overnight train trips south africa

THE BLUE TRAIN

Welcome aboard the blue train.

As time meandered from the 19th Century towards the dawn of the new era, a dream was born. A dream of harnessing steam technology to link Africa’s vast south to north, around the awe-inspiring mountain ranges that dot the continent, through the apparently arid desert landscapes, over untamed savannah grasslands teeming with wildlife. From the Cape all the way to Cairo… all of this on parallel lines of tempered steel.

It is from this dream that The Blue Train was born. Cairo was never to be, but the dreamers persevered and The Blue Train now traverses South Africa and its breath-taking scenery in a manner that befits the mystique that has grown around it.

Kings and presidents have indulged on this magnificent, moving five-star “hotel-on-wheels”. From love-struck honeymooners, to adulated celebrities. And even ordinary folk who fantasize about a life of spectacular luxury, a life that has seemed tantalizingly out of reach. Until now…

Welcome aboard   The Blue Train . Your unforgettable experience is about to begin…

THE BLUE TRAIN HISTORY

For the Empire-builders of old, the uncharted African interior was the landscape of a dream in the making. A dream that would etch its course in parallel lines that snaked their way northward from the Atlantic shoreline, conquering the distance from Cape Town to Cairo. The dream was not to be, as the Great African Railway reached only as far as a bridge across the gorge of the Zambezi River, overlooking the thundering smoke of the Victoria Falls.  

A coat of royal blue and cream would later give the trains their distinctive livery, and it was from this line, in these shades, that The Blue Train – a “Palace on Wheels” – would ride the rails to legend. Withdrawn from service during the dark days of World War II, extensively refurbished and modernised in the Seventies and Nineties.  

PRETORIA • CAPE TOWN

The route between  Pretoria  and  Cape Town  is a 54-hour journey of 1 600 kilometres (994 miles), through some of the most diverse and spectacular scenery offered by the African sub-continent.

PRETORIA • KRUGER NATIONAL PARK

The Blue Train also travels to South Africa’s Limpopo Province , which is home to the Kruger National Park , one of the world’s finest game parks, and home to Africa’s Big Five. These one-way 19-hour journeys take place on selected months of the year, and offer guests an opportunity of some fantastic new “rail safari” combination packages with the many private safari lodges found in the Greater Kruger and Sabi Sands areas.

CHARTERS & EVENTS

As The Blue Train’s tracks roll inevitably into the distance, so life’s course brings with it joys that must be celebrated. Graduations, engagements, weddings, honeymoons, anniversaries and milestone birthdays. All of these deserve a memorable venue, a special ambience, a reminder that you’re going places.

The Blue Train can be chartered for such occasions. Just for you, it can meander along its standard routes, or on custom-made trips and cross-border excursions that last from a few hours to several nights. It’s your sojourn, it’s your train. It’s our pleasure.

When not booked for use during a trip, the Conference Car is converted into an Observation Car that reflects and complements the amenities offered in the Lounge cars.

For those with more stern agendas, The Blue Train has the facilities to service business-oriented journeys. Our fully-equipped Conference Car can comfortably seat 22 delegates boardroom-style or accommodate smaller work areas combined with Observation Car amenities.

Whether you’re rallying your sales force, rewarding outstanding performance, wooing potential clients or hosting your year-end function, stay on line. Keep on track. Navigate your way through the ever-shifting landscape of doing business in the 21st Century. Meet your challenges and celebrate your successes on the move by stepping onboard a world where business is pleasure…

I went on the Blue Train as part of a corporate event and it was fantastic. The staff were amazingly attentive and the lunch we had was phenomenal. With a light feta and melon starter, followed by a truffle and cauliflower soup and salmon for main. After lunch we relaxed in the end panoramic carriage which was beautiful then enjoyed the bar.

The rooms are fantastic. I feel they are far superior to a cabin on a cruise, certainly the bathrooms are far bigger with a lovely bath.

I’d highly recommend

Blue Train Pretoria to Cape Town

This was an experience to tick off our bucket list. We got picked up at The Sheraton Hotel and chauffeur driven to the blue train lounge. We took a medium suitcase on board and the other 4 large ones went into the luggage carriage which can not be accessed, so make sure you have everything you need in the one suitcase. Obviously not much room in your carriage, reason you only need small suitcase. The check in was quick and smooth, however there was a delay in our departure, which caused us to arrive late at Kimberly, so our tour to the diamond mine and museum was cancelled, very disappointing, it seems to be a regular occurrence, so the blue needs to get there act together. The food and drinks on board was ample, you certainly won’t starve. Formal dinner was great, enjoyed dressing up, however I’m glad i didn’t a formal dress, i wore black trousers and sparkly top which was dress enough, most ladies where the same (casual smart.) The men did wear suit and ties, my husband wore his leather jacket and didn’t feel out of place. Destination was a quick experience, suitcases came all together by the blue train staff. We was not on a tour and had to organize our own transfer which i pre arranged on line with Rikki’s taxi, i would certainly recommend this transport, they are a distinctive vehicle, reliable, trusting and keep in touch re arrival. All in all grat experience.

Adelaide, Australia

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Call Us: +44 (0)20 8191 0620   |  Email Us: [email protected]

Luxury Africa Train Holidays & Train Tours in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Tanzania & Namibia

Explore southern africa by luxury train.

We think there are few more romantic or exotic luxury rail experiences that cruising through the vast scenery of Africa from the comfort of a luxurious cabin. Our African rail tours combine this experience with stops at some of the continents most famous safari parks making these journeys unique.

Do something wonderfully unique and nourish your soul in the sheer opulence afforded you on a South Africa train holiday in 2024. These magnificent South Africa rail holidays take in South Africa, Tanzania, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Zambia, from the Atlantic Ocean to the Indian Ocean, allowing for lifelong memories to be created on the best luxury trains South Africa has. From deluxe suites and excellent service to excursions and overnight stays, African train trips offer a fantastic experience for everyone!

Southern Africa Rail Tours

Just click on any of the tours listed below to open up or download a PDF file with the tour’s full details including dates and pricing.

● Please remember that booking as far ahead as you can in advance is essential for these trains ●

13 Nights From UK £ 6,710 / US $ 9,400

Contact us for quotes in other currencies

CAPE TOWN ● MATJIESFONTEIN ● UPINGTON ● FISH RIVER CANYON ● LÜDERITZ ● NAMIB-NAUKLUFT NATIONAL PARK ● SWAKOPMUND ● ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK ● WINDHOEK

2 Nights From SA Rand ZAR 40,035

Pretoria ● Kimberley ● Cape Town

Cape Town ● Kimberley ● Pretoria

14 Nights From US $ 13,600

Eastbound | Lobito In Angola To Dar Es Salaam In Tanzania Via Democratic Republic Of Congo & Zambia

Westbound | Dar Es Salaam In Tanzania To Lobito In Angola Via Zambia & The Democratic Republic Of Congo

Cape Town In South Africa To Dar Es Salaam In Tanzania Passing Through Botswana, Zimbabwe & Zambia En Route

Dar Es Salaam In Tanzania To Cape Town In South Africa Passing Through Zambia, Zimbabwe & Botswana Along The Way

15 Nights From ZAR Rand 206,000

Pretoria To Walvis Bay | Luxury Rail Journey Through South Africa & Namibia

11 Nights From ZAR Rand 165,000

Pretoria To Walvis Bay | South Africa & Namibia – Etosha Pan & Sossusvlei

Walvis Bay To Pretoria | Namibia & South Africa – Etosha Pan & Sossusvlei

11 Nights From ZAR Rand 135,000

Northbound | Pretoria To Victoria Falls Through South Africa, Mozambique & Zimbabwe

11 Nights from ZAR Rand 135,000

Southbound | Victoria Falls To Pretoria Through South Africa, Mozambique & Zimbabwe

12 Nights From ZAR Rand 138,000

Eastbound | A Journey Through South Africa From Cape Town To Pretoria

Westbound | A Journey Through South Africa From Pretoria To Cape Town

3 Nights From ZAR Rand 44,300

From Pretoria to the spectacular falls including a Safari in Hwange National Park.

4 Nights From ZAR Rand 44,300

From Pretoria to the spectacular falls including Safaris in Hwange National Park and Matobo Hills.

From the spectacular Falls to Pretoria including a Safari in Hwange National Park.

Westbound | From the spectacular Falls to Pretoria including Safaris in Hwange National Park and Matobo Hills.

3 Nights From ZAR Rand 34,500

Southbound | Journey across South Africa from the Capital to Cape Town via Kimberley Diamond mines.

Northbound | Journey across South Africa from Cape Town to the Capital via Kimberley Diamond mines.

2 Nights From ZAR Rand 31,200

Southbound | Journey across the high veld including a game drive before reaching the coast at Durban.

Northbound | Start on the coast heading north to the capital of Pretoria with a game drive and more along the way.

Be Amazed by the Sheer Decadence of our Luxury South Africa Train Tours for 2024 & 2025

All of these luxury train trips in South Africa provide guests with the peak of extravagance and comfort while on board. Savour South African train trips from your deluxe air-conditioned suite with an en suite bathroom with a separate shower. Rejuvenate from double or twin beds, order room service, and take in the rolling hills and spectacular scenery as you meander across the continent, reminiscent of a bygone era on these South Africa luxury train journeys.

Immerse yourself in the journey of a lifetime on one of our meticulously curated train vacations in South Africa. With hand-picked itineraries and sumptuously appointed trains, including the Rovos Rail, the Shongololo Express, and the African Explorer, a train holiday in South Africa will take you through incredible parts of this continent. You can absorb the atmosphere and beauty from the observation car while sipping a glass of champagne and relax in luxury with Rovos rail holidays.

Africa Regional Highlights

The following highlights of the Southern Africa region can be visited on our luxury rail tours and offer world class experiences.

SOUTH AFRICA

One of the world’s most stunningly located cities and the start or finish of many of our African luxury train adventures.

Prolific wildlife can be seen at this world renown National park in Namibia famous for its watering holes that abound with game.

Namibia’s answer to America’s Grand Canyon – epic landscape makes Fish River Canyon one of the spectacles of the world.

Stark beauty abounds in the vast Namib desert. Vast landscapes and a surprising amount of wildlife can be seen from your train.

A surreal landscape in the desert where the star is a forest of long dead trees that provide endless photographic opportunities.

Namibia’s Capital city has some interesting architecture and museums and is compact enough to walk around in the centre.

Tanzania’s main city and most important train terminus. Also the start point for a trip to the island of Zanzibar as an add-on.

Vast Reserve in Tanzania and one of the world’s last great wildernesses for game. Bisected by the Tzara Railway.

ZIMBABWE / ZAMBIA

The greatest waterfall sight in the world straddling the Zambezi river with Zimbabwe to the south and Zambia to the North.

One of South Africa’s 3 capitals (others are Cape Town and Bloemfontein) and the base for many Rovos Rail tours.

Kruger is South Africa’s most famous National Park and the best place to see the big five up close on your safari.

Zimbabwe’s most famous National Park and a great place to see elephants in large numbers as part of a safari stopover.

Large and cosmopolitan city on the coast of South Africa and a popular place for tourists to visit. Included in some Rovos Rail tours.

Remote National Park in Zambia with a selection of high end lodges and a vast amount of game to be seen.

Rarely touristed port city used as the start and finish point of our Rovos Rail trips as it is the terminus of the Benguela Railway.

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Contact us about african rail tours.

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How Can We Reach You?

How can we help, which region(s) are you interested in, which train(s) are you interested in, how did you hear about us, a wide selection of luxury train holidays in south africa, each offering a unique experience.

We offer a wide selection of train journeys in South Africa that give the intrepid adventurer plenty to choose from when weighing up which South African luxury train to book. North to south, South to the north, east to west, or west to east. Luxury train travel in South Africa with Rovos Rail offers so many permutations that it can be challenging to select one above the other confident that you’ve made the correct decision.

Is it your first South Africa train tour, or have you done it before? Do you want to coast and see the Atlantic and Indian Oceans? Whichever train journey in South Africa you set out on, one thing is assured, absolute luxury. Train journeys in South Africa with Rovos get curated to the highest standards. Everything about these luxury South African train journeys is of the highest order, from itineraries and the train carriages to the Rovos staff, dining car, scenery and excursions.

