Rovos Rail African Collage (13 Days)

Rovos Rail African Collage Map

The Rovos Rail African Collage is a luxury train journey that includes a golfing and non-golfing itinerary. Traveling from Pretoria to Cape Town (southbound). Or, vice versa. It also offers stops in Golden Gate National Park, the picturesque town of Clarens and Bloemfontein, the city of roses. Plus, some of the sights or golf in Eswatini too. The golf offered on this journey is at some of South Africa’s best golf courses.

Skip to Rovos Rail African Collage Journey Rates and Departure Dates or Golf Courses

Highlights on the Rovos Rail African Collage

The famous Kruger National Park (2-million hectares) is a world leader in advanced environmental management techniques. It is home to an impressive number of species. For example; 336 species of trees, 49 species of fish, 34 species of amphibians, 114 species of reptiles, 507 species of birds. And of course; 147 species of mammals including the Big Five.

Kwa-Zulu Natal

The Drakensberg Mountains were first named by the Voortrekkers. They thought the unbroken chain of heavily weathered peaks reminded them of the spines on a dragon’s back. Hence the name ‘Dragon Mountain’ or Drakensberg in Afrikaans. Golden Gate Highlands National Park’s most notable features are its golden ochre and orange-hued deeply eroded sandstone cliffs and outcrops. Especially the Brandwag Rock.

As the oldest proclaimed reserve in Africa, Hluhluwe consists of 960km² of hilly topography in central Zululand. It is known for its rich wildlife and conservation efforts. It has all the Big Five game animals and is also a prime birding destination.

Luxury Rovos train journey
KwaZulu Natal scenery

Durban is the third largest city in South Africa. It enjoys great importance due to its industry and very large port.

Orange Free State

Bloemfontein is the seat of the South African judicial system. At the end of the 19th century it was also the capital of the old Boer Republic of The Orange Free State. Bloemfontein is capital of the Free State Province. It is also known as the Rose City. Loch Logan Waterfront is next to the city’s newly renovated stadium. Which was one of the venues during the 2010 Soccer World Cup. The Women’s Memorial at the Anglo Boer War Museum is a reminder of life in the concentration camps. It commemorates the 27 000 women and children who died in these camps. The Museum itself is a graphic depiction of the hardship endured by all during the war. It relates the history of South Africa from 1652.

Cape

Addo Elephant Park is South Africa’s third largest national reserve stretching from the semi-arid Karoo. Over the Zuurberg Mountains, and down through the Sundays River valley to the coast. The park is home to one of the densest African Elephant populations on earth.

The Garden Route
Traverse the Karoo, a vast and beautiful semi-desert stretching across the great South African plateau. Inland from the Cape coast with scattered towns and villages. Cross the dry southeastern region with its variety of grasses, hardy shrubs, tumbleweeds, and succulents. And descend the Great Escarpment towards the coast. This semi-desert region is at the foot of the majestic Swartberg mountain range. Where many rivers, streams, and falls have their origins.

Oudtshoorn is regarded as the center of the Klein Karoo. It is famous for feathering the world in the time of the boa and grand hats. The ostrich boom of the early 20th century turned out many millionaires. Who, in turn, created elaborate lifestyles in this remote part of Africa.

George and Knysna sit between the majestic Outeniqua Mountains to the north and the Indian Ocean to the south. Two sandstone cliffs guard the mouth of the lagoon connecting the estuary with the sea; Knysna Heads. It is a dramatic viewpoint. The train travels the Garden Route. A narrow coastal terrace lying between the deep-set coastal cliffs. Rising sheer out of the sea and the mountains a short distance inland. A topology that facilitates for heavy rainfall, hence the name as it is always lush and green.

Eswatini

The tiny landlocked Kingdom of Eswatini (Swaziland) covers only 17 000km2, most of which is mountainous. For such a small country, it is surprising that it sustains two capital cities. Mbabane is the administrative capital and Lobamba is the royal and legislative capital. In April 2018; Swaziland changed its name to the Kingdom of Eswatini (meaning “place of the Swazi”) and is an absolute monarchy. It borders South Africa and Mozambique.

Available in reverse from Cape Town to Pretoria.

13 Day Luxury Rovos Rail African Collage

Southbound: Pretoria to Cape Town Daily Itinerary ↓

Day 1

Depart Rovos Rail Station in Pretoria at 6 pm. The train travels on the eastern line towards the harsh eMalahleni coal-mining area and Middelburg. Known as the “stainless steel capital of Africa”. The Dutch railway building company, NZASM, built the eastern line between Pretoria and Lourenço Marques (Maputo) from 1893 to 1895.

