Train winding through southern African landscapes
Rovos Rail train winding through southern African landscapes
Aerial view of Cape Town
Breathtaking aerial view of Cape Town
Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe
The magnificent, thundering Victoria Falls
Herd of elephants making their way through the South African wilderness
A herd of elephants journeying together through the South African wilderness
Constantia countryside
The rolling vineyards of the Constantia countryside
Thornybush Saseka Tented Camp
Thornybush Saseka Tented Camp
Matetsi River Lodge
Matetsi River Lodge
Grootbos Forest Lodge
Grootbos Forest Lodge

South Africa & Victoria Falls: Rovos Rail, Thornybush Reserve & Cape Town

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Overview

We are proud to be celebrating our 20th anniversary – marking two decades of helping our customers create incredible memories. To celebrate this milestone, we are excited to launch our 20th Anniversary Holiday Collection – a range of exceptional holidays spanning seven continents that are exclusively available to Tropical Sky guests.

Our spectacular 21-night southern African adventure perfectly captures the spirit of our Anniversary Collection, showcasing our expertise in creating journeys that combine a range of destinations and fantastic experiences. This extraordinary itinerary takes you through South Africa and Zimbabwe, offering a combination of luxury, adventure and private experiences that go far beyond what most travellers ever experience.

From the legendary four-day Rovos Rail journey, a moving five-star hotel that will carry you from Pretoria to Victoria Falls in style, to thrilling safari encounters and a private yacht charter, every element has been carefully selected. You’ll also enjoy a scenic flight with a remote mountaintop landing, a helicopter transfer and VIP services throughout.

Discover Cape Town’s vibrant culinary scene and historic wine regions and marvel at the thundering majesty of Victoria Falls. Every moment has been designed to showcase southern Africa’s incredible diversity.

This isn’t just travel – this is a celebration of two decades of expertise, utilising our deep regional knowledge to create an experience that delivers unforgettable memories at every turn.

While this itinerary is based on July, August and September 2026 departure dates, we would be delighted to tailor make a similar adventure with your preferred travel dates and interests in mind.

Highlights

  • VIP Meet and Greet service upon arrival in Cape Town
  • Private Cape Town food tour
  • Full day tour of Cape Town including a scenic flight and guided walk
  • Constantia wine walk tour
  • Private charter of luxury yacht
  • Two nights’ stay at Grootbos Forest Lodge with a range of activities on offer
  • Franschhoek valley tour
  • Four nights stay at Thornybush Saseka Tented Camp with morning and afternoon game drives
  • Luxury rail journey on the legendary Rovos Rail from Pretoria to Victoria Falls.
  • Three nights’ stay at Matetsi River Lodge with morning and afternoon game drives, tour of Victoria Falls and a range of activities included
  • Helicopter transfer to Victoria Falls Airport

Cape Town (four nights) – Gansbaai (two nights) – Franschhoek (two nights) – Thornybush Reserve (four nights) – Pretoria (one night) – Rovos Rail (four nights) – Victoria Falls (one night) – Zambezi River (three nights)

 

Whats included?
  • Flights & taxes
  • Accommodation
  • Transfers available
  • Checked baggage
  • ATOL protection
  • In resort assistance
Why Book with Tropical Sky?
  • Hassle-free - book direct quickly and easily
  • Choice of airlines and the option to switch
  • A friendly, family run business with a wealth of experience.
  • Great deals on offer for multiple destinations
  • Low deposits
Why Tropical Sky?
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Day 1

Cape Town

Arrive in Cape Town in style with a VIP Meet and Greet at the doors of your aircraft. The team will assist you through immigration, customs and baggage collection. Settle into your Cape Town accommodation - the elegant Ellerman House, a luxury boutique hotel overlooking the breathtaking Atlantic. Unwind on your private sun deck and enjoy a refreshing dip in the swimming pool, featuring sweeping views of the ocean.

Overnight: Ellerman House or similar.

Day 2

Cape Town

Discover the city’s vibrant culinary scene on a private Cape Town food tour. Wander through bustling markets and taste local delicacies paired with fine South African wines. Next, fast-track tickets ensure a seamless journey to the top of Table Mountain, where sweeping views of the ocean, mountains and city unfold beneath you. This is a fantastic conclusion to a day of indulgence.