Each of Our Luxury African Train Tours is Packed with Colourful and Unique Off Train Excursions

From the Atlantic Ocean to the Indian Ocean South Africa rail holidays. Or from Tanzania’s capital, Dar es Salaam heading south towards Cape Town. Luxury train trips in South Africa offer guests an abundance of off-train activities to keep them entertained, amazed, and enthralled by this beautiful continent. A train holiday in South Africa will provide something to suit all tastes, from stunning fine dining meals to breathtaking excursions.

Determined by which train tour in South Africa you were to choose, you can enjoy bush walking at Chisimba Falls or touring the diamond town of Kimberly. Game drives or safaris can be a part of African train holidays. Guests can spend the night at the Victoria Falls Hotel on arrival in Zimbabwe and indulge in world-class meals. A train safari in South Africa itinerary is brimming with off-train excursions that permit patrons to take in new experiences with Rovos Rail tours.

Looking for the Best Luxury Train Travel South Africa Offers? Look No Further than our Curated Rovos Rail Tours!

Rovos Rail is a privately owned rail company that operates out of Capital Park Station in Pretoria. Rovos Rail holidays and South African train trips have been running since 1989 and are widely recognised worldwide as being the height of luxury and comfort. The Luxury Train Travel Company is proud to offer these wonderfully curated train journeys in South Africa, allowing guests to step back into a bygone era and experience true luxury and style.

Passengers aboard one of these luxury trains in South Africa will receive first-class service and customer care while travelling on these train tours. South Africa has so much to offer as a continent and the individual countries you can visit, such as Namibia, Zimbabwe, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia, Angola, Tanzania, Botswana, and South Africa. The Luxury Train Travel Company has the perfect itinerary for your dream train tour in South Africa to create lifelong memories.

Unmatched in Quality and Price, Our 2024 Luxury Train Holiday Packages in South Africa Can’t Be Beaten!

Many people worldwide spend years dreaming of meandering through the mountains and plains of African nations on luxury trains. South Africa and the other countries that make up the wonderful continent provide spectacular sights and sound you can’t capture elsewhere. For many, train vacations in South Africa are a once-in-a-lifetime trip, and ensuring that all the boxes get ticked concerning the quality of the experience is what we do best at The Luxury Train Travel Company.

The attention and detail applied to our 2024 curated itineraries are unparalleled to ensure every guest on a South African train holiday has the most incredible experience from the first point of contact to returning home at the end of the South Africa train holiday. We want our customers who dream of Africa train holidays to prosper from these outstanding curated itineraries while benefiting from unmatched prices and the best value South African train trips.

See Africa Like Never Before with a Multi-Country Luxury South Africa Train Tour!

South Africa’s Port Elizabeth, Table Mountain, Drakensberg Mountains, or Leopard Creek. The Victoria Falls and Zambezi River in Zimbabwe, or the largest game reserve on the African continent, Selous Game Reserve in Tanzania. The Luxury Train Travel Company has curated train vacations in South Africa and the surrounding countries to ensure guests get the best possible experience from African train tours. These multi-country Rovos Rail tours promise new adventures to add to your life story.

A city tour of Lubumbashi in The Democratic Republic of Congo, see the South Luangwa National Park in Zambia or travel along the Cassai River in Angola on a South Africa train holiday. There are many options for train holidays in South Africa, and you’ll be able to experience these beautiful countries on this magical continent when you indulge yourself on luxury train holidays in South Africa. Train vacations in South Africa should be on every bucket list, and we can ensure those dreams become a reality.

THE MOST POPULAR QUESTIONS

Luxury train tours south africa faqs, what is the luxurious train in south africa.

Rovos Rail has been operating African train tours since the company was founded in 1989. It is a family-owned business that employs some 210 staff in total. The trains are the Rovos Rail, Shongololo Express, and the African Explorer.

Is the Rovos Rail train the world’s most luxurious train?

We firmly believe that Rovos Rail trains offer you the most luxurious rail journey. You can relax in a deluxe suite with an en suite bathroom, including a Victorian bath, or enjoy the minibar. Mingle with other passengers in the lounge and observation cars to enjoy game viewing and each country’s magnificent views. Southern Africa is an incredibly majestic part of the world. You can enjoy the rolling hills and vast plains from a comfortable sofa seat without the modern-day distractions of TV or radio. These South Africa luxury train journeys are like a step back in time, and the opulence and charm of Rovos Rail tours will consume you.

What African countries can Rovos luxury trains in South Africa travel to?

We curate luxury train holidays in South Africa that take in many of the continent’s gems. Angola, DRC, Zambia, Tanzania, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa can all be experienced on a South Africa train holiday. You can sleep soundly at night in the Pullman suite, Deluxe suites, or Royal suites. You can enjoy incredible meals in the dining cars or using room service. These trains are like a high-end hotel on rails, and you’ll experience many fascinating and spectacular countries during South Africa luxury train journeys.

Do I need to book in advance for your South Africa train holidays?

The demand for luxury train holidays in South Africa is very high, so we suggest you plan as far ahead as possible to avoid disappointment. Many people save for years or have this intended as a retirement trip, so getting an itinerary and travel plans nailed down well in advance of any South Africa rail holidays is always going to serve you well.

Can I visit safari parks while on a South African luxury train journey?

Take one of the Copper Trail train holidays in South Africa, and you’ll have the opportunity to visit South Luangwa National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where you’ll get the chance to do a game drive and a walking safari. We also offer a South Africa train tour with an incredibly incredible itinerary for passengers looking for a train safari in South Africa. The journey starts in Cape Town and takes you to Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, Matopos National Park, Kruger National Park, Drakensberg Mountains, and Pretoria.

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Explore the luxury train travel company.

Explore Our Range of Luxury Rail Tours Across the Globe. Learn About The Different Luxury Trains We Can Offer. View Our Tours by Region & Destinations. View our train departure Calendar.

The Blue Train | Proudly brought to you by SA-Rail

About the Train

Treat yourself with an unforgettable experience aboard one of South Africa’s leading luxury trains.

During day your suite serves as a lounge where you can relax and enjoy the passing vista, at night it transformed into an elegant bedroom.

Suites & Facilities

En-suite bathrooms Fully soundproofed Individually controlled air-conditioning Underfloor heating

Rates & Schedules

Pretoria to Cape Town Cape Town to Pretoria Charters

Best Deal Package Value for Money Package Round Trip Package Value Add Package Best of CPT Package Best of JHB Package

Enquire now by completing our online form and we will contact you regarding a quote, availability or make your reservation.

Reservations Cancellations Departure & Arrival times Currency Staff

About the Blue Train

Treat yourself with an unforgettable experience aboard one of South Africa’s leading luxury trains.

This 5 star, 54 hour experience offers you around-the-clock butler service, 2 lounge cars (smoking and non-smoking), an observation car, carriages with gold-tinted picture windows and fully carpeted and soundproofed suites, all with en-suite bathrooms.

Situated behind the train’s engine is the Club car, where you can enjoy a Cuban cigar served after dinner while sipping on cognac, or any drink of your choice. If a game of backgammon, chess or cards is not for you, browse our library selection, enjoy the big screen or get lost in thought gazing up at the star-lit African sky.

Afternoon High Tea and after-dinner drinks are served in the Lounge car, situated in the middle of the train.

When not in use as a Conference car, the Observation car serves as an extension of the Lounge Car.

Dine with friends or enjoy a romantic dinner for two in the elegant Dining car. You can also choose to dine in the privacy of your own suite. Our on-board chefs prepare dishes of the highest standard, regularly refreshing the menu and using only the freshest local ingredients. There is something to suite every taste, including Halaal, Kosher, gluten-free of vegan. Simply notify us at the time of reservation and our chefs will prepare a meal suited to your needs.

Dinner is elegant, with the dress code being formal.  Tasteful background music compliments the evening. The Dining car can accommodate 42 guests in a sitting, with 2 sittings when needed.

During day your suite serves as a lounge where you can relax and enjoy the passing vista, at night it transformed into an elegant bedroom.  Bedding is made from goosedown and 100% percale-cotton.  Modern amenities include individually controlled air-conditioning, underfloor heating and electronic entertainment. The elegance of the suite carries on in the marble and gold-fitted en-suite bathroom, with scented bathsalts and monogrammed towels.

The De Luxe coaches consist of 4 suites, each measuring 4m x 2m.  One of these has a double bed and ¾ bathtub with handheld shower. The rest have twin beds and showers.

The Luxury coaches consist of 3 Luxury suites, each measuring 5,13m x 2m. You have the options of twin beds or a double bed.

Services and Facilities

• En-suite bathrooms with Italian marble, gold-plated fittings and fully remote-controlled facilities
• Fully soundproofed
• Individually controlled air-conditioning
• Under-floor heating
• Personal butler and 24 hour room service
• GPS system and TV monitor that tracks the train progress and shares the driver’s view
• Interactive entertainment system

The Blue Train Rates & Schedules

Pretoria and cape town.

The Blue Train departs from Pretoria on selected Mondays and Wednesdays and from Cape Town on select Wednesdays and Fridays.  Guests can check in between 10:00 and 11:30, and the train departs at 12:00 arriving at its’ destination at 18:00 on day three. Coffee and tea is served in the pre-departure lounges while boarding formalities are in progress. After boarding, fruit platters are served in your suite. IMPORTANT: Train departure and arrival times are not guaranteed.

*Denotes a cancelled departure

Rates Include

• Two nights onboard the Blue Train
• All applicable snacks, meals & drinks (alcoholic & non-alcoholic), Cognacs and Cuban cigars
• Blue Train Gift & Certificate
• 24-hour Butler service
• Off the train excursion
• One night’s accommodation in a 5*Hotel (pre- or post-departure)
• Station/Hotel transfer

Rates Exclude

• French champagne
• Telephone calls
• Gratuities whilst on board The Blue Train
• Services not mentioned
• Cannot be combined with other offers

Enquiry Form

• Availability
• Reservation
• Once we have received your reservation request, we will confirm availability and proceed with the reservation. A confirmation invoice with payment instructions will be sent to you via email. Your travel vouchers will be sent to you once full and final payment have been received. *Passenger information should be filled in as per passport/ID as travel arrangements will be issued accordingly and no name changes will be allowed .

Personal Contact Information

• Title * -- Select -- Dr Prof Mr Mrs Ms
• Contact Number *
• Email * Enter Email Confirm Email

