“Pride Of Africa” The Edwardian Train Safari With Rovos Rail
Transcription
“Pride Of Africa” The Edwardian Train Safari With Rovos Rail
“Pride Of Africa” The Edwardian Train Safari With Rovos Rail - The Most Luxurious Train In The World 24-day Luxury Train & Land Tour Adventure From Dar es Salaam To Cape Town January 27 - February 19, 2017 Depart CANADA for TANZANIA Dar es Salaam, TANZANIA Dar es Salaam, TANZANIA Dar es Salaam, TANZANIA Dar es Salaam, TANZANIA Selous Game Reserve, TANZANIA Makambako, TANZANIA Chisimba Falls, TANZANIA Pass through Serenje, ZAMBIA Pass through Lusaka, ZAMBIA Victoria Falls, ZIMBABWE Victoria Falls, ZIMBABWE Gabarone, BOTSWANA Madikwe, SOUTH AFRICA Madikwe, SOUTH AFRICA Pretoria, SOUTH AFRICA Kimberley, SOUTH AFRICA Matjiesfontein, SOUTH AFRICA Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA Depart SOUTH AFRICA for CANADA Hotel Stay Hotel Stay Hotel Stay Board the Train Train Journey Train Journey Train Journey Train Journey Train Journey Hotel Stay Train Journey Train Journey Safari Lodge Stay Safari Lodge Stay Train Journey Train Journey Train Journey Disembark Hotel Stay Hotel Stay Hotel Stay Hotel Stay O UR 7 TH G ROUP D EPARTURE 2 Begin your African adventure with a 3-night hotel stay in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania located right on the Indian Ocean shores. Next day take a city tour with lunch. The following day enjoy a relaxing day by the pool or the beach or once there, you may take an optional full day excursion with lunch to the exotic spice island of Zanzibar. The next morning we embark the most luxurious train in the world, Rovos Rail's `Pride of Africa`, we will depart from Dar es Salaam on this epic safari through Africa travelling a distance of 6,103 kilometers journey that will take 15 days. Guests will board at the Tazara Railway station the beautifully rebuilt Edwardian Train and travel in the footsteps of such illustrious adventurers as Livingstone, Speke, Stanley, Burton, Selous. Lord Delamere, Blixen and Finch-Hatten. This epic 15-day train journey travels through Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana and South Africa and is one of the most famous train journeys in the world. Starting in Tanzania, the train leaves the bustling station of Dar es Salaam and passes through the Selous Game Reserve – the largest on the continent and a vision of timeless Africa. Travel through the Rift Valley and witness spectacular scenery as the train negotiates the tunnels, switchbacks and viaducts of the escarpment. After passing the Tanzania/Zambia border – almost the midpoint between Africa’s two Great Rift Valley lakes – guests can enjoy a bush walk at Chisimba Falls before crossing the mighty Zambezi for an overnight stay at the colonial Victoria Falls Hotel. The train then travels through Botswana to the Madikwe Game Reserve for a two-night stay at a five-star lodge, then on to Pretoria, the capital city of South Africa. The journey will then take guests through the diamond-mining town of Kimberley and the historic little village of Matjiesfontein before this magnificent journey ends in Cape Town. End your African adventure with a 4-night stay at a luxurious 5-star Table Bay Hotel located right at the center of Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. Enjoy local sightseeing with cable ride to the Table Mountain, full day at the Cape Peninsula where the Indian Ocean meets the Atlantic Ocean and a full-day visit to the Cape Winelands with special meals and local wines. This is a trip of a lifetime, an authentic African adventure! Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com DOUBLE OCCUPANCY: PULLMAN SUITE DELUXE SUITE ROYAL SUITE SINGLE OCCUPANCY PULLMAN SUITE DELUXE SUITE $19,495 $23,495 $29,995 $24,995 $31,995 ALL PRICES ARE IN CANADIAN DOLLARS PER PERSON AND INCLUDE: Return airfare from TORONTO, OTTAWA and MONTREAL | 15-day train journey with off the train overnight excursions; 2-night stay at the Private Game Lodge, SOUTH AFRICA with safaris and 1-night stay in Victoria Falls, ZIMBABWE with all your meals | All your alcoholic beverages 24-hours a day while on board the train | 3-night first class hotel stay in Dar es Salaam, TANZANIA | 4-night first class stay in Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA | Guided Tours as described in our day-by-day itinerary | All your gratuities for the train staff and local guides and drivers | All departure taxes | Hosted by Expo Cruises and Tours Staff | Initial Deposit of $2,500 per person is required at time of booking (please note the deposit is non-refundable, which can be insured at time of your booking) | Second Non-Refundable deposit of 5,000 is due by MAY 18, 2016 | Final Payment is due by OCTOBER 26, 2016 | EXPO CRUISES VALUED PAST CLIENTS WILL SAVE $500 PER PERSON* PLUS ADDITIONAL SAVINGS OF 3% WILL APPLY TO EVERYONE IF PAYING BY CHEQUE - THAT’S SAVINGS OF UP TO $900 PER PERSON DAY 1 - DEPART CANADA Meet your tour host and fellow group members at Toronto Airport. Depart on a transatlantic flight with KLM* via Amsterdam to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. (In-flight Meals) DAY 2 - DAR ES SALAAM, TANZANIA Upon arrival late evening in Dar es Salaam, followed by local clear customs, transfer to your hotel for your 3 night stay. Located in the most affluent area of Dar es Salaam, we’re within walking distance of Slipway Arts and Crafts Center and Banks also close to restaurants, shops and clubs. The bright, modern design of a hotel that offers spacious common areas and beautiful views of the ocean. Unwind in a contemporary designed guest room rooms. Offering terrace and bay views, our rooms include a minirefrigerator, complimentary high-speed internet access, and a 32-inch LCD HD TV with cable. Enjoy Indian Ocean views while sipping freshly brewed coffee, stay at this