Overnight: Ellerman House or similar (breakfast included).

Day 3

Cape Town

Take to the skies and gain a new perspective of the Cape Peninsula on this fantastic full day tour. A private scenic flight reveals dramatic coastlines and rugged mountains from above, before touching down on a remote mountaintop to enjoy drinks with stunning views. Continue with a guided walk through a pristine nature reserve, ending with a spectacular landing at Millers Point.

Overnight: Ellerman House or similar (breakfast and lunch included).

Day 4

Cape Town

Immerse yourself in Constantia’s historic wine country with a guided walking tour through rolling vineyards and estate gardens. Sample ten exquisite wines along the way, perfectly paired with a gourmet lunch. Experience the some of the finest wine tasting Cape Town has to offer and discover centuries-old winemaking traditions in this breathtaking setting.

Later, step aboard the elegant Princess Eve for a private sunset charter. This exclusive private yacht charter, Cape Town’s premium floating experience features spacious decks and even a rooftop jacuzzi. A chilled glass of MCC greets you on arrival before a magical sunset cruise completes a day of indulgence.

Overnight: Ellerman House or similar (breakfast and lunch included).

Day 5

Cape Town - Gansbaai

Luxury transfer

Travel in comfort by luxury transfer to Gansbaai, where the opulent Grootbos Forest Lodge awaits. Enjoy a two-night stay in a One Bedroom Luxury Suite – taking in panoramic sea views from your private deck. At Grootbos Forest Lodge, you are truly spoilt for choice. With activities in Gansbaai included, you might choose to embark on a horse ride along the dunes, explore Klipgat Cave, or spot whales from the coast (seasonal – July to December).

Overnight: Grootbos Forest Lodge or similar (breakfast and dinner included).

Day 6

Gansbaai

Today is a full day at leisure to enjoy Grootbos’ unique activities. Discover vibrant fynbos on a guided 4x4 flower safari, stroll through the enchanting milkwood forest, or enjoy a picnic on the beach.

Overnight: Grootbos Forest Lodge or similar (breakfast, lunch and dinner included).

Day 7

Gansbaai - Franschhoek

Travel by private transfer to Franschhoek, the culinary and wine capital of South Africa. Nestled in a picturesque valley surrounded by dramatic mountains, your Franschhoek accommodation, Mont Rochelle, offers boutique luxury and sweeping vineyard views. The evening is yours to soak up the ambience of this charming town.

Overnight: Mont Rochelle Hotel or similar (breakfast included).

Day 8

Franschhoek

Embark on a full-day valley tour through one of South Africa's most celebrated regions. Explore scenic estates, discover local secrets with expert guides and experience the area's rich heritage. Uncover the charm of Franschhoek's historic streets and marvel at breathtaking mountain views.

Overnight: Mont Rochelle Hotel or similar (breakfast included).

Day 9

Franschhoek – Thornybush Reserve

After a luxury transfer to the airport, fly to Hoedspruit and continue by private vehicle to Thornybush Reserve. Settle into the stunning Saseka Tented Camp before venturing out on your first afternoon game drive, spotting the elusive Big Five. Return to camp for dinner under the stars.

Overnight: Thornybush Saseka Tented Camp or similar (breakfast, lunch and dinner included).

Day 10 - 12

Thornybush Reserve

Get ready for three incredible days on this South Africa safari adventure. You'll head out twice a day with expert rangers who will help you find lions, elephants, leopards and other amazing wildlife. When you're not out on game drives, you can relax at camp – watching Nyalas graze right outside of your tented suite. As the sun sets, gather around the fire for stories while the sounds of the African bush come alive around you.

Overnight: Thornybush Saseka Tented Camp or similar (breakfast, lunch and dinner included).

Day 13

Thornybush Reserve - Pretoria

After a final morning in the bush, fly onward to Pretoria. Your accommodation tonight is Castello di Monte, a luxury boutique villa with Tuscan-inspired architecture and panoramic views – the perfect place to unwind before your rail adventure begins.