Blue Train Departure Information

• Direction * -- Select -- Pretoria to Cape Town Cape Town to Pretoria Pretoria to Durban Durban to Pretoria
• Year of travel * -- Select -- 2024 2025
• Departure Date: Pretoria to Cape Town 2024 * -- Select -- 15 April 2024 22 April 2024 6 May 2024 13 May 2024 8 July 2024 15 July 2024 5 August 2024 12 August 2024 2 September 2024 9 September 2024 16 September 2024 7 October 2024 14 October 2024 - Cancelled 21 October 2024 - Cancelled 28 October 2024 4 November 2024 11 November 2024 18 November 2024 2 December 2024 9 December 2024 16 December 2024
• Departure Date: Pretoria to Durban 2024 * -- Select -- 01 - 03 July 2024 23 - 25 September 2024
• Departure Date: Pretoria to Cape Town 2025 * -- Select -- 06 January 2025 13 January 2025 20 January 2025 - Cancelled 27 January 2025 03 February 2025 10 February 2025 17 February 2025 24 February 2025 03 March 2025 - Cancelled 10 March 2025 17 March 2025 24 March 2025 07 April 2025 14 April 2025 21 April 2025 05 May 2025 12 May 2025 07 July 2025 14 July 2025 21 July 2025 11 August 2025 18 August 2025 25 August 2025 08 September 2025 15 September 2025 22 September 2025 06 October 2025 13 October 2025 20 October 2025 27 October 2025 03 November 2025 10 November 2025 17 November 2025 01 December 2025 08 December 2025 15 December 2025
• Departure Date: Cape Town to Pretoria 2024 * -- Select -- 11 April 2024 18 April 2024 25 April 2024 9 May 2024 16 May 2024 11 July 2024 18 July 2024 8 August 2024 15 August 2024 5 September 2024 12 September 2024 19 September 2024 10 October 2024 17 October 2024 - Cancelled 24 October 2024 - Cancelled 31 October 2024 07 November 2024 14 November 2024 21 November 2024 5 December 2024 12 December 2024 19 December 2024
• Departure Date: Durban to Pretoria 2024 * -- Select -- 04 - 06 July 2024 26 - 28 September 2024
• Departure Date: Cape Town to Pretoria 2025 * -- Select -- 09 January 2025 16 January 2025 23 January 2025 - Cancelled 30 January 2025 06 February 2025 13 February 2025 20 February 2025 27 February 2025 06 March 2025 - Cancelled 13 March 2025 20 March 2025 27 March 2025 10 April 2025 17 April 2025 24 April 2025 08 May 2025 15 May 2025 10 July 2025 17 July 2025 24 July 2025 14 August 2025 21 August 2025 28 August 2025 11 September 2025 18 September 2025 25 September 2025 09 October 2025 16 October 2025 23 October 2025 30 October 2025 06 November 2025 13 November 2025 20 November 2025 04 December 2025 11 December 2025 18 December 2025
• No of Suites * -- Select -- 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
• Suite Type - Suite 1 * -- Select -- De Luxe Twin bed with shower De Luxe Double bed wtih 3/4 bath Luxury Twin bed with bath Luxury Double bed with bath Paraplegic suite
• Suite Type - Suite 2 * -- Select -- De Luxe Twin bed with shower De Luxe Double bed wtih 3/4 bath Luxury Twin bed with bath Luxury Double bed with bath Paraplegic suite
• Suite Type - Suite 3 * -- Select -- De Luxe Twin bed with shower De Luxe Double bed wtih 3/4 bath Luxury Twin bed with bath Luxury Double bed with bath Paraplegic suite
• Suite Type - Suite 4 * -- Select -- De Luxe Twin bed with shower De Luxe Double bed wtih 3/4 bath Luxury Twin bed with bath Luxury Double bed with bath Paraplegic suite
• Suite Type - Suite 5 * -- Select -- De Luxe Twin bed with shower De Luxe Double bed wtih 3/4 bath Luxury Twin bed with bath Luxury Double bed with bath Paraplegic suite
• Suite Type - Suite 6 * -- Select -- De Luxe Twin bed with shower De Luxe Double bed wtih 3/4 bath Luxury Twin bed with bath Luxury Double bed with bath Paraplegic suite
• Suite Type - Suite 7 * -- Select -- De Luxe Twin bed with shower De Luxe Double bed wtih 3/4 bath Luxury Twin bed with bath Luxury Double bed with bath Paraplegic suite
• Suite Type - Suite 8 * -- Select -- De Luxe Twin bed with shower De Luxe Double bed wtih 3/4 bath Luxury Twin bed with bath Luxury Double bed with bath Paraplegic suite
• Suite Type - Suite 9 * -- Select -- De Luxe Twin bed with shower De Luxe Double bed wtih 3/4 bath Luxury Twin bed with bath Luxury Double bed with bath Paraplegic suite
• Suite Type - Suite 10 * -- Select -- De Luxe Twin bed with shower De Luxe Double bed wtih 3/4 bath Luxury Twin bed with bath Luxury Double bed with bath Paraplegic suite
• No of Adults * -- Select -- 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
• No of Children -- Select -- 1 2 3 4 5 6 - 11 years
• No of Infants -- Select -- 1 2 3 4 5 0 - 5 years

Travelers Information

• Guest 1: * Name Surname
• Date of Birth * dd mm yyyy
• Guest 2: * Name Surname
• Guest 3: * Name Surname
• Guest 4: * Name Surname
• Guest 5: * Name Surname
• Guest 6: * Name Surname
• Guest 7: * Name Surname
• Guest 8: * Name Surname
• Guest 9: * Name Surname
• Guest 10: * Name Surname
• Guest 11: * Name Surname
• Guest 12: * Name Surname
• Guest 13: * Name Surname
• Guest 14: * Name Surname
• Guest 15: * Name Surname
• Guest 16: * Name Surname
• Guest 17: * Name Surname
• Guest 18: * Name Surname
• Guest 19: * Name Surname
• Guest 20: * Name Surname
• Child 1: * Name Surname
• Child 2: * Name Surname
• Child 3: * Name Surname
• Child 4: * Name Surname
• Child 5: * Name Surname
• Infant 1: * Name Surname
• Infant 2: * Name Surname
• Infant 3: * Name Surname
• Infant 4: * Name Surname
• Infant 5: * Name Surname

Complimentary Night Hotel Information

• Hotel Booking * -- Select -- Pre-departure Post-departure
• Hotel Option * -- Select -- Apogee Hotel & Spa, Pretoria Ivory Manor Boutique Hotel, Pretoria
• Hotel Option * -- Select -- TAJ Hotel, Cape Town Portswood Hotel, Cape Town
• Extend your stay -- Select -- Yes No
• No. of nights extra * -- Select -- 1 2 3 4

Additional Pre and Post Train Travel Services

• Briefly explain the travel services you require: *
• I have read and accept the Terms and Conditions *
• Promotion Code
• Phone This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Gratuities are not included in your rate and is at your own discretion. If you wish to show your appreciation in this manner, there is an envelope in your suite that you can insert into a box at the end of your journey. The gratuities will be evenly distributed amongst all the staff on board. A suggested amount would be between R100.00 – R200.00.

Reservations

Upon receipt of your online enquiry, we will confirm availability via email. The email will contain the reservation form which can be completed and emailed/faxed back to us. We will then confirm (in writing) your selected suite and departure date via confirmation invoice. Upon receipt of a 25% deposit, your reservation will be confirmed. Full payment is due 60 days prior to departure.

Cancellation

Cancellations received more than 60 days prior to departure date are subject to a cancellation fee of 25% of the ticket price per individual booking or group bookings. Cancellations received less than 60 days prior to departure are subject to a cancellation fee of 80% of the ticket price per guest. Once a ticket has been purchased, a reservation may be changed for a departure at an earlier or later date without a cancellation penalty being imposed. However should there be a rate difference, the client would be requested to pay the difference immediately. Should the rate difference be in favour of the guest, no money will be refunded and the guest will be informed accordingly. If an amendment, cancellation or no-show is caused by an illness and verified by a registered doctor’s letter, we will consider waiving all or part of the cancellation fee according to the merits of each case with a maximum refund amount of 90% of the actual money received. Non-compliance with these booking conditions will automatically cancel a provisional reservation without further notice.

Departure & Arrival times

Pretoria to Cape Town: The Blue Train departs at 16h00 and arrives in Cape Town at 10h30. Check in opens 2 hours prior to departure.

Cape Town to Pretoria: The Blue Train departs at 16h00 and arrives in Pretoria at 10h30. Check in opens 2 hours prior to departure.

Pretoria to Hoedspruit: The Blue Train departs at 15h00 and arrives at its destination the following day at 10h00. Check in opens 1 hour prior to departure.

Hoedspruit to Pretoria: The Blue Train departs at 15h00 and arrives at its destination the following day at 10h00. Check in opens 1 hour prior to departure.

Only South African Rands are accepted. All major credit cards can also be used on the train.

The friendly, efficient and highly-trained staff take great pride in resolving your every query and satisfying your every need. From an early morning wake-up call to a blouse in pressing need, one call and your butler will take care of it all. The Train Manager is also on call at all times. In addition, the two highly-trained on-board technicians are always eager to share their knowledge with you.

Children should be kept under strict adult supervision of either their parents/guardians and should not inconvenience other guests. Unfortunately no special meals are available for children and / or infants on the train.

The Blue Train operates with an Electric locomotive and runs on air cushions.

Dietary Requirements and Cuisine

There is a menu for every taste. Whether you require Kosher or Halaal meals, or gluten-free vegan options, simply make your needs known at the time of your reservation.

Meal seating times

Pretoria – Cape Town: High Tea 16:30 | Dinner 19:00 – 20:30 | 20:45 – 22:00 | Breakfast 06:00 – 09:00 | Lunch 11:30 – 13:00 / 13:15 – 14:30

Cape Town – Pretoria: High Tea 16:30 | Dinner 19:00 – 20:30 | 20:45 – 22:00 | Breakfast 06:00 – 09:00 | Lunch 11:30 – 13:00 | 13:15 – 14:30

Pretoria – Hoedspruit: Dinner 18:30 | 20:30 | Breakfast 06:30 – 09:30

Drinking water

Throughout the journey, your personal butler will consistently supply you with bottled water. It is not advisable to drink the tap water.

During the day is smart casual. In keeping with tradition it is a compulsory custom to dress formal for dinner to match the sheer elegance of The Blue Train. Eveningwear is elegant and gentleman are requested to wear a jacket and tie and Ladies elegant. During the day dress code is smart casual.

Wi-Fi and Digital Equipment

All suites are equipped with a private digital interactive entertainment system, with an inviting selection of music CDs and big-screen movies on Blue-Ray DVD. Guests can also enjoy a camera-view from the drivers’ perspective from the comfort of your own suite. All suites are fitted with WI-FI service that is complimentary.

On board, The Blue Train is a smoke free zone. The Club Lounge is the only dedicated smoking area.

It is advisable to pack an overnight bag for the journey, as only a limited amount of luggage can be stored in the suite. Butlers will store additional luggage in the luggage car.

The Boutique shop will be open at certain times where guests will be able to buy hand made jewelery and Blue Train branded momento gifts.

Special Occasions

Special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, honeymoon, etc is very important and The Blue Train strives to make it extra special. Kindly inform us of your occasion.

Electrical Current and Adaptors

The train has an electric supply of 220V and a 3-point round wall plug is available in every suite. International adaptors are also available. Each bathroom has 110V/220V 2-pin plugs available for shavers.

An electronic safe is provided in the cupboard in each suite.

The Blue Train’s telephone system allows you to contact your butler or the Train Manager 24-hours-a-day. If you wish to make a local or international call, the staff will gladly assist you to do so, at an additional fee.

Temperature

Guest can control their own temperature as each suite has its own air-conditioning system and under-floor heating. Unfortunately The Blue Train’s windows can not open.

No Pets allowed.

Dangerous Goods

For safety reasons no guest is allowed to bring dangerous goods such as firearms, flammable substances, fireworks, poisonous or toxic substance on board The Blue Train unless special arrangements have been made prior to departure and written permission of such arrangement has been given by The Blue Train management to the guest.

Currency Converter

Tel: +27 (0)21 100 3596 Fax: +27 (0)86 598 0812 Email: [email protected] RSA Co Reg: 2007/049324/23

RESERVATION FORMS

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Privacy Overview

*Four Night Journey

• The SA Special discounted offers is an exclusive rate valid to any person who resides on the Africa Continent.
• These offers are only applicable in the Deluxe suite category and available on selected Blue Train departures between Pretoria and Cape Town as advertised.
• The rates are quoted per adult sharing .  Single Travelers and Child’s rates are available on request.
• Hotels are in a package budget and prices are quoted on entry level room categories. Should you wish to book a higher room category or an alternative hotel from our list, we will send you a quotation accordingly.
• Packages that includes flights are booked on low cost carriers and are in a budget off R1’500.00 per person. Should the fare be higher, guests would be requested to pay in the difference. Guests are also welcome to request a preferred airline.
• Flights can only be guaranteed once proof of payment have been received.  Please ensure that the correct names as per ID/Passport is provided as name changes are not permitted.
• All travel services remain subject to availability at the time of making your reservation and packages can be withdrawn without prior notice.
• We are not limited to website offers and can assist with any tailor made package.
• Our standard travel terms and conditions apply.

*Higher rates apply

*Higher rate applies

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Prices are subject to availability and can change due to currency fluctuation tax in/decreases.

High season rates may apply and will be confirmed upon requesting a quotation.

The rates are quoted per adult sharing. Single Travellers and Child’s rates are available on request.

Hotels are in a package budget and prices are quoted on entry level room categories unless otherwise stated. Should you wish to book a higher room category or an alternative hotel from our list, we will gladly send you a quotation accordingly.

• We are not limited to website offers and can assist with tailor made packages.

Our standard travel terms and conditions apply.

**DATES IN COLOR DENOTE THE TRAIN WITH A MAXIMUM CAPACITY OF 82 GUESTS – WITH A PARAPLEGIC SUITE (PARTIALLY WHEELCHAIR FRIENDLY)

Get 5% discount on all Blue Train departures for August and September 2019 !

