Pre Day: Cape Town
Having a “pre-day” means that one is able to acclimatise and unpack prior to the first day of touring. Activities that could be undertaken in the afternoon include the following: A stroll around the False Bay area / Leisurely walk along the beach walkway to St. James, where a variety of small restaurants are situated / A short walk to the beach for a refreshing swim.A pre-night on board will include dinner, bed and breakfast. The train remains stationary in Muizenberg for the night.

Day 1: Cape Town
Cape Town is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world with the paternal presence of Table Mountain overlooking all.

(Please Note: the activities as described in the options below could also be executed in a different order)

1. Cape Point: We will visit the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, which are world-renowned for the beauty and diversity of the Cape flora and for the magnificent setting against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain. The estate of 528 hectares supports a diverse fynbos flora and natural forest. This is followed by a visit to Hout Bay, where a large fleet of colourful fishing vessels enhance the bustling ambience of this attractive resort. Fresh seafood is a speciality at Mariner’s Wharf. Chapman’s Peak Drive is one of the most spectacular sea cliff routes in the world. It was built between 1915 and 1922 and recently upgraded. We follow this drive to Simon’s Town. In years gone by, sailing fleets from Europe soon discovered that Table Bay was extremely dangerous during the winter months. While exploring, Governor Simon van der Stel discovered the bay, which could give safe anchor to the visiting sailing ships during winter. Simon’s Town is a charming little coastal town. It became a naval base in 1814 and is home to the SA navy today. A visit to the Boulder’s Penguin Colony will form part of this option as well: In 1983 a pair of African Penguins was spotted on Foxy Beach at Boulders and in 1985 they began to lay eggs. Since then the colony has grown rapidly, increasing initially at about 60% a year. By 1997 there were 2 350 adult birds. They are remarkably untroubled by people and Boulders is the only place in the world where one can actually swim amongst the penguins. This day will not be complete without a visit to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve: Sir Francis Drake called it"the fairest cape in the whole circumference of the earth". Yet many vessels, wrecked by the turbulent seas, have found their resting-place along this rocky coastline. The Nature Reserve is situated at the southern tip of the peninsula. The 7 675 hectare reserve is filled with priceless indigenous flora and fauna, some 2 700 species of indigenous plants and over 250 species of birds as well as troops of baboons and many species of antelope. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 150 km)
2. Cape Town City Tour: Our city tour will commence with an exhilarating cable car ascent of Table Mountain (weather permitting and at your own cost). It provides breathtaking views over the city and its beaches. The panorama stretches from Table Bay to False Bay and around the mountain to the Hottentots Holland Mountains. The mountain is home to over 1 500 species of plants, many of these are found nowhere else on earth. Our city tour continues with a walk through the Company Gardens, followed by a visit to the “Bo-Kaap Museum”: The first Malays arrived in the Cape as political refugees and slaves during the 17th century. Nearly two centuries later after emancipation, these Islamic people moved into the area known today as the Bo-Kaap, building mosques with picturesque minarets and their own style Georgian houses with Dutch influence. One of the oldest Cape Town buildings houses the museum. It is furnished as a Muslim house of the 19th century and documents the history of the Cape Malays. On our way to the V&A Waterfront, we will stop at Diamond Works, where you’ll follow a tour of the diamond cutting studio, a jewellery manufacturing workshop, a jewellery design studio as well as a gemmological laboratory. Our lunch stop will be at the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, a development that has brought new life to the old harbour of the Dutch East India Company in Table Bay. The complex offers shops, craft markets, restaurants, taverns, cinemas, theatres as well as delightful views over the harbour. In the afternoon we will drive through District 6. By 1900 the largest group of people then referred to as “Malay”, “Mixed and Other” or “Coloured” lived in poor conditions here. Yet the area was vibrant and full of colour with busy streets and vivacious lifestyles. Various religions and cultural heritages flourished and mingled. In the 40s the apartheid government removed the residents and most of the buildings. Today the city still grapples with the problem of what to do with this valuable real estate, but also to deal with the strong emotions that still charges the issue. We end our city tour with a visit to the Castle of Good Hope, the oldest surviving building in South Africa. This pentagonal fortification replaced a small clay and timber fort built by Commander Jan van Riebeeck in 1652 as a maritime replenishment station for the ships of the Dutch East India Company. The stone walls between the bastions are 150 m long and 12 m high. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 100 km)

