Africa Mideast Adventure Travel

Travel in comfort and style through savannah, bushveld and the world's oldest desert, the Namib. Windhoek to Swakeopmund or reverse: overnight includes deluxe sleeper/lounge compartment; gourmet breakfast and three-course dinner, bar lounge and Stardome Bistro; lion feeding and desert dune walks.

The original Blue Train passes gold fields, farms and bush lands over two-day journeys between Pretoria/Johannesburg and Cape Town. The more recently added "Zimbabwe Spectacular" follows a three-day itinerary, via Valley of the Oliphants, between Pretoria and Victoria Falls. A two-day Valley excursion and Port Elizabeth services are also available.

The "Pride of Africa" presents the fabled Blue Train with a worthy challenger. In ten years, Rovos Rail has earned accolades for its palatial rolling stock and five-star service and amenities. Steam-driven rail "safaris" -- lasting from a single over-night to two weeks -- acquaint passengers with destinations ranging from Dar-Es-Salaam in Tanzania to the Garden Route along the Cape South Coast; the wildlife paradise of Mpumalanga and the natural wonder of Victoria Falls. Rail combos with lake cruise and/or air safari add-ons available.

Traveling by night leaves days open for exploring destinations as varied as Namibia, Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls and Cape of Good Hope. Steam-driven rolling stock has been splendidly restored and updated with modern amenities. A number of online references are posted.