Use Promotion Code: LMPROMO Valid from 12 – 16 August 2019 only. *Terms & Conditions Apply

• These offers are only applicable in the Deluxe suite category and available on Blue Train departures between Pretoria and Cape Town from now until the end of 2020.
• High season rates apply from 01 September to 15 November.
• The Free night hotel offer is available on all Blue Train departures between Pretoria and Cape Town from now until the end of 2020, pre or post departures.
• This offer is only valid on entry level room categories and remains subject to availability.
• Should you wish to book a higher room category or an alternative hotel from our list, we will send you a quotation accordingly.
• Rates are quoted per adult sharing .  Single Travelers and Child’s rates are available on request.

Pullman Suite by day

Pullman Suite - Double Bed

Pullman Suite - Double Bunks

Pullman Suite - Single Bunk

*Train stop for operational purposes

The Man in Seat 61

A beginner's guide to

Train travel in south africa.

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Train travel UK & Ireland...

Train travel in europe..., train travel in asia..., train travel in africa..., train travel in america..., train travel in australasia, safe, comfortable south african trains.

Contrary to what you may have heard and to what many middle-class South Africans may tell you, taking the train is a remarkably safe, civilised & enjoyable way to travel between cities in South Africa.  In fact, you'd be crazy not to consider it.  There are several completely different train services:

Shosholoza Meyl long-distance passenger trains

Comfortable & amazingly cheap, Shosholoza Meyl long-distance passenger trains link Johannesburg with Cape Town, Durban, Port Elizabeth & East London.  They're perfectly safe , and one of South Africa's best-kept secrets, highly recommended by travellers.  The Cape Town to Johannesburg train passes the same wonderful scenery as the megabucks Blue Train, but costs only 690 Rand (£33 or $50) including a bed in a 2-berth or 4-berth sleeper.  Durban to Johannesburg is even cheaper.  Shosholoza Meyl's Tourist Class trains have modernised sleeping-cars and a restaurant car, a great alternative to flying and missing everything, or being stuck in a bus seat for whole days & nights.  See train times, fares, photos & how to buy tickets .  See important update .

Premier Classe trains

Luxury on a budget.  Premier Classe trains link Cape Town & Johannesburg weekly for R3,120 (£189 or $235) including exclusive use of a cosy private sleeper and all meals & afternoon tea in the elegant restaurant car as you pass the fabulous South African scenery.  There's a spacious lounge-bar car too.  Highly recommended by travellers, who give Premier Classe rave reviews.  See train times, fares, photos & how to buy tickets .  Not currently running, see update .

The Blue Train, Cape Town to Pretoria

A world-famous luxury train from Cape Town to Pretoria once or twice a week.  It costs from 10,120 Rand (£895 or $1,300) one-way including meals, wine and even cigars.  Worth it if you have the money.  See train times, fares & how to buy tickets .

Gautrain linking Jo'burg, Pretoria & Jo'burg airport

Gautrain is the brand-new safe and modern electric suburban train service around Johannesburg.  The Airport Line links Jo'burg's O.R. Tambo international airport with Sandton.  The North-South Line links Park Station in central Johannesburg (used by Shosholoza Meyl and Premier Classe long distance trains) with Sandton and Pretoria.

Metro suburban trains

Suburban ( Metro ) trains around Johannesburg & Pretoria are not safe (which is why some South Africans will mistakenly tell you that all South African trains are unsafe), but those around Cape Town can be used if you're reasonably careful to travel from Cape Town to Stellenbosch, Paarl & Simon's Town.  Metro train information .

Cruise trains:  Rovos Rail, Shongololo

There are several luxury cruise trains in South Africa, run by companies like Rovos Rail or Shongololo, aimed a tourists with western-style prices.  Cruise train information .

International travel to & from South Africa by train, bus & sea

Unfortunately, there are now no international trains (other than occasional tourist cruise trains) from South Africa to Namibia, Botswana or Zimbabwe, but for information on international travel by a combination of train and bus from South Africa to Zimbabwe, see the Zimbabwe page . For onward travel to Zambia and Tanzania, see the Zambia page .  For travel to Namibia, see the Namibia page .  For trains to Maputo in Mozambique, see the Mozambique page .  For travel to Botswana, see the Botswana page .  See the map here .

Freight ships with limited passenger places and an occasional cruise liner link the UK with Cape Town.  Start with your search with thecruisepeople.wordpress.com , a UK agency which books both cruise liners and freighters.  Also try www.travltips.com/cruises/freighter/overview.php & www.freightercruises.com .  Cunard have occasional sailings from Southampton to Cape Town, see www.cunard.com .  The St Helena steamship used to have very occasional sailings from the UK to Cape Town but these ended in 2018 as the island of St Helena finally (sadly) got an airstrip, see www.rms-st-helena.com .

Useful country information

Shosholoza meyl trains.

The Shosholoza Meyl long-distance passenger trains are perhaps South Africa's best-kept travel secret and an unbelievable bargain.  Comfortable, cheap & perfectly safe , they link major cities including Johannesburg to Cape Town, Durban, Port Elizabeth & East London.  They're a great way to travel as they let you see South Africa comfortably & affordably at ground level, without spending whole days & nights in a bus seat, or spending a fortune on expensive tourist experiences like the Blue Train or Rovos Rail , or flying and missing everything.  They are run by Shosholoza Meyl ( www.shosholozameyl.co.za ), originally part of South African Railways (Spoornet) and now a division of the Passenger Rail Authority of South Africa (PRASA, www.prasa.com ).  The Shosholoza Meyl name was launched in 2001 along with newly-refurbished brightly-coloured sleeping-cars.  In 2006, Shosholoza Meyl split its trains into two distinct classes:  Tourist class with sleeping cars with 2 & 4-berth compartments and a restaurant car serving full meals, snacks, beer and wine, and Economy class with sitter class seats and sometimes a restaurant car.  In Tourist class, the sleepers even have hot showers at the end of the corridor!

IMPORTANT UPDATE 2024:  Shosholoza Meyl trains were suspended in 2020 due to the pandemic, the rail network was then hit by looting and cable theft.  Latest info is that the Cape Town - Jo'burg train resumed once a week in December 2023 as shown below.  The Jo'burg-Durban train has also resumed, details not known.  Contact them (not me!) for details.

Update to the update, January 2024:  Reports now coming in that the Cape Town to Jo'burg train has been suspended again.  Incompetence all round...

Train times & routes

Cape Town - Johannesburg

Johannesburg - Durban

Johannesburg - Bloemfontein - Port Elizabeth

Johannesburg - East London

Johannesburg & Pretoria - Louis Trichardt - Messina

Johannesburg & Pretoria - Nelspruit - Komatipoort (for Kruger Park)

Johannesburg - Mafikeng - Kimberley

Cape Town - East London

Shosholoza Meyl travel information

How much does it cost.

How to buy tickets    

What are Shosholoza Meyl trains like?  

Safety on Shosholoza Meyl trains   

You can check Shosholoza Meyl train times at the official site www.shosholozameyl.co.za , but travel agency site www.southafricanrailways.co.za is kept better updated and is usually far more useful!

1.  Cape Town - Johannesburg

* Until 2019, the Premier Classe train ran every week.  In 2020 it was reduced to running some weeks only, once or twice each month, see www.southafricanrailways.co.za for dates.

** Pretoria:  Shosholoza Meyl & Premier Classe trains no longer run through to/from Pretoria, since 2006 they start/finish their journey at Johannesburg.  Remember that Johannesburg city centre isn't safe for visitors, but Johannesburg Park Station itself has security and is well-patrolled & secure.  Be very careful if you walk outside the station.  It's recommended that you either use the safe new Gautrain network to travel between Jo'burg Park Station, Sandton and Pretoria, or that you pre-book a car or taxi to pick you up at Jo'burg station when you arrive, and when leaving again, take a taxi or car to the station entrance.  Pretoria is a safer city to use as a base when visiting the Jo'burg area.

Fares    How to buy tickets    What are the trains like?    Are these trains safe? Yes!    Cape Town to Johannesburg is 1,530 Km or 956 miles.

Fares    How to buy tickets    What are the trains like?    Are these trains safe?  Yes they are!    Hotels in Cape Town, Jo'burg & Pretoria

2.  Johannesburg - Durban

Johannesburg-Durban trains pass the spot near Estcourt where in 1899 young war correspondent Winston Churchill was taken prisoner by the Boers when the British armoured train he was with was derailed.  They call at Pietermaritzburg (PMB), the station where Mahatma Ghandi was thrown off a train in 1893.  Not just transportation, but a bit of history!

Fares    How to buy tickets    What are the trains like?    Safety on board    Johannesburg to Durban is 722 Km or 451 miles.

3. Johannesburg - Port Elizabeth

Fares    How to buy tickets    What are the trains like?    Are these trains safe? Yes!    Johannesburg to Pt Elizabeth is 1,112 Km or 695 miles.

Check status at www.southafricanrailways.co.za

4. Johannesburg - East London

Fares    How to buy tickets    What are the trains like?    Are these trains safe? Yes!    Johannesburg to East London is 1,023 Km or 639 miles.

Fares may vary by month.   For example, Cape Town to Jo'burg might be R650 in August, R670 in Sept-Oct, R680 in November, R690 in December & January.  The fare includes a sleeper berth in a 2 or 4 berth sleeper compartment.  Couples can request berths in a 2-berth compartment, though this can't be guaranteed.  Bookings open 90 days in advance.

Bedding (sheets, blankets, pillow, made up for you by the train attendant) is an extra 60 rand (£4, $6) or so per person, paid on the train.

Children in tourist class sleepers aged from 0 to 9 pay half fare, 10 and over pay the adult fare.  This arrangement was introduced in 2009.  It seems harsh to have to pay half fare for a 3-month old baby, but remember how cheap the fares are to start with.  Children in economy class seats aged under 5 travel free, children aged 5 to 9 inclusive travel at half fare, children aged 10 and over pay full fare.

Return fares are twice the one-way fare. 

There may be further reductions for students & seniors in off-peak periods, so ask when booking.

Luggage:   You can take up to 25Kg of luggage into your sleeper compartment with you.  Excess can be sent in the baggage car for R4 per item.

Cars can be transported , for prices & booking contact www.shosholozameyl.co.za or (probably better) reliable agency www.southafricanrailways.co.za .  Pets are not allowed on board, except guide dogs.

Economy class fares:   Cape Town to Johannesburg in a seat on the daily Economy class train costs 170 Rand (£12).

What are Shosholoza Meyl Tourist Class trains like?

Sleeping-cars:    The sleeping-cars have 4-berth rooms called 'compartments' and smaller 2-berth rooms known as 'coupés'.  The berths convert to seating for daytime use.  Each compartment has basic leatherette bench seats which convert to bunks at night, and a washbasin with hot and cold water.  Bedding is provided for a small extra charge (60 Rand, about £4, $6) and expertly made up for you in the evening by the train attendant.  Each sleeping-car has a hot shower at the end of the corridor, with lockable shower cubicle & changing area - bring your own soap & towel.  The coaches are not air-conditioned, so the windows open for a superb view of the countryside.  A metal mesh screen is provided for use at night to allow cool air.  Berth numbers aren't specified on your ticket or allocated when you book.  Instead, reservation lists are posted at the departure station telling you your car and berth number.  As far as is possible, two passengers travelling together will be booked into a 2-berth coupé, a solo traveller will normally be booked into a 4-berth compartment with passengers of the same sex.  The price is the same.  If you pay for two tickets (quite affordable, given the fare) you can have sole occupancy of a coupé.  The whole train is all non-smoking.

Example restaurant car prices:  Full English breakfast R 55, porridge R35.  Sirloin steak & chips R95.  Chicken & chips or salad R55.  Lasagne R70.  Macaroni cheese R65.  Castle beer R17 for 440ml.  Wine prices not known.

What are Shosholoza Meyl Economy Class Trains like?

Sitter class seating: Economy trains have basic seating, which does not convert to berths.  Fine for daytime journeys, and safe with travelling security staff on board, but not generally recommended for visitors on overnight trips unless you can't get a sleeper and are prepared to rough it.  Most trains also have a restaurant or refreshment car.

