It’s the beginning of a new year and you’re probably thinking about how to get the most out of it. And if you want to do that, you can’t afford to waste any time. That’s why we’re here to help! Rovos Rail is one of the fastest and most efficient ways to travel between Johannesburg and Pretoria—and we want to make sure that every second of your journey is as enjoyable as possible. That’s why we’ve put together this list of tips for what to wear on your next Rovos Rail journey. You’ve heard of the Rovos Rail, but do you know what to wear on it? The Rovos Rail is a luxury train that runs from Pretoria to Cape Town. It’s a great way to see South Africa and enjoy its beautiful scenery, but it’s also important to dress appropriately for the occasion. We’ve put together some tips for what to wear on your trip so you can feel comfortable and look great!

You’re on the Rovos Rail. You’ve booked your tickets, made sure you’ve got plenty of snacks and drinks, and you’re ready to go. But what should you wear? The Rovos Rail is a luxurious train that runs between Pretoria and Cape Town, but it’s not just your average luxury train—it’s one of the best in the world. It’s designed to be more than just a way to get from point A to point B. It’s an experience. And when you’re on an experience like this, you want to make sure that you look your best! That’s why we’ve put together this handy guide for what to wear on Rovos Rail: When you’re on a Rovos Rail tour, you want to look your best, but you also don’t want to be too dressy. The dress code that we recommend is casual chic. You want to look like you put some effort into your outfit, but not like you tried too hard. For men, this means dark jeans and a button-down shirt or blazer with loafers. For women, it means a nice pair of pants or skirt with a nice top (think flowy) and heels. Remember: You are going on vacation! So don’t feel like you have to wear anything too fancy or uncomfortable—just be yourself and have fun!

Rovos Rail is a luxury train company that offers service between Pretoria and Cape Town, South Africa. It is one of the most expensive rail lines in the world, with a single ticket costing upwards of $600 USD. The price tag is justified by the experience: passengers are treated like royalty with five-star meals and accommodations at each stop along the way. The dress code for Rovos Rail is casual yet elegant. Men should wear khakis or dark jeans and collared shirts, while women should wear sundresses or blouses with skirts or pantsuits. For formal events, men should wear suits and ties and women should wear cocktail dresses or long dresses.

What to Wear on Rovos Rail

We all know that Rovos Rail is the most famous train in South Africa. It’s a luxury train that travels through the country’s most beautiful areas, like the Garden Route and Cape Town.

The trains are famous for their style and history—they’ve been around since 1873!

But what should you wear? What are the best outfits for Rovos Rail?

Have you ever felt like you’re in a rut, and it’s hard to get out of it?

Part of the charm of travelling on Africa’s most luxurious train is that guests are required to look the part. Forget your yoga pants and flip-flops – it’s time to whip out those sparkly cocktail numbers, flowy dresses and sports jackets.

The dress code is smart-casual during the day. Be sure to pack comfortable shoes, a hat and sunblock for the times you will be disembarking on day tours. Evenings are more formal: men are required to wear a jacket and tie and, for the ladies, cocktail dress is suggested. Pairs of pumps or dressy flats are a clever idea, especially if you’re worried about navigating a moving train in heels.

Rooms are spacious so there is plenty of luggage space for those extra items. If there are weight restrictions for other parts of your trip, our Africa Safari Experts can arrange for your extra Rovos Rail items to be stored until you board the train, or when you disembark. Don’t forget warm clothing for chilly mornings and evenings.

In its ornate dark wood finishes and 1920s glamour, the train encapsulates the spirit of a bygone era. Keeping in this spirit, there are no TV, radio or Wi-Fi connections on board and guests are not permitted to use cell phones or electronic devices in the shared spaces. Pack a good book, your Kindle or a journal, and take advantage of this quiet time to enjoy the scenery, wine and dine, socialise and play a few old-school board and card games in the lounge car.

Our handy infographics – for him and for her – will give you a better idea of what clothing to pack for your Rovos Rail train journey.

Rovos Rail is well-known for being the most luxurious train in the world. From the moment guests enter the headquarters, it’s as if they have travelled back in time to an opulent and elegant era.

With incredible attention to detail, lavish offerings, an incredibly warm atmosphere and enlightening guided tours along the way, it’s easy to see why rail journeys aboard the Rovos Rail are such popular and highly sought-after travel experiences.

The History of Rovos Rail

The story of Africa’s finest vintage train begins at an auction in 1985.