1. Two Oceans Aquarium: The Aquarium is located at the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront and offers an exciting insight into the indigenous fresh and seawater creatures of South Africa.
2. Robben Island Tour: For nearly 400 years, Robben Island was a place of banishment, exile, isolation and imprisonment. During the apartheid years Robben Island became internationally known as the place where Nelson Mandela and the other heroes of the struggle were imprisoned.
3. Helicopter Flights: Various helicopter flight options from the V&A Waterfront and back, starting from only 15 minutes (including only the city bowl) to half an hour or longer (also including the Cape Peninsula) are offered. The train remains stationary in Muizenberg for the night. An evening shuttle service will be available to go to the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront.

Day 2: Cape Town

1. Cape Point: See Day 01
2. Cape Town City Tour: See Day 01
3. Hermanus in Whale Season (July to November only): We make our way to Hermanus, once a renowned fish market and whaling station. The whale hunts were stopped by international treaty in 1935. The WWF includes Hermanus in its list of 12 best whale-viewing sites in the world, but it tops the list when it comes to land based whale watching. The natural cliffs allow for whales to be seen from as little as 5 metres away. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 295 km)

1. Two Oceans Aquarium: See Day 01
2. Robben Island Tour: See Day 01
3. Helicopter Flights: See Day 01

Day 3: Winelands (Stellenbosch, Franschhoek & Paarl)
The fertile green valleys of the Cape Winelands are surrounded by proud mountain ranges. A mediterranean climate and winter rainfall creates some of the best wines in the world. The rich, fertile soils along the Breede River and the Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl areas have become justly famous for their Whites, Reds, Sherries, Ports and Brandies.

1. Historic Stellenbosch and Franschhoek: We make our way to Stellenbosch, the second oldest town in the country, lying in the heart of the Winelands. There is a superb number of delightful early Cape Dutch houses. Driving over Helshoogte Pass we reach Franschhoek to visit the Huguenot Memorial and Museum. Then to Paarl named after the huge granite dome of rock overlooking the town. One wine tasting is included in this excursion. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 150 km)
2. Four Passes Route: We travel along Baden Powell Drive to the Sir Lowry’s Pass. The view from the summit here affords superb vistas over Somerset West, False Bay and Table Mountain. Our journey continues to Viljoen’s Pass and the Elgin Valley with its fruit orchards. The third pass, Franschhoek Pass, offers splendid views over vineyards, plantations and rugged peaks. Back through a landscape of fruit farms, Cape Dutch houses and vineyards to Stellenbosch and finally to Paarl. One wine tasting is included in this excursion. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 350 km)
3. Wine Connoisseur: We follow the coastal road, Baden Powell Drive, and make our way to Stellenbosch, established in 1679. Between Stellenbosch and the Drakenstein Valley is the Helshoogte Pass where the road winds through a landscape adorned with fruit farms, Cape Dutch houses and vineyards before reaching Franschhoek to visit the Huguenot Memorial and Museum. The tour ends in Paarl. Two wine tastings and one cellar tour are included in this excursion. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 150 km)
4. Hermanus in Whale Season (July to November only): We make our way to Hermanus, once a renowned fish market and whaling station. The whale hunts were stopped by international treaty in 1935. The WWF includes Hermanus in its list of 12 best whale-viewing sites in the world, but it tops the list when it comes to land based whale watching. The natural cliffs allow for whales to be seen from as little as 5 metres away. We return via the Franschhoek Valley with magnificent views of the mountains, patterned with wine estates. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 350 km) Guests rejoin the train in Paarl and the train departs for Mossel Bay over night.

Day 4: Garden Route
Mossel Bay lies in the heart of the famous Garden Route and is situated on a spectacular sun-washed peninsula.

