How spectacular it is to see antelopes galloping across the plains. Hop on a jungle steam train to traverse seven countries and journey 5,000 kilometers through Africa.

By Rita

In the age of modernization and industrialization, transportation is tasked with the mission of "getting there fast," leaving behind anything that moves at a slower pace. In fact, many countries around the world still preserve steam trains. The iconic chugging sounds and billowing white steam are like scenes frozen in time from old movies. CNN recently featured a rather uniquereport—not about a simple city-bound steam train, but one that carries passengers leisurely through the jungle, where herds of antelopes dash past the train windows.

"Rovos Rail," departing from Cape Town, South Africa, offers a series of trans-African journeys, giving passengers the chance to take in the region’s breathtaking landscapes and the wildlife hidden within the jungles.

▲ Rovos Rail designs cross-Africa train journeys (Photo /Rovos Rail fan page)

This is no ordinary train.

▲ The rear of the cross-country train offers the best views (Photo /Rovos Rail fan page)

Dubbed "the most luxurious train in the world," although a 15-day journey costs around NT$80,000, passengers can enjoy hot showers on board. The nearly 5-tsubo Royal Suite features cushioned armchairs and a Victorian-style bathtub, though unfortunately, there’s no TV or Wi-Fi. Mobile phones and laptops are prohibited outside the room. Why? Because the tour operator believes these devices would “distract” from the scenery. “We don’t want anyone still working while they’re here,” founder Rohan Vos advises passengers before boarding. “This train is meant to offer you an atmosphere and friendly conversations among people.”

▲ No TVs or Wi-Fi in the cabins, and mobile phones and laptops are banned, allowing passengers to truly unplug (Photo /Rovos Rail fan page)

The observation car is located at the very end of the train, and it’s also the best seat in the house. Passengers can sit on the benches and enjoy views of the mining areas in the Karoo Basin, the mountains, and the vineyards near the capital city of Cape Town. The train serves seven-course meals paired with wine, most of which are local specialties.

▲ The rear of the cross-country train offers the best views (Photo /Rovos Rail fan page)

▲ Rovos Rail crosses seven countries in Africa. (Photo / Screenshot from http://www.rovos.com/)

This 15-day journey, starting in Cape Town and ending in Dar es Salaam (a city in Tanzania), is a dream trip for many train enthusiasts. The route winds through approximately 5,000 kilometers.

This itinerary runs about five times a year, as it’s the most popular among travelers. No matter the exact route taken, Rohan’s daughter believes that “we want our guests to come aboard for this kind of journey—the destination itself isn’t the most important part.”

The 5,000-kilometer Rovos Rail odyssey (Cape Town to Dar es Salaam)

Departure dates in 2015 are as follows::
2/3–2/17, 7/21–8/4, 10/13–10/27