beachfront location, just minutes away from snorkeling, fishing, diving and golfing activities. DOUBLETREE BY HILTON HOTEL or similar - 3 Nights. (In-flight Meals) DAY 3 - DAR ES SALAAM, TANZANIA Breakfast will be served at the hotel. Then proceed on a half day Dar es Salaam city guided tour visiting the city’s and highlights such as: Mnazi Moja Park, Mwenge Village museum, Tinga Tinga, State House and the National museum. Raised from the humble surroundings of a fishing village just over a century ago, Dar es Salaam, meaning "Heaven of Peace” blossomed into one of the great seaside capitals. We will enjoy lunch at the 3 Water Front Sunset Restaurant at the Slipway midway through the tour. Tonight we meet for our cocktail reception and a Welcome dinner served at the hotel. (B, L, D) DAY 4 - DAR ES SALAAM, TANZANIA Breakfast at the hotel. Today you will have a full day at your leisure. Or you may take an optional full-day excursion with lunch to the near by island of Zanzibar aka the “Spice Island”. Dinner will be served at the hotel. (B, D) DAY 5 - DAR ES SALAAM, TANZANIA After breakfast we will check out from the hotel. Private motorcoach will take us to the Tazara Railway station, where we will be met and greeted by the onboard staff of the train. At noon the train will depart Dar es Salaam. Guests may freshen up in their suites before joining other guests in the midway Lounge car or the Observation carriage at the rear of the train for cocktails. 1:00 pm Lunch will be served in the dining cars. 7:30 pm Dinner will be served in the dining cars. All meals and alcoholic beverages and wines whilst on board the train are included. (B, L, D) DAY 6 - SELOUS GAME RESERVE, TANZANIA 7:00 am Breakfast will be served in the dining cars until 10:00 am. Followed by Game viewing at the Selous Game Reserve. 1:00 pm Lunch will be served in the dining cars. During the late afternoon, the train will pass through the Selous Game Reserve, the largest in Africa. Near Kisaki station some southern Masai may be seen with their characteristic clothes. 7:30 pm Dinner will be served in the dining cars. (B, L, D) DAY 7 - TRAIN JOURNEY 7:00 am Breakfast will be served in the dining cars until 10:00 am. 12:20 pm. A lecture will be given during the course of the morning. Arrive at Makambako. 1:00 pm Lunch will be served in the dining cars. Another lecture will be given during the course of the afternoon. 7:30 pm Dinner is served in the dining cars. (B, L, D) DAY 8 - TRAIN JOURNEY 6:00 am Tanzanian Border formalities in Tunduma. Please ensure that the train manager is in possession of your passports and completed forms. 7:00 am Breakfast will be served in the dining cars until 10:00 am. Arrive in Nakonde for Zambian border formalities. 1:00 pm Lunch will be served in the dining cars. 2:30 pm Disembark the train at Kasama for an afternoon excursion to Chisimba Falls. Please note that comfortable clothing and walking shoes, suntan lotion and hats are strongly recommended. 6:00 pm Depart Kasama. 7:30 pm Dinner will be served in the dining cars. (B, L, D) DAY 9 - TRAIN JOURNEY 7:00 am Breakfast served in the dining cars until 10:00 am. A lecture will be given in the morning. 1:00 pm Lunch served in the dining cars. Another lecture will be given during the course of the afternoon. 7:30 pm 4 Dinner will be served in the dining cars. (B, L, D) DAY 10 - TRAIN JOURNEY 7:00 am Breakfast will be served in the dining cars until 10:00 am. Train stationary at Lusaka Station until 8:00 am. A lecture will be given during the course of the morning. The train passes through Kafue. 1:00 pm Lunch is served in the dining cars. A lecture will be given during the course of the afternoon. 7:30 pm Dinner is served in the dining cars. Victoria Falls - It would be a good idea if you familiarize yourself with the list of activities available at Victoria Falls. The following activities are for your own account and may be arranged before hand on the train and re payable in US funds by cash. 1) Tour of the Falls, 2) Elephant Back Safaris, 3) A Walk with the Lions, 4) Morning Round of Golf, 5) Zip-Lining or Bungi-jumping, 6) Helicopter Flight over the Falls. (B, L, D) DAY 11 - VICTORIA FALLS, ZIMBABWE 9:00 am Arrive in Livingstone for Zambian border formalities. Arrive at the Zimbabwe border for passport formalities. Please ensure that you have obtained your passport from the Train Manager. 10:00 am Arrival at Victoria Falls. Disembark from the train at Victoria Falls station with your overnight bag and assemble on the platform before walking down to the elegant and colonial style Victoria Falls Hotel to register. Your possessions will be safe in your suites. Please ensure that your passports are in your possession, as you will need them to change money or cross the border into Zambia. 12:00 pm Lunch and dinner today and breakfast and lunch tomorrow are taken in either the Jungle Junction. These meals are included in the overall journey price. All alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages consumed off the train are for your own account. Any meals taken in other venues are also for your own account. At 4:00 pm please be ready in the hotel foyer for the bus to take you to the Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi River. Light snacks and drinks are included in your cruise. 