1. Old Passes Route and Knysna: Drive along the coast from Mossel Bay to George, situated on a 10-kilometre plateau between majestic Mountains to the north and the Indian Ocean to the south. Then we head via the old Passes route, which winds through the primeval forest of the Homtini to Knysna, lying between lush forests and a peaceful lagoon. The Heads – two sandstone cliffs guarding the mouth of the lagoon connecting the estuary with the sea - is a dramatic viewpoint. In the “Garden of Eden” we take a walk among the 4m treeferns and 600-year old trees. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 250 km)
2. Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe and Knysna (not on Sundays / only every second day in winter months): The Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe is one of the last steam passenger trains operating today. Once the most expensive sections of line in the world - today it is rated the most beautiful. At Sedgefield guests are transferred by vehicle to Knysna, situated between lush forests and the shores of the peaceful lagoon. The Heads - two sandstone cliffs guarding the mouth of the lagoon and connecting the estuary with the sea - is a dramatic viewpoint. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 250 km)
3. Mossel Bay at leisure: The first meeting between Europeans and Africans on Southern African soil occurred at Mossel Bay in 1488 when Dias set foot ashore and encountered the ancient Khoi-San people. We visit the Dias museum with its replica of the caravel in which Dias sailed from Portugal to South Africa more than 500 years ago. We also see the famous “Old Post Office Tree” where later explorers left post for passing ships. Mossel Bay features in the Guinness Book of Records as having the second mildest all-year climate in the world (second only to Hawaii). (Morning activity; distance travelled: 0 km)
4. Robberg Nature Reserve: Robberg means “mountain of seals” and the reserve is a scenic 4km promontory of red sandstone that probes fingerlike into the blue waters of the Indian Ocean. A number of walks are offered, ranging from reasonably difficult to gentle strolls. Along the way there are caves that were once inhabited by an ancient people called “strandlopers” (beach walkers). The northern flank of Robberg is rocky and wild, but the south is the complete opposite with white beaches. On our way back to Mossel Bay, we might stop at the Knysna Quays, depending on the time. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 280 km)

1. Shark Cage Diving (Mossel Bay): A 15 metre long catamaran, called the “Shark”, has plenty of deck space and shade and is ideal for an experience with the ‘Great White’. Divers are briefed about caging procedures before the cage is put down into the water. Once the first shark is spotted the bait lines are drawn in and everybody has the opportunity to view and admire this magnificent predator of the sea.
2. Seal Island Trips (including whale watching in season): Enjoy an early morning Boat Cruise to Seal Island to view the seal colony basking in the sun or playing in the sea. Sit
back and relax with an early morning coffee or cold drink. Dolphins have been spotted on this boat ride as well as the occasional whale. (Whale Watching is seasonal - July-November, but boat trips to Seal Island give you the best chance to spot whales, dolphins, seals and penguins)
3. Monkeyland and Birds of Eden (Plettenberg Bay): Monkeyland has a prime location on 23 hectares of indigenous forest, where efforts are to rehabilitate and free previously caged primates. The sanctuary is exceptional as it caters for several species of primates, who are free to move about the forest. The decision to develop Birds of Eden next-doors stems from the need to create a safe environment in which to release a large collection of free-flight African birds, miniature monkeys and pet birds after undergoing rehabilitation.
The unique two hectare dome (the world’s largest) spans over a gorge of indigenous forest. The sanctuary has its own mysterious ruin, which incorporates a walk-behind waterfall. On our way back to Mossel Bay, we might stop at the Knysna Quays, depending on the time.

A South African “Fish Braai” (BBQ) is planned for this evening. All guests will be transferred to the Khoi Village for the braai at 19h00. The train remains stationary in Mossel Bay for the night.

Day 5: Klein Karoo
Surrounded by natural beauty, Oudtshoorn is situated at the foot of the majestic Swartberg Mountain range. Numerous rivers, streams and falls have their origins in the Swartberg, Outeniqua and Kammanassie ranges around the town. Oudtshoorn is regarded as the centre of the Klein Karoo and is world-renowned for the Cango Caves and the breeding of Ostriches.