Day 2

Breakfast in the dining cars from 7 am – 10 am. The rolling hills of eMakhazeni, eNtokozweni and Dullstroom are a welcome sight. They are renowned for the genteel yet skilled sport of trout fishing. Lunch at 1 pm as the train descends the spectacular Drakensberg Mountain escarpment. Dinner is at 7:30 pm in the dining cars en route to Malelane.

Day 3

Breakfast at 5:30 am.

Golfers:
Morning tee-off at either White River (±75 min) OR Mbombela (±60 min). All subject to availability followed by lunch. If available, golf at Leopard Creek may be booked on request for your own account.

Non-golfers:
Game drive in the Kruger National Park at 6:30 am with tea, lunch and an opportunity for curio shopping. Return to train at 3pm.

Tea in the lounge and observation cars at 4:30 pm. Dinner is at 7:30 pm whilst en route to Mpaka.

Day 4

Enjoy Breakfast at 6 am.

Golfers:
Morning tee-off at either Nkonyeni OR Royal Swazi followed by lunch. Both ±75 min transfer.

Non-golfers:
Transfer (±90 min) to Swazi Candles and Mantenga Cultural Village with lunch.
At Swazi Candles, guests are invited to interact with the artisans as they make a variety of candles. Woodcarvings, colorful textiles and superb basketwork are also on display.
Mantenga Lodge is nestled in the mountains overlooking ‘Execution Rock’. The village is a living museum of old traditions that represents a classic Swazi lifestyle during the 1800s.

Return to the train at 2 pm. Depart for Golela at 4 pm while enjoying tea in the lounge and observation carts. Dinner en route to Hluhluwe.

Day 5

Enjoy breakfast at 5 am. Transfer at 7 am (±30 min) to Hluhluwe for a game drive. Return to the train 11 am and enjoy lunch at 12:30 pm. Travel South along the Indian Ocean coastline. Enjoy tea at 4:30pm and then dinner at 7:30 pm.

Day 6

Enjoy Breakfast at 6 am.

Golfers:
Morning tee-off at either Durban Country Club (±15 min) OR Mt Edgecombe (±20 min) OR Cotswold Downs (±30 min). Followed by lunch.

Non-golfers:
Enjoy a Durban city tour, a visit to the botanical gardens, and lunch at Umhlanga’s beachfront.

Return to the train at 3 pm and travel the Valley of a Thousand Hills. Tonight’s dinner at 7:30 pm is an “Africa” theme or smart casual.

Day 7

Breakfast at 6 am in the dining cars.

Golfers:
After breakfast transfer (±75 min) to Champagne Sports Resort for a morning tee-off and lunch. Return at 3:30 pm (±75 min) to the train.

Non-golfers:
9 am transfer (±30 min) to Spionkop Lodge to hear the historic tale of the Battle of Spionkop and walk in the footsteps of Churchill and Gandhi. Enjoy lunch. At 2 pm enjoy an afternoon game drive OR relax at the lodge.

Enjoy dinner at 7:30 pm whilst en route to Harrismith.

Day 8

Enjoy breakfast at 6 am. Depart at 8 am through the Golden Gate Highlands National Park. Visit the small and picturesque town of Clarens situated on the foothills of the Maluti Mountains. Enjoy lunch at your own expense. Transfer (±60 min) at 1 pm to the Sandstone Heritage Trust. A large agricultural estate that houses an impressive collection of heritage trains, tractors, busses, cars and military vehicles. Transfer (±60 min) at 3:30 pm to the train at Bethlehem and depart for Bloemfontein. Enjoy dinner at 7:30 pm. The observation car will be leading the train until Port Elizabeth. A different aspect for any rail enthusiasts to enjoy.

Day 9

Enjoy breakfast at 6 am. Depart for a tour of Bloemfontein at 8 am including the Women’s Memorial and Anglo Boer War Museum. Depart for Coerney at 10 am, full day on board Rovos Rail to enjoy the scenery of Karoo. Lunch at 1 pm and dinner at 7:30 pm.

Day 10

Breakfast at 6 am.

Golfers:
Morning tee-off (±75 min) at Humewood Course and lunch. Return to the train at 3:45 pm in Port Elizabeth.

