Minimum Ticket Price on Indian Railways

Africa boasts some of the planet's most extraordinary natural landscapes, including ancient tropical forests, flooded wetlands, vast deserts, and surreal limestone formations.

For nature enthusiasts, this continent offers much more than traditional safaris; it provides opportunities for forest trekking, water rafting, dune climbing, mountain hiking, and wildlife observation in unique habitats. The five featured destinations demonstrate the immense diversity of African nature tourism.

Bwindi: Tropical Forests and Mountain Gorillas

No wildlife experience compares to walking through the dense tropical forest of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in search of mountain gorillas. The park is home to approximately half of the world's mountain gorilla population, and trekking takes place across four sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. Hikes can last several hours and require a certain level of physical fitness.

However, gorillas are only part of Bwindi's appeal. It is a wonderful place for those who enjoy exploring forests on foot. Guided tours pass through dense vegetation filled with ferns, orchids, and tall trees, while ornithologists can look for endemic species of the Albertine Rift and other forest varieties. Ecosystem exploration options include the Ivi River, Mubindi Swamp, and bamboo trails.

One can walk the Waterfall Trail to three forest waterfalls, climb viewing platforms overlooking the Albertine Rift valley, or spend time birdwatching along forest paths. Depending on the accommodation, visitors can also explore local communities and learn more about the people living near this vital protected area. Bwindi is particularly suited for travelers whose wildlife interaction experience includes walking, listening, and observing, rather than just viewing animals from a vehicle.

Namib-Naukluft: Desert Landscapes

Nature does not have to mean lush vegetation. In the Namib-Naukluft National Park, the landscape is defined by high dunes, gravel plains, mountains, and vast expanses of desert. This park is one of Namibia's great wilderness areas, with Sossusvlei, Deadvlei, and Sesriem being among its most famous attractions.

It is recommended to arrive before sunrise to watch the color of the dunes change as the light moves across the landscape. Then, one can climb Dune 45 or conquer the higher Big Daddy before heading into Deadvlei, where the dry remains of ancient camel-thorn trees rise on a white clay plain amidst huge orange dunes. Besides the famous dunes, visitors can explore the Sesriem Canyon, take a guided desert tour, hike in the Naukluft section, or engage in birdwatching. The park also offers off-road routes, photography opportunities, and stargazing, while scenic hot air balloons provide a completely different perspective of the desert.

Upon closer inspection, one can notice that the seemingly barren landscape becomes more interesting. Desert-adapted animals, resilient plants, and small signs of life show how species have evolved to survive in one of Africa's harshest environments. For nature lovers, the attraction is not only the beauty of the scenery but also the opportunity to see how life persists under extreme conditions.

Okavango: Water Landscapes

The Okavango Delta offers one of the most unique safari adventures in Africa, as the shape and rhythm of the landscape are determined by water. The Okavango River spreads out into an extensive network of channels, lagoons, floodplains, and islands, creating a constantly changing wetland environment.

The best way to appreciate this aquatic wildlife is to experience it from different perspectives. A mokoro ride allows quiet movement through shallow channels, often enabling sightings of aquatic plants, birds, and wild animals from water level. Boat cruises offer another perspective, while land safaris allow exploration of drier islands and adjacent areas. One can go on a guided walking safari, birdwatch, take an evening boat trip, or participate in a traditional mokoro excursion. Depending on the camp and location, fishing, safaris, stargazing, and enjoying evenings by the fire are also possible.

The Delta is home to an amazing variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, hippos, lions, leopards, cheetahs, wild dogs, giraffes, and numerous antelope species. Its birdlife is equally impressive, boasting hundreds of recorded species. The result is a place where the landscape is as important to the safari as the animals themselves.

Nyungwe: Montane Tropical Forest

Nyungwe National Park in Rwanda offers a completely different way to experience African nature. This montane tropical forest is a destination for hikers, ornithologists, and wildlife enthusiasts, where chimpanzee tracking and forest trails provide opportunities for ground-level exploration.

There is also a canopy walkway. High above the forest, it offers panoramic views of the treetops and gives a chance to see the tropical forest from a completely different vantage point. Visitors can join an organized chimpanzee trek, follow one of the park's walking trails, or search for monkeys and birds in the forest. More adventurous visitors can try the Nyungwe zip line and ropes course, while coffee lovers can stay at one of the forest cafes before or after their exploration.