1. Cango Caves & Swartberg Pass: Leaving the coast behind, we ascend the Robinson Pass into Oudtshoorn, famous for its ostrich boom in the early 20th century – it feathered the world in the time of the boa and the grand hats making many millionaires who, in turn, created elaborate lifestyles in this remote place in Africa. A great natural wonder awaits us, the Cango Caves - a series of great colourful underground chambers with breathtaking limestone formations. We continue via the Swartberg Pass to Prince Albert and return to Oudtshoorn via the spectacular Meiringspoort drive. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 280 km)
2. Mossel Bay, Oudtshoorn & Ostrich Farm: The first meeting between Europeans and Africans on Southern African soil occurred at Mossel Bay in 1488 when Dias set foot ashore and encountered the ancient Khoi-San people. Travelling via the Robertson Pass we continue to Oudtshoorn, famous for its ostrich boom in the early 20th century – it feathered the world in the time of the boa and the grand hats making many millionaires who, in turn, created elaborate lifestyles in this remote African village. Midafternoon at an Ostrich Show Farm guests are taken on an unforgettable tour. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 200 km)
3. On the train to Oudtshoorn for an Ostrich Farm visit: Late risers enjoy a slightly later breakfast on board and enjoy the scenic beauty of the spectacular Outeniqua Pass and the Outeniqua Mountain range. In Oudtshoorn guests are transported into town for an afternoon visit to an Ostrich Show Farm, where the well-informed guides will conduct an unforgettable tour. (Afternoon activity after arrival in Oudtshoorn; distance travelled: +/-20 km)

1. Cango Crocodile and Cheetah Land: In the company of guides visit this reptile farm accommodating over 300 Nile crocodiles ranging in size from hatchlings of 50 cm to fully-grown 4m specimens. We proceed to Cheetahland, to see a collection of magnificent big cats on view in large natural enclosures.
2. Seal Island Trips: Enjoy an early morning Boat Cruise to Seal Island to view the seal colony basking in the sun or playing in the sea. Sit back and relax with an early morning coffee or cold drink. Dolphins have been spotted on this boat ride as well as the occasional whale. Guests rejoin the train at around 17h00 in Oudtshoorn and travel over night to Port Elizabeth.

Day 6: Port Elizabeth

1. Addo Elephant Park & time at leisure: A short drive brings us to the Addo Elephant National Park. The original elephant reserve was proclaimed in 1931 when only eleven animals remained in the area. Today it is sanctuary to over 350 and guests may also see Cape Buffalo, Black Rhino and a variety of antelope species. The afternoon is spent at leisure back in Port Elizabeth. (Morning activity; distance travelled: +/- 160 km)
2. Port Elizabeth City Tour & time at leisure: Port Elizabeth, which forms part of the Nelson Mandela Metropole, is known as the “Friendly City” and it is a major seaport with diverse eco and adventure attractions. There are beautiful beaches, lovely hotels and restaurants. Off this coast the first Coelacanth was caught. We visit several interesting historical buildings in the city centre. The rest of the afternoon is spent at leisure. (Morning activity; distance travelled: +/- 50 km)
3. Addo Elephant Park & Port Elizabeth City Tour: A combination of Addo and the Port Elizabeth City tour with an extended lunch at the beachfront (own account) is highly recommended. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 170 km)

1. Township Tour: Our visit includes townships within the Nelson Mandela Metropole which have become the pulsating beat of an emerging united city. This half-day tour will bring a better understanding of the “New South Africa”. (Afternoon activity combinable with 1. or 2. above; distance travelled: +/- 80 km) The train departs in the early evening from Port Elizabeth to Bloemfontein.

Day 7: Bloemfontein

1. Bloemfontein: Bloemfontein is the seat of the South African judicial system. At the Anglo-Boer War Museum visitors get a glimpse of life in the concentration camps and a memorial commemorates the 27 000 women and children who died in these camps. “Naval Hill” presents several beautiful panoramic views: After lunch (guest’s own account) at the Waterfront, we will return to the train and spend the afternoon and night on board. (Morning activity; distance travelled: +/- 30 km)

Guests rejoin the train in Bloemfontein and travel to Pietermaritzburg (afternoon and overnight journey).

Day 8: Pietermaritzburg / Midlands / Southern Drakensberg
In Pietermaritzburg we will be stationed at the railway station - a red brick building with contrasting iron stone facing. Here, in 1893, Mahatma Gandhi was put off the train as a person of colour. The city has numerous parks and gardens and many historical buildings reflecting both British and Boer occupation.