7:30 pm Enjoy traditional dances at the Jungle Junction prior to dinner. Dinner will be available at the buffet. Seating will be at tables reserved for Rovos Rail guests. Victoria Falls Hotel, populary known as "The Grand Old Lady of the Falls", is a luxurious 5-Star Hotel on a World Heritage site overlooking the magnificent Victoria Falls, one of the natural wonders of the world. Established in 1904, and recently redecorated. This gracious colonial style hotel is set in the lush tropical gardens and epitomizes the romance of grand travel, offering total relaxation. THE VICTORIA FALLS HOTEL or similar - 1 Night. (B, L, D) DAY 12 - VICTORIA FALLS, ZIMBABWE Buffet breakfast at the Victoria Falls hotel. Day at leisure in the Victoria Falls. Participate in the activities that you have selected while at the Victoria Falls. Lunch today may be enjoyed in either the Jungle Junction or the Stanley Room. These meals are included in the overall journey price. All alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages consumed off the Train are for Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com your own account. Any meals taken in other venues are also for your own account. 4:00 pm Meet on the Station platform. Please hand your passport to the Train Manager for border formalities with Zimbabwe and South Africa. 5:00 pm Depart Victoria Falls. 7:30 pm Dinner is served. (B, L, D) DAY 13 - TRAIN JOURNEY 7:00 am Breakfast will be served in the dining cars until 10:00 am. Bypass Bulawayo. 8:00 am Arrive at Plumtree for Zimbabwe border formalities. 11:20 am Continue to Tshesebe for Botswana border formalities. A lecture will Please consult your Lecture Sheet for times and venue. 1:00 pm Lunch is served in the dining cars. 6:20 pm Arrive in Francistown. Depart 7:15 pm. 7:30 pm During dinner the Train Manager will inform you about the game lodge visit planned for the following two days. (B, L, D) DAY 14 - MADIKWE PRIVATE RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA 7:00 am Breakfast will be served in the dining cars until 10:00 am. Please pack a small overnight bag. Tog bags have been placed in your suite for your convenience for your two night stay at the game lodge. Comfortable clothes and shoes for hot days and cool evenings are essential. Sun tan lotion and hats are strongly recommended. It can get very cold during the game drives so please take along warm clothing. Your belongings will be safe inside your suites under the guard of the train staff. Upon arrival at Gabarone, Botswana guests are transferred by coach to Madikwe Game Reserve for a two night stay TAU Game Lodge. Please note Botswana/South Africa border formalities will take place en route. 1:00 pm Lunch served at the lodge. Please note that beverages, phone calls and laundry are for your own account. Bottled water and a limited wine selection will be available during Lunch and Dinner with the compliments of Rovos Rail. 4:00 pm Meet for afternoon Game Drive. 8:00 pm Dinner at the lodge. Tau is a South African luxury safari lodge situated on the far northern border of South Africa, in malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, the 4th largest game reserve in the country. 27 major species of game roam this South African nature reserve, making Tau Game Lodge the ideal place for a safari holiday, offering Big 5 game safaris and bird-watching safaris. Privately owned Tau Game Lodge, situated in the North West Province, can accommodate up to 60 people and offers an ideal South African conference venue as well as an idyllic wedding venue overlooking a natural waterhole. Enjoy an authentic South African safari vacation in the midst of natural wildlife, complete with great game viewing and luxury private facilities at our South Africa luxury safari game lodge. TAU GAME LODGE or similar - 2 Nights. (B, L, D) DAY 15 - MADIKWE PRIVATE RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA 6:00 am Early morning game drive. 9:30 am Breakfast at the lodge. Day at leisure. 1:00 pm Lunch at the lodge. 4:00 pm Afternoon game drive. 8:00 Pm Dinner at the lodge. (B, L, D) DAY 16 - MADIKWE PRIVATE RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA 6:00 am Early morning game drive. 9:30 am Breakfast at the lodge. 11:00 am Depart the lodge and transfer to the train at Zeerust. 12:00 pm Depart for Pretoria. 1:00 pm Lunch is served in the dining cars. 7:30 pm Dinner will be served in the dining cars. (B, L, D) DAY 17 - PRETORIA, SOUTH AFRICA 7:00 am Breakfast is served in the dining cars until 10:00 am. 8:40 am Arrive in Centurion where one or two of our Rovos locomotives will collect us for the leg into Capital Park. 10:00 am Arrive at Capital Park Station, Pretoria. All passengers please disembark for your Pretoria City Tour and lunch. 2:15 pm Enjoy a walking tour of Capital Park Station and Locomotive Sheds. 3:00 pm Depart Pretoria for Cape Town. 7:30 pm Dinner is served in the dining cars. (B, L, D) DAY 18 - KIMBERLEY, SOUTH AFRICA 7:00 am Breakfast is served in the dining cars until 9:45 am. Ten minutes before arriving in Kimberley there is a shallow lake on the right hand side facing forward. On most occasions there are spectacular flocks of Flamingos (approx. 23,000). 9:45 am Arrive in Kimberley. Guests disembark and proceed by coach for a tour of the city and the ‘Big Hole‘ and the Mine Museum. 12:30 pm Depart Kimberley. 1:00 pm Lunch is served in the dining cars. 7:30 pm Dinner will be served in the dining cars. (B, L, D) DAY 19 - CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA 7:00 am Breakfast will be served in the dining cars until 10:00 am. There is an opportunity to disembark the Train at Whitehill siding and walk or jog the 5 kilometers into Matjiesfontein. The Train Manager or a member of staff will accompany you. Comfortable walking or running shoes are essential. 8:25 am The train arrives at Matjiesfontein where you will have a chance to stroll through this historic settlement. Of special interest is the museum on the platform and a collection of historic cars and railway carriages to the right of the Hotel. 11:00 am We depart Matjiesfontein passing through Tweedside and Touws River. At 12:00 pm we reach the first of four tunnels which take us through the Hex River Pass. The second tunnel is 13.5 kms long so please be careful if you are walking through the train. If you are in your suite you may wish to turn on a light. 