What are the suite options on the Rovos Rail Namibia Safari?

Rovos Rail offers three suite types: Pullman Suites (7 sq metres), Deluxe Suites (10 sq metres), and Royal Suites (16 sq metres). All suites are air-conditioned and feature en-suite bathrooms.

What is the route for the eastbound Rovos Rail Namibia Safari?

The itinerary departs from Walvis Bay, traverses the Namib desert, and includes stops at Etosha National Park, Windhoek, Sossusvlei, the Quiver Tree Forest, Fish River Canyon, and Kimberley before arriving in Pretoria.

⚠️ Important Travel Update: 1 March 2026 Derailment

We are deeply saddened to report a tragic accident involving the eastbound Rovos Rail train travelling from Windhoek. SA Travel Online extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of those affected.

Read Official Statements from Rovos Rail & TransNamib

Statement by Rovos Rail (1 March 2026)

On Sunday 1 March 2026 at 04h45, the Rovos Rail train southbound from Windhoek was involved in an accident at Naute, approximately 285kms short of Ariamsvlei and the South African border. The cause was a washaway of the last span of a bridge resulting in the loss of two locomotives and two utility coaches. The automatic brake system stopped the train to prevent further damage.

However, it is with profound sadness that we confirm the passing of our Rovos Driver and the TransNamib Pilot. We extend our deepest condolences to their families, friends and colleagues.

We can confirm that there were no injuries sustained by any passengers or other Rovos Rail staff members. Buses have been arranged to transport guests to Upington from where they will be flown to Cape Town and met personally by Tiffany. We sincerely regret this occurrence but, rest assured, the safety and well-being of our guests and staff is paramount.

Rohan, Tiffany and our communications department are on hand. Should you have any queries, please contact Liezl Maclean at communications@rovos.co.za.

Rovos Rail train from Walvis Bay to Pretoria accident on bridge

Statement by TransNamib (1 March 2026)

"We confirm with deep sadness that a tragic rail accident involving a train operated by Rovos Rail occurred in the early hours of this morning, 1 March 2026, at approximately 05:00 AM. The train derailed near Naute, roughly 100 km from Keetmanshoop," stated Desmond Van Jaarsveld, CEO of TransNamib.

"The emergency response plan was activated immediately, and teams were dispatched to the scene without delay. Our priority was and remains the safety and wellbeing of all employees and passengers. Urgent medical care was provided to those affected, and survivors are being supported. Regrettably, the accident resulted in two fatalities. Our emergency response team, together with regional medical services and the police, continues to provide ongoing support."

An investigation into the cause of the accident is currently underway. TransNamib is Namibia’s national rail operator, responsible for managing and operating the country’s rail network.

Rovos Rail Namibia train crash on 1 March 2026

Note: On 18 Apr 2025, a separate Rovos Rail train en route to Victoria Falls was involved in a head-on collision with a cargo train near Gwanda in Zimbabwe.

Statement by Rovos Rail (30 Apr 2026)

Following the extremely unfortunate incident in Namibia earlier this year, we would like to thank our partners, agents and guests for the extraordinary outpouring of support, compassion and encouragement. Your thoughtful messages, especially those directed to Hendrik and the extended Rovos family, have meant a great deal and helped us through a challenging period. The affected bridge in Namibia has been swiftly rebuilt. Pleasingly, three Rovos Rail journeys have safely travelled the route with another train currently travelling there now. The well-being of our guests and staff remains our top priority and we are committed to maintaining the high standards of safety and service for which we are known. We await the outcome of the investigation.

Luxury Train tip: Also check Rovos Rail Pretoria to Walvis Bay departures (the westbound outbound leg offers the exact same quality and service).

Eastbound Rovos Rail: Walvis Bay TO Pretoria Prices & Availability

Journey Overview: The eastbound Rovos Rail Namibia Safari is a luxury train expedition departing from Walvis Bay, Namibia, and concluding in Pretoria, South Africa. The itinerary traverses the Namib desert and features disembarkation excursions to Etosha National Park, Windhoek, Sossusvlei, and the Fish River Canyon.

The longer you take to book, the greater the chance of train fares changing. Because this route operates infrequently, it often sells out well in advance.

Train Bookings

Prices auto-adjusted for exchange rates. WhatsApp Rob at 27824795197 for help.
Availability last updated: 08-May-26

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Choose Your Suite

Rovos Rail offers three superb suite types. All suites are air-conditioned, feature en-suite bathrooms, and are serviced daily. For an extended trans-desert journey, we highly recommend the Deluxe or Royal suites for the extra lounging space.

Pullman Suite

Size: 7 sq metres (76 sq ft)

Designed for optimal use of space. During the day, it features a comfortable sofa which is converted into a double bed (or twin beds) for the evening.

Deluxe Suite

Size: 10 sq metres (108 sq ft)

The most popular option. Provides a permanent bed alongside a dedicated lounge area and a larger en-suite bathroom.

Royal Suite

Size: 16 sq metres (172 sq ft)

Taking up half a carriage, this is the ultimate luxury. Features a private lounge area and a full en-suite bathroom with a Victorian bathtub.

Ancient style map of Rovos Rail railway route from Walvis Bay to Pretoria

The Eastbound Namibia Safari Itinerary Overview

This epic trans-desert crossing departs the Atlantic Ocean and winds its way back to South Africa. The itinerary involves a mix of luxurious train travel and spectacular overnight lodge safaris.

The Coast to Etosha

Depart Walvis Bay on the Atlantic coast and traverse the starkly beautiful Namib desert inland.
Disembark for a transfer to an exclusive lodge in the world-renowned Etosha National Park.
Enjoy a full day of game viewing in Etosha, famous for its massive salt pan and diverse wildlife.

Windhoek & Sossusvlei

Visit the Cheetah Conservation Fund in Otjiwarongo.
Enjoy a city tour of Windhoek, Namibia's capital, and the Trans-Namib Transport Museum.
Transfer to a lodge in Sossusvlei for an overnight stay, featuring an early morning excursion to climb the towering red dunes of Deadvlei and explore the Sesriem Canyon.

Southern Namibia & The Karoo

Visit the ancient Quiver Tree Forest and Giants Playground in Keetmanshoop.
Disembark to view the breathtaking Fish River Canyon, the largest canyon in Africa, before crossing the border into South Africa.
Enjoy a walking tour of Upington and a tour of the historic Kimberley Diamond Mine and Big Hole.
The journey concludes as the train arrives at the private Rovos Rail Station in Pretoria.

Rovos Rail train passing by massive red sand dunes in the Namib desert

Rovos Rail train gleaming in the last light of the day

Related Logistics & Planning

👔 Dress Code Guide

Not sure what to pack? Read our complete guide to daytime smart-casual and formal evening wear.

🛏️ Compare Suites

Explore the differences between Pullman, Deluxe, and Royal suites to find your perfect fit.

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