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Main Program: August 09, 2025 – August 22, 2025
Pre-Tour: August 06, 2025 – August 10, 2025

African Expedition by Private Train

Explore the diverse sights of four African countries during this private train expedition—an exclusive journey guiding you through historically notable cities, inspiring scenery, and legendary national parks. Uncover a tapestry of cultural wonders, untamed dynamic landscapes, and thrilling wildlife encounters throughout this soul-stirring expedition.


NOTE: Tour information is current as of 5/12/2024.

Program Highlights

– Journey through stunning landscapes aboard the African Explorer—your private haven on the rails featuring well-appointed sleeping compartments, fine dining, and inviting social spaces.

– Visit notable landmarks including the Nelson Mandela Statue, Casa de Ferro, Cecil Rhodes' Grave and the ruins of Great Zimbabwe.

– Participate in riveting game drives through reserves and national parks alongside knowledgeable guides with opportunities to observe the Big Five (rhino, leopard, elephant, Cape buffalo, and lion).

– Experience the thundering beauty of Victoria Falls where a spectrum of dancing colors create mesmerizing photo opportunities.

– Explore the Zambezi River by boat—a unique chance to see elephants and hippos up close.

What's Included

  • 8 nights aboard the African Explorer train plus 4 nights deluxe hotel/lodge accommodations
  • 12 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 10 dinners including a special farewell dinner
  • All excursions described in the itinerary including admission and park fees
  • Expert naturalist guides throughout including an Orbridge Travel Director Team
  • Access to onboard physician
  • Transfer and excursion transportation aboard air conditioned buses
  • Gratuities for Orbridge Travel Directors, onboard guides, drivers, porters, attendants and wait staff for included meals
  • Airport transfers for guests arriving and departing during the suggested times

Itinerary

Locations selected for this safari promise excellent viewing of wildlife, though spotting specific wildlife cannot be guaranteed. Activities may be dependent on weather and seasonal conditions.

Day 1: En Route from U.S.
Saturday, August 9, 2025

Day 2: Arrive in Johannesburg, South Africa
Sunday, August 10, 2025
Upon arrival to O.R. Tambo International Airport an Orbridge representative will be waiting to assist with your transfer to the hotel.

Take time to unwind and enjoy the evening at leisure.
Overnight: DaVinci Hotel and Suites

Day 3: Pretoria
Monday, August 11, 2025
After breakfast set out for a guided panoramic city tour to see Pretoria's iconic landmarks including the Union Building and the Nelson Mandela Statue. Lunch is on your own before boarding the African Explorer in late afternoon.

As embarkation begins settle into your private sleeping car featuring large windows and en suite bathroom. Venture into the cozy lounge car to admire the passing scenery from its panoramic windows or observation porch.

On board, four-course dinners are a highlight. Talented chefs prepare African and European culinary specialities served in two comfortable restaurant cars.

As the sun sets let the rhythmic sound of the rails welcome you as you anticipate the thrilling journey ahead.
Overnight: African Explorer (B,D)

Day 4: Kingdom of Eswatini (Swaziland)
Tuesday, August 12, 2025
Arrive to the Kingdom of Eswatini—formerly known as Swaziland. Translated as "The Valley of Heaven," the Ezulwini Valley is Eswatini’s main tourist destination.

Visit Ngwenya Glass—a complex set amidst beautiful gardens that houses a glass-making factory and a variety of artisan booths. Witness the magical art of glassblowing followed by time to stroll the adjoining showroom.

Continue to the vibrant village of Mbabane to experience a traditional Swazi dance performance.

Before returning to the train explore enchanting Piggs Peak, a town originally founded for gold mining potential. Embrace the area's rolling hills while browsing the local crafts market for souvenirs.
Overnight: African Explorer (B,D)

Day 5: Maputo, Mozambique
Wednesday, August 13, 2025
After breakfast disembark the train for a panoramic city tour of Maputo, the lush capital of Mozambique. A melting pot of African and Latin flavors, Maputo is a unique and historical city developed around a Portuguese fortress completed in 1787. With Mediterranean-style architecture and wide avenues lined with jacaranda and flame trees, it's one of East Africa's most picturesque capitals.

Stroll by notable sights including the Square of Independence, the Cathedral of our Lady of the Immaculate Conception and the botanical gardens. Also see a statue of the country's first president, and the Casa de Ferro (or "Iron House"), which was originally designed as the residence of the General Governor of Mozambique.