1:00 pm Lunch will be served as we pass through the Hex River Valley and the town of Worcester. 6:00 pm Arrival at Platform 24 Cape Town Station where our Edwardian Safari journey ends. Disembark after the joyful Edwardian journey at Cape Town Railway Station. Meet and greet service by our representative and assistance with luggage transfer to the awaiting motor coach. Transfer to the Table Bay Hotel located in the magnificent Victoria and Alfred waterfront area. Check-in for a four night stay. The Table Bay Hotel in Cape Town is a 5 star, exceptionally excellent hotel with magnificent surroundings. It has a maritime flavour that extends to each of the exclusively designed rooms that are welcoming and inviting, representing the epitome of luxury and supreme comfort. During the day Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com 5 the cool Atlantic Ocean breeze eases the heat of Africa’s mother city: Cape Town. Cosmopolitan, gracious and relaxed The Table Bay is the sum of all that is good about its home town. At dusk the hum of V&A waterfront’s restaurants, bars and clubs beckon you from your luxurious room. Accommodation is crafted to be at once spacious and luxurious. Crisp linen sheets, beautifully appointed en-suite bathrooms and the latest telephonic and broadband technology allow you to escape into serenity and simultaneously stay in touch with the outside world. This hotel is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World. Time to freshen up, prior to our dinner which it will be served at the hotel. THE TABLE BAY HOTEL or similar - 4 Nights. (B, L, D) DAY 20 - CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA This morning and every morning you will enjoy one of the most extravagant buffet breakfasts you have ever seen in your travels. After breakfast you will meet our guide and walk over to the Mandela Gateway where you will board the ferry to Robben Island. Depart on a scheduled half hour boat trip across Table Bay to Robben Island. On arrival you will be met by a guide – an ex-political prisoner. You will be taken on a 45-minute bus ride with a guide providing commentary. Stop and visit the infamous Maximum Security Prison as well as the Murray's Bay Harbour precinct works with the memories of these experiences and with the history of attractions, such as the Muslim shrine, or kramat, and the Museum Shop. forced removals more generally. Cape Castle - Built by the Dutch in 1666 For nearly 400 years, Robben Island, 12 kilometres from Cape Town, was a after arrival, the Castle was erected as a 5 pointed star on the foreshore of place of banishment, exile, isolation and imprisonment. It was here that Cape Town. I t is today surrounded by a variety of other monuments and rulers sent those they regarded as political troublemakers, social outcasts places of historical interest. The Castle of Good Hope is the oldest surviving and the unwanted of society. During the apartheid years Robben Island building in South Africa. Built between 1666 and 1679, this pentagonal became internationally known for its institutional brutality. The duty of fortification replaced a small clay and timber fort built by Commander Jan those who ran the Island and its prison was to isolate opponents of van Riebeeck in 1652 upon establishing a maritime replenishment station apartheid and to crush their morale. Some freedom fighters spent more art the Cape of Good Hope for the Dutch East India Company, better than a quarter of a century in prison for their beliefs. Lunch - Returning known as the VOC (Verenigde Oos-Indische Compagnie). The Cape of back from Robben Island you will enjoy lunch at the Quay Four Restaurant Good Hope houses the regional headquarters of the South African Army in in the V&A Waterfront before departing on the afternoon sightseeing. Half the Western Cape, the famous William Fehr Collection of historic artworks, Day Cape Town City Tour and Table Mountain - Highlights of this tour the Castle Military Museum and ceremonial facilities for traditional Cape includes the District Six Museum, Cape Castle and Table Mountain Regiments. Table Mountain - Since the first person laid eyes on Table (Weather permitting). District Six Museum - District 6 was named the Mountain, it has exerted its powerful and charismatic pull, enchanting and Sixth Municipal District of Cape Town in 1867. Originally established as a drawing any and all who fall under its spell. The best views of Cape Town mixed community of freed slaves, merchants, artisans, labourers and immi- are seen from the top of Table Mountain. The Cableway summit is under grants, District Six was a vibrant centre with close links to the city and the 10 minutes and the cable car’s rotating floor ensures that all passengers port. By the beginning of the twentieth century, however, the history of have an aerial view of the city. Table Mountain is a sandstone plateau removals and marginalisation had begun. The first to be 'resettled' were rising up above the Cape Flats. The top is approximately 3km wide, and at black South Africans, forcibly displaced from the District in 1901. As the its highest point, Maclears Beacon, rises to 1085m. Over the centuries it more prosperous moved away to the suburbs, the area became the has become one of South Africa's most famous landmarks. The steep cliffs neglected ward of Cape Town. In 1966, it was declared a white area under and rocky outcrops of the mountain play home to a number of plants and the Group areas Act of 1950, and by 1982, the life of the community was animals. The mountain is home to approximately 1470 species of plants; over. 60 000 people were forcibly removed to barren outlying areas aptly more than the entire British Isles! Complimenting this vast array of flora is known as the Cape Flats, and their houses