COAST TO COAST ABOARD ROVOS RAIL
JO TAYLOR ON TRAVELLING ABOARD ROVOS RAIL
One of our most experienced Tour Managers, Jo Taylor reveals her highlights of a renowned rail journey across Africa. Travelling coast to coast aboard the refined Rovos Rail, our privately chartered journey is one of remote wonders and complete comfort.
23 Days, Luanda to Maputo, 20 July 2026. Discover more about this year's Angola to Mozambique Aboard Rovos Rail here.
JO TAYLOR, TOUR MANAGER
Jo’s favourite travel quote is “I haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on my list” – Susan Sontag. And with 70 countries successfully traversed, she is well on her way. Hard-pressed to pick a favourite, Jo says that each destination has been a great source of enjoyment for different reasons. Joining the team in 2007, her attention to detail ensures guests get the most from their journey.
A CONVIVAL TIME ABOARD
Beyond all the spectacular sightseeing we will enjoy on this journey, what I am mostly excited about is the social dynamic. With everyone on the train together, we naturally form a close-knit community. Sharing meals and evenings in the lounge cars leads to a comfortable rhythm among the group, which is a great part of the charter experience.
THE ROVOS RAIL LIFESTYLE
Rovos Rail isn't just a means of getting to our next destination; it’s an adventure in itself. Africa’s remote landscapes slowly pass by your window, its wide-open plains transforming in response to the changing light.
And, of course, being spoilt by the Rovos Rail staff is all part of the experience too. Daily events, such as dressing for dinner, enjoying fine food, and relaxing in the observation car become highlights as we roll onward.
Traversing Africa by train is quite rare, and looking back on such a journey inevitably brings feelings of nostalgia. It’s exciting to relive all of that again when you get home and tell friends and family about it.
REASONS TO RETURN
Africa’s terrain is so varied and dramatic. We have opportunities to be awe-struck on many occasions throughout this journey. The helicopter flight over Victoria Falls is one of those moments that feels almost unreal from the second you lift off. The wide Zambezi River stretches out beneath you, before it suddenly plunges into a vast crack in the earth. Keep watch for wildlife along the banks of the river as you soar overhead. Elsewhere, savannas, deserts, vineyards and mountains are effortlessly revealed.
I am also excited to return to Luanda and Lobito. Luanda is a city of contrasts; fast-paced, colourful and layered with history. I love the mix of the coastline, colonial architecture, and modern high-rises all side by side. The market here, Mercado do Benfica, is stocked with vibrant textiles, carved wooden figures, paintings, and everyday goods. The colours, sounds, and interactions here give you a real sense of daily life and the warmth of the people. Luanda carries the weight of its history, but what stands out most is its energy and resilience – it isn’t polished, but it’s full of character!
Lobito has a completely different feel, being more laid-back and shaped by its beautiful coastal setting. This is the heart of Lobito, where locals gather to wander the waterfront or to fish. The narrow Restinga Peninsula is lined with hotels and small restaurants, and the pace is certainly unhurried.
Along the way, we’ll also enjoy a few nights off the train, staying at South Luangwa National Park and Kapama Private Game Reserve, where we’ll head out in search Africa’s iconic wildlife.
I am so excited about everything on this tour and look forward to seeing you in Angola.