How to buy tickets

Bookings open 90 days before departure. 

Shosholoza Meyl tourist class sleepers can get fully-booked a month or two ahead, especially on the popular Cape Town to Johannesburg route, so book as far ahead as you can . 

Remember that this is Africa and trains can run late, sometimes hours not minutes, so don't book any tight onward connections - ideally allow an overnight stop before any connecting international flight. 

Option 1, buy tickets online at www.shosholozameyl.co.za

Online booking used to be possible on the official Shosholoza Meyl website www.shosholozameyl.co.za - click Book now at top right.

Option 2, buy tickets in person or by phone on 086 000 8888

If you live in South Africa , simply call Shosholoza Meyl's freephone number 086 000 8888.

From outside South Africa , call + 27 11 7744 555 - but you have to collect & pay at a Shosholoza Meyl station within 2 days.  As this may be impractical, I suggest booking online as above or using African Sun Travel as shown below.

Reservations are computerised, so any reservation office can book any journey in South Africa.  When booking by phone, you will be given a booking reference number, and you must collect and pay for your tickets at a station within 2 days.  Your ticket will not show your coach or berth number, but a passenger list showing which berth is allocated to which passenger is posted in a glass case at the station about an hour before departure.

Safety & security on Shosholoza Meyl trains:  Not a problem!

Shosholoza Meyl tourist class trains are perfectly safe to travel on, and can even be recommended for families and women travelling alone.  Sleeping compartments have both a normal lock and a security lock which cannot be opened from the outside, and the train manager and his assistants do a good job looking after their passengers.  People who tell you that 'trains in South Africa are unsafe' have probably never been on one, and are confusing these excellent and safe Shosholoza Meyl trains with the suburban Metro trains around the big cities which they see adversely reported on South African TV.  It goes without saying that the high-end Premier Classe and Blue Train services are very safe, too.

Safety & security at Johannesburg's Park Station

The long-distance trains themselves are very safe, and Johannesburg's Park Station itself is well-patrolled with security guards & CCTV.  However, the streets surrounding Park Station in downtown Johannesburg are definitely not safe, so arrange a car to drop you off or pick you up right at the station entrance or ask the driver to meet you inside the station.   You should take advice before walking around in Johannesburg city centre.  However, things are improving and you can now travel between Johannesburg Park Station and Pretoria via the suburb of Sandton, using the safe new Gautrain network .

Traveller's report:   Trish Jones says this about arriving by car at Johannesburg Park station to catch the Premier Classe train to Cape Town: "With regards to Johannesburg's Park Station, it was one of the things I was concerned about as I haven’t been there for ages, and I’m super cautious.  We had a friend collect us, drove into the car park from the Rissik Street side, and much to my amazement it was spotless and well organized.  Once inside, it’s a case of down the escalator, turn left, and straight into the Premier Classe Lounge (also used for The Blue Train) for check in.  It’s totally separate and is available only to Premier Classe [and Blue Train] passengers.  No hassles and I didn’t feel uncomfortable or threatened at all.  The rest of the station isn't great, but it doesn't matter because you don’t go there."

Traveller's report:   Steven Wasiura says "Park Station in Johannesburg was very busy and felt generally safe, with visible security presence throughout.  The Gautrain is an excellent way to reach the station [from Pretoria, airport, or suburbs], though the direct link between the Gautrain station and Park is still under construction, necessitating a short, easy walk outside.  There are also several car hire agencies with offices at the station, so you may be able, as I was, to return your rental car there and go straight to your train."

Traveller's report:   Ivor Morgan says "The key point is that it's possible to transfer between Shosholoza Meyl & Premier Classe trains, long-distance buses and the Gautrain, without leaving the reasonably secure perimeter of Jo'burg Park Station.  Shosholoza Meyl & Premier Classe trains arrive on the lowest level, on a platform which is somewhat separate from the Metrorail suburban platforms.  Leaving the platform (where your ticket will be collected, so have it handy) an escalator takes you up to the main concourse.  Long-distance buses leave from the main concourse level.  The bus companies have their offices on one side, and there are waiting areas and departure gates on the other.  If you go up another level, there are some shops and a food court and this upper level is also the way to the Gautrain.  The signage is not great, so look for the Wolmarans St exit if there is no Gautrain sign.  When you reach the exit from the building at this level, you will see a short (~15m) covered walkway leading to another building. Inside the entrance to this building, you can see escalators going down to the Gautrain.  At the bottom of the escalators, there is a short passage:  The Gautrain ticket counter and ticket machines are straight ahead, and the ticket barriers are on the left.  Going the other way should be easier - turn right out of the Gautrain ticket barriers (left takes you to the Gautrain car park), up the escalators, and follow the covered walkway to the main station building.  If there are no signs specifically for Shosholoza Meyl, follow the signs for Metrorail until Shosholoza Meyl signs appear."

Travelling from Johannesburg to Cape Town by Shosholoza Meyl tourist class train

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IMPORTANT UPDATE 2024:  These Premier Classe trains stopped operating in 2020 due to Covid and have not resumed.  The great South African Railways has been brought to it knees by mismanagement, corruption, vandalism & theft.

Cape Town -  Johannesburg (once a week)

The Premier Classe train ( www.premierclasse.co.za , if & when their site is working) is an affordable deluxe service aimed at both budget-conscious tourists and South Africans themselves.  It's another of South-Africa's well-kept travel secrets, and it's already getting great reports from travellers who try it.  If you can't afford the famous Blue Train, but still want safe, civilised deluxe train travel at ground level through superb South African scenery that you can't see from 35,000 feet, take a Premier Classe train.  Premier Classe started out in 1998 as an affordable deluxe service from Cape Town to Johannesburg, originally running once a week attached to the regular Shosholoza Meyl train.  But in 2006 it was made into a completely separate train.  In 2008 they introduced a Jo'burg-Durban train and in 2013 they added a Jo'burg to Port Elizabeth train.  Sadly both of these were discontinued in 2014.  See advice on using Johannesburg Park Station .

The Premier Classe train is a hotels on rails.  It uses standard South African Railways sleeping-cars (in fact, the same 1960s-1970s type used by Shosholoza Meyl) which have been refurbished to deluxe standards, and passengers are given twice the normal amount of space per passenger:  Solo passengers get sole occupancy of what would have been a 2-berth coupé, two passengers get sole use of what would have been a 4-berth compartment and so get two lower berths.  The sleeping-cars aren't air-conditioned, a big advantage for photographers as the windows open.  There's a deluxe Premier Classe restaurant car serving 3-5 course meals and a Premier Classe lounge car with armchairs, sofas and a bar.  The fare includes all your meals and complimentary tea/coffee, although alcoholic drinks cost extra.  Premier Classe passengers can use the luxury Blue Train VIP lounges at Cape Town and Johannesburg stations.  Premier Classe is now a division of the new Passenger Rail Authority of South Africa (PRASA, www.prasa.com ).  This amateur video gives a good idea of what to expect on board the Premier Classe train and in terms of scenery, and you may also find this account helps convince you to try out this excellent train service!

Pretoria, Sandton & airport connections:  You can now travel between Jo'burg Park Station, Sandton, Pretoria & Jo'burg international airport on the safe new Gautrain network , see below.

Car transport:   Cars can also be transported on these trains between Cape Town & Johannesburg, R 1,780- R 3,700 per car.

Premier Classe train timetable...    You can check train times & fares at www.premierclasse.co.za (if working) or at www.southafricanrailways.co.za (African Sun Travel, a private agency but usually more reliable).

* Until 2019, the Premier Classe train ran every week.  In 2020 it will be reduced to running some weeks only, once or twice each month, see www.southafricanrailways.co.za for dates.

How much does Premier Classe cost?

Cape Town to Johannesburg  costs around R 3,120 (£189 or $235) each way per person including all meals and private sleeper.

Slightly higher fares apply at peak times such as December-January, Easter & school holidays.

Children under 3 travel free if sharing with their parents, children under 10 pay 80% of the adult fare, children 10 & over pay the adult fare.

You can check fares at www.premierclasse.co.za (if working, it may well still not be!), www.southafricanrailways.co.za (African Sun Travel) or www.newfusion.co.za (New Fusion Travel)

Booking for Premier Classe opens 12 months ahead.  You can request a Premier Classe booking online at www.southafricanrailways.co.za (this is  African Sun Travel, a reliable ticketing agency, not the operator themselves) or www.newfusion.co.za (New Fusion Travel).  Or you can book by phone calling the train operator on +27 11 774 4555 or + 27 12 334 8039 or (from within South Africa) 086 000 8888 (lines open Monday-Friday 09:00-16:30, GMT+2).  Alternatively, you can e-mail your request to the train operator at [email protected] .  There is more information at the Premier Classe website, if it's working, at www.premierclasse.co.za , with an online booking request form.  However, reports suggest you'll get more responsive booking from ticketing agency www.southafricanrailways.co.za (African Sun Travel).

A journey from Cape Town to Jo'burg by Premier Classe train

For these photos I am indebted to Billy Shearer ( read his trip report below ) and Tommi Tollki.

The Blue Train , Cape Town to Pretoria

IMPORTANT UPDATE 2024:  The Blue Train stopped running in 2020 due to the pandemic, but resumed in 2022.  In 2024 it's running.

It's the most famous train in South Africa, and one of the most famous trains in the world.  South Africa's Blue Train links Cape Town with Pretoria once or twice a week, year round.  With a one-way fare from around R 36,000 (£1,750 or $2,000) per person for two people travelling together even in the low season, it's now aimed squarely at foreign visitors.  However, The Blue Train is definitely the most luxurious way to travel between these two cities, and if you do choose to splurge, you will not be disappointed!

Blue Train timetable 2023

The Blue Train switched to a novel night-day-night schedule in 2019, a slower schedule but one less susceptible to delays and with additional off-train excursions.

For departure dates see www.bluetrain.co.za .   See here for the regular passenger trains between Cape Town & Johannesburg .

The northbound journey includes a one-hour stop at the 19th century health resort of Matjiesfontein in the heart of the Karoo.  The Southbound trip includes a stop at Kimberley for a tour of the Kimberley 'big hole' mining museum.  The train no longer serves Johannesburg in either direction, as few tourists want to go there because of its security problems.  The Blue Train rolling stock is also used to run irregular rail cruises on a couple of other scenic routes within South Africa.

You can arrange a package which includes the Blue Train with hotels, transfers, flights through train specialist Railbookers.  They have offices in the UK, USA & Australia:

What's it like on the Blue Train?

The Blue Train offers two types of room:  Deluxe compartments have either a double bed or two single beds and en suite shower or small bath.  Luxury compartments cost a bit more and are almost identical, but have a full size bath (yes, really) and a video.  The train has a dining car and two lounge cars (one smoking, one non-smoking) and both of the two trainsets have an observation car at the rear, allowing you to look back along the line (one of the was damaged and taken out of service several years ago, but is restored for the 2019 season).  Meals and drinks (and even Montecristo Havana cigars!) are included in the fare, and there is an extensive list of South African wines available.  You probably won't be able to drink £800-worth before you reach Pretoria, but you can have a dam' good try...  For pictures of the scenery between Cape Town and Pretoria, see the scenery shots from the Cape Town to Johannesburg journey by Shosholoza Meyl train here and by Premier Classe train here , as the Blue Train follows the same route as far as Jo'burg.

Watch the video: The Blue Train

It's a PR video, of course, but this short film shows how good travelling in The Blue Train from Cape Town to Pretoria can be.

A bit of history

A fast train called the Union Express northbound and the Union Limited southbound was introduced in 1923, to link the Union Castle steamers arriving at Cape Town from Southampton with the gold fields of Jo'burg and the Transvaal capital at Pretoria.  The original wooden coaches were replaced in 1937 with steel coaches built in Birmingham and painted a smart blue.  Before long, the train became known colloquially as 'that blue train', and its name was changed officially to 'The Blue Train' in 1946.  Two new sets of coaches were built for the Blue Train in 1972, and both of these were beautifully refurbished in 1997.  You travel in these same trainsets today.  The Blue Train is still run by the South African Railways (Spoornet), but it is now a separate business unit, due for privatisation...

Gautrain, Jo'burg & Pretoria

Airport line:  sandton ► johannesburg international airport, see www.gautrain.co.za.