in District Six were flattened by a fauna, some, like the Table Mountain Ghost Frog, being found in no other bulldozers. The District Six Museum, established in December 1994, place in the world. Tonight dinner will be at the hotel. (B, L, D) DAY 21 - CAPE PENINSULA, SOUTH AFRICA After breakfast, we depart on a full day excursion visiting the famous Cape Peninsula. We will travel via the 12 Apostles and Hout Bay, as well as Chapmans Peak (dependant on the road being open) – one of the region’s most dramatic mountain drives offering amazing panoramic views over the city and environs. Chapmans Peak Drive: Chapman’s Peak Drive winds its way between Noordhoek and Hout Bay on the Atlantic Coast, at the south-western tip of South Africa. It is one of the most spectacular marine drives anywhere in the world. The 9km route, with its 114 curves, skirts the rocky coastline of Chapman's Peak, the 593m high southerly extension of Constantia Berg. The drive offers stunning 180° views over the ocean and mountains with Hout Bay in the distance. Cape Point: Continue to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, established in 1939 to protect 7750 ha of indigenous flora and fauna. Situated at the junction of two of earth's most contrasting water masses - the cold Benguela current on the West Coast and the warm Agulhas current on the East Coast, the Cape of Good Hope is popularly perceived as the meeting point of the Atlantic and the Indian Oceans. Guests will take the funicular to the vantage point from where they will be able to witness the “meeting of the 6 Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com two oceans”. Boulders Beach: Thereafter travel through the historic naval base of Simon's Town where we visit a colony of African Jackass Penguins in their natural environment at Boulders Beach. It is a popular stop because of a colony of African Penguins which settled here in 1982. Although set in the midst of a residential area, it is one of the few sites where this vulnerable bird can be observed at close range, wandering freely in a protected natural environment. We will enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants in the Simons Town area. Following our full day excursion we return to the hotel early in the evening. Balance of the day is to relax or explore Cape Town’s waterfront on your own. (B, L) DAY 22 - CAPE WINELANDS, SOUTH AFRICA Following a leisurely breakfast, depart for a full day Winelands guided tour. Depart on a scenic and historic drive through the local wine regions in Cape Town: Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl. The day will also include stopping at a famous wine estate to enjoy 1 sample of the local wines produced in South Africa and time to explore Stellenbosch on your own with our guide. Stellenbosch - 45 minutes from Cape Town city centre, a warm welcome awaits you, the visitor, to the Stellenbosch Wine Route - the first in South Africa - founded in 1971. Stellenbosch consists of tree lined streets and historical architecture. Guests can explore the popular Dorp Street and Oom Samie se Winkel. Franschhoek -The DAY 24 - AMSTERDAM - CANADA Upon arrival in Amsterdam you will connect with another flight bound for Canada, arriving early afternoon. (In-flight Meals) “Hamba Kahle Uphinde Ubuye” PLEASE NOTE: All itineraries are “provisional and may be changed due to logistical practicalities”. All times are approximate and can not be guaranteed and are subject to change due to schedules of the train, flights, motorcoaches and local conditions. At time of print all Canadian citizens require entry visa for Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your tour ends and you must have at least 4-6 blank pages in your passport. All information will be provided to everyone after the final payments are made. Additionally, everyone is required to have the Yellow Fever vaccination prior to departure from Canada. Expo Cruises & Tours reserves the right to change hotels and/or lodges when necessary. Your final train itinerary will be provided in your suite aboard the train. Air and hotel travel documents will be sent out to everyone about 2-3 weeks prior to your departure from Canada. Gourmet Capital, surrounded by majestic mountains culminating in an awe-inspiring pass, provides added value to the food and wine experience. Visit the Huguenot museum. Paarl - Only 56km from Cape Town, the "Pearl of the Cape" lies nestled in the Berg River Valley, guarded by the huge granite rocks from which it gets its name. It is well known for its Wine, cuisine, culture and is home of the Afrikaans language. We enjoy a picnic lunch at the Boschendal Wine estate after the outdoor wine tasting (weather permitting). After lunch guest have time at leisure in Stellenbosch to explore on their own to experience the shops and architecture before returning to the hotel after their leisure time in Stellenbosch. Tonight, we have our Farewell dinner at the “GOLD” Restaurant. A farewell to the Mother City culminates in a fun-filled dinner tonight at the vibrant, eclectic Pan-African Gold Restaurant, a befitting experience to our tour. (B, L, D) DAY 23 - CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA - CANADA After breakfast guests are to check out of their hotel at 11 am and settle all personal accounts. You can store your luggage with the hotel concierge. Free time to do your last minute shopping. Late lunch will be served at a local restaurant. Early evening around 7:30 pm you will be transferred from our hotel to Cape Town International Airport for your onward flight back to Canada via Amsterdam. (B, L, In-flight Meals) Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com EXPO CRUISES SPECIAL TOUCH... Includes One Glass of Wine or Beer with Every Lunch and Two Glasses of Wine or Beer with Every Dinner on Our Tour 7 