How much is the single supplement on Rovos Rail and The Blue Train?

There are no dedicated single cabins on The Blue Train or Rovos Rail. The single supplement is generally set at 50% above the per-person sharing rate for solo travellers occupying a double suite.

Is Rovos Rail or The Blue Train better for a solo traveller?

Rovos Rail is generally considered better for solo travellers seeking a social experience. The lack of Wi-Fi and TVs encourages guests to mingle in the observation car. The Blue Train is better if you prefer a private, modern 'hotel on wheels' experience in your suite.

What is the best luxury train route for a single person?

The classic Pretoria to Cape Town route is highly recommended for solo travellers. It runs frequently, ensuring a full train with diverse passengers, and features structured group excursions (like the Kimberley Big Hole) that make socialising easy.

Solo Travel on The Blue Train & Rovos Rail: Prices and Single Supplements

To avoid feeling like you are in "Murder on the Orient Express", sometimes it is better to travel alone! The biggest hurdle for solo travellers on luxury trips is the "single supplement." Because there are no dedicated single cabins on The Blue Train or Rovos Rail, solo travellers must book a double suite, which usually incurs a 50% surcharge on the standard per-person sharing rate.

💡 Solo Travel Pro Tip

If your journey begins or ends in Cape Town, ask our travel consultants to arrange a guided hiking experience or private peninsula tour. It is a fantastic way to stretch your legs and explore the city safely as a solo traveller after days on the train.

Single Occupancy Fares

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Availability last updated: 22-May-26

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Cabin Sizes & Accommodation for One

As noted, there are no single-berth cabins on either train. The Rovos Rail single supplement is the same as The Blue Train single supplement; typically equalling 50% of the per-person sharing price.

The Pullman suites on Rovos Rail are the smallest and often the most affordable option for a solo traveller. However, if you are flexible with dates, always check the Rovos Rail SA Resident specials, where the larger Deluxe suites frequently go on sale, offering much better value for single occupancy.

After cost, the next biggest concern for solo travellers is what the experience will actually be like alone. Will it be awkward? Will I be lonely?

The Dining Experience

Given that all beverages are complimentary, a convivial atmosphere is almost always guaranteed. Passengers on these historic routes are generally well-travelled, interesting, and eager to chat. The fact that electronic devices are strictly discouraged in the public areas makes mingling incredibly natural.

Solo Seating Tip: If you prefer to be seated with other guests at dinner rather than dining alone at a two-seater table, make sure to let your travel agent know when making your reservation. The train managers are experts at seating arrangements and will ensure you are placed with like-minded, sociable guests.

Safety and Security Logistics

The trains themselves are highly secure, closed environments - arguably the safest part of your entire journey. For solo travellers, the only logistical friction points are your transfers to and from the stations.

Our Advice: Ask your travel agent to arrange your private transfers (they will often provide this service for free) before your trip begins. Having a professional driver waiting for you at the airport or your hotel eliminates any transit anxiety.

Blue Train vs Rovos Rail: Which is better for a solo traveller?

Rovos Rail is privately owned by Rohan Vos. The Blue Train is owned by Transnet, a government entity. While both offer 5-star service, they cater to very different travel styles.

🚂 Choose Rovos Rail If...

You want a highly social, romantic, "golden age of travel" experience. Because Rovos enforces a "digital detox" (no Wi-Fi or TVs in the suites), guests naturally gravitate toward the lounges and the open-air observation balcony. It is widely considered the better option for a solo traveller looking to connect with others.

🍸 Choose The Blue Train If...

You want a private, modern, 5-star "hotel on wheels" experience. The Blue Train is about sleek comfort, personal butler service, and private relaxation. Because the suites include Wi-Fi, interactive TVs, and large bathtubs, it is ideal for the solo traveller who wants to disconnect from people and recharge in absolute privacy.

The Best Luxury Train Routes for a Single Person

Top Pick: Pretoria to Cape Town

The ideal route for most solo travellers is the classic Pretoria to Cape Town route (or vice-versa).

High Social Potential: This is the most popular and frequently run route. The train is almost always full, attracting a diverse and international group of interesting people.
Route Duration: At 2 nights (Blue Train) or 3 nights (Rovos Rail), it is long enough to settle in, meet people, and truly disconnect, but not so long that you risk feeling isolated if you happen to get a quieter group. It is the perfect "taster" experience.
Structured Group Excursions: The off-train excursions to Kimberley's Big Hole and the historic town of Matjiesfontein are conducted as a group. This is a natural, low-pressure way to chat with fellow passengers while exploring.
Ease of Logistics: Starting and ending in two of South Africa's major travel hubs makes a solo traveller's flight logistics incredibly simple.

The Adventurous Runner-Up: Pretoria to Victoria Falls

This 3 or 4-night journey is another fantastic option, especially if you crave a more wild, adventurous feel and want to tick a major "bucket list" item off your list.

A Shared, Epic Goal: Everyone on the train is heading to one of the natural wonders of the world. This shared excitement acts as a powerful icebreaker and creates an immediate sense of camaraderie.
True Expedition Feel: The route crosses international borders and travels through remote landscapes, including Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe, giving the journey the feel of a true pioneer expedition.
The Grand Finale: Arriving at the majestic Victoria Falls is an unforgettable experience, and sharing that "wow" moment with new friends you have made on board is truly special.

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