Phase 1 of the modern standard-gauge metro service called 'Gautrain' is now operational between the Jo'burg suburb of Sandton and Jo'burg's OR Tambo international airport.  Using brand-new standard-gauge electric trains, it has all the necessary CCTV and security equipment to be a safe and comfortable means of transport for locals and tourists alike.  Trains run every 30 minutes at weekends, every 20 minutes weekday off-peak, and every 12 minutes in the weekday morning and evening peaks.  See www.gautrain.co.za for fares, times and more information.

North-South Line:  Johannesburg (Park Station) ► Sandton ► Pretoria  Gautrain, see www.gautrain.co.za

Phase 2 is now open, with safe modern Gautrain service linking Johannesburg Park Station in downtown Johannesburg (the station used by Shosholoza Meyl and Premier Classe long-distance trains) with the suburb of Sandton and the administrative capital Pretoria.  Gautrain is the best way to travel between Jo'burg and Pretoria, and the safest way to access Jo'burg Park station to connect with your Premier Classe or Shosholoza Meyl long-distance train.  Trains run run every 30 minutes at weekends, every 20 minutes weekday off-peak, and every 12 minutes in the weekday morning and evening peaks.  See www.gautrain.co.za for details.

Suburban Metro trains

Metro trains around johannesburg & pretoria.

Although long-distance Shosholoza Meyl trains and Gautrain are safe for tourists, 'Metro Rail' suburban trains around Johannesburg, Soweto and Pretoria are different matter.  Unless you are particularly foolhardy or adventurous, they are probably best avoided completely.  In 2022, work to restore normal metro services continues .

Metro trains from Cape Town to Stellenbosch, Simon's Town & Paarl

Metro Rail suburban trains around Cape Town have always been less of a problem and as long as you take care, leave your valuables at your hotel and don't travel after dark, they can be a good way to get from central Cape Town to the seaside town of Simon's Town (a scenic run along the coast), or to the wine regions at Stellenbosch or even Paarl - I've taken the metro train to Stellenbosch myself, then hired a bike to cycle round the wineries.  But always check current local travel advice as the situation can change and there have been incidents, even if that may not be the norm.  On the other hand, there is a new initiative for tourists using the Cape Town to Simon's Town train service to tour the coast.

Two classes are available, 1st ('Metro Plus') and 3rd.  Metro Plus means longitudinal cloth seats on newer trains, grey plastic seats on the older ones, 3rd class means plastic bench seats.  Outside the rush hours, trains are not crowded and there's a train from Cape Town to Simon's Town or Stellenbosch every hour or two, taking about an hour.  Make sure you sit in a carriage with other travellers.  To reach the wineries, bicycles can be hired in Stellenbosch, for about £4 a day.

In 2022, work to restore normal metro services continues.  In mid-2022, trains are running between Cape Town & Fish Hoek, but Fish Hoek to Simonstown is out of action.  The Cape Town-Stellenbosch line is also still out of action.

Cruise trains

Several companies run all-inclusive tours around Southern Africa using special deluxe cruise trains. 

Rovos Rail ( www.rovos.co.za ) runs a 5-star cruise train to a regular schedule from Cape Town to Pretoria and on to Victoria Falls.  The train consists of beautifully restored South African coaches with all the usual tourist facilities - lounge, restaurant, private sleeping compartments and showers.  Meals are included in the tour price.  For times, dates of running and prices see www.rovos.co.za . 

Shongololo Express ( www.shongololo.com ) also operates a 3-star cruise train on various routes in Southern Africa and into neighbouring countries.

Buses in South Africa

The trains don't go everywhere in South Africa, and there are times when you might need to take a bus.  There are several long-distance bus operators.  Useful internet addresses are:

TransLux, www.translux.co.za .  Call 011 774 3333 or from outside South Africa +27 (011) 774 3333

Greyhound, www.greyhound.co.za .  Call 083 915 9000.

InterCape, www.intercape.co.za .  Call 0861 287 287 or from outside South Africa +27 21 380 4400.

Click the images to buy online at Amazon.co.uk...

Accommodation in south africa, hotels in cape town, johannesburg, durban or anywhere in south africa....

Personal recommendations:  The Tudor Hotel in Cape Town is inexpensive and central, a good budget choice, from 440 Rand (£33 or $65) per night.  Pretoria is a better place to stay than Johannesburg itself.

Backpacker hostels

www.hostelworld.com :  If you're on a tight budget, don't forget about backpacker hostels.  Hostelworld offers online booking of cheap private rooms or dorm beds in backpacker hostels in most cities at rock-bottom prices.

Flights to South Africa

1)  check flight prices at opodo, www.opodo.com ..., 2)  use skyscanner to compare flight prices & routes worldwide across 600 airlines....

3)  Lounge passes...

Make the airport experience a little more bearable with a VIP lounge pass, it's not as expensive as you think!  See www.loungepass.com

Travel insurance & other tips

Always take out travel insurance.

Never travel overseas without travel insurance from a reliable insurer, with at least £1m or preferably £5m medical cover.  It should also cover cancellation and loss of cash and belongings, up to a sensible limit.  An annual multi-trip policy is usually cheaper than several single-trip policies even for just 2 or 3 trips a year, I have an annual policy with Staysure.co.uk myself.  Here are some suggested insurers.  Seat61 gets a small commission if you buy through these links.

Get an eSIM with mobile data package

Don't rely on WiFi, download an eSIM with a mobile data package for the country you're visiting and stay connected.  Most newer mobile phones can download a virtual SIM card so you don't need to buy a physical SIM, including iPhone 11 & later, see device compatibility list .  Maya.net is a reliable eSIM data retailer with a 4.5 out of 5 Trustpilot rating and a range of packages including unlimited data .

Get a Curve card for foreign travel

Most banks give you a poor exchange rate, then add a foreign transaction fee on top.  A Curve MasterCard means no foreign transaction fees and gives you the mid-market exchange rate, at least up to a certain limit, £500 per month at time of writing.  The money you spend on your Curve card goes straight onto one of your existing debit or credit cards.

How it works:   1. Download the Curve app for iPhone or Android .  2. Enter your details & they'll send you a Curve MasterCard - they send to the UK and most European addresses.  3. Link your existing credit & debit cards to the app, you can link up to two cards with the free version of Curve, I link my normal debit card and my normal credit card.  4. Now use the Curve MasterCard to buy things online or in person or take cash from ATMs, exactly like a normal MasterCard. Curve does the currency conversion and puts the balance in your own currency onto whichever debit or credit card is currently selected in the Curve app.  You can even change your mind about which card it goes onto, within 14 days of the transaction.

I have a Curve Blue card myself, it means I can buy a coffee on a foreign station on a card without being stung by fees and lousy exchange rates, just by tapping the Curve card on their card reader.  The money goes through Curve to my normal debit card and is taken directly from my account (in fact I have the Curve card set up as payment card on Apple Pay on my iPhone, so can double-click my phone, let it do Face ID then tap the reader with the phone - even easier than digging a card out).  I get a little commission if you sign up to Curve, but I recommend it here because I think it's great.  See details, download the app and get a Curve card , they'll give you £5 cashback through that link.

Get a VPN for safe browsing.  W hy you need a VPN

When you're travelling you often use free WiFi in public places which may not be secure.  A VPN encrypts your connection so it's always secure, even on unsecured WiFi.  It also means you can select the geographic location of the IP address you browse with, to get around geoblocking which a surprising number of websites apply.  See VPNs & why you need one explained .  ExpressVPN is a best buy with a 4.7 out of 5 Trustpilot ranking which I use myself - I've signed up as an ExpressVPN affiliate, and if you go with expressvpn.com using the links on this page, you should see a special deal, 3 months free with an annual subscription.  I get a small commission to help support this site.

Carry an Anker powerbank

Tickets, reservations, vaccination records and Interrail or Eurail passes are often held digitally on your mobile phone, so it's vital to keep it charged.  I always carry an Anker powerbank which can recharge my phone several times over if I can't get to a power outlet.  Buy from Amazon.co.uk or from Buy from Amazon.com .

Other Shosholoza Meyl routes...

Fares:  Jo'burg to Messina in economy seat from R100, in a tourist class sleeper berth from R160. 

This train has economy class seats, tourist class sleepers, restaurant car.  For travellers bound for Bulawayo or Harare in Zimbabwe, Messina is 12km from the Zimbabwe frontier across the Limpopo River at Beitbridge.  This route was discontinued in 2014 but was reinstated from March 2018.  It went twice-weekly in August 2018.

*  See the Mozambique page for full details about travel between Johannesburg & Maputo by train.

Fare from Cape Town to East London approx R 650 in Tourist sleeper class.

Fares:  Jo'burg to Mafikeng R100, Mafikeng to Kimberley R130.  New service started 5 June 2015.

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South Africa Train Journeys

Be transported to a more glamorous era while travelling on our selection of luxury trains across the spectacular landscapes of southern africa. choose from the blue train, rovos rail or the shongololo express..

Experience the elegance of a bygone era, where rail travel was a luxury accessible only to the fabulously wealthy.

For a few decades before World War II, trains were the most exclusive mode of transport available to a very select number of well-to-do clientele. The addition of dining cars and sleeper coaches eventually allowed travellers to make their way between countries non-stop, whilst enjoying a level of indulgence on board similar to that found at a world-class luxury hotel.

South Africa’s Rovos Rail and The Blue Train offer some of the planet’s most extraordinary rail journeys, ranging from an overnight trip to an epic 15 day safari covering over 6,000 kilometres and visiting five countries between Cape Town to Dar es Salaam. Aboard premium trains, expect old-fashioned butler service, fine dining and the opportunity to dress up for dinner. On the Shongololo Express, passengers enjoy a more casual atmosphere, with meals an informal affair.

Off-train excursions are available on most journeys, ranging from short refreshment stops in charming Victorian towns to game drives in famous wildlife reserves.

• Experience the romance and glamour of 1920s rail travel
• Journey aboard painstakingly restored locomotives
• Enjoy quality meals and fine wines in an elegant dining carriage
• Go on exciting off-train excursions
• Sleep in plush cabins with private ensuite facilities

Our trains operate all year round, with departures throughout the year. Please ask our agents for more information about the journeys we offer.

Be transported to an earlier, more glamorous era while travelling by train across the spectacular landscapes of southern Africa. Our award-winning luxury trains boast comfortable guest cabins, exceptional cuisine, old-fashioned service and itineraries with outstanding off-train excursions.

Experience the extravagance of Victorian and Edwardian-era train travel on a journey aboard one of Rovos Rail’s gleaming, gloriously restored vintage trains.

The Blue Train

The multi award-winning Blue Train first launched in 1946 and today remains synonymous with the highest standards in luxury train travel.

South Africa Itineraries

The following itineraries are just some of the many experiences that we can design for you. All of our tours are private, independent and tailor-made to your personal travelling requirements. Please contact us to begin customising your personalised South Africa experience.

Find out more about our tailor made African safaris. Get in touch with one of our Destination Specialists.

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South Africa Travel Blog

The Complete List of Train Travel Options Between Johannesburg and Cape Town

There are several frequently asked questions tourists to South Africa have about train travel. Since the two most visited cities are Cape Town and Johannesburg , the first is whether there is a train from Johannesburg to Cape Town, and the answer is that there are several options for overnight train travel between Johannesburg and Cape Town. Another question is whether there is a high-speed train between Johannesburg and Cape Town. The answer to this question is no. The Gautrain is a high-speed train in Gauteng , but there is no Gautrain line between Johannesburg and Cape Town .

Your options for train travel between Johannesburg and Cape Town depend on your budget, time in South Africa and what you want from your travel experience. Let’s explore the options for overnight train travel between Johannesburg and Cape Town, which includes the Shosholoza Meyl, Rovos Rail and the Blue Train.

Bus travel between Cape Town and Johannesburg may suit your budget better if you are on a budget.

Train Travel Between Johannesburg and Cape Town: Shosholoza Meyl

The Shosholoza Meyl is a passenger train operated by the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA). It travels between Johannesburg , Cape Town , East London , Port Elizabeth and Durban every week at reasonable rates. 

The trains travel between Park Station in Johannesburg and Cape Town’s train station. The train journey between Cape Town and Johannesburg lasts 25 hours and covers a distance of 1600 km across South Africa. 