Accommodations Available Onboard The Pride Of Africa PULLMAN SUITES - Measuring 7 sq. meters (76 sq. feet) are equipped with a comfortable sofa-seat during the day, with a conversion to double or twin bed for the evening. They also have an en suite bathroom with shower. They offer passengers the opportunity to travel in privacy, comfort and luxury. All are equipped with a writing surface and a personal safe for valuables. There is also a bar fridge filled with beverages of the passengers’ choice and room service is available 24 hours a day. These suites are recommended just for single travellers or a couple, not suitable to share with friends. Pullman Suite DELUXE SUITES - Measuring 11 sq. meters in size (118 sq. feet) also accommodate two passengers in a queen size bed and have a lounge area and en-suite bathroom with shower, hairdryer and shaver point. The very spacious suites offer passengers the opportunity to travel in privacy, comfort and luxury, with fittings and facilities that are of the highest standard. All are equipped with a writing surface and a personal safe for valuables. There is also a bar fridge filled with beverages of the passengers’ choice and room service is available 24 hours a day. ROYAL SUITES - Each of which take up half a carriage, are spacious and elegant, measuring 16 sq. meters in size (172 sq. feet). Each has its own private lounge area and full bathroom with Victorian bath and separate shower. The very spacious suites offer passengers the opportunity to travel in privacy, comfort and luxury, with fittings and facilities that are of the highest standard. All are equipped with a writing surface and a personal safe for valuables. There is also a bar fridge filled with beverages of the passengers’ choice and room service is available 24 hours a day. Deluxe Suite Royal Suite Aboard the train there will also be available a: Doctor, Hairdresser*, Historical Lecturer*, Gift Shop, Train Manager and other Personnel THE SUITES World Class Comfort and Style - The rebuilt sleeper coaches contain the most spacious train suites in the world, offering every modern convenience and comfort. The epitome of luxury, with handsome wood paneling and period Edwardian features, the air-conditioned suites accommodate two people offering the option of twin or spacious double beds. All are equipped with a writing surface and, for valuables, a personal safe. There is also a bar fridge filled with beverages of the passengers’ choice and room service is available 24 hours a day. In the en suite bathrooms original fittings combine with the modern technology of hot showers, hair dryers and shaver plugs. The Royal Suites, each of which take up half a carriage, are spacious and elegant, measuring 16 sq meters in size (172 sq ft). Each has its own private lounge area and full bathroom with Victorian bath and separate shower. The Deluxe suites (11 sq meters/118 sq feet) also accommodate two passengers in either twin or double beds and have a lounge area and en-suite bathroom with shower. A third level of accommodation, the Pullman suite is 7 square meters (76 sq ft) in size and while it includes the identical bathroom to that of the deluxe suites, the bedroom is smaller with a one up one down bunk for twin requirements or a double bed for couples. During the day this can be converted into a comfortable couch. 8 Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com About Your Onboard Stay & Amenities Aboard The Trains THE COACHES - A Superb Collection of Restored Coaches Rovos Rail operates two classic 20-coach, 72 berth trains as well as a third 13-coach, 42-berth Edwardian train which is available year round for charter. Each one of these carriages, from kitchen cars to sleeper coaches and guards vans, has its own story. A few dating back to 1911 were constructed in Europe and shipped to South Africa in the first half of the last century. Some carriages have carried royalty, while others have ended up serving as restaurants or lying derelict and forgotten on sidings for decades. These coaches have been collected from the far corners of the country and are now cherished members of the Rovos fleet of 75 carriages. The coaches have been painstakingly rebuilt and the use fine wood paneling, traditional furnishings and period décor has ensured an atmosphere of elegance and grandeur. Exquisite pillared dining cars are a signature of the Rovos Rail trains. Each one has a proud history and has been meticulously restored from a derelict state. For example Dining Car No 195 ‘ Shangani ‘, which was built in 1924, was found parked in a siding in Alberton near Johannesburg before its acquisition by Rohan Vos in 1986. Three of the magnificent teak pillars had been removed and these were faithfully crafted, restoring the Victorian atmosphere. Each of the trains has two 42-seater dining cars to accommodate the maximum complement of 72 passengers in total comfort at one sitting. Each train has a non-smoking Observation Car at the rear of the train, while the coach next to it contains a small smoking lounge. A unique feature of the Observation Cars is the enlarged windows and open-air balconies. At the centre of the train we have, when numbers dictate, a non-smoking Lounge Car, which houses the Gift Shop. CUISINE and SERVICE - Simple Elegant & Entertaining An enthusiastic team of chefs is responsible for overseeing the very important task of ensuring guests every need is catered for, while considerable thought and meticulous planning goes into making up the menus. Unlike many of the great trains of the world, travellers are on board the trains for several days at a time, requiring a much wider selection of meals. There's an accent on fresh local ingredients, and traditional dishes such as game are a specialty. Every morning there's a full breakfast with dishes cooked to