The park's extensive network of walking routes makes it especially appealing if your idea of a vacation is to put on hiking boots and spend hours among the trees, rather than rushing between sights. Combining the forest with a visit to Lake Kivu allows for kayaking, lakeside relaxation, and picturesque mountain scenery to be added to the trip. Nyungwe ultimately boils down to slowing down and paying attention: to the sounds of chimpanzees in the canopy, the birds moving through the trees, and the mist rolling over the forest.

Tsangyi de Bemaraha: Stone Labyrinth

Few landscapes in Africa resemble Tsangyi de Bemaraha. Its jagged limestone peaks rise into a whimsical natural labyrinth of stone, where forests, caves, canyons, and waterways are interwoven throughout the terrain. UNESCO describes this area as a remarkable karst landscape with sharp limestone formations, deep river gorges, forests, lakes, and mangrove swamps. These formations can rise abruptly above the surrounding landscape, creating the impression of an extensive forest made of stone.

It is also an outstanding place for wildlife. The surrounding habitats support rare and endemic lemurs and birds, and Madagascar's long isolation has led to an exceptionally high level of endemism. Visitors can explore the Tsingy formations on foot, passing through narrow passages, over bridges, and viewing platforms, traversing the limestone landscape. Attention should be paid to the lemurs and endemic birds along the way. A trip to this region can also include a journey along the Manambolo River, which cuts through the landscape in a dramatic canyon. From the water, the scale of the limestone formations becomes even more apparent. For travelers interested in geology, wildlife, and unusual landscapes, this may be the most otherworldly stop on the list.

The appeal of these destinations lies in their differences. In Uganda, you trek through a tropical forest searching for gorillas. In Namibia, you climb massive dunes and search for signs of life in the desert. Botswana immerses you in water among wild animals, Rwanda lifts you above the tropical forest, and Madagascar leads into a landscape of towering limestone peaks. Together, they serve as a compelling reminder that Africa's natural wonders extend far beyond traditional safari. Regardless of whether your ideal trip includes wildlife, hiking, birdwatching, geology, forests, or simply breathtaking scenery, there is a place here to inspire the next adventure.

You have probably taken various railway journeys: in compartment carriages, in air-conditioned carriages, or in luxurious seating carriages. However, you may never have heard of a train that offers comfort comparable to a hotel room during travel. These carriages feature a cozy bed, a private bathroom, magnificent decor, and views of the forts, palaces, and deserts of Rajasthan from the window. In fact, Heritage Palace on Wheels is one of the most famous luxury trains in India.

According to Rajasthan Tourism, the train was introduced in a new format called Heritage Palace on Wheels. A journey on this train is not just a way to get from one place to another, but a complete royal journey in itself. The question arises: how much does a ticket on such a train cost, and how much will it cost if you want to book the most luxurious room with amenities such as a double bed and a bathroom?

Palace on Wheels offers several cabin categories: Deluxe Cabin, Super Deluxe Cabin, Suite Cabin, and Presidential Suite. According to official information, there are only 42 air-conditioned cabins on the train. The Deluxe Cabin features two separate beds, a private bathroom, a large window, and traditional Rajasthani decor. The Super Deluxe Cabin also offers comfortable beds, a private bathroom, and more exquisite amenities. Thus, here you get an experience very similar to a hotel room, rather than just a small carriage of a regular train. But when it comes to the most exclusive service, the Presidential Suite attracts attention.

If two people travel in a Super Deluxe Cabin, the total cost after a special discount is 11.77 lakh rupees, which means approximately 5.88 lakh 500 rupees per person. As for the Suite Cabin, the cost for two is 13.14 lakh rupees, or about 6.57 lakh rupees per person.

The Presidential Suite is one of the most exclusive rooms on the entire train. According to the official website, it is a huge suite spanning about 240 square feet, equipped with a king-size bed. The most special thing is that its private bathroom also has a bathtub. This allows you to relax in your private space while the train is moving. You can watch the landscapes from your room window and enjoy hotel amenities during your journey. The Presidential Suite also includes a private lounge, a large window, luxurious fittings, a television, and many other amenities. Furthermore, butler service 24 hours a day, a private car, and a guide are provided.

The price is specified for a 7-night and 8-day trip in September 2026. This price is calculated for two people and includes all taxes. The base cost of the cheapest Deluxe Cabin is 10.92 lakh 286 rupees, but after special discounts, the cost for two drops to 6.55 lakh rupees, which is approximately 3.27 lakh 500 rupees per person.

The most expensive is the Presidential Suite. After special discounts, the cost for two reaches 16.07 lakh rupees, meaning about 8.03 lakh 500 rupees per person. Thus, a 7-night and 8-day trip on Palace on Wheels for two starts from 6.55 lakh rupees and reaches 16.07 lakh rupees, including all taxes.