Non-golfers:
Morning game drive at 8 am at Addo Elephant Park. Depart for Port Elizabeth at 12 pm and enjoy lunch onboard at 1 pm.

Enjoy dinner at 7:30 pm whilst the train travels to Oudtshoorn via Willowmore.

Day 11

Enjoy breakfast at 6 am. Pack an overnight bag for your stay at Fancourt Estate. Head from Port Elizabeth Station to Oudebosch Farm Stall and enjoy a refreshment stop (±90 min). Golfers depart at 7:30 am and non-golfers at 8 am.

Golfers:
9:30 am: Depart to Pezula OR Simola for tee off and lunch.

Non-golfers:
At 10 am, you depart to Knysna (±90 min) to enjoy a ferry ride on the lagoon with lunch. Transfer (±60 min) to Fancourt.

Check in at Fancourt Estate and enjoy dinner at 7 pm.

Rovos Rail African Collage
Outeniqua Mountains

Day 12

Enjoy breakfast at 6:30 pm.

Golfers:
Enjoy breakfast until tee off at Fancourt. After lunch at 1:30 pm, transfer (±180 min) to Prince Albert Rd Station to rejoin the train. Enjoy a refreshment stop en route.

Non-golfers:
Transfer at 10 am (±60 min) to visit an ostrich farm followed by lunch. After lunch transfer at 1:30 pm (±30 min) to the Cango Caves for a visit. Transfer (±150 min) to Prince Albert Rd Station at 3 pm to rejoin the train.

Enjoy a 1920s-themed dinner at 7:30 pm en route to Matjiesfontein.

Garden Route Train Tour
Decorated ostrich eggs

Day 13

Enjoy breakfast at 7 am until 10 am. Trundle through the spectacular mountain ranges and scenic Winelands of the Western Cape towards the coast. Lunch is at 1 pm in the dining cars. Arrive at Cape Town Station at 6 pm.

Northbound: Cape Town to Pretoria Daily Itinerary ↓

Day 1

Depart Cape Town Station at 6 pm. Enjoy dinner at 7:30 pm as the train travels en route to Worcester.

Day 2

Enjoy breakfast at 7 am until 10 am as the train traverses through the spectacular mountain ranges and scenic Winelands of the Western Cape. The train arrives in Matjiesfontein where you can enjoy a stroll through the historic village. Of special interest is the museum on the platform and a collection of historic cars and railway carriages next to the Lord Milner Hotel. Lunch is served at 1 pm as the train departs for Prince Albert Rd Station. Enjoy dinner at 7:30 pm.

Rovos Rail African Collage
Scenic beauty of the Hiedelberg Mountains

Day 3

Enjoy breakfast at 6 am in the dining cars. Please pack an overnight bag for your stay at Fancourt.

Golfers:
After breakfast, at 8 am enjoy the scenic drive (±180 min) over the Swartberg Mountains and spectacular Outeniquas to Fancourt Golf Estate for tee-off. Enjoy lunch and then check in.

Non-golfers:
Transfer at 8:30 am (±150 min) to the Cango Caves for a visit. Transfer (±30 min) to Oudtshoorn for lunch followed by a visit to an ostrich farm. After lunch enjoy the scenic drive (±60 min) over the spectacular Outeniquas to Fancourt for check in.

Enjoy dinner at 7 pm at Fancourt.

Day 4

Enjoy breakfast at 6:30 am and then check out.

Golfers:
After breakfast, transfer at 8 am (±60 min) to Pezula OR Simola for tee-off and lunch. At 3:30 pm transfer (±180 min) to Port Elizabeth along the garden route with a refreshment stop included.

Non-golfers:
At 8:30 am transfer (±60 min) along the coast to Knysna and enjoy a ferry ride on the lagoon with lunch. Transfer at 2 pm (±90 min) from Knysna to Oudebosch and enjoy a refreshment stop. Transfer at 4 pm (±90 min) to the train in Port Elizabeth.

Dinner is at 7:30 pm.

Day 5

Enjoy breakfast at 6 am.

Golfers:
After breakfast transfer (±15 min) to Humewood Golf Course for tee off and lunch. After golf at 3:30 pm, enjoy the scenic drive (±75 min) over the Zuurberg Mountains to Coerney to rejoin the train.

Non-golfers:
Enjoy a tour of Port Elizabeth at 10 am. Depart for Coerney at 12:30 pm and lunch is served at 1 pm. Enjoy an afternoon game drive at Addo Elephant Park at 2:30 pm.

