovos continues its journey to Pretoria. As our final evening on board approaches, join fellow guests and reflect on the incredible experiences we have enjoyed together.

Included meals:

Breakfast, lunch and dinner PLUS selected on-board drinks

Day 15

Pretoria, Overnight

Namibian Rail Safari Day 15

As we approach the end of our tour, we arrive into Rovos Rail’s private rail terminal in Pretoria, and we take a short drive to the beautiful Irene Country Lodge for our final night. Relax in the wonderful surroundings of your hotel.

Included meals:

Breakfast

Day 16

Depart Pretoria

Namibian Rail Safari Day 16

After two memorable weeks, it is time to bid our Namibian adventure adieu as we depart Pretoria and make our way to the airport for our flight to London Heathrow.

Included meals:

Breakfast and in-flight meals and drinks

Explore more of Africa…

Take the opportunity to explore Africa further by extending your holiday with a three-night stay at Victoria Falls, with a guided walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Victoria Falls; or add a stay amid Botswana’s abundant wildlife with a fabulous six-night extension to Victoria Falls and Chobe National Park; or visit Cape Town with a three-night stay experiencing pristine beaches to rugged mountains, the perfect addition to your African adventure.

Day 17

Arrive UK

Namibian Rail Safari Day 17

We arrive at Heathrow in the early morning. Head home with memories of your African escapades! Those embarking on regional UK flights will connect via London Heathrow.

Included meals:

In-flight meals and drinks

Departure dates & prices

Departure datePullman Suite
(Rovos Rail)
Deluxe Suite
(Rovos Rail)
AvailabilityOffer
 2025
18 March£8,995£10,9951 ROOM
09 May£8,995£10,9951 ROOM
11 NovemberSOLD OUTSOLD OUTSOLD OUTSOLD OUT
 2026
18 February*£9,795 £9,595£11,795 £11,595JUST LAUNCHEDSAVE £200 per person
16 March£9,795 £9,595£11,795 £11,595JUST LAUNCHEDSAVE £200 per person
05 April^£9,795 £9,595£11,795 £11,595JUST LAUNCHEDSAVE £200 per person
19 November£9,795 £9,595£11,795 £11,595JUST LAUNCHEDSAVE £200 per person

* This date operates on an alternative itinerary to the one shown. Click here for further details.
^This date operates from Pretoria to Walvis Bay. Click here for further details.

Prices
Prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin or double room.

Single occupancy supplement
Pullman Suite: 18 March – 09 May 2025, £3,195
Pullman Suite: 11 November 2025 – 19 November 2026, £3,495
Deluxe Suite: 18 March – 09 May 2025, £4,195
Deluxe Suite: 11 November 2025 – 19 November 2026, £4,495

Deposit:
Pullman suite: £1,750 per person if travelling economy class, £2,700 if travelling World Traveller Plus, £4,500 per person for Club World.

Deluxe suite: £2,250 per person if travelling economy class, £3,200 if travelling World Traveller Plus, £5,000 per person for Club World.

Flight upgrades:
British Airways upgrade to World Traveller Plus from £1,395 per person, or Club World from £3,895 per person.

Visa information
A visa is not required for travel to South Africa. However, if you are planning to Victoria Falls or Chobe National Park, visa’s for Zimbabwe will be required. For more information on applying for your visa and the associated costs, please refer to our FAQ’s page.

Important information
Our holiday prices are subject to fuel surcharges and the availability of flights in the lowest fare booking class. The correct price will always be confirmed to you before you book, and once you have booked, our Price Promise will guarantee there will be no further increases. For full terms and conditions see our Booking Conditions page.

So much included

Join Distant Journeys for an unforgettable adventure with Rovos Rail to discover the true magic of Namibia and South Africa. with so much included in the price. Your scheduled international flights, any domestic or international flights, expertly chosen hotels, daily breakfast, all meals on board Rovos Rail, and many amazing excursions are all included.

