by Leigh Kemp, 30 October 2008

The bridge across the Zambezi River linking Zimbabwe to Zambia is arguably the most famous symbol of the Cape to Cairo railroad dream. Today the bridge is used by tourists and locals alike - many unaware of its significance.

Cecil John Rhodes had a dream to build a railroad traversing Africa that would link the Cape to Cairo in order to expand the British Empire. This dream did not come to fruition due to his ill health and his eventual death, but it did leave a rich legacy of rail travel in Africa - and the romantic notion of 'Cape to Cairo'.

Although electrical power has replaced the age of steam, there are a number of countries in Africa where steam trains still ply the routes - and this is what steam engine enthusiasts flock to the continent for.

The early railroad workers had to contend with many obstacles during the building of the railroads in Africa, including diseases such as malaria, wild animals and treacherous landscapes. That they managed to complete as much railroad as they did is testament to the times, and a sense of the magnitude of this feat is part of the thrill of the Cape to Dar journey with Rovos Rail.

Wending and Winding Your Way North

Your journey through Africa's pioneering past and its rolling landscapes starts in Cape Town, where Cecil John Rhodes' signature is still imprinted on the city. From here, the train heads north towards the diamond mining capital of Kimberley, where a short break allows guests to experience some of the fascinating history of the diamond industry in South Africa.

A stay at one of South Africa's famous private game reserves further north on the route allows guests to experience some of the wildlife - and luxury - that the continent is most famous for.

Crossing over into Zimbabwe, a stay in Victoria Falls provides a glimpse of one of the 7 natural wonders of the world. A tour of the Victoria Falls with its 100m-high curtain of water is awe-inspiring.

From the train, you find yourself at eye level with the top of the Victoria Falls gorge. As you look down into the narrow gap, you'll find yourself with a new sense of respect for the men who worked - and risked their lives - on the bridge.

Towards the Great Rift Valley

As the train enters Zambia, it begins a climb through spectacular scenery towards the Tanzania. A stop at the beautiful Kundalila Falls is small preparation for the dramatic scenery ahead.

From the Tanzanian border, the train heads down into Africa's Great Rift Valley as it negotiates the switchbacks and tunnels of the great escarpment. The scenery here is beyond description, and again you'll find yourself admiring the erstwhile builders of this railroad.

The route then levels out to more negotiable, but no less dramatic, terrain as it heads across the vast wilderness of Tanzania towards Dar es Salaam. Passing the Selous Game Reserve, Africa's largest protected area, a nostalgic feeling of the Africa of yesteryear takes over.

This undeveloped and wild region is considered one of the continent's finest wilderness areas and provides for an unforgettable African safari experience.

The Cape to Dar journey with Rovos Rail is the ultimate prelude to a thrilling safari and provides a memorable experience of history, wild places, dramatic landscapes and big game.

Article © Copyright 2008 Go2Africa.

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