The observation car will be at the front of the train until tomorrow evening. A different aspect that rail enthusiasts enjoy. Dinner is at 7:30 pm.

Day 6

Enjoy breakfast at 6:30 until 9:30 am. Early lunch at 12 pm and then depart for an afternoon tour of Bloemfontein including the Women’s Memorial and Anglo Boer War Museum. Ascend the Great Escarpment and cross the dry southeastern region with its variety of grasses, hardy shrubs, tumbleweeds, and succulents. Dinner at 7:30 pm with an “Africa” theme or smart casual.

Day 7

Enjoy breakfast at 6 am. Depart at 8 am (±75 min) to the Sandstone Heritage Trust, a large agricultural estate that houses an impressive collection of heritage trains, tractors, busses, cars and military vehicles. At 12 pm visit the small and picturesque town of Clarens situated on the foothills of the Maluti Mountains. Enjoy lunch at your own expense. At 3 pm take a drive through the Golden Gate Highlands National Park. Return to the train at 6 pm at Harrismith and depart for Ladysmith. Enjoy dinner at 7:30 pm.

Day 8

Enjoy breakfast at 6 am.

Golfers:
Transfer (±75 min) to Champagne Sports Resort for tee-off and lunch. Return at 4:15 pm to meet the train at Escort. Shortly after Chieveley, on the right of the track, stands a memorial to Winston Churchill who was captured here in November 1899 while trying to free an armored train trapped by a Boer ambush.

Non-golfers:
Transfer at 9 am (±30 min) to Spionkop Lodge to hear the historic tale of the Battle of Spionkop and walk in the footsteps of Churchill and Gandhi. Enjoy lunch at the lodge at 12:45 pm. Afternoon game drive OR relax at the lodge at 2 pm. Return to the train at 4 pm.

Enjoy dinner at 7:30 pm en route to Durban.

Day 9

Enjoy breakfast at 6 am.

Golfers:
Transfer after breakfast to Durban Country Club (±15 min) OR Mt Edgecombe (±20 min) OR Cotswold Downs (±30 min) for tee-off and lunch.

Non-golfers:
After breakfast at 9 am, enjoy a Durban city tour, a visit to the botanical gardens, and lunch at Umhlanga’s beachfront with an afternoon at leisure.

Enjoy dinner at 7:30 pm.

Day 10

Breakfast at 5 am and transfer (±30 min) at 6 am to Hluhluwe for a game drive. Early lunch served back on the train at 12 pm. Dinner is served at 7:30 pm en route to Mpaka.

Day 11

Breakfast is served at 6 am.

Golfers: After breakfast transfer (±75 min) to Nkonyeni OR Royal Swazi for tee-off and lunch.

Non-golfers: Transfer at 8:30 pm (±90 min) to Swazi Candles and Mantenga Cultural Village for a visit with lunch. At Swazi Candles, guests are invited to interact with the artisans as they make a variety of candles.

Dinner at 7:30 pm.

Rovos Rail African Collage Journey
Execution Rock in Eswatini

Day 12

Breakfast at 5 am.

Golfers:
Transfer to White River Country Club (±75 min) OR Mbombela (±60 min) for tee-off and lunch. If available, golf at Leopard Creek may be booked on request for your own account.

Non-golfers:
6:30 am game drive in the Kruger National Park with tea, lunch, and an opportunity for curio shopping. Return to the train at 3 pm.

Enjoy a 1920s-themed dinner at 7:30 pm.

Day 13

Enjoy breakfast at 7 am and lunch at 1 pm. Arrive at the journey’s end at Rovos Rail Station, Pretoria at approximately 6 pm.

Rovos Rail African Collage Golf Courses

Golf courses on the journey are dependent on availability:
White River or Mbombela (Nelspruit) with Leopard Creek at an extra charge,
Nkonyeni or Royal Swazi,
Durban Country Club or Beachwood,
Champagne Sports Resort,
Humewood, Pezula or Simola,
Fancourt Montagu or Outeniqua.

Information on above Golf Courses ↓

Leopard Creek Golf Estate

The championship Leopard Creek golf course is situated near Malelane, in the heart of Mpumalanga; on the southern border of the Kruger National Park. It is this location, on the banks of the Crocodile River; that allows for the true essence of Africa to be experienced while playing what is recognized; by international golf journalists, commentators, and players alike, as a world-class golf course.
It is a testament to the skills of Gary Player’s design style; that South Africa’s maestro has also created this course. Here, he has used the naturally undulating terrain that meanders past low lying bush, typical of the area; and made great use of high vantage points to maximize the views not only of the golf holes; but also the mesmerizing surrounds of this wildlife area.