1. Battlefields: One is able to trace the course of the Anglo Boer War by visiting the Siege Museum as well as sites of famous battles such as Spioenkop. Other highlights include Wagon Hill, where British and Boers suffered heavy losses. The site of the battle was proclaimed a National Monument in 1938. Visitors also gain insight into the early lives of Winston Churchill and Ghandi. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 350 km)
2. Midlands Meander: The famous Midlands Meander in KwaZulu-Natal is a unique mix of more than 160 places to eat, drink, sleep, shop, play and generally have fun. Started many years ago as a voluntary collection of crafters, who wondered if they could attract visitors to leave the beaten track and explore their studios and galleries, the Midlands Meander has grown into an eclectic and fascinating mix of arts and crafts, world-class restaurants and homely comforts. It offers a wide range of sporting, environmental and historical pursuits. Physical, culinary or cerebral, there is no limit to the experiences you’ll find here. Among your stops will be a visit to the Howick Falls as well as beer tasting in Nottingham Road. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 200 km)
3. Southern Drakensberg: We will drive towards Underberg in the southern Drakensberg region, from where a number of walking trails will be offered for the morning. In the afternoon we will return to Pietermaritzburg via Creighton, the habitat of the rare Cape Parrot (350 of the 800 left in the world live here). Here we will do a guided walk in the Xumeni Forest, dominated by Yellowwood trees. This forest offers beautiful picnic spots. Many different bird species, such as the Sakabula, the Denhams Bustard and the Long-tailed Widow could be spotted here. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 250 km)
4. Local communities (Ingwe Municipality / Creighton): We will drive towards Creighton, situated close by to the southern regions of the Drakensberg. Here we will visit a rural community, situated in a valley overlooked by the historic Centocow Monastery (dating back to 1890). This Trappist mission is a satellite of the Mariannhill Monastery, where monks study African life, culture and languages. We will visit the old monk’s accommodation building next doors to Centocow, which has been transformed into a craft centre. Inside women weave high quality standard carpets, and on the top floor the paintings of G. Benghu, a South African artist, are exhibited. A coffee terrace outside offers a great view onto the dairy farms of the region. A visit to one of these dairy farms will form part of today’s interaction with the local communities. We will return to the train via the town of Creighton, where a beautifully restored train station houses the municipality of Ingwe. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 200 km)

1. 4 x 4 Sani Pass / Lesotho: Our vehicles will take you to the town of Underberg from where 4x4 vehicles will take you up the magnificent Sani Pass. Starting at 1540 metres above sea level you will follow the deep valley incised by the Mkhomazana River to breast the summit at 2873 m - with almost 1000 m climbed in the last 8 km of your trip. This is the only road link between KwaZulu-Natal and the Mountain Kingdom of Lesotho. After reaching the summit, we will turn around for the spectacular descent. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 300 km) NB:

YOUR PASSPORT IS REQUIRED FOR THIS ACTIVITY!!!

The train travels to Durban in the evening.

Day 9: Durban

1. Durban City Tour: Durban is the third largest city of South Africa and enjoys great importance due to its industry and its very large port. Thanks to the subtropical climate and the long stretches of beautiful beaches large numbers of “uplanders” retreat to Durban in winter. An orientation tour of the city will allow you to see a very good mix of old and new, African, Orient and the West. We’ll drive along the “Golden Mile” promenade where numerous hotels and restaurants are situated. A visit to the Victoria Market will also be included. At the end of the morning we will drop you at either the botanical gardens or at uShaka Marine World, Africa’s largest marine theme park, where you can have lunch and spend your afternoon (all entrances for your own account). You will be picked up again at an arranged time later in the afternoon. (Morning activity; distance travelled: +/- 50 km)
2. Durban Spiritual Tour: Guests depart for Mariannhill to visit the monastery for a guided tour and to spend time in this beautiful, tranquil setting while listening to the sound of chanting monks in the background. This is followed by a short visit to the Hari Krishna "Temple of Understanding", before returning to Durban for lunch (at guest's own account). We visit Phoenix, the spiritual settlement created by Mahatma Gandhi, before returning to Durban, the centre of Indian culture in South Africa, with its vast array of Hindu, Sufi and Muslim temples. You'll see the Juma Musjid, the largest mosque and most opulent Hindu structure in the Southern Hemisphere, whose twin minarets are a striking city feature, as well as the Kendra Hindu Temple and Community Centre. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 150 km)
3. Beach Day: On our way to the beaches north of Durban, we will stop at the Umgeni River Bird Park, which is worth a visit. The rest of the day can be spent on the beach, or if you choose, we could take you shopping in the late afternoon at the nearby Gateway Shopping Centre, before returning to pick up the beach bums and return to the train after a laid-back day in the sun. (Full day of relaxation; distance travelled: +/- 60 km)