The specialty of this train is not limited to expensive rooms. During the journey, passengers have the opportunity to visit historical sites of Rajasthan and its surroundings. The official route starts from Delhi and includes major locations such as Jaipur, Sawai Madhopur, Chittorgarh, Udaipur region, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bharatpur, and Agra. Among the route attractions are Ranthambore, historical forts, and the Taj Mahal.

The train also has amenities such as restaurants, lounge areas, and bars. Moreover, passengers of different categories can use the services of a butler, a guide, and private transport. Especially for Presidential Suite passengers, a private car and a special guide are provided.

There is another important point. According to official tariffs, GST will be charged separately from the cost. For Christmas and New Year trips, there may be an additional charge of 10 percent. When booking, a prepayment of 25 percent of the ticket price must be made, and the remaining amount must be paid no later than 60 days before the trip. If the booking is made within 60 days, the full amount must be paid. Children under 5 years old do not pay for travel but must stay in the same cabin. A 50 percent discount is provided for children aged 5 to 12 when staying with an adult.

Thus, if you simply want to travel from Delhi to Rajasthan by train, this journey is obviously too expensive for your needs. But if you desire a trip where accommodation, food, excursions, and the travel experience itself are combined into one luxurious package, then Heritage Palace on Wheels can offer a completely different experience. Here, the train is not just a path; your room is on the train, the food is on the train, and so on.

Farm stalls in South Africa are an integral part of the tradition of road trips in the country. There are journeys where the final destination is the main goal, and there are those where the brightest memories happen somewhere between cities, often with a paper bag of warm pastries on the passenger seat.

Farm stalls, or padstalls, in South Africa have long become part of the road trip culture. Initially, they served as practical places to buy fresh produce, bread, and homemade preserves, but many of them have turned into independent attractions. Some are famous for a particular type of pie, others for regional products, old-fashioned hospitality, unusual collections, or simply for the opportunity to slow down and eat something that seems perfectly suited to that place.

If you are planning a road trip, here are stops around which you should build your route.

Peregrine Farm Stall: A must-stop on the N2

If there is a mandatory stop at a padstall on the N2 highway, it is Peregrine Farm Stall. Located at the exit to Graauw in the Elgin Valley, Peregrine has been part of the road between Cape Town and Overberg since the 1960s. The surrounding valley is one of the main apple-growing regions in South Africa, and the farm stall has earned its reputation through fresh produce, baked goods, and food that makes you rethink how quickly you need to reach your destination.

There you can find pies, bread, rusks, preserves, fruits, and much more that can be packed in the car. The atmosphere related to apple growing is also appealing. This stop makes sense within a longer journey through Elgin, Hermanus, or Overberg, rather than just as a quick coffee break.

Houw Hoek Farm Stall: An institution of the Western Cape

A little further along the N2 is Houw Hoek Farm Stall—another iconic spot in the Western Cape that has earned its place in the road trip canon. The farm stall is located in the Hoofhoek area near Graauw and is particularly known for its bakery, where visitors are attracted by freshly baked pies, bread, and sweet treats. Its shelves also reflect the surrounding agricultural region, offering local products, preserves, and other farm-style goods.

Here, you should avoid treating it like a five-minute stop for refueling. It is better to order something warm, sit down, and let the road wait.

Dassiesfontein: A combination of food and experience

Some farm stalls focus on food, others on the experience itself, and Dassiesfontein successfully combines both aspects. Located on the N2 between Botrivier and Caledon, Dassiesfontein started modestly, selling homemade goods from two wagons by the roadside. The farm stall was founded in 1995, and the restaurant appeared the following year. Today, traditional Overberg dishes are combined with a shop selling local products.

Guests can enjoy homemade bread baked daily in wood-fired ovens, farm oil, traditional dishes, rusks, jams, and other regional products. The shop is a mix of a farm store and a treasure hunt, offering everything from enameled items and kitchenware to dried fruits and preserves. Time should be allocated here, as a quick stop can easily turn into an hour of browsing.

Moerse Padstal: A cozy option in Napier

On the R316 in Napier, Moerse Padstal offers a more intimate atmosphere than the large highway stops. This family-run padstall is known for its homemade pies, vetkoek, melktert, bread, preserves, and other traditional delicacies, as well as handmade goods and a kindergarten. This is exactly the kind of place that rewards travelers willing to leave the main highway and choose a scenic route through Overberg. Napier itself is a good reason to slow down, and adding a stop at a farm stall turns the detour into something more than just a detour.