Savor a delicious seafood lunch along the waterfront before boarding the train.
Overnight: African Explorer (B,L,D)

Day 6: Kruger National Park
Thursday, August 14, 2025
Prepare for an exhilarating day in Kruger National Park, a nearly five-million-acre reserve with some of the best wildlife sighting in Africa. During a full-day game drive, watch for the Big Five (rhino, leopard, elephant, Cape buffalo, and lion) as well as Nile crocodiles, hippos, zebras, hyenas and numerous birds. Break for a picnic-style lunch within the park before an afternoon of further exploration.

Overnight tonight at Kruger Gate Hotel situated along the banks of the iconic Sabie River. This four-star lodge-style property is known for its soaring wooden walkways and treetop ambiance. Take time to refresh before rejoining the group for a traditional African boma dinner under the starry sky. Gather for a fireside feast and experience the true warmth of South African hospitality.
Overnight: Kruger Gate Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 7: Drakensberg Mountains
Friday, August 15, 2025
After breakfast take a final safari through Kruger National Park before traveling by bus along the panoramic route through the rugged Drakensberg mountain range. Granted UNESCO World Heritage status, these mountains rise to more than 11,400 feet and provide breathtaking views over lush Blyde River Canyon.

Back on board relax in the observation car before another delicious dinner.
Overnight: African Explorer (B,D)

Day 8: Makalali Game Reserve
Saturday, August 16, 2025
Today immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of the Makalali Game Reserve, a diverse landscape of open savannahs, riverine forests and bushveld providing a rich tapestry of habitats for a plethora of wildlife. Spot for the Big Five and an abundance of other species during a game drive, and gain insight into the area's history. The reserve actively participates in anti-poaching initiatives and conservation programs to protect endangered species and preserve the delicate ecosystem.

The afternoon and evening are at leisure on board the train.
Overnight: African Explorer (B,L,D)

Day 9: Full Day Aboard Train
Sunday, August 17, 2025
En route through the Limpopo Province, African Explorer passes the Soutpansberg mountain range and the lands of South Africa’s Rain Queen. 

During today's journey enjoy a biltong (traditional spiced jerky) tasting. This beloved South African snack is often cured with coriander seeds, brown sugar, salt, black pepper and vinegar.

Embrace time for introspection, listen to a presentation by the tour guide, or partake in stimulating conversation with fellow travelers.
Overnight: African Explorer (B,L,D)

Day 10: Great Zimbabwe
Monday, August 18, 2025
Following breakfast embark on a bus journey to the ruins of Great Zimbabwe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and unravel the mysteries of this ancient civilization. The legacy of Great Zimbabwe lives on as one of the largest and most culturally important archaeological sites of its kind in Africa.

Great Zimbabwe was part of a large and wealthy global trading network. The archaeological site consists of several sections: the Hill Complex, the Great Enclosure, and the Valley Ruins. Archaeologists have found pottery from China and Persia, as well as Arab coins in the ruins.
Overnight: African Explorer (B,D)

Day 11: Bulawayo | Matobo National Park
Tuesday, August 19, 2025
This morning admire the charming colonial architecture of Bulawayo, Zimbabwe's second city during a panoramic city tour. Visit either the Natural History Museum or the Railway Museum for fascinating insights into the history and resources of the nation.

After lunch visit Matobo National Park—another UNESCO World Heritage Site—to see some of the most majestic granite scenery in the world. This otherworldly landscape of balancing rocks known as kopjes is considered the spiritual home of Zimbabwe. Matobo National Park is home to the largest population of black eagles to be found anywhere in the world. Watch for fish eagle, martial eagle, francolin, secretary bird, weavers, pied crow and Egyptian geese.

While at the Grave of Cecil Rhodes—a British imperialist and politician who founded the territory of Rhodesia in today’s Zimbabwe—gain an introduction into the fascinating study of southern African rock art ascribed to hunter-gatherer painters and engravers.
Overnight: African Explorer (B,D)

Day 12: Hwange National Park | Victoria Falls
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
Experience the wonders of Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe's largest and most important game reserve, during morning and afternoon game drives. Among miles of desert sand, sparse woodlands and grasslands, renowned herds of elephants and Cape buffalo, giraffes, kudu, zebras, baboons, lions, leopards, and wildebeests roam and graze. Bird lovers have an opportunity to spot Kalahari birds including red-billed spurfowl, southern pied babbler, and crimson-breasted shrike.

Return to the train to continue the journey to Victoria Falls where you'll stay for the next two evenings.
Overnight: Victoria Falls Safari Lodge (B,L)

Day 13: Victoria Falls
Thursday, August 21, 2025
Today the roar of Victoria Falls beckons offering a spectacle that transcends imagination. More than 300 feet high, the falls are one of the world's seven natural wonders and were named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1989.

Later take a boat safari down the Zambezi River watching for elephants, hippos and crocodiles among the lush vegetation.