The train will depart over night to Empangeni.

Day 10: Southern Zululand

1. Shakaland and St Lucia: We visit Shakaland, nestled amongst the aloes and mimosa trees of the Mlatuze River Valley. The Shakaland Cultural Village boasts exceptional views over shimmering lakes and hills. Experience the sight of assegai-wielding warriors, share the fascinating secrets of the Sangomas and witness traditional customs such as tribal dancing, spear making and the beer drinking ceremony. After the morning’s Zulu experience, we head to the St Lucia Wetlands, declared a world heritage site, where we’ll take a cruise on the St. Lucia Estuary in the afternoon, looking for hippos, crocodiles, and a large variety of water birds. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 250 km)
2. Shakaland and Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Park: We visit Shakaland, nestled amongst the aloes and mimosa trees of the Mlatuze River Valley. The Shakaland Cultural Village boasts exceptional views over shimmering lakes and hills. Experience the sight of assegai-wielding warriors, share the fascinating secrets of the Sangomas and witness traditional customs such as tribal dancing, spear making and the beer drinking ceremony. After the morning’s Zulu experience, we head to the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Reserve. The park lies in the heart of Zululand where ancient trails lead through the thornveld and along the mighty rivers of Africa’s oldest established wilderness area. Once the exclusive royal hunting ground of King Shaka, it is a tapestry of natural and cultural history. The park is a treasure store of species including Lion, Leopard, Elephant and Buffalo, Wildebeest, Zebra, Giraffe, Kudu, Bushbuck, Cheetah, Hyena and many others. Over 300 bird species have been recorded. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 300 km)

1. St Lucia Boat Based Whale Tours: Every year from about June to December these large mammals visit our coastal waters. This is a great opportunity not to be missed. From just 50 metres from the boat you can feel the wind rushing out of the huge lungs of Southern Right and Humpback Whales as they spray a fine vapour of salt water into the air. (Afternoon activity from St. Lucia)
2. Open vehicle Safari in the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Park: You will have the opportunity to do an open vehicle game drive in the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Park and see animals from very close range. (Minimum of 6 participants required) (Afternoon activity starting at the park gate)
3. Overnight in Hluhluwe: Guests have the opportunity to spend a night off the train at a camp inside the Hluhluwe-Ufolozi Reserve (included in the package will be dinner, bed and breakfast plus one game drive).

The train remains stationary in Empangeni for the night.

Day 11: Northern Zululand

1. Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Park and Pongola Game Reserve: In the morning we’ll visit Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Reserve. The park lies in the heart of Zululand where ancient trails lead through the thornveld and along the mighty rivers of Africa’s oldest established wilderness area. Once the exclusive royal hunting ground of King Shaka, it is a tapestry of natural and cultural history. The park is a treasure store of species including Lion, Leopard, Elephant and Buffalo, Wildebeest, Zebra, Giraffe, Kudu, Bushbuck, Cheetah, Hyena and many others. Over 300 bird species have been recorded. After a lunch-stop on the way, we’ll head to the Pongola Game Reserve, the oldest game reserve in Africa, for an afternoon safari cruise on Lake Jozini. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 200 km)

1. Open vehicle Safari in the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Park: You will have the opportunity to do an open vehicle game drive in the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Park and see animals from very close range. Afterwards you’ll join the rest of the group to the Pongola Game Reserve. (Minimum of 6 participants required) (Early-morning activity starting at the park gate) Guests will rejoin the train at Golela, just outside the Pongola Game Reserve, from where it will cross the border for Mpaka (Swaziland).