Veldskoen Padstal: A stop in the Heck River Valley

If you are heading inland on the N1, be sure to stop in the Heck River Valley. Veldskoen Padstal, located near De Duorns, began operations in the 1970s as a simple point of sale for table grapes grown in the valley. Over time, it has evolved into a popular stop for travelers with a restaurant, wine shop, and farm store. The legacy of the valley's viticulture remains a central element of the experience, as seasonal table grapes are available from January to May. Inside, you can find homemade goods, including rusks, biscuits, preserves, nuts, and dried fruits, as well as local wines and freshly baked pies and sausage rolls.

Nanaga: A renowned dining spot in the Eastern Cape

There are farm stalls visited for convenience, and there are ones spoken about even before you leave home. Nanaga belongs to the latter category. Located at the intersection of the N2, R72, and N10, Nanaga has been serving travelers since 1969. It started by selling cabbage from a car trunk and grew into one of the most famous dining spots along the road in the Eastern Cape. Today, the farm stall is especially associated with pies, roast chicken, and fresh pineapple juice, alongside bread, preserves, biltong, dried fruits, nuts, and other local products. The stall claims to be able to produce up to 3500 pies per day, indicating the serious regard South African road tourists hold for this stop. Nanaga's main appeal is that it remains closely connected to the local farming community and produce of the Eastern Cape.

Mac Banana: A tourist destination on the KwaZulu-Natal coast

On the southern coast of KwaZulu-Natal, Mac Banana has transformed the idea of a farm stall into an entire tourist destination. The roadside banana stall appeared in 2004 and has evolved into a family estate with a gastronomic and wine center, restaurants, a farm stall, fresh produce, and over 20 attractions. The working banana farm remains part of the experience, allowing visitors to participate in organized farm tours. The farm stall offers fresh fruits and vegetables, including farm-fresh and locally sourced produce. Furthermore, there are restaurants, a pancake house, adventure golf, a farmyard, and a butterfly center, as well as other family entertainment. It is less like a quick pastry snack and return to the car, and more like intentionally setting aside several hours.

Constantia Cherry Farm: An experience in the Eastern Free State

The culture of South African farm stalls is not limited to the Western and Eastern Cape. In the Eastern Free State, Constantia Cherry Farm is located on the R26 between Fishburg and Klokolan, in a region closely associated with cherry cultivation. The first cherry trees on the farm were planted in 1953, and the family enterprise today produces fresh cherries and various cherry products. The shop sells items such as cherry juice, jams, ice cream toppings, and cherry liqueur, and the farm offers a more complete immersion during the cherry season. The season usually runs from late October to early December, when visitors can book events on the grounds and cherry production. Proper road trip planning makes this more than just a stop at a farm stall; it becomes a reason to visit the Eastern Free State.

Ouma Miemie Café and Bakery: A secluded corner in the Northern Cape

Traveling through the Northern Cape can inspire a search for a more personal spot. Ouma Miemie Café and Bakery in Kenhardt is exactly such a place. The café and bakery serve freshly baked meat pies, cakes, coffee, and other homemade treats, while the shop sells local products. Recent visitor reviews also highlight the quality of the pies, coffee, and the welcoming atmosphere. Part of the appeal of this place lies in its unexpectedness: Kenhardt is far from the network of city cafés, and discovering a genuine bakery and coffee shop in the middle of the Northern Cape makes the trip less tiring.

Travalia Farm Stall: A stop on the transcontinental route

For those driving the N1 between Cape Town and Johannesburg, the name Travalia Farm Stall is memorable. It is located on the N1 near Three Sisters and operates with accommodation, which is especially useful for travelers making a long domestic transit, rather than just a leisurely weekend trip. For a long time, it served as a stop for farm food and drinks during road trips, but the real advantage is the ability to break up one of South Africa's longest routes. Instead of viewing the N1 as kilometers to cover, Travalia gives a reason to stop, eat, and, if necessary, stay overnight.

Despite the temptation to make a list and decide which pie, roast chicken, or coffee is best, this misses the point. Farm stalls exist because they are connected to the surrounding landscape. Elgin offers apples. The Heck River Valley offers grapes. The Eastern Free State offers cherries. The Eastern Cape offers roast chicken, pies, and products shaped by its farming communities. Karoo offers a pleasant break in long, empty stretches of road. This is why some of these places are worth planning an entire road trip around.

You can always get to your destination faster. But on your next long journey, choose the slower path, leave room in the trunk, and follow the signs to the padstall. Perhaps the best part of the journey was never the place you were trying to reach.