Tonight as this unforgettable odyssey nears its close, gather with fellow travel companions for a traditional South African barbecue, or braai, to celebrate your adventures in Africa.
Overnight: Victoria Falls Safari Lodge (B,D)

Day 14: Victoria Falls | Depart for U.S.
Friday, August 22, 2025
After breakfast guests departing during the suggested times take a complimentary transfer to the airport for flights home. (B)

Day 15: Arrive in U.S.
Saturday, August 23, 2025

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

(Itinerary subject to change.)

Activity Level

Moderate

This safari program requires that guests can board and disembark a train easily, walk safely and comfortably without assistance including over uneven or slippery ground, get in and out of a 4x4 vehicle, and comfortably tolerate vehicle motion including over bumpy roads.

Your Guide(s)

Orbridge Travel Director Team

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Our premier team of Orbridge Travel Directors will accompany you throughout this journey. Each director is highly trained and offers a wealth of knowledge and experience as a guide.

Enriched by their insight and enthusiasm, enjoy the cultures and locations you explore with added confidence, understanding and appreciation.

Accommodations

DaVinci Hotel and Suites

August 10

Ideally situated adjacent to Nelson Mandela Square, this property features a private art collection, elegant dining options, an outdoor infinity pool and quick access to a luxury shopping center.

Room Amenities: Individual climate control, writing desk and chair, flat-screen TV, complimentary in-room Wi-Fi, alarm clock, phone, coffee and tea maker, minibar, safe, iron and ironing board, and en suite bathroom with sundries and hair dryer. 

African Explorer Private Train

August 11 - August 14, August 16 - August 21

Experience the immense beauty of Southern Africa on an epic railroad journey aboard the African Explorer. Attend lectures, read and enjoy beverages in the bar car, savor four-course dinners of African and European cuisines in the two restaurant cars, and delight in uninterrupted views of wilderness from the observation platform. Cozy sleeping compartments provide elevated standards of safety, service and comfort.

Car Compartment Amenities: Individual climate control, windows (equipped with blinds and sunshades) that open, 220/230V electrical outlets, safe, closet, bedside cabinets, complimentary bottled water, and private en suite bathroom with shower, towels, sundries and hair dryer.

Kruger Gate Hotel

August 15

Enjoy elegant accommodations with uninterrupted views over the Sabie River into Kruger National Park. This lodge-style property is famed for its soaring wooden walkways and treetop ambiance.

Room Amenities: Individual climate control, writing desk and chair, cable TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, phone, coffee and tea maker, minibar, safe, and en suite bathroom with sundries. 

Victoria Falls Safari Lodge

August 22

On a plateau overlooking the Zambezi National Park, Victoria Falls Safari Lodge is renowned for its views of a wildlife-rich waterhole visited by herds of elephant, buffalo and kudu. 

Built of thatch and timber, the lodge rises several levels, giving the impression of a vast open-plan tree house, with the central area featuring a restaurant, bar, swimming pool and fitness center.

Room Amenities: Individual climate control, private balcony, writing desk and chair, complimentary Wi-Fi, alarm clock, phone, coffee and tea maker, minibar, safe, and en suite bathroom with sundries. 

(Accommodations subject to change.)

Optional Pre-Tour

Cape Town


At the southernmost tip of Africa, separated from the rest of the continent by a ring of mountains, Cape Town offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness and outdoor experiences. Explore this vibrant region's iconic landmarks, sample its exquisite flavors and admire the peninsula's captivating landscape.

Itinerary

Day +1: En Route from U.S.
Wednesday, August 6, 2025

Day +2: Arrive in Cape Town, South Africa
Thursday, August 7, 2025
Upon arrival to Cape Town International Airport transfer to the hotel to enjoy an evening at leisure.
Overnight: Mount Nelson Hotel by Belmond

Day +3: Cape Town
Friday, August 8, 2025
After breakfast meet your knowledgeable guide in the lobby and embark (via air-conditioned vehicle) for a full-day tour of Cape Town.

Today's first highlight is a cable car ride ascending Table Mountain (weather permitting). The cable car's rotating floor ensures unobstructed views during the journey—from the vast South Atlantic Ocean to the sprawling city below. At the summit take a leisurely walk to the various lookout points, each a postcard perfect spot for unbeatable photography opportunities.

Continue with a panoramic tour of the city passing by some of Cape Town's most iconic landmarks while the guide offers fascinating insights into the area's history and culture. Notable points of interest include the Houses of Parliament, City Hall, the Cape Castle, the Slave Lodge and St. George's Cathedral. Known as the “People’s Cathedral” for its role in the resistance against apartheid, St. George’s Cathedral is the oldest in South Africa and the mother church of the Anglican Diocese of Cape Town.