The course is exceptionally well-manicured; and the memory will be of immaculate sweeping fairways, dramatic and sparkling water features, and quite superb greens. Gary Player describes Leopard Creek as, “ A blend of good golf holes, a balance of short, long and medium-length holes.”

The feature hole at Leopard Creek is the 13th. This is not only because of the challenge it presents; but also because the green overhangs the Crocodile River; allowing for spectacular views over the river and the Kruger National Park.

Parklands • 6 631m • Carts compulsory

Kruger Golf
Leopard Creek Golf Course

White River

Naturally adapted to the valley floor upon which it lies; White River is located at the feet of several private nature reserves. Such is the beauty of the course that holes 7 and 11 have been compared to the likes of Augusta. Opened in 1924, it was designed by Gary Player and Reg Taylor. The long, snaking river that runs through the course is the
defining feature and is home to an astounding array of flora and fauna.

Signature hole: 5th – par 3 – 138m:
This hole calls for an accurate tee shot over the river onto a gently sloping green.

Parklands • 6 036m • Carts available

Kruger Golf
White River Golf Course

Mbombela (formerly Nelspruit) Golf Club

Mbombela lies in the fertile valley of the Crocodile River in the hot and humid Lowveld. It has a very important place on the tourist map due to its close proximity to the Kruger National Park. Founded in November 1928 and moved to its present location in 1939; Mbombela Golf Club is one of Mpumalanga’s top courses. The bushveld course is a Bob Grimsdell design built among rocky outcrops. It was a nine-holer for nearly 30 years before Grimsdell returned to complete a second nine in 1967. It was left largely untouched until 1998 when Peter Matcovich upgraded it.

The course is lined with indigenous Lowveld trees and bent grass greens and Cynoden / Kikuyu fairways complement the landscape. Mbombela Golf Club is famous for hosting the annual Jock of the Bushveld Festival of Golf; considered the biggest amateur tournament of its kind in the world. Started in 1968, it now receives some 800 amateurs from far and wide; who play more than 2 000 rounds during a week in May.

Parklands • 5 700m • Carts available

Kruger Golf
Mbombela Golf Course (ex Nelspruit)

Nkonyeni Golf Estate

Nkonyeni offers Swaziland’s premier 18 Hole championship golf course. The course designed by Phil Jacobs and presents a challenge to young and old. At the same time is fun playing. The Course meanders through the Game Reserve and you will enjoy the golf with the game looking on.

Rovos Rail African Collage
Nkonyeni Golf Estate 8th hole

Royal Swazi

Eswatini • Parklands • 6 166m • Carts available
This spectacular championship course is one of the most scenic locations found in the world. Opened in 1966, it has been laid out on the slopes of the Lebombo Range that curve gently down into the valley. The first nine holes are comparatively level but the second nine fully exploits the mountainous terrain. Challenging features include lakes, gullies thick with vegetation, out-of-bound areas running close to fairways, swirling breezes, clusters of magnificent trees and indigenous plants and wickedly sited bunkers. One is so steep it requires steps to facilitate access.

Durban Country Club

Built by George Waterman and fellow professional golfer Laurie Waters, the Durban Country Club was established in 1922 and has a proud history. The difficulties these men faced were immense; as all earth-moving had to be done manually, giant sand dunes were flattened and dense bush and trees were chopped down and carted away. Renowned for its classic Cape Dutch architecture, lush vegetation, undulating fairways, sand dunes, and beautiful setting overlooking the Indian Ocean; the club has been the venue of choice for many an important celebration in its rich history.

Signature Hole: 3rd – par 5- 468m
A tee shot from the highest point on the course into a valley below; completely exposing the drive to the ocean gusts. Trees on the right of the straightaway hole need to be avoided; as well as the large fairway bunker on the landing area to the left.

Semi-links • 6 157m • Carts available

KwaZulu Natal Golf
Durban Country Club

Durban Beachwood

The seaside layout of Beachwood has deservedly received accolades for its immaculate conditioning. Originally designed by Sid & Jack Brews in 1930, it has always been famed for its narrow fairways and indigenous trees. When Beachwood amalgamated with Durban Country Club in the late 1990s; Gary Player’s design team was asked to upgrade and redesign some of the holes while introducing additional hazards. The results are to be savored as one plays a course with clever bunkering and water features with superb greens. The land follows rolling and undulating contours allowing fairways to follow natural valleys between high grassy banks; requiring precision shots and lay-ups.