Rovos Rail founder, Rohan Vos, a successful mechanical businessman together with his wife Anthea had attended an auction of old coaches. They had an intention of restoring four carriages and taking them to South African Railways (SAR) as a family caravan. Several coaches were purchased, one of them being, Private Saloon 15063 that is still in service today.

After the purchase of several coaches, Rohan took a big leap and purchased a 1938 locomotive from a scrap yard. This was rebuilt and named Bianca after one of his daughters. The idea of long-distance train travel as a business venture came to life, and Rohan was permitted to run his Rovos Rail train in December 1986.

With the business growing alongside the family, all of the engines have been named after Rohan and Anthea’s children; Brenda, Bianca, Tiffany and Shaun.

Rovos Rail accommodation

Life on board the Rovos Rail is a grand affair with the most excellent finishings and exceptional attention to detail. There are three different cabin types:

• Pullman Suites (±7 sq metres)
• Deluxe Suites (±10 sq metres)
• Royal Suites (the most spacious, measuring ±16 sq metres)

The deep wood panelling, richly coloured carpets and beautifully restored carriages hint at the Victorian era of luxury train travel. The cabins are equipped with a double or twin-style bed with soft down duvets and plush pillows. There is a lounging area to read, relax and soak up the passing scenery.

Each cabin comes complete with a private bathroom and flushing toilet. The Royal Suites include a Victorian-inspired bathtub while the other cabins – Deluxe and Pullman Suites – include a shower.

Hot-water bottles and electric blankets are provided during the colder months. There is nothing quite as relaxing as being wrapped up in the best linen with a good cup of coffee while watching Southern Africa’s glorious scenery pass by.

Wining and Dining on the Rovos Rail

A journey aboard Rovos Rail is a gastronomical utopia.

For international travellers, it’s an enchanting “first date” with South Africa’s most classic flavours and signature dishes.

Meal times are a ceremonious occasion on Rovos, set in an Edwardian style manner, with a warm and romantic atmosphere. Four-course menus boast world-class wine and delicious cheeses prepared with a modern twist.  

Guests are urged to dress up for the affair, adding to the celebratory feel of the evening. Tables are meticulously set with crisp white linen tablecloths, gleaming silver and sparkling crystal glasses add to the ambience of the celebration.

Meals on all the various rail journeys are served at set times:

• Breakfast takes place between 07h00 and 10h00. Guests can choose from a selection of delicious breakfast options from the a la carte menu.
• Lunch and dinner is a formal affair with a four-course menu. Including starters, mains, cheese platters and desserts, each course is paired with a perfect South African wine.

Dietary requirements are attentively taken care of.

As well as the breakfast, lunch and dinner services, there is a daily High Tea served at 16h30. Here, scrumptious spreads of sweet and savoury snacks are served either in the Lounge Car or the Observation Cart. Afternoon tea is served with an array of cakes, fresh fruit, savoury snacks and a selection of teas, coffee, wine and cocktails.

Rovos Rail routes

The most luxurious train in the world, Rovos Rail offers a series of luxurious train journeys that last anywhere from 48 hours to 15 days.

Rovos Rail links some of Africa’s most fabulous destinations, from bustling cities, extraordinary game reserves, desert landscapes, quaint towns, historic sites and lush, scenic attractions into a grand long-distance voyage, reminiscent of the old days.

The private train service is an opulent extravaganza adorned with captivating art, vintage decor, exquisite vintage coaches, and incredible cuisine.

Depending on the Rovos Rail journey route and itinerary, the train will stop at various points so that passengers can explore the surrounding environment. All of the off-train excursions are guided, promising guests a truly informative and engaging experience at each destination.

If travelling on the famous Cape Town – Pretoria journey, guests will have the opportunity to explore the local attractions such as the Victorian town of Matjiesfontein and the historic village and Big Hole of Kimberley. If guests are travelling outside of South Africa, excursions may include an extraordinary safari experience or a visit to one of the natural wonders of the world; The Victoria Falls.

Rovos Rail Tours and Itineraries

Below are a selection of the popular Rovos Rail itineraries:

• Cape Town Journey (3 Days): The popular train route between Cape Town and Pretoria is the perfect journey from the famous Mother City to the country’s Capital city, showcasing South Africa’s gems in between.
• Victoria Falls Journey (4 Days): Embark on a magical trip through to Zimbabwe, with a visit to one of the seven natural wonders of the world, Victoria Falls.
• Durban Safari (3 Days): Travel through the spectacular scenery of Natal Midlands and Drakensberg Mountains, into the heart of the African bushveld for a magical affair experience.
• Golf Safari (9 Days): Play at a selection of the most beautiful golf courses in South Africa.
• Namibian Safari (9 Days): An epic journey from the savannahs of the Highveld through historic Kimberley to the Fish River Canyon, Etosha Pan and the deserts of Namibia.
• Dar es Salaam Journey (15 Days): This trans-African safari carries explorers between Cape Town and Dar es Salaam on one of the most memorable train rides in the world.

