Rovos Rail and Zambezi River Escape

Overview

Unwind and discover more on a rail-and-river voyage through Southern Africa.

Sit back and allow this luxurious adventure to unfold on the ultimate slow travel safari on the Rovos Rail and the Zambezi Queen houseboat. This 12-day journey invites you to discover Southern Africa at a leisurely pace, giving you time to appreciate the smaller, slower, and simpler pleasures while on vacation. Your journey begins in Cape Town, where you can discover the Cape Floral Kingdom on sunset walks and venture further afield on a guided tour of the Winelands. Next, make your way to Pretoria before boarding the iconic Rovos Rail train. Disconnect from the outside world and settle into the pace of a bygone era as the train meanders north through ever-changing landscapes toward its final destination, Victoria Falls. After a night in Victoria Falls, you can relax aboard the luxurious Zambezi Queen as it glides past Chobe National Park’s legendary wildlife on a 3-day river cruise. The price excludes flights.

Highlights

Destinations

Botswana | South Africa | Zimbabwe

Duration
12 days
Price
From $7 624 per person
When to go
June-August

Itinerary Overview

Experiences off the beaten track.
Crafted for the bold + discerning.

Sit back and allow this luxurious adventure to unfold on the ultimate slow travel safari on the Rovos Rail and the Zambezi Queen houseboat.

Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1-4

Itinerary Breakdown

Day 5

Itinerary Breakdown

Day 6-8

Itinerary Breakdown

Day 9

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Day 10-11

Itinerary Breakdown

Day 12

Day 12

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Departure

Transfer to

Kasane International Airport

As the Zambezi Queen returns to the riverbank of the Chobe River, your guide will accompany you through the Namibia Immigration Office and transfer you to Kasane International Airport for your onward journey home.

YOUR NEXT JOURNEY

Make this itinerary yours

Like what you see? Each and every trip we create at Ker & Downey® Africa is tailored to suit you. Get in touch with our Travel Concierge and let us create a unique adventure with experiences tailored to your precise liking.

Start planning your adventure.

Our experts are here to help.

Slow travel safari in Africa: FAQs

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What is slow travel?

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Slow travel offers a unique opportunity to truly soak up each destination. Rather than rushing through multiple locations, slow travel adopts an approach that lets you spend more time in each destination to appreciate its magic. This relaxed pace fosters deeper connections with destinations, cultures, and local communities. Slow travel also avoids rigid itineraries, allowing for more spontaneous adventures.
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Is slow travel sustainable?

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Yes, slow travel can be sustainable as it often means embracing local transport options like trains, buses, or walking. When you book a luxury safari with us, you can be reassured that you will leave a positive legacy in Africa as we only work with operators that adhere to high standards of sustainability and conservation.
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What are the rules of slow travel?

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Slow travel is about savoring the journey. While there are no set rules, embracing slow travel means to:
  • Travel less and experience more.
  • Choose sustainable transportation options.
  • Support local economies by choosing boutique luxury lodges and guesthouses rather than large hotel chains.
If you want to experience a slow travel safari in Africa, we can help. Contact our luxury travel experts today to learn more about booking a slow travel safari.
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What are the benefits of a slow travel safari experience in Africa?

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Slow travel offers a more relaxed pace and the time to soak up the culture and experiences in each destination. By taking your time in each destination you will gain a deeper appreciation and have the time to properly absorb and observe wildlife, landscapes, and cultures.
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What destinations in Africa are best for a slow travel experience?

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Africa offers an incredible selection of destinations to enjoy a slow travel experience. Some top safari destinations include:
  • Tanzania, including the Serengeti, Lake Manyara, and the Tarangire National Park
  • Kenya, including Laikipia and The Great Rift Valley
  • South Africa, including the Western Cape and Drakensberg
  • Rwanda and Uganda, including gorilla trekking safaris
  • Botswana, including the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park
  • Namibia, including Sossusvlei and Damaraland
  • Zambia, including Lower Zambezi and South Luangwa
If you want to enjoy a slow safari in Africa, we can help. We boast in-depth knowledge of the best safari destinations in Africa for slow travel and can craft a bespoke itinerary that precisely meets your needs. All our safari experiences include experienced guides, tailored adventures, and personalized service. Contact our luxury travel consultants to learn more about enjoying a slow safari in Africa, where you can immerse yourself in Africa’s pristine wilderness and fascinating culture.
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Can I witness the Great Migration during a slow travel safari?

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Yes, you can witness the Great Wildebeest Migration during a slow travel safari. Let us know what bucket-list experiences you would like to tick off your list, and we can curate a bespoke slow safari just for you.
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What are some slow travel safari experiences?

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Slow travel safari experiences include:
  • Walking safaris
  • Bush walks
  • Game drives
  • Hot-air balloon rides
  • Water safaris
  • River cruises
...enabling you to see some of Africa’s most majestic animals and rare species in their natural habitats. If you wish to experience Africa’s wilderness on a slow safari, we can help.
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What accommodation can I expect on a slow safari?

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We have access to the best luxury accommodation in Africa, each handpicked and vetted by us, including tented camps, luxury safari lodges, and boutique hotels. All our luxury accommodations enable you to savor each destination and truly relax and experience Africa at your own pace. Whether you want to enjoy a slow safari in East Africa or Southern Africa, we can help. Contact us today.
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Why choose us for a slow travel safari experience in Africa?

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We have been pioneering luxury slow travel in Africa for decades. Our deep-rooted expertise of the African continent ensures incredible experiences that will leave lasting memories. We work to create bespoke itineraries that enable you to connect with Africa while leaving a positive legacy. Every one of our tailored itineraries is planned to perfection, allowing you to slow down, relax, and enjoy everything Africa offers. If you wish to enjoy a slow travel safari in Africa, contact our luxury travel consultants today.