order. A selection of cold meats, croissants, pastries, fresh fruit, yogurts, cereals and preserves make up a tempting breakfast buffet. For lunch and dinner there is a starter and a choice of fish, meat or vegetarian dishes, followed by a tempting dessert and are complemented by a selection of excellent South African wines. All meals are served in one sitting only in the charming Victorian atmosphere of the Dining Cars. Many of the passengers aboard the Pride of Africa enjoy the formality of fine china, crisp linen and silver, and dress accordingly. During the day dress is more casual, with cool, comfortable clothes and hats recommended for the excursions, especially in the game reserves where it can be very hot. The Observation Car seats 32 passengers and is positioned at the rear of the train. At the centre of the train we have, when numbers dictate, a non-smoking Lounge Car, which seats 26 passengers in comfort. In maintaining the spirit of travel of a bygone era, there are no radios or television sets onboard. Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com 9 Directory Of Services Aboard The Rovos Rail Trains Air-conditioning - The air conditioning unit in your suite is operated by a hand held remote control. Please ensure your host/ess demonstrates the operation of the unit. A setting of 22°C or less is required for cooling and 23°C or more for heating. This machine reverses cycle to change its function and this process will take a few minutes. You are best advised to use the automatic setting as per enclosed instruction. This will keep your suite at 22°C (75°F). When the generators at the end of the train are switched for servicing, there is a momentary break in power and this is sufficient to turn your machine off. Press the start button and the unit will continue on its last setting. Bar Fridges and Tea Drawers - There are bar fridges and tea drawers beneath the table in your suite. Please ask your host/ess to fill them with your preference if not already included. Bathrooms - Every suite has a bathroom en suite. The showers have a water-mixing tap; it is advisable to open to the cold-water side a little before the hot water when wanting to shower, as the hot water can be very hot. A complete amenity bag is available in your cupboard. Please ask your host/ess for any replacement amenities that might be required. Credit Cards and Currency - Although Rovos Rail prices are all inclusive it is recommended that passengers have a small amount of Rands for onboard or off-train purchases. We do accept all major credit cards. Dietary Requirements - We will do our best to cater for special dietary requirements such as vegetarians, vegans, diabetics etc., provided a detailed request has been made at the time of your reservation. If a special request has not been made, the chefs will endeavour to prepare suitable meals with the ingredients available on board. We regret however that we are unable to provide meals requiring strict religious observance in the preparation. Dress Code - During the day, the dress is casual and comfortable. More formal attire is worn in the evening on the “Pride of Africa”. Collar & tie is a minimum requirement for men, please. Dressing Gown -We provide a one-size-fits-all gown plus slippers for each guest. Electrical Current - The electricity on the train is as follows: 220V AC 50Hz. The plugs are 3 point round pronged wall plugs. International adaptors are available – please ask your host/ess. There are 2 pin 110V plugs built in to the hairdryer. Excursions - Please note that off-train excursions cannot be guaranteed and will only be undertaken if time and circumstances permit. We do our best to fulfil our obligations, but it goes without saying that with many locomotive changes and other logistical permutations it is not uncommon to be delayed in Africa. It is advisable you to wear a hat and sunglasses and to use a high SPF block when exposed to the sun. If you are going on a game drive please dress warmly for an early morning game drive and please be advised that as an evening drive progresses the weather can cool down considerably so please also ensure that you take warm clothing. Rain capes will be available if required. Gift Shop -There is a small gift shop on board and at our station premises at Capital Park in Pretoria. Due to the varying exchange rates, the use of credit 10 cards is preferred. We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Diners Club. The shop is situated in the centre lounge car and is open between meals. The host/ess on duty has a basic first aid kit and personal essentials (toothbrushes, razors, etc.). He/she will also fulfil any administrative requirements and check your onward arrangements. Hairdryer - Plug in hairdryers, in addition to your bathroom unit, are available on board. Please ask your host/ess. Housekeeping - Your suite is cleaned daily and there is a nightly turn down service. Should you require extra fresh towels, amenities etc please contact your host/ess. If you wish to have your towels changed please place them in the shower basin. Ice - Two small ice trays are placed in the freezer section of your fridge. Extra ice is available on request. Please ask your host/ess. Laundry - There is a LIMITED laundry service on board comprising of household washers, dryers and steam irons. The turn around is 48 hours so the staff are not able to handle a week’s worth of washing. Please complete the relevant laundry or pressing document and advise your host/ess if your clothing needs specialist attention. Please note that while we are providing a complimentary service we cannot be held responsible for items which may be damaged or lost in the process. Magazines, Maps and Games -There are maps and itineraries in your suite denoting times of meals, arrivals, etc. We do endeavour to maintain