Why You Should Book a Rovos Rail Journey

A luxury rail journey is an excellent way to escape the fast-paced lifestyle of the 21st century and travel back in time to a nostalgic and elegant era.

Long-distance luxury train travel is an opportunity to slow down and soak in the incredible natural beauty that surrounds us. Rovos Rail provides travellers with a ‘digital detox,’ and there are no televisions or radios on board. There is also no Wifi abroad the train, and guests are requested to only use screens in their cabins.

A trip aboard the Rovos Rail is the perfect opportunity to switch off from the internet and reconnect with the incredible surroundings and scenery of Southern Africa.

The train, the service, the food and wine are all proudly South African and run by the Vos family, who have a passion and love for what they do.

Rovos Rail is a luxurious and unforgettable experience that is sure to make you feel relaxed and rejuvenated.

What to wear on Rovos Rail

The dress code on the Rovos Rail is smart-casual. You’ll get away with a more casual look during the day, especially on excursion days where you’ll want to be comfortable. However, evenings are a fancy affair.

Dinner has a cocktail dress code with men expected to wear a jacket and tie, while the ladies should wear elegant cocktail dresses and heels (pumps or dressy flats are also fine). The evening dress code really adds to the sophisticated ambiance – so don’t be afraid to dress up a little!

Each suite can easily accommodate several suitcases, so don’t be afraid of overpacking!

Here’s a few more tips for packing for a Rovos Rail trip:

• For the men, opt for a classic fitted blazer that you can also wear on a night out in Cape Town or while going for dinner in Victoria Falls.
• To prevent wrinkled suits/blazers while traveling, make sure to pack your suit in a bag that folds over itself. Here’s a great bag by David King & Co.
• For the ladies traveling with an evening gown, you may also want to protect it with a protective garment bag, like this one.
• Don’t forget about your jewellery, keep it all organised in this luxury jewellery travel case.
• Keep your make-up organised with this three-piece travel make-up bag.
• Don’t forget to pack comfortable shoes, a hat and sunscreen for the daytime excursions.

Are children allowed on the Rovos Rail?

Rovos Rail does accommodate children above the age three. However, they ask parents to be sensitive to the adult atmosphere of the train. 

The trips are more geared to adults, with no facilities for babies, toddlers or older children aboard. Excursions are also more suited to adults and there are no outdoor areas or indoor activities for kids to play around in. If your kids are extremely active, then these are things to keep in mind. If, however, they love getting lost in their book for hours, then a trip aboard the Rovos Rail may just be their dream.

Long journeys are not recommended for children under 13. Children over the age of five will also be required to have their own cabin/suite, as a maximum of two guests are allowed per suite/cabin. If you aren’t comfortable with this, then one parent can share with the child.

Rovos Rail prices for children:

• 3-9 years:  pays 75% of the adult per person sharing rate.
• 10+ years: pays full rate.

What to Wear on Rosh Hashanah

Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is here!

The holiday is celebrated over two days: the first day of Rosh Hashanah is called Yom Teruah and the second is Yom Kippur. Both days are marked with prayer and fasting, but Yom Kippur is especially important because it’s celebrated as a day of spiritual reflection, repentance, and atonement.

What should you wear for these two days? The answer depends on whether you’ll be at home or going out in public. If you’re going to be staying home with family and friends who are fasting for Yom Kippur, dress casually. But if you’re planning on going out in public during this time—and many people do attend synagogue services—you’ll want to wear something slightly nicer than jeans or shorts.

We know that you’re probably wondering what to wear to your next Rosh Hashanah holiday party, so we’ve got you covered.

We’ve put together a list of some of our favorite outfits and accessories that are perfect for any occasion.

Rosh Hashanah is a time of celebration and reflection, a holy day that marks the beginning of the Jewish New Year. It’s also a time to get dressed up and celebrate with family, friends, and strangers alike!

But what should you wear? We’ve got your guide to dressing for Rosh Hashanah so that you can look great and feel comfortable all night long.

Rosh Hashanah is the Jewish New Year, and it’s one of the most important holidays in the Jewish calendar. It marks the beginning of Elul, the period between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur during which Jews are meant to reflect on their lives and make amends for their wrongdoings throughout the past year.