The Shosholoza Meyl is a dedicated long-distance passenger train service, offering economy and deluxe sleeper class trains. In both tourist and premier classes, compartments have 2 or 4 berths. Solo travellers share a 4-bed compartment with solo travellers of the same gender. The leatherette benches in the compartments convert to bunk beds at night. Each compartment has a washbasin with hot and cold water under the table. There is a communal toilet, lockable shower cubicle and changing area at the end of the coach.

Train Travel Between Johannesburg and Cape Town: The Shosholoza Meyl Service Offerings

You can book either economy or deluxe tickets on the Shosholoza Meyl. You can also transport your car between Johannesburg and Cape Town.

Economy or Tourist Class 

The restaurant in the tourist class coach makes South African meals which you can purchase with cash only. You can also buy snacks from a service trolley or bring food. You can get bedding from an attendant at R75 per person. Remember, the tourist class coaches do not have air conditioning, but you can open the train’s windows for fresh air and a cool breeze.

The tourist class Shosholoza Meyl travels between Johannesburg and Cape Town on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. The train leaves Johannesburg at 10:30 on these days and arrives in Cape Town the following day at 12:40. The journey is an hour longer than the premier class and takes 16 hours. In addition, the tourist train stops at many towns, whereas the premier train trains only have two stops during the journey.

Deluxe or Premier Class for Train Travel Between Johannesburg and Cape Town

When you book a deluxe ticket, you travel in the Premier Classe. One of the premier class ticket benefits is access to the VIP lounges in Johannesburg and Cape Town before boarding the train. In the Premier Classe, you get a classy food and beverage schedule. You get welcome drinks and snacks comprising tea/coffee and muffins when the train departs, a full English breakfast, a four-course lunch, high tea and a five-course dinner while travelling.

Coffee/tea and juices are complimentary when travelling premier class, but you will pay extra for alcoholic beverages and sodas. You eat meals in a restaurant car and access the premier classe’s lounge coach with a television. The Premier Classe coaches have air conditioning. Your premier class fare includes bedding, towels and additional luxury amenities. 

The premier classe’s Shosholoza Meyl travels once a week on Thursdays from Johannesburg and Cape Town. The train leaves Johannesburg at 10:30 on a Thursday and arrives in Cape Town at 12:40 on a Friday. The train travels via Kimberley and Beaufort West to get to Cape Town . You can travel from Cape Town to Johannesburg in premier class once a week on Tuesdays. The train leaves Cape Town at 9:05 on a Tuesday morning and arrives in Johannesburg at 11:03 on a Wednesday. The train travels via Kimberley and Beaufort West to get to Johannesburg. 

How Much Are the Shosholoza Meyl Train’s Prices for Train Travel Between Johannesburg and Cape Town ?

The fare is R690 per trip for tourist class tickets, making this the cheapest train from Johannesburg to Cape Town. The premier class ticket costs R3120 per trip and is reasonable for a more luxurious train travel experience.

How Do I Book the Shosholoza Meyl for Train Travel Between Johannesburg and Cape Town?

The  Shosholoza Website  does not contain much information on the service. However, you can book through the following sales and reservation contact numbers: 086 000 8888 / (+27 11) 774 4555. The call centre operates from 8:00 to 16:00 on weekdays and 8:00 to 12:00 on weekends and public holidays. 

An online booking alternative is to book through a  third-party website  by completing a form to get a quote. You cannot make a direct and immediate online booking for travel on the Shosholoza Meyl, and you cannot book tourist class tickets or get a quote for longer than 90 days before your travel date. You can book premier class tickets one year before your travel dates.

for Train Travel Between Johannesburg and Cape Town: Considerations for The Shosholoza Meyl

Many travellers complain about the train often leaving late and last-minute cancellations. For the most updated information on your journey, follow the South African Railways on  Facebook   or  Twitter.  

Train Travel Between Pretoria and Cape Town: Rovos Rail’s Train

Rovos Rail started in 1989 and offers a steam-train experience. They provide several train journeys, including the first-class train between Pretoria and Cape Town. During the trip, guests visit the historic village of Matjiesfontein , with a museum on its platform. The train also stops in Kimberley to visit the Diamond Mine Museum and the Big Hole . Here is a great place to stay if you visit Kimberley.

Each train includes coaches for accommodation, dining and a lounge. There is also a small gift shop, a smoking lounge and an observation car with a balcony. The Rovos Train has no radios or television sets on board. 

The Rovos Train does not use Pretoria Station, but the Rovos Rail Station in Capital Park, Pretoria. The train departs from Pretoria at 11:00 on the first travel day. During the second travel day, guests visit Kimberley , and on the third travel day, they see Matjiesfontein . The train arrives in Cape Town on the third day at 18:00. The journey from Cape Town to Pretoria has the same schedule, just in reverse.

Choice of Compartments

The Rovos Train offers a variety of compartments to choose from, including:

• Royal suites:  These suites have a private lounge area and an en-suite bathroom with a Victorian bath, separate shower, basin and toilet. Guests can choose between double beds or twin beds. 
• Deluxe suites:   Each suite has a lounge area and en-suite bathroom with a shower, toilet and basin. Guests can choose between double beds or twin beds.  
• Pullman suites:  These are available on long journeys and have an en-suite bathroom with a shower, toilet and basin. During the day, these suites have a couch for seating that converts to a bed at night. 

How Much Does a Trip on the Rovos Rail Cost?

The ticket prices depend on the type of compartment you book and whether you share a compartment or travel alone. A single supplement is a 50% add-on to a compartment’s regular price. The prices for the train tickets between Pretoria and Cape Town or from Cape Town to Pretoria are:

How to Book Tickets for Rovos Rail?

You can submit an information request, a quote, or a booking on the  Rovos Rail Website.

Train Travel Between Pretoria and Cape Town : Blue Train

The Blue train launched in 1946 and provides a luxury hotel experience. If you love old steam trains and want a first-class experience, this train is for you!

The Blue Train does not travel from Johannesburg to Cape Town but from Pretoria Station to Cape Town station and between Cape Town and Pretoria. The Blue Train typically travels between Pretoria and Cape Town weekly.

When travelling on the Blue Train, you can choose between suites with either twin or double beds. Each suite has an en suite bathroom. The suites also include the following:

• Radio and move channels.
• A digital entertainment area.
• A selection of music CVs and DVD movies.

The train is air-conditioned, and the windows remain closed at all times. A butler is available in each coach, and room service is available 24 hours daily.

When travelling from Pretoria to Cape Town, the Blue Train leaves Pretoria Station at 14:00 and arrives at Cape Town station at noon on the third day of the journey. The reverse journey from Cape Town to Pretoria has similar departure and arrival times. The Blue Train travels between Pretoria and Cape Town once a week. Depending on the month, there are between 3 and 5 trips a month. For the updated schedule, check their  website .

There is also a Blue Train route between Pretoria and the Kruger National Park . 

Compartment Options on The Blue Train

You can also choose between a deluxe or luxury experience on the Blue Train. The deluxe compartment has either a double bed or two single beds. It also comes with an en-suite shower or small bath. The luxury compartments are identical, except they have a full bath in the en-suite bathroom.

How Long Is a Trip on The Blue Train?

The Blue Train travels 1660 km between Pretoria and Cape Town. The train journey on the blue train takes three days and includes an excursion in Kimberley in the Northern Cape Province of South Africa if there is time and the weather is good. Guests visit the Kimberley Open Mine Museum and the Big Hole in Kimberley .

What Should I Wear on The Blue Train?

When travelling on the Blue Train, you must take formal clothing for dinner. Men need to wear a jacket or waistcoat with a tie , while ladies need elegant evening wear . During the day, the dress code is smart casual, but you cannot wear shorts or flip-flops in the dining car. 

How Much Does a Trip on The Blue Train Cost?

The Blue Train’s rates include all meals, high tea every afternoon, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks and excursions. The fare does not include French champagne, caviare or telephone calls. When you make your reservation, you can specify if you need special meals (such as halal, vegetarian or kosher) and whether you prefer a double or twin-bed suite. 

The rates for travelling on the Blue Train depend on whether you travel in the low or high season. The low season is from 1 January to 31 August each year and from 16 November to 31 December. The peak or high season is from 1 September to 15 November each year. The Blue Train’s rates from Pretoria to Cape Town or from Cape Town to Pretoria are:

How to Book Tickets for The Blue Train?

You can book your tickets for the   Blue Train online.

Editor of the South Africa Travel Blog that focuses on travel to South Africa, including destinations, attractions, accommodation, food & drink.

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6 train trips not to miss in south africa.

1. Umgeni Steam Train

The Umgeni Steam Train  is an NGO-run locomotive situated in Kloof, Durban. It runs on the last Sunday of every month, making a 50km round-trip from Kloof Station via the Valley of a Thousand Hills to Inchanga. Adult tickets cost R260; pensioners and children between the ages of two and 12 pay R190. Booking is advised.

Image supplied

Contact:  082 353 6003

Departure point: Kloof Station, Durban

2. Atlantic Rail

The first Atlantic steam-train line was completed in 1862 and initially ran from Cape Town to Eerste River. A year later, it extended to Stellenbosch and Wellington. The vintage steam-train chugs along from Cape Town Station to Spier Wine Farm in Stellenbosch. The Atlantic Rail stops at Spier Wine Farm for four hours, giving you time to dine and explore before returning to Cape Town. The outing takes a total of seven hours. Adult tickets costs R350, while tickets for children under 13 years cost R250.

B O O K – T O D A Y – – – www.atlanticrail.co.za We have launched our new website and are officially open for business. Our first trip to Simon’s Town is scheduled for the 1st July 2018 and we have limited seats available. #AtlanticRail2018 #atlanticrail #steamlocomotive #simonstown #capetown #traintravel if(window.isMobile != null || window.isTablet != null){ document.write(' '); document.write(' '); googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('dfp-300x250-2'); }); document.write(' '); } A post shared by Atlantic Rail (@atlanticrail2018) on May 7, 2018 at 10:26am PDT

Contact:  021 558 5805

Departure point:  Cape Town Station

3. Ceres Rail Company

The Ceres Railway track was completed in May 1912 using second-hand material. Its train takes you from Cape Town through to Bredasdorp before returning you to the Mother City the next day. Lunch is provided on the train, with an overnight stop at Caledon. There is also a brief water-stop at Elgin where passengers can shop the Elgin Railway Market for craft beers and coffee.

Image from Ceres Rail Company

Contact:  079 077 5332

4. Magaliesburg Express

Two and a half hours is all you need to get from Park Station in Johannesburg to Magaliesburg. Departing at exactly 9.00am, the Magaliesburg Express allows you to soak in views of mountains and indigenous woodlands. Adult tickets are R300 and children’s tickets are R250, while the family ticket for two adults and children is R950.

#magaliesburgexpress #reefsteamers #nagaliesburg #gauteng #southafrica #steam #train #steamtrain #locomotive #train #railway #thisissouthafrica A post shared by Angus Hay (@dr_angus_hay) on Mar 5, 2016 at 4:23am PST

Contact: 062 743 9200

Departure point: Park Station, Johannesburg

5. Rovos Rail

The extravagant  Rovos Rail train, which is also a hotel, runs from and through several parts of Africa including Namibia, Dar es Salaam, Durban, Cape Town, and Victoria Falls. The train is considered one of the most luxurious trains in the world. Booking for a trip on the Rovos Rail is essential.

Image from Safari Guide

Contact: 012 315 8242

Departure point: Across Africa

6. Blue Train

The Blue Train provides a luxury rail cruise, allowing you to view the country’s spectacular landscapes from Pretoria to Cape Town or Pretoria to Hoedspruit. The train stops at several interesting tourist attractions along the way. The cuisine, afternoon high tea, drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), and off-the-train excursions are all included in the trip.

Image from Blue Train

Contact: 012 334 8459/ 021 449 2672

Departure point: Pretoria Station

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Why You Should Take an Overnight Train from Cape Town to Johannesburg

I came to South Africa because it was on my bucket list for the longest time. I wanted to experience a very broad spectrum of the country—in culture and in nature. I started in Cape Town—taking the train to Johannesburg was a decision based on a recommendation made by a friend. He told me that if you take a plane, you’ll miss the most amazing change of scenery. And it was true. The train starts in the city, goes through lush green farm land, enters a more dry but still green area, then changes into Savannah-style landscape, until you end up going through a desert. It was simply stunning, and though it was a very long train ride (30 hours including the delays), I was never bored  (bringing a deck of cards and a good book also helps pass the time).  There was no WiFi on the train, so it’s a good opportunity to really disconnect from your usually well-connected, everyday life.

