“Southern Cross“ route

Zimbabwe, South Africa, Eswatini, Mozambique

It’s time for Africa! create my bespoke trip
  • 12 days, 5 safaris, 4 countries
  • from $9,880 per person, based on double occupancy, depending on the cabin category

African
horizons

Discover the heart of Africa on a journey where natural grandeur and the richness of wildlife merge into a single, profound experience. From the thunderous Victoria Falls to the granite hills of Matobo National Park, your path leads through the legendary Hwange and Antelope reserves, culminating in the world-renowned Kruger National Park—where rare wildlife roams against a backdrop of endless savannas. The voyage traces a path through the ancient ruins of Great Zimbabwe, colorful cultural villages like Mantenga, and the vibrant towns of Pilgrim’s Rest and Graskop. The journey reaches the shores of Maputo, the capital of Mozambique, where Africa’s diverse culture and history unfold in all their beauty.

This is a symphony of the continent’s sounds, scents, and colors—a true immersion into the soul of Africa. Here, time stands still, leaving only the breath of the savanna, the rustle of the leaves, and the raw presence of the wild, untouched world around you.

Your itinerary should be a carefully curated collection of experiences and destinations tailored to your desires. The following program is merely a sample of what we can arrange.

What shall we do,
tour program

As you review the program, picture yourself there.
You’re just a step away.

Day 1 — Victoria Falls

  • An excursion to Victoria Falls
  • Departure from Victoria Falls Station, Zimbabwe
  • The train travels toward Dete, Zimbabwe

The morning is dedicated to an excursion to Victoria Falls — a majestic wonder of nature. Afterward, the train departs from Victoria Falls Station toward the town of Dete, Zimbabwe.

Day 2 — Gwaai

  • A full-day safari in Hwange National Park
  • The train continues its journey toward Bulawayo

The day is entirely dedicated to a safari in Hwange National Park, where a diverse array of wildlife can be observed. In the evening, the train departs for Bulawayo, continuing its journey through Zimbabwe.

Day 3 — Bulawayo

  • A safari in Matobo National Park
  • The train travels toward Dabuka Station

The day begins with a safari in Matobo National Park, where granite hills and abundant wildlife create an unforgettable experience. Following the safari, the train departs for Dabuka Station.

Day 4 — Dabuka

  • A safari in Antelope Park
  • The train travels toward the Bannockburn province

A safari through Antelope Park reveals the beauty of the savannas and the abundance of wildlife. Upon completion of the excursion, the train sets a course for the Bannockburn province, carrying travelers across the vast expanses of Africa.

Day 5 — Rutenga

  • Transfer and excursion to the Great Zimbabwe Ruins
  • The train travels toward Beitbridge for the border crossing

Following the transfer, you will visit the majestic Great Zimbabwe Ruins—a complex of massive stone walls, towers, and palaces. This site stands as a powerful symbol of a lost civilization whose influence once reached far beyond the region. Afterward, the train continues its journey toward Beitbridge for the border crossing.

Day 6 — Beitbrige

  • The train crosses the Limpopo province. A day on board
  • The train travels toward Hoedspruit (South Africa)

The day is spent on board the train as it crosses the scenic Limpopo province. Afterward, the route leads to the town of Hoedspruit, South Africa.

Day 7 — Huedspruit

  • A visit to Kapama Game Reserve followed by a visit to the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre (HESC)
  • The train travels toward Mpaka (Eswatini)

The day is dedicated to exploring the Kapama Game Reserve and the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre, where rare and unique animals are protected. After the excursion, the train continues its journey to the town of Mpaka, Eswatini.

Day 8 — Mpaka

  • Arrival at Mpaka Station
  • Transfer (approx. 1.5 hours) to the Swazi Candles Centre and a visit to Mantenga Cultural Village
  • Transfer back to the train (1+ hour)
  • The train travels toward Maputo, Mozambique

Upon arrival in Mpaka, a transfer (approx. 1.5 hours) to the Swazi Candles Centre is provided to discover local crafts. This is followed by an excursion to Mantenga Village, then a transfer back to the train (1+ hour). The train departs for Maputo, Mozambique.

Day 9 — Maputo

  • A sightseeing tour of Maputo, Mozambique
  • Return to the train, border formalities
  • The train travels toward Malelane, South Africa

The day is dedicated to a sightseeing tour of Maputo, the capital of Mozambique, where colonial architecture and African flair blend seamlessly. After returning to the train, border crossing formalities are completed. The train departs for Malelane, South Africa.

Day 10 — Malenane

  • A safari in Kruger National Park
  • Return to the train
  • The train travels toward Mbombela

The day is dedicated to a safari in the renowned Kruger National Park, where the richness of wildlife and the grandeur of the African savanna unfold. After the daytime safari experience, the train continues its journey to Mbombela, allowing you to enjoy the unhurried rhythm of travel and the atmosphere of Africa.

Day 11 — Mbombela

  • Excursions to the historic towns of Pilgrim’s Rest and Graskop, and the geological wonder of Bourke’s Luck Potholes
  • Return to the train
  • The train travels toward Emalahleni

The day includes excursions to the charming towns of Pilgrim’s Rest and Graskop, as well as a visit to the unique geological formation of Bourke’s Luck Potholes. After a full day, the train departs for Emalahleni.

Day 12 — Pretoria

  • The train travels toward Middelburg
  • Arrival at the final destination — Rovos Rail Station in Pretoria, South Africa

The train route winds through Middelburg, offering views of the vast African plains. The final stop is the Rovos Rail Station in Pretoria, South Africa, where your journey, filled with unforgettable impressions and adventures, comes to an end.

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