Signature Hole: 6th – par 4 – 410m
One of the most demanding holes, the 6th is set high in the dunes and doglegs left with a stream, bush, and water hazard to be negotiated en route to the green.

Semi-links • 6 016m • Carts available

Beachwood Golf Course
Beachwood Golf Course -18th hole

Champagne Sports Resort

Located in the beautiful Drakensberg area, the Champagne Sports Resort golf course has to be rated as one of the most scenically memorable golf layouts in South Africa. Designed by Hugh Baiocchi and Kevin Curren; it successfully blends the natural attributes of the terrain and the surrounding beauty; with the modern demands of a quality course. It undulates up and around the contours of a valley; that nestles under the dominant peaks of Champagne and Cathkin Peaks and incorporates several holes with blind tee shots.

Professional and novice alike will appreciate the 84 well-appointed bunkers that line the fairways and greens. Though the drama of the mighty mountains dominates the eye, the course also enjoys gentle vistas; where the lower hills create a kaleidoscope of color blessed with trees, rivers, and dams; to add even more of a challenge.

Mountain • 7 400m • Carts available

Drakensberg Golf
Champagne Sports Resort Golf

Humewood Golf Club

Humewood Golf Club in Port Elizabeth is on the sand dunes on the shores of Algoa Bay, this true links course is characterized by thick coastal bush, swales, humps, and hollows. Although the fairways are wide and undulating in order to compensate for the strong winds; the rough that borders them is unforgiving. The holes are simple yet neat, the gulf greens are fast and firm; the few bunkers are well-positioned with tough, steep faces and there are no water hazards.

Signature hole: 13th – par 4 – 408m
This hole runs uphill along a severely sloped fairway with a tough semi-blind approach; to a tiny green hidden behind a mound; with rough to the right, a bunker to the left, and thick bush behind it.

6 225m • Walking course • Carts available

Garden Route Golf
Humewood Golf Course

Pezula

Pezula is a sweeping spectacle of fairways and greens rolling through the pristine Southern Cape landscape. The award-winning course, rates among the best and the most scenic in the world. Covering 254 hectares on the Knysna clifftops, Pezula has views of both the Knysna Lagoon and the Indian Ocean. It is designed by David Dale and Ronald Fream of GolfPlan USA. It includes a full range of shots in a diverse coastal terrain. This makes it a challenging, rewarding, and complete golf experience for players of all levels.

Signature hole: 13th – par 5 – 467m
This amazing hole drops 200ft and is measured in ‘airtime’. Your level or uneven lie will determine your second shot selection. Don’t forget to look back to the tee when you finish the hole.

Links and Parklands • 5 963m • Carts available

Knysna golf
Pezula Championship Golf Course – 6th Hole

Simola Golf Course

Knysna • Parklands • 6 401m • Carts compulsory due to distances

Keeping your head down at Simola can be a challenge as the views around the course are awe-inspiring. Every hole either looks across the Knysna Lagoon or over the Knysna River as it twists and turns through the valley below. It is clear to see why Simola takes its place as one of South Africa’s premier golfing destinations.

It’s also the first Jack Nicklaus signature course on the Garden Route. Reflecting the maestro’s philosophy of attuning the layout and design to the natural lie of the land. Set below high ridges, the course is free from the wind that so often plagues coastal courses. Fairways flow with the natural undulating contours and the unusual configuration of five par 5s and five par 3s add a dimension to the game.

Even with all the uphill and downhill holes, Nicklaus has cleverly achieved a course where you seldom have an uneven lie. The short holes are a feature of the layout testing a wide range of clubs from a fairway metal at the 6th to a wedge at the 17th.
The par 5s are excellent beginning with the switchback opening hole that must be one of the most challenging. Three of the par 5s are played to elevated greens and these are tough targets to hit even with a short pitch.

Fancourt Country Club

There are actually 3 x golf courses at Fancourt in the town of George on the Garden Route. This tour uses Montagu and Outeniqua. Carts are available.

Fancourt Country Club Montagu Course is exquisitely conditioned. With a glorious parkland layout covering large tracts of varying terrain on rolling land. Mature trees, flowerbeds, shrubs, and water hazards provide a colorful contrast.