Rosh Hashanah is often called “the Jewish New Year,” but that’s not exactly true—it actually marks both a new year and a new month (Tishrei). The Jewish calendar is based on a lunar cycle, so there are 12 months instead of 12 weeks.

The holiday lasts for two days: The first day is known as Rosh Hashanah; it marks the beginning of Tishrei (the seventh month of the Jewish calendar) and is also referred to as Yom Teruah (Day of Trumpets). The second day is known as Yom Kippur—it marks the end of Tishrei and is also referred to as Yom Kippurim (Day of Atonement).

The Jewish High Holidays—Rosh Hashanah (the Jewish New Year) and Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement)—are among the most sacred days of the year. These are days of celebration, self-reflection and repentance.

When attending synagogue on these High Holy days, it is important to dress comfortably and respectfully. Here’s what to wear.

For Rosh Hashanah attire, go with a nice, stylish daytime outfit. Dressy, as if you were going to a daytime wedding, but less formal than an evening event.For women, shoulders should always be covered. Nice pants or skirts are appropriate, however skirt hemlines should end just right above the knee or lower. Simple and tasteful makeup and jewelry is best. For men, choose a collared shirt and tie. A jacket is optional, but nice.

Wear comfortable shoes. Synagogue services require frequent rising and standing for periods of time

Men don a small round skullcap, otherwise known as a kippah or yarmulke, to show respect to God. Some Jewish women may choose to cover their head with a scarf, hat or wig after they are married. However for most women, this is optional.

If you are Jewish and older than 13 (meaning you have come of age in the eyes of the religion), you can choose to wear a prayer shawl or tallit. Typically worn by males, a prayer shawl is made with ritually tied knots known as tzitzit at the four corners and a specific blessing printed on the neckband. Most synagogues have extra prayer shawls on a rack at the entrance that you can borrow these during services.

Yom Kippur
For Yom Kippur, start with a similarly modest and elegant outfit to the one you chose for Rosh Hashanah. Again, women should cover their shoulders and show only a little bit of skin above the knee. Men at most synagogues wear ties and jackets.

Choose non-leather shoes. Wearing leather is among one of the five prohibitions (along with eating and drinking) on Yom Kippur. Many people wear relatively casual shoes such as canvas sneakers to follow this tradition. Any synthetic, non-leather shoe is ideal.

It’s customary to wear white (or a light color)—a tradition that symbolizes purity on Yom Kippur. The symbolism stems from the following verse in Isaiah (1:18): “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.” The rabbi and cantor will usually wear kittels, or ritual white robes. It’s rare for congregants to wear these, so white or light clothing fulfills the same purpose.

Suits
Although a jacket is not required for visitation, it certainly is not over-dressing. A skirt suit or pant suit for women and a suit, sport coat or blazer for men are appropriate options. Jeans can be a close call. If you wear them, choose a dark style with minimal, if any, ornamentation. Pair them with a dress shirt or blouse and a jacket, or a sweater and necktie, for a polished look. Dressier footwear is preferable to casual and athletic shoes; closed-toe pumps for women are a discreet choice.

All Black
It’s too soon to look so morose. The bereaved are trying to stay somewhat upbeat as they greet seemingly countless well-wishers. Save monochromatic black for the funeral. However, don’t go to the other extreme and overdose on bright colors, loud prints and metallic glimmer. They don’t suggest sorrow or mourning, and you’re not attending a concert or garden party. You’re best off tastefully de-emphasizing your appearance by sticking to traditional styles in non-aggressive neutral hues, such as shades of gray, brown, blue, black and white.

Too Casual
Some looks are too casual for such a serious and somber occasion. You don’t want to come across as if you don’t care about the deceased or the bereaved, or don’t have enough respect to dress with more decorum. If you can wear it to the beach — shorts, casual tank tops, flip-flops — don’t wear it to a funeral home visitation. Work uniforms are inappropriate, as well, and should not be worn unless they are clean and it was impossible for you to change clothes. For women, even if the weather is hot and your option is a dress, make sure your shoulders are covered, the neckline is modest and the hemline is longer than mini-length.

Children
It matters what kids wear. This is a time to teach them appropriate attire, not allow them to wear whatever they please because of their youth. For girls, a dress — or skirt with a blouse or sweater — are appropriate looks. For boys, a necktie with dress pants, if not a jacket, are in order. Like adults, neutral colors are best. Choose dressier shoes for children rather than sneakers.