Flights with leading scheduled airlines

  • Return economy class flights with British Airways from London Heathrow with regional connecting flights available at no extra cost from Manchester, Leeds Bradford, Newcastle, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen or Belfast City Airport.
  • Domestic or regional flights within Africa
  • All airport charges, security charges and any applicable fuel surcharges
  • UK Air Passenger Duty

Carefully selected hotels

  • Carefully selected hotels in great locations
  • All hotel porterage
  • Applicable hotel taxes

Many meals

  • Daily breakfast

All-inclusive on Rovos Rail

  • Nine-nights on board Rovos Rail
  • All meals and selected alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks on board
  • Services of a Train Manager

Unforgettable experiences

  • Sightseeing tours in Walvis Bay, Upington
  • Game drives in Etosha National Park
  • Visit a cheetah conservation project
  • Experience the red sand dunes of the Sossusvlei
  • Explore Quiver Tree Forest
  • Discover Fish River Canyon
  • Visit the Kimberley Diamond Mine Museum

On the ground

  • All overseas transfers and transport
  • Services of a Train Manager

100% confidence

  • Your holiday is covered by our Price Promise
  • Your holiday is fully ATOL protected

Swakopmund Hotel, Swakopmund

When visiting the Skeleton Coast of Namibia, the Swakopmund Hotel is a hidden gem. With striking German architecture, and housed in the town’s old station building, your stay will take you back to a bygone era. With bright and spacious… Find out more >
  • Star-Rating-4-5
  •   Official rating
  • Image of 4 stars
  •   Distant Journeys rating

Rovos Rail

Distant Journeys are proud to offer some of the world’s best rail tours across our destinations. A unique and memorable journey awaits you on the Rovos Rail. For more than 30 years, family-run Rovos Rail has operated rail journeys through… Find out more >

Irene Country Lodge Hotel, Pretoria

For your visit to Gauteng, known as South Africa’s economic capital, you’ll be staying in the historical village of Irene. Here, your accommodation will be the enchanting African Pride Irene Country Lodge. As you approach the lodge, you’ll travel down… Find out more >
  • Star-Rating-5
  •   Official rating
  • Star-Rating-4-5
  •   Distant Journeys rating

Holiday Extensions

Those looking to extend their African adventure have the option to spend three-night stay at Victoria Falls, with a guided walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Victoria Falls and a cruise on the Zambezi included; or add a stay amid Botswana’s abundant wildlife and make it a fabulous six-night extension to Victoria Falls and Chobe National Park; or visit Cape Town with a three-night stay experiencing pristine beaches to rugged mountains, world class cuisine and an incredible waterfront, the perfect addition to your African adventure.


Victoria Falls Tour

3 night Victoria Falls tour from £1,595pp

Victoria Falls is a UNESCO World Heritage Site of awe-inspiring beauty, described by the Kololo tribe living in the area in the 19th century as Mosi-oa-Tunya: ‘The Smoke that Thunders’. As Victoria Falls is only a short flight from Johannesburg,…

Find out more >


Hippo' eyes and ears poking out of the water in a river in Africa

Victoria Falls & Chobe National Park Tour

6 nights from £2,855pp

Victoria Falls is one of our planet’s greatest natural wonders. Just a short flight from Johannesburg, it is the world’s largest waterfall and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In neighbouring Botswana, Chobe National Park is a true wildlife paradise and…

Find out more >


Cape Town

Cape Town Extension

3 nights from only £645pp

Welcome to Cape Town, a city that effortlessly weaves together natural beauty, rich history and a vibrant culture. With the awe-inspiring Table Mountain as its backdrop, the city has so much to offer, from the colourful streets of the Bo-Kaap,…

Find out more >


Customer reviews  feefo logo

This is a new tour with the inaugural departure in 2025. This page will be updated with reviews as soon as our returning customers are contacted by the independent reviews company Feefo. In the meantime, please feel free to look at the reviews for some of our other tours to South Africa – we’re sure you will be impressed with the service our guests receive and the great reviews they kindly give us!

Namibian Rail Safari 2024_25

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