Day 12: Swaziland
The tiny Kingdom of Swaziland covers only 17 000 square kilometres, making it the second smallest country in Africa.

1. Tour through Swaziland: The drive from Mpaka will afford majestic views of the Ezulwini Valley. The Swazi Market is a hive of activity and displays a wide variety of skilfully crafted woodcarvings, colourful textiles and superb basketwork for which Swazis are renowned. This day in Swaziland will introduce you to everyday life in Africa’s smallest kingdom. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 180 km)

1. Horse Riding: Mlilwane Game Sanctuary lies about 20 km south of Mbabane on the gentle slopes of the Ezulwini Valley. This tranquil reserve that is fed by no fewer than four rivers supports an impressive variety of game, including Hippo, Zebra, Eland, Nyala, Blesbok, Waterbuck, Warthog, Giraffe and Crocodile. The rides take place at walking pace and are also suited for inexperienced riders. A guide accompanies guests.

The train will depart for Komatipoort in South Africa in the evening.

Day 13 – Kruger National Park
Mpumalanga means “Land of the Rising Sun”. It is a province of extraordinary natural beauty.

1. Kruger National Park: The world-renowned Kruger National Park offers a wildlife experience that equals the best anywhere. Its 2 million hectares are unrivalled in diversity of life forms and the park is a world leader in advanced environmental management techniques. The park is home to an impressive number of species, e.g. 336 species of trees, 49 species of fish, 34 species of amphibians, 114 species of reptiles, 507 species of birds and 147 species of mammals. (Full-day activity; departure time depends on the season, as gates open and close with sunrise and sunset; distance travelled: +/- 220 km)

1. Open Vehicle Safari: Game drives are conducted in open safari vehicles, specifically designed to ensure safety as well as optimum game viewing. Guides have intimate knowledge of the fauna and flora. Breakfast will be enjoyed at one of the many picnic spots and lunch (guests’ own account) at one of the rest camps in the park. Game viewing continues for the remainder of the afternoon.
2. Local Pub in Town: A drink at a local pub could be an interesting evening experience.
3. Bush Lodge: Departure from Komatipoort is early in the morning and the day is spent travelling through the Kruger National Park. Game viewing is done en route and we’ll reach the bush lodge in the late afternoon. Dinner is a scrumptious braai (BBQ) in the boma. An open vehicle safari will be conducted the next morning. Guests will return to the train via the Panorama Route. (Bookings subject to availability)
4. Private Game Reserve: You will join the rest of the group for a morning game drive through the south of the Kruger National Park. Late morning (at around 11:00) you will be transferred to the lodge, situated in the famous Sabi Sands Game Reserve, where a lunch will await you. After a siesta, followed by coffee and cake, you will depart on a sunset safari, in search of the Big Five. Encounters with all spheres of the eco-system, from the smallest insect to the mighty African elephant, are possible. After a sundowner drink in the bush you will return to the lodge, where a delightful dinner will await you. Early the next morning (just before sunrise) you will be woken up to depart on an open vehicle game drive to experience the African fauna at its most active. A mouth-watering breakfast will round off your experience, before you will be taken back to the train at Hazyview Station. (Bookings subject to availability; due to the late arrival back from the private game reserve the Panorama Route experience will not be possible the next day)

Guest rejoin the train in Hazyview, where in will remain over night.

Day 14: Panorama Route

1. Panorama Route: We visit the village of Pilgrim’s Rest, a living museum and declared National Monument. Gold was discovered in this area in 1873, attracting 1500 diggers. Today, many of the restored miner’s houses serve as shops. Further along the escarpment we find the great Blyde River Canyon, a gorge of 26 km long and 800 m deep, carved from the face of the escarpment. The Three Rondavels present an unforgettable view of three huge rock spirals rising out of the far wall of the canyon, looking like African huts. Bourke’s Luck Potholes are strange deep cylindrical cavities formed by river erosion and floodwater. From the vantage point of God’s Window we gaze across sweeps of the Lowveld, where subtle fragrances of the lower region rise to merge with the crisp winds of the Highveld. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 280 km)
2. Kruger National Park: The world-renowned Kruger National Park offers a wildlife experience that equals the best anywhere. Its 2 million hectares are unrivalled in diversity of life forms and the park is a world leader in advanced environmental management techniques. The park is home to an impressive number of species, e.g. 336 species of trees, 49 species of fish, 34 species of amphibians, 114 species of reptiles, 507 species of birds and 147 species of mammals. (Full-day activity; departure time depends on the season, as gates open and close with sunrise and sunset; distance travelled: +/- 220 km)