an accurate schedule (logistical gymnastics most times). If the maps supplied are not comprehensive enough you may purchase a detailed road map from the gift shop. There are board games, playing cards, a card table, books and magazines available for your use in the Lounge and Observation Cars whilst on board the train. Meals - Breakfast will be served between 07h00 and 10h00. Lunch will be served at 13h00. A formal dinner will be served at 19h30. All meals are served at one sitting only in the dining cars. Lunch and dinner are heralded by a gong. All meals will be served at the above times unless otherwise stated in your timetable. Mobile phones, Laptops and Electronic Devices -The reception is poor while the train is moving, but does improve when we are stationary or near main roads. Please note that the use of mobile telephones, laptop computers and other electronic devices is forbidden in all the public areas. You may use your mobile and computer (quietly) in the privacy of your suite. Money Exchange - Money might be exchanged at the Gift Shop if currency is available. It is not normally catered for. Passports - If passports are required the Gift Shop host/ess will provide the necessary forms to be filled in, and will endeavour to clear the borders without inconveniencing you (endeavour being the operative word). Postage - Stamps are available for sale from the Gift Shop. Postcards may be posted in the post box at the entrance to the observation car or at Capital Park Station in Pretoria. Safe - An electronic safe is provided in the cupboard in each suite. The safe is set on 4 zeros which may be reset with your own code. Please remember your code and also to leave the safe open at the end of your journey. Security - Please close shutters or preferably shutter and window if leaving your suite. If left open the temptation provided for anyone standing on the platform might be too great. Safes are provided in your suite for valuables. Please refer to the safety section of this folder. Service - There is a hook outside your door on which to hang the provided red or white tags for room service. If you might need service between 24h00 and 06h00 please ask your host/ess to indicate where she is billeted and what her telephone number is. (They enjoy being woken around 04h00). Please check your guest list for all the telephone numbers. Shoeshine - There is a shoe cleaning sponge in the amenity bag for your personal use. Should you wish to have your shoes cleaned by your host/ess please place them in the bag provided in the cupboard. Smoking - Smoking is allowed in the Club Car. Please do not throw flammable items such as cigarette butts off the train, as bush fires in Africa are a constant and dangerous hazard. Special Occasions - We would like to celebrate your special occasion with you. Please advise the train manager of any birthday, anniversary or other event upon boarding the train. Shaving Plugs - There are 110V 2 prong plugs for shavers and a 220V 2 pin plug for chargers. Telephone - There is an internal telephone system on board enabling calls to the train manager, host/ess, bars, kitchen and lounges. Please familiarize yourself with the relevant telephone numbers on your Guest list. Temperature - All the public cars are fitted with gas-filled air-conditioning systems. For the comfort of guests, each suite has an individual air-conditioner with individual temperature controls which range from 18 to 24°C (65 to 77°F). Fresh air intake is simply solved by opening a window! Please close all windows while operating the air-conditioning unit. During cold periods your air-conditioning unit can be set on heat mode. Electric under-blankets are fitted on the bed. The Track - The track over which we travel is inconsistently maintained. If you are a light sleeper and wake at night imagining the train is travelling at high speed, be assured it is the state of the track below that is creating that impression. We restrict the train to 60kmph and over the bad sections reduce speed to as little as 20kmph. A sleeping tablet or a wee bit more of your favourite tipple might be appropriate. Earplugs are available on request – not only for the train mind you! The Train - The make up of the train (generally) is as follows: Behind the locomotives there is a generator car, staff car, guest sleepers, a non-smoking lounge car, two non-smoking 42 seat dining cars (plenty of space for the maximum of 70 passengers carried) with the kitchen car in between (centre of the train), more guest sleepers, a smokers lounge and the Observation Car at the tail. Please do not remove anything from the Train. The staff are held responsible for their allocated areas and are obliged to report any shortages to the Manager. Water - Water inside the suites has been filtered and chlorinated; it is safe for bathing and brushing teeth only. Please use the bottled water provided in your bar fridge for drinking. Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com ROVOS RAIL - Experience the extravagant elegance of rail travel on the most luxurious train in the world. Rovos Rail's unique train safaris through the heart of Africa combine some of the most magnificent scenery with the glamour and excitement of the golden age of rail travel. Since its establishment in 1989, Rovos Rail has earned an international reputation for its truly world-class travel experiences. Step aboard the wood-panelled coaches - classics remodelled and refurbished to mint condition - and enjoy fine cuisine in five-star luxury as some of the most varied scenery imaginable unfolds beyond the windows. Recapture the romance and atmosphere of a bygone era, when privileged travellers experienced the magic and mystery of Africa in a relaxed and elegant fashion. Expo Cruises & Tours | 416.439.6311 | 1.888.819.7447 | www.Expo-Cruises.com 11