Signature hole: 17th – par 3 – 190m
This is scary for the average golfer with its long carry-over water. But the green is large and receptive. So ignore it and go for the flag. If conservative, favor the left side of the green.

Parklands • 6 714m

Fancourt Golf
Fancourt Montagu Golf Course

Fancourt Country Club Outeniqua is named after the mountain range overlooking the area. Even though this parklands course may look easier by its open appearance; it has its share of challenges and risk and reward moments.

Signature hole: 14th – par 4 – 421m
No surprise this is the toughest hole with its intimidating tee shot over water. If the flag is on the left of the green; play conservatively for the middle as there is water lurking at the back left.

Parklands • 6 312m

Fancourt Golf
Fancourt Outeniqua Golf Course

Rovos Rail African Collage Rates and Dates

2024

Pullman Suite: R138 000
Deluxe Suite: R192 000
Royal Suite: R248 000

Pretoria to Cape Town:
2nd – 14th April 2024
23rd April – 5th May 2024
18th – 30th October 2024

Cape Town to Pretoria:
31st October – 12th November 2024

2025

The 2025 rate is:
Pullman Suite: R150 000
Deluxe Suite: R208 000
Royal Suite: R269 000

Pretoria to Cape Town:
28th January – 9th February 2025
2nd – 14th April 2025
25th April – 7th May 2025
21st October – 2nd November 2025

Cape Town to Pretoria:
5th – 17th November 2025

Have a look at a second similar train journey; the Rovos Rail Golf Safari for golfers and non-golfers. This tour includes Sun City Gary Player or Lost City, Champagne Sports Resort, Durban Country Club or Beachwood, Royal Swazi, and Highland Gate.

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Cape Kaleidoscope Tour on Route 62

Cape Kaleidoscope (6 Days)

Cape Kaleidoscope tour is a 6 day tour that departs and returns to Cape Town. Live the sights and sounds of the Klein Karoo. Meander along the Garden Route and send a postcard from the iconic Post Office Tree. View the ‘Big 5’ and visit …

Kruger and Panorama Route Tour

Wild and Scenic Tour (5 Days)

The 5 day Wild and Scenic Tour is the ideal short tour to see the Kruger National Park and Panorama Route. This English and German guided tour departs and returns to Johannesburg. It is also possible to self-drive or you can have a guide drive …

Rovos Rail Dar es Salaam Journey

Rovos Rail Dar es Salaam (15 Days)

Rovos Rail to Dar es Salaam is an epic train journey that travels through South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Tanzania. This journey is one of the most famous in the world. The sojourn begins in Cape Town taking guests to the historic village of …

Rovos Rail Namibia

Rovos Rail Namibia (11 Days)

Rovos Rail to Namibia – travel in style on the iconic luxury train, Rovos Rail either to or from Namibia to Pretoria, South Africa. This journey takes the train from the savannahs of the Highveld to the Atlantic in the west. Departing from Pretoria, the …

Zulu Culture

Zulu & Pearls Package (8 Days)

Zulu & Pearls Package is the ultimate safari and beach package at Thanda Safari in the heart of the Zulu Kingdom in KwaZulu Natal, with the chic beach resort in Southern Mozambique, White Pearl Resorts. A cultural bush adventure meets contemporary beach luxury. Choose which …

South African Highlights (14 Days)

The South African Highlights Tour is a 14 day itinerary visiting the key attractions of South Africa. It departs from Johannesburg and ends in Cape Town. From exploring the majestic Panorama Route to a ‘Big 5’ safari in the Kruger National Park. Ending in the …

South African Discovery Tour Elephants

South African Discovery (16 Days)

South African Discovery Tour is 16-days of exploring South Africa and Eswatini. Starting in Cape Town and ending in Johannesburg. The scheduled tour departs on selected Saturdays – choose to join others on the scheduled departure dates. With a maximum of 14 people. Alternatively; have …

Rovos Rail to Durban

Rovos Rail to Durban (2 nights)

All aboard for the luxury Rovos Rail Train Safari (from/to Durban). Join this three day safari on one of the most luxurious trains in the world. To experience the splendor of KwaZulu Natal. Take in the Big Five, a battlefields tour with a world class …

Rovos Rail Cape Town to Pretoria Journey

Rovos Rail Cape Town to Pretoria (3 nights)

Travel by luxury train on Rovos Rail between Pretoria and Cape Town (or vice versa). There is no finer way to see South Africa than onboard one of the most luxurious trains in the world. This meander is a perfect illustration of South Africa as …