1. Open Vehicle Safari: Game drives are conducted in open safari vehicles, specifically designed to ensure safety as well as optimum game viewing. Guides have intimate knowledge of the fauna and flora. Breakfast will be enjoyed at one of the many picnic spots and lunch (guests’ own account) at one of the rest camps in the park. Game viewing continues for the remainder of the afternoon. 2. Sunrise Balloon Experience: Early morning pick up at Hazyview Station and transfer to the balloon launch site. Tea, coffee and biscuits will be served on arrival, followed by a scenic balloon flight lasting about an hour. Cape sparkling wine will be served upon landing followed by a breakfast at a country lodge and a transfer back to meet the rest of the group. The train departs for Johannesburg over night.

Day 15: Tshwane (Pretoria) / Johannesburg / Soweto
Gauteng is the economic powerhouse of the Southern African region and home to some of Africa’s greatest cities. The name of the province derives from the Sotho word meaning “Place of Gold”, which is very suitable since much of the wealth of Gauteng has come from this precious metal.

1. Tshwane (Pretoria) and Soweto: We will spend the morning in Tshwane, previously known as Pretoria, the administrative capital of South Africa. We visit the Union Buildings housing the offices of the President and Ministers, designed by the famous colonial English architect, Sir Herbert Baker, and completed in 1913. The buildings overlook the city towards the once fortified hills to the east. A grand bronze statue of “Oom Paul (Kruger)”, the patriarch president of the ZAR or old Transvaal Republic, surrounded by his Boer fighters, dominates Church Square, central point of the city. Before leaving the capital behind, we visit the Voortrekker Monument that commemorates the “Great Trek” of the 1830s.
In the afternoon we travel to Soweto to visit the Hector Petersen Memorial, named after one of the first students who was killed in the 1976 uprising against the apartheid government. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 200 km)
2. Johannesburg & Soweto: We visit Newtown in downtown Johannesburg, identified to be developed into a Cultural Precinct. Here guests will learn more about Blue IQ, a multi-billion Rand initiative of the Gauteng Provincial Government to develop economic infrastructure for specific major projects in smart industries, high value-added manufacturing and tourism. We cross the ultra-modern Nelson Mandela Bridge and head towards the tranquil Brenthurts Gardens, the private property of the Oppenheimer family, where we’ll spend the rest of the morning at leisure. In the afternoon, we travel to Soweto to experience the heartbeat of this township, comprising one million people and made famous by the “Apartheid” laws. A drive over Bara Bridge affords a general view of Soweto (South Western Townships). We pass the Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital (the largest hospital in the Southern Hemisphere) on our way to the historic home of Nelson Mandela. This is the only street in Africa that once housed two Nobel Peace Laureates, Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Nelson Mandela. The next stop is the Hector Petersen Memorial, named after one of the first students to be killed in the 1976 uprising. We also visit SOMOHO (Soweto Mountain of Hope), a community project which undertakes waste recycling, energy efficiency and poverty alleviation. (Full-day activity; distance travelled: +/- 150 km)

The train remains stationary at Nasrec Station over night.

Day 16: Transfer Day
If guests are transferring to a hotel, this will be arranged for them in the morning. If guests are flying from Johannesburg International Airport, their flight may only be in the evening. In this case optional tours within the Johannesburg area may be undertaken.

1. Lesedi Cultural Village: We visit this multi-cultural African Village set among pristine bushveld and rocky hills. Experience the culture of five of South Africa’s major indigenous tribes: the Xhosa, the Zulu, the Pedi, the Basotho and the Ndebele. Lunch will be included.
2. Sandton City: This is truly South Africa’s premier shopping mall, the best of Africa south of the pyramids...