Overnight: Castello di Monte or similar (breakfast included).

Day 14

Pretoria - Rovos

Step aboard the legendary Rovos Rail for the journey of a lifetime. Settle into your deluxe suite as the train departs Pretoria, rolling through South Africa’s diverse landscapes en route to Victoria Falls. Enjoy fantastic meals, vintage wines and old-world charm as this adventure unfolds.

Overnight: Rovos Rail or similar (breakfast, lunch and dinner included).

Day 15

Pretoria – Victoria Falls

A day of relaxed Rovos Rail travel, where vintage luxury and sweeping views create a sense of timelessness. Indulge in gourmet meals, sip drinks in the lounge and watch landscapes drift past your window.

Overnight: Rovos Rail or similar (breakfast, lunch and dinner included).

Days 16

Pretoria – Victoria Falls

Enjoy a unique stop for a game drive at The Hide in Hwange National Park, where you will have the opportunity to spot South Africa’s magnificent wildlife in their natural habitat. Return to the train for more scenic travel as you continue your Rovos Rail journey through breathtaking landscapes.

Overnight: Rovos Rail or similar (breakfast, lunch and dinner included).

Days 17

Pretoria – Victoria Falls

On board

Another leisurely day on your rail journey brings time to reflect on your trip so far. Watch as Zimbabwe’s landscapes pass by, from wide savannahs to charming villages, before enjoying your final dinner aboard this iconic train.

Overnight: Rovos Rail or similar (breakfast, lunch and dinner included).

Day 18

Victoria Falls

Arrive in Victoria Falls and check into the Palm River Hotel, a beautiful property along the Zambezi River that blends historic character with all the modern amenities you need. A complimentary shuttle can take you into town whenever you feel like exploring. Later, relax with afternoon tea while taking in views of the river and gardens.

Overnight: Palm River Hotel or similar (breakfast and afternoon tea included).

Day 19

Zambezi River

Take a scenic private road transfer through the beautiful Zimbabwean countryside to Matetsi River Lodge. Discover more of the local landscape before settling in to your new accommodation, getting ready for the exciting experiences that await you over the next few days.

Overnight: Matetsi River Lodge or similar (breakfast, lunch and dinner included).

Day 20 - 21

Zambezi River

Get ready for some incredible wildlife encounters with morning and afternoon game drives and walking safaris that bring you close to the action. You can also enjoy a magical sunrise or sunset boat cruise along the Zambezi River, try your hand at some fishing, or spend time birdwatching. Plus, you'll get to visit the famous Victoria Falls on a scheduled tour during your stay. With all meals included, you can just focus on soaking up this incredible adventure.

Overnight: Matetsi River Lodge or similar (breakfast, lunch and dinner included).

Day 22

Depart

Experience a breathtaking helicopter transfer to Victoria Falls Airport as your journey draws to a close with a spectacular aerial finale showcasing the landscapes that have captivated you. Depart with unforgettable memories of incredible wildlife encounters, rich cultural experiences and some of the world's most stunning scenery.

Breakfast included.

 

  • International flights
  • 21 nights’ accommodation
  • All meals as specified in the itinerary
  • Transfers as specified in the itinerary
  • VIP Meet and Greet service upon arrival in Cape Town
  • Private Cape Town food tour
  • Full day tour of Cape Town including a scenic flight and guided walk
  • Constantia wine walk tour
  • Private charter of luxury yacht
  • Two nights’ stay at Grootbos Forest Lodge with a range of activities on offer
  • Franschhoek valley tour
  • Four nights stay at Thornybush Saseka Tented Camp with morning and afternoon game drives
  • Luxury rail journey on the legendary Rovos Rail from Pretoria to Victoria Falls.
  • Three nights’ stay at Matetsi River Lodge with morning and afternoon game drives, tour of Victoria Falls and a range of activities included
  • Helicopter transfer to Victoria Falls Airport

 

Lucy Moon
Book today

Talk to our travel experts for more information and to book or tailor-make your holiday

01342 331 797 Call us 9am-7pm Mon-Fri / 9am-5pm Sat-Sun

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