Rovos Rail Dress Code: What to Wear on Rovos Rail: Updated for 2025
Are you planning a luxury train trip on Rovos Rail and looking for details on the Rovos Rail Dress Code? Many travellers share this concerns and we hope to answer your questions within this guide.
Below we cover everything about The Rovos Rail dress code and luggage requirements. Prepare For A journey through Africa that promises to be unforgettable.
Storage Isn’t An issue When Planning For The Rovos Rail Dress Code
Rovos have a generous luggage policy with no strict restrictions, unlike many luxury train trips. Each suite’s extensive luggage rack runs the full length of the suite and provides plenty of storage space. All the same, two large suitcases work best for easier handling.
make your excursions comfortable with these essentials
Cash is crucial for your trip. You should bring USD 200 minimum for visas and gratuities. The customary staff tip ranges from USD 10-20 per person each night. Your suite has a designated envelope where you can place your tip.
Your suite’s complimentary amenity kit has South African biodegradable products like shampoo, insect repellent, and lip balm. You won’t need extra toiletries unless you prefer specific brands.
What to Wear Onboard Rovos Rail: Day to Night
daytime: Smart-casual clothing works Best
Women can opt for loose dresses paired with comfortable sandals, while men should pack lightweight trousers and collared shirts. The public carriages maintain air conditioning throughout the journey, so a light jacket or cardigan comes in handy when temperatures drop unexpectedly.
Evenings: a more sophisticated atmosphere
From 2025, the Rovos Rail dress code for men changed to collar and tie with a jacket no longer being mandatory (although many still choose to wear one). Ladies will feel at home in cocktail dresses or elegant evening suits. A midi dress with modest heels or dressy flats makes sense, because walking on a moving train in stilettos can prove tricky.
Themed evenings add variety to longer journeys
Special theme evenings feature on longer Rovos Rail trips. You’ll find “Africa” nights and “1920s” evenings on routes like the Golf Safari and Dar es Salaam. Guests can follow these themes or stick with smart-casual wear. Game drives and excursions make appropriate attire crucial, as temperatures often start cool in the morning and warm up significantly throughout the day.
Relive the Golden Age of Rail Travel with Rovos Rail (Knowing What to Wear Onboard!)
Rovos Rail is a chance to relive the golden age of rail travel with its elegant dress traditions. Passengers switch between smart-casual daytime clothes and formal evening wear throughout their experience, which adds to the luxury of train travel.
The Rovos Rail dress code makes it one of the most sophisticated train journeys
The dress code helps create a sophisticated atmosphere as you dine in charming Victorian cars and sip fine South African wines. Dressing well becomes part of the joy and nostalgia that makes Rovos Rail exceptional. This experience goes beyond mere transportation – it celebrates elegance, history, and the timeless pleasure of stylish travel through Africa’s breathtaking landscape.
FAQs: Rovos Rail Dress Code
What is the Rovos Rail dress code?
In short, the Rovos Rail dress code is smart casual during the day and, from 2025, men’s evening dress code on the Rovos Rail changed to collar and tie-only at dinner (you can still wear a jacket or a tux should you want!). Women will be most comfortable wearing cocktail dresses or classy evening suit.
Do I need a full suit for Rovos Rail Evening dinner?
No, a full suit or tuxedo is not required. As of 2025 the minimum evening dress code for men is a collar and tie but many guests still choose to dress up more.
Can I wear jeans on Rovos Rail?
No, jeans are not recommended as the train is an elegant environment. Lightweight trousers, chinos or dresses are better for daytime smart casual.
What should women wear on Rovos Rail?
Women can wear light, stylish outfits like summer dresses or blouses with skirts for the day. In the evenings cocktail dresses, evening gowns or elegant suits are fine.
Are there themed nights on Rovos Rail?
Yes, some longer journeys have themed evenings like “1920s” or “African” nights. Guests can dress up or stick to formal evening wear.
What should I wear on Rovos Rail excursions?
For off train activities like game drives wear comfortable walking shoes, sun protection and layered clothing for changing temperatures during the day.
How much luggage can I bring on Rovos Rail?
Rovos Rail has plenty of luggage space with long racks in each suite. Two medium sized suitcases per person is recommended for easy storage and handling.