Train tickets can be easily booked online with a few different packages, but we stayed in the Premier Class trains . I didn’t stay long in Johannesburg, the final destination—my friends and I continued the trip by car to Kruger National Park to end the trip.

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Since its establishment in 1989, Rovos Rail has earned an international reputation for its truly world-class travel experiences. Bespoke train safaris through the heart of Africa combine magnificent scenery with the glamour and excitement of the golden age of leisure travel. In a series of journeys lasting from 48 hours to 15 nights, Rovos Rail links some of the continent’s greatest destinations with a variety of off-train excursions. The beautifully rebuilt wood-panelled trains, which may be hauled by diesel or electric locos, each carry a maximum of 72 passengers in 36 superbly appointed suites and are also available for charter , while the Events Train caters for up to 250 guests and is suitable for daytime journeys. Create itineraries by combining our short and long journeys and receive discounts or explore our specials and collections that link our journeys with other entertaining products.

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Cape Town to Johannesburg by train: On board the budget-luxury Premier Classe train

Posted on Last updated: October 14, 2022

Travelling from Cape Town to Johannesburg by train – a trip through the heart of South Africa on board the Premier Classe train, the overnight rail journey that’s a budget alternative to the Blue Train.

* This site contains affiliate links , where I get a small commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

Please note: The Premier Classe train stopped running in 2020 and it’s unsure if and when it will start again. The information and trip report below is based on a journey taken before the pandemic.

South Africa is home to one of the world’s most famous and luxurious train journeys. The Blue Train is the five-star way to travel across the country, but it’ll set you back at least 18,000 ZAR (£880/$990) one-way. If that’s a bit steep, there’s a normal, no-frills overnight passenger train between Cape Town and Johannesburg – the Shosholoza Meyl.

But there’s also a third option, South Africa’s budget-luxury Premier Classe train. Premier Classe comes with some of the same perks as the Blue Train – private cabins, three-course meals and a Champagne send-off – but for a more budget-friendly price. So how does it compare and what’s the journey from Cape Town to Johannesburg by train like?

Cape Town to Johannesburg by Premier Classe train

How long does it take to travel from Cape Town to Johannesburg by train?

The Premier Class takes around 26 hours to travel between Cape Town and Johannesburg. It runs once a week in each direction, departing Cape Town at 9.05am on Tuesday and arriving into Johannesburg at 11.03 on Wednesday. Or in reverse it departs Johannesburg at 10.30am on Thursday and arrives into Cape Town at 12.40pm on Friday.

Tickets for the Premier Classe train cost 3120 ZAR (£152/$171) per person one way, or 3590 ZAR (£175/$197) in the December–January and school holiday peak periods.

What’s the difference between the Blue Train and the Premier Classe train?

The two trains run on different routes – the Blue Train between Cape Town and Pretoria and the Premier Classe train between Cape Town and Johannesburg. Both run once a week but the Blue Train does the journey over two nights, with a stop off in the mining town of Kimberley, whereas Premier Classe train runs non-stop with one night on board.

But the big difference (other than the price) is the facilities on board. Premier Classe trains use standard South African Railways sleeping cars which have been refurbished to make them more luxurious. The Blue Train is another level with a choice of luxury compartments with an en-suite bathroom and deluxe compartments with a full-size bath.

The Blue Train comes with lots of extras – butler service, air conditioning, observation car, shop and several lounges. And all food and drink is included on the Blue Train, with fine-dining cuisine and local wines, but you pay extra for alcohol on the Premier Classe.

With prices starting at 18,000 ZAR (£880/$990) per person in low season, the Blue Train is a real bucket list trip. But the Premier Classe is very different – an affordable way to travel across South Africa in comfort if you’re not in a hurry.

What’s it like on board the Premier Classe train?

My journey from Cape Town to Johannesburg by train started at Cape Town station at 8am, where we were shown to the Premier Classe lounge (which is shared with Blue Train passengers). After checking in, our bags were taken off us and tagged with our cabin number ready to be delivered to our room, and we were given tea and scones.

The train is a mirror image, with a kitchen in the middle, then a dining car and lounge bar on each side, followed by the cabins with toilets and showers at the end of each carriage. The Premier Classe trains aren’t hugely modern but they’re clean and well maintained.

The cabins have been converted so what would have originally been a four-person cabin now sleeps two, and what was a two-person cabin is now a single. So that means there isn’t an expensive single supplement if you’re travelling on your own, and nobody has to navigate climbing a ladder into a bunk bed on board a moving train.

Inside we had two seats/beds, a table which lifted up to reveal a sink and a storage area above the door for bags (the doors don’t lock from the outside so we kept valuables with us). You’re also given towels, dressing gowns, slippers, toiletries and bottled water.

The journey from Cape Town to Johannesburg by train

As we pulled out of Cape Town, the passengers gathered in the bar for snacks and glasses of bubbly as we watched Table Mountain disappear into the distance. The other passengers on board the Premier Classe train were mainly South Africans along with a few international tourists, and a mostly older crowd of couples and small groups of friends.

Back in the cabin, I abandoned plans to read and was transfixed by the view out of the window. We went from farmland and fields of ostriches through the vineyards around Paarl, then on through the Nuwelkoof Pass into the mountains. The landscape got rockier and drier as we travelled, changing from shades of green to gold and red.

Our cabin steward called in to give us the menu and allocate us a table for meals – you can have a table for two or share a larger table. There’s a huge amount of food included, with a three-course lunch followed by afternoon tea and a four-course dinner, then breakfast and morning tea the next day. The lounge also does a good selection of drinks.

The bar menu featured a selection of local wines for 80–90 ZAR (around £4/$5). You can buy a bottle of wine and the bar steward will look after it for you, so you can just go and get a top up when you want or take it with you to lunch or dinner.

At 12pm it was time for lunch so we headed to the dining car. We sat next to a South African couple in their 60s on their third Premier Classe trip. Over lunch (vegetable terrine, Chicken Kiev and strawberry cheesecake) we talked to them about life in South Africa and how much things have changed for the country over the last 10 years.

By the time we finished lunch the train was out in the Karoo, the vast expanse of empty semi-desert landscape at the heart of South Africa. But there are towns out there – we stopped in Beaufort West to stretch our legs and made an unscheduled stop for the engineers to tinker with the train, but 20 minutes later we were on the move again.

The sky started to glow as the sun set behind us, disappearing below the horizon as we headed back to the dining car for dinner (afternoon tea too was a step too far!). The kitchen staff do an amazing job cooking up multi-course meals in a tiny space for so many people. Dinner was another feast of tomato soup, fish, lamb, chocolate mousse and cheese.

Pretty much stuffed by now, we finished our wine in the lounge before heading back to our cabin. Our beds had been made up for us so we crashed out for the night. Beds were comfortable but the train stops and starts as it travels through the night and lurches around a bit, so we did wake up a few times (ear plugs are a good idea for light sleepers).

Just before 7am I woke up, opened the curtains and sat watching the scenery go by. The landscape had changed again, now back to green with farms, roads and more signs of life. There’s a shower at the end of each carriage, and it’s a bit of a weird feeling washing while you’re moving around but it was warm and had decent water pressure.

Breakfast is served from 7am–9am so you can wander down when you’re ready. We carried on the whole ‘eat until you burst’ theme with juice, yogurt and cereal followed by eggs, bacon, sausages and toast. The train is scheduled to arrive into Johannesburg at 11am so we packed up our cabin – which had been turned back into seats – ready to go.

The last stretch of the journey through the suburbs of Johannesburg seemed to take the longest, but we arrived into Park station spot on at 11.05am. From there you can catch the Gautrain around the city, to OR Tambo International Airport, or out to Pretoria.

Although we were on time, the Premier Classe train is known to have delays, so allow plenty of extra time if you have a flight to catch. But if you have time to spare and want to relax, see South Africa’s landscapes, chat to a mix of locals and travellers, and eat practically non-stop, the journey from Cape Town to Johannesburg by train definitely beats the plane.

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Does the train stop at any place for exploring (like Kimberly in the case of the Blue Train), or to stretch one's legs?

Lucy Dodsworth

Friday 18th of February 2022

We did make a couple of brief stops (one scheduled and the other to check on an issue with the train) but only really long enough to stretch your legs not to explore.

Carolanne Evans

Saturday 5th of October 2019

I have just booked the premier class trip from Cape Town to Johannesburg, for February 2020. I read your review and found it extremely helpful . Happy travels.

The Most Scenic Train Journeys Across Africa

Traveling Across South Africa, Cameroon, Egypt, and More

Cammaert / Flickr / CC BY 2.0

Train travel is an option that may not be favored by everybody, but when you compare it to flying, you will certainly get more beautiful views when you travel by railway than you will high above the ground.

Trains also provide a good way of getting from place to place without having to go through customs and the usual security checks. Not to mention, they usually provide a more relaxing travel experience than flying.

On these train trips in Africa, not only will you get to travel between the country's destinations, but you will have some wonderful views to enjoy from the window as you travel.

Johannesburg to Cape Town, South Africa

Neil Austen / Getty Images

While the Blue Train may be the most famous train in South Africa , you don't need to pay the big bucks to enjoy this scenery. The Shosholoza Meyl trains follow the same lines, are much more affordable, and still perfectly safe. The iconic views of Table Mountain are just a part of the attractions here, with the beautiful wine region around the Cape offering some lovely scenery to enjoy too.

Yaounde to Ngaoundere, Cameroon

This is quite a long journey that takes around 17 hours when running on time, and reveals some of the fascinating cultures around trains, with the vendors carrying trays of fruit and food on their heads at each stop. The route passes through some beautiful scenery, with rolling hills and the greenery of the forests along much of the route. While it may not be the most modern of trains, it is undoubtedly the best way to carry out this journey.

Cairo to Aswan, Egypt

Rudolf Baumann / Flickr / CC BY 2.0

This is a stunning line that follows the route of the Nile for much of the way, and the views of herds of camels , along with the stark contrast between the greenery around the Nile and the desert elsewhere, makes for a visually stunning trip. The one hiccup with this route is that tourists cannot purchase tickets for the daytime trains at the station, only for the more expensive overnight sleeper train. This meaning you either have to be purchased online in advance or purchased from the conductor on the train.

Umgeni Steam Railway, South Africa

Marion Boddy-Evans

This preserved railway has been running in the KwaZulu Natal National Park for over 25 years, and it is certainly one of the most interesting ways to see the superb scenery of this national park. The train is pulled behind a historic steam engine and runs from the station at Kloof to Inchaga. There are some very steep sections along the line as it climbs through the 1000 Hills region, and you can see the train having to work to pull the vintage coaches up the hills.

Nairobi to Mombasa, Kenya

sharjah / WikiMedia Commons / CC BY 2.0

Few journeys have such a contrast between the two destinations like this one, as you drop over 5,000 feet from Nairobi in the mountains to the tropical heat of Mombasa, which lies at under 100 feet above sea level. Along the route, the train passes through beautiful open areas, and it is common to spot giraffes, ostriches, impala, and so many other species as you travel.

Bulawayo to the Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Louise Grubb / Getty Images

This train runs with some historic rolling stock from the 1950s. It does show some of the neglect caused by the economic situation in Zimbabwe. First-class sleeping compartments are quite affordable for most international visitors.

It is the experience that makes this route special, and as it is an overnight train, the sunrise as you travel across the plains towards the falls is sensational. You can spot all kinds of wildlife while also seeing the spray of the falls rising on the horizon.

Metlaoui to Redeyef, Tunisia

felinebird / Flickr / CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

This is a seasonal train that travels a stunning route through the Selja Gorge and includes plenty of wonderful views of the Atlas Mountains too. The train was once the property of the Bey of Tunis but has now been adapted to hold tourists. Tourists flock to this line precisely because of the beautiful views throughout the route. Originally built to transport phosphates from these mountains, it now offers a very different service.

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