The Blue Train to/from Cape Town

The Blue Train To/From Cape Town (2 nights)

Journey to/from Cape Town to Pretoria on the Blue Train for an unbelievably scenic and interesting journey. On one of the most luxurious trains in the world. This luxury train journey stops at the capital of the Northern Cape province, Kimberley. Which is the diamond …

Best South Africa Locations Package

Best South Africa Locations Package (10 nights)

Best South Africa Locations Package from The Red Carnation Hotel Collection includes three properties in the best locations in South Africa. Cape Town, Cederberg, and Umhlanga Rocks in Durban. Enjoy the very best South Africa has to offer. Location, Location, Location. After an unforgettable wilderness …

iSimangaliso Honeymoon Package

iSimangaliso Honeymoon Package (8 Days)

This iSimangaliso Honeymoon Package offers beaches, forests, and lakes in Kwa-Zulu Natal. A fabulous combination of romance, solitude, and fun. Here is the 7 night honeymoon package at Thonga Beach Lodge and Kosi Forest Lodge. We can customize this package for you by adding or …

Rovos Rail to Victoria Falls

Rovos Rail to/from Victoria Falls (4 or 5 Days)

Rovos Rail to/from Victoria Falls – Embark on a romantic adventure of a bygone era on one of the most luxurious trains in the world, Rovos Rail. The 1400 km journey begins with the train’s departure from Rovos Rail Station in Pretoria or if doing …

The Blue Train to Kruger National Park

The Blue Train to Kruger National Park (3 Days)

The Blue Train to Kruger National Park is a return journey from Pretoria once a year. You will traverse beautiful landscape and spectacular scenery on the way to the Kruger National Park. Where guests enjoy a morning and sunset game drive coupled with a cultural …

Kruger and Mozambique honeymoon

Ultimate Safari and Beach (9 Days Kruger and Bazaruto Archipelago)

The ultimate 5* safari and beach is a 7 day tour combining a Big 5 South African safari with a Mozambique beach holiday. The best adventure for your romantic Africa honeymoon. Or magical luxury bush and beach escape to Africa. Track the Big Five at …

Kruger Quickie Safari Tour from Johannesburg

Kruger Quickie Safari (3 – 7 Days)

The Kruger Quickie safari is designed for those who are budget conscious and only have a few days to explore what the Kruger National Park has to offer. We have other accommodation options so just let us know what you would like and we’ll quote …

Kruger and the Kingdoms South Africa Tour

Kruger and the Kingdoms (7 Days)

The 7 day Kruger and the Kingdoms Tour – culture and wildlife! Combine the Kruger National Park, an icon of the wildlife world and the Kingdoms of eSwatini and Zululand. This creates a mighty experience designed to take your travel desires to new heights. It …

Luxury Trilogy Safari package

Luxury South Africa Trilogy Safari (9 Days)

8 night Luxury Trilogy Safari is a South Africa safari package at three 5 star Luxury Lodges in Madikwe Game Reserve and Kruger National Park (Timbavati and Sabi Sand). In Madikwe, you have a choice of either staying at Madikwe Hills Private Game Reserve or …

Shamwari Walking Safari (3 Days)

During South Africa’s summer season, Shamwari Private Game Reserve extends its offering to include the Shamwari Walking Safari at Explorer Camp. This unique walking experience is ideal for guests looking for an adventurous and authentic safari option. The itinerary comprises a min 2 night trail. …

Gary Player Golf Course 9th-hole

Sun City Golf Tour (2, 3 or 5-nights)

Our Sun City Golf Tour is available as either 2, 3, or 5-night packages. This covers your accommodation and golf at Sun City. Play at the premier Gary Player Golf Course and the legendary Lost City Golf Course. It runs from 1st February – 30th …

Rovos Rail African Collage Map

Rovos Rail African Collage (13 Days)

The Rovos Rail African Collage is a luxury train journey that includes a golfing and non-golfing itinerary. Traveling from Pretoria to Cape Town (southbound). Or, vice versa. It also offers stops in Golden Gate National Park, the picturesque town of Clarens and Bloemfontein, the city …

Rovos Rail Golf Safari Map

Rovos Rail Golf Safari (10 Days)

Rovos Rail (Luxury Train) has designed a delightful ten day golf safari to entertain the most discerning player. With optional excursions for non-playing guests at all venues. Travel from Pretoria to Sun City* in the hills of the Pilanesberg for game viewing. Cross the spectacular …

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