Have you ever been curious about how our tour products are developed?
In addition to monitoring interest and feedback expressed by our guests, Orbridge cultivates new program opportunities and implements refinements to existing itineraries during exploratory travels. Compiling research, inspecting properties, leveraging relationships with destination teams, and evaluating trip experiences first-hand promote our commitment to quality and educational, immersive content.
Join us for a boots-on-the-ground perspective by a team member returning from Southern Africa for her destination illumination!
African Expedition by Private Train
Not only does our Africa train safari itinerary feature destinations off the standard tourist trail, it is also culturally enriching. Board the African Explorer in Pretoria to begin a journey of insightful lectures, inspiring landscapes, and incredible treasures that abound in archaeological and natural sites.
To recapture the romance of a bygone era of travel with an insider's perspective, we turn to Camie, Operations Program Manager for African Expedition by Private Train.
Question: Camie, tell us a bit about why you were in Southern Africa.
Camie: I traveled there to experience this tour first-hand—to become familiar with all aspects of the program logistically and operationally. I had the privilege of exploring four countries in one trip.
Question: What are the accommodations like for this program? How did you find the train?
Camie: Traveling aboard a luxury train is a unique experience! On the train, passengers have a private sleeper cabin with ensuite bathroom and shower, windows that open, adjustable air conditioning, safe, and more. The train also has dining cars, lounge cars, and multi-purpose rooms for relaxing and enjoying the journey. I had never spent the night on a train, but I’ve seen what those locomotives are like. This train, however, was even better than I expected. It is well equipped, with everything you could need or want, and the staff were so friendly and accommodating. They went out of their way to make sure you had the best experience. Additionally, guests of this program also spend a few overnights of lodging in Pretoria, near Kruger National Park, and near Victoria Falls—these are also quite spectacular.
Question: You mentioned the dining cars of the train. How were the dinners as you rode along the rails? And is there a dress code for meals?
Camie: They were great! The two air-conditioned restaurant cars serve both African and European cuisine. Dinners are presented in three courses with options to choose from. There isn't a dress code for dining, so no special attire is required.
Question: In the travel industry, we know it's all about the details and creating a positive experience for our guests. Describe how transfers and baggage handling works for this program.
Camie: It was seamless. From the minute we arrived at the station to board the train, porters unloaded all the luggage and it was waiting in each person’s cabin once we boarded. For the safari lodge stay near Kruger National Park, I packed my small overnight bag, left it on the train while I enjoyed the days’ excursions, and it was in my room when I arrived at the lodge. Same thing when we left the lodge—my bag was brought to my cabin on the train. I would recommend guests use soft-shell luggage rather than pieces with hard cases because of space constraints.
Question: You mentioned exploring the iconic Kruger National Park, which we know to be one of the largest game reserves in Africa. Are there additional areas rich in wildlife visited?
Camie: Yes! There are additional stops at Makalali Game Reserve and Hwange National Park.
Question: What do you feel was the most relaxing part of this journey?
Camie: There are two train days where guests don’t get off the train. These days were timed nicely to give us a break from all the other days’ adventures and activities. Sitting on the train, looking out the window watching the landscape pass by (and sometime the people waving at us as we passed) was not only relaxing, it was one of my favorite parts of the trip, actually.
Question: That does sound lovely! So, describe the pace of the itinerary, please. Is it fast, slow, or somewhere in between?
Camie: I think it was just right. The few early morning game drives were balanced by some slower, relaxing mornings. We were back on the train for dinner each night with enough time to freshen up first and unwind after.
Question: Did you go anywhere so beautiful you feel like photos simply can't do the location justice?
Camie: Yes, too many to name! Blyde River Canyon and Bourke’s Luck Potholes are gorgeous, and photos only hint at how breathtaking they really are. The landscapes carved by water remind me of parks and canyons in Utah/Arizona parks.
Matobo National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an enchanting piece of Zimbabwe with nice views, some wildlife, and interesting stories. I enjoyed the distinctive rock formations and rock paintings there. Victoria Falls, considered to be the largest waterfall in the world, is an awesome force of nature to behold. I can see now why it makes the list of "Seven Natural Wonders of the World."
Question: Thank you for sharing, Camie! In your opinion, who would enjoy this adventure?
Camie: Train enthusiasts and novices alike are sure to find the African Explorer special given its private bathrooms, the availability of social spaces to interact with fellow travelers, access to an onboard physician, and the open observation car. (It's like sitting outside on a porch while also riding on a train!) Plus, with four African countries to see, wildlife viewing is world-class, the scenery is fabulous, and there are unique cultural and historic experiences found nowhere else.
African safaris and game drives are by nature exhilarating and memorable, but they aren't always comfortable and tranquil. I would suggest for adventure seekers craving something different to consider the luxury train experience by Orbridge to add variety to the mix. The train portion brings added convenience, environmental consciousness, spectacular views, and refined perks.
At Orbridge, our Destination Specialists curate and support meaningful travel showcasing the world's natural beauty, intriguing history, and diverse people. Combined with outstanding properties, knowledgeable leaders, and enriching excursions, our educational programs satisfy the curiosity of the nation's top alumni travel programs and other like-minded organizations.
Ignite your passion for travel to Southern Africa or from a menu of other transformative adventures at orbridge.com. Our team is available to answer your questions at (866) 639-0079.