Next visit Company's Garden and Greenmarket Square with time to browse local crafts and souvenirs. Originally set up in the late 1600s to sell fresh produce from the Company's Garden, this bustling market features vendors selling a variety of goods like wall hangings, wooden kitchenware, necklaces, toys, beaded animal figurines and more.

Afterwards enter the eye-catching Bo-Kaap neighborhood, also known as the Malay Quarter. Located between the Cape Town city center and the foothills of Signal Hill, Bo-Kaap is named for the Afrikaans phrase meaning “above the Cape.” One of the oldest and most historic residential areas in Cape Town, it's synonymous with Islamic Cape Malay culture. Delve into South Africa's rich and complex food heritage during a cuisine tasting featuring a delicious blend of flavors and techniques—including Cape Dutch, French, Indian and Japanese. Options may include a hearty gatsby sandwich, South African braai (barbecue), the fragrant, sweet-and-sour bobotie, an Indian inspired meal known as bunny chow (which aside from the unusual name, has nothing to do with rabbits), and sushi.

Enjoy an evening at leisure at the hotel.
Overnight: Mount Nelson Hotel by Belmond (B,L)

Day +4: Cape Town | Cape Peninsula
Saturday, August 9, 2025
This morning enjoy breakfast with a special guest—Nelson Mandela's friend and former jailer, Christo Brand. Hear about the struggles and triumphs of the anti-apartheid movement and gain insight into Mandela's character, resilience and unwavering commitment to justice and reconciliation.

Afterward set off on a scenic drive south along the Atlantic Seaboard between rugged cliffs and the pristine blue ocean towards Cape of Good Hope. En route take advantage of brief photography stops at Hout Bay and Chapman's Peak Drive—both providing unparalleled views of the dramatic landscape.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Hout Bay Market, a bustling hub of local artisans, craftsmen and food vendors. Discover unique treasures to take home as mementos of your journey.

Venture into the heart of the winelands where rolling vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see, arriving to Cape Point Vineyards. Indulge in an exclusive food and wine pairing experience—each sip and bite is meticulously crafted to complement and enhance the flavors of the region.

Continue to the southwesternmost tip of Cape Peninsula reaching the iconic Cape of Good Hope, a legendary promontory where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans converge. Ascend to the summit aboard the historic Flying Dutchman funicular, named after a mythical ghost ship, and marvel at the untamed beauty of the Cape Peninsula.

Before returning to the hotel visit Boulders Beach to observe a charming colony of African Penguins in their natural habitat, waddling along the sandy shores and frolicking in the crystal-clear waters.

The remainder of the afternoon and evening are at leisure at the property to relax by the pool or enjoy the spa facilities (additional fees apply).
Overnight: Mount Nelson Hotel by Belmond (B,L)

Day +5: Cape Town | Flight to Johannesburg | Main Program Begins
Sunday, August 10, 2025
After breakfast transfer to the airport for the group flight to Johannesburg to join the main program. (B)

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

Pre-tour space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability.

This pre-tour is not escorted by an Orbridge Travel Director. Included sightseeing is accompanied by a local guide.

(Itinerary subject to change.)

Activity Level

Moderate

Activities are generally not very strenuous, however, we expect that guests can enjoy two hours or more of walking, are sure-footed on uneven surfaces, and can walk up and down hillsides and stairs without assistance. Due to the structure of some buildings, facilities for the disabled may be limited.

Max elevation at the top of Table Mountain: approximately 3,500 feet.

Accommodations

Mount Nelson Hotel by Belmond

August 7 - August 9

Long regarded as one of the city’s top five-star hotels, this property blends a tranquil ambiance with welcoming hospitality and excellent service.

Room Amenities: Individual climate control, writing desk and chair, flat-screen TV, phone, coffee and tea maker, minibar, safe, bathrobes, slippers, and en suite bathroom with premium sundries and hair dryer.

(Accommodations subject to change.)

What's Included

  • 3 nights at five-star Mount Nelson Hotel by Belmond (or similar)
  • 3 breakfasts and 2 lunches
  • Guided Cape Town city tour and food tasting experience
  • Guided Cape Peninsula excursion including a market visit, vineyard food and wine pairing experience, and Cape of Good Hope visit
  • Admission and fees for included activities
  • Transportation for included activities
  • Luggage porterage
  • Gratuities to local guide, driver, porters, hotel staff and wait staff for included meals
  • Airport transfers for guests arriving during the suggested times
  • Internal airfare from Cape Town to Johannesburg

Terms and Conditions