The romance of the rails meets five-star luxury aboard The Blue Train, South Africa’s legendary rail experience. This royal-blue locomotive, running the picturesque route between Pretoria and Cape Town, transforms the 1,600-kilometre journey into an unforgettable, all-inclusive adventure.
The Blue Train isn’t merely transportation; it’s widely promoted as a “magnificent moving five-star hotel,” a title well-earned with its array of opulent amenities and impeccable service.
Guests step into a world of old-world glamour and modern comfort. The train features soundproofed, fully carpeted compartments with gold-tinted picture windows offering panoramic views of the changing African scenery. Both the De Luxe and Luxury Suites offer generous lounge areas by day, which transform into sumptuously decorated bedrooms by night, complete with fine cotton linen and duvets. The Luxury Suites are particularly noted for their spacious en-suite bathrooms, many of which feature a full-sized bathtub—a rare extravagance on a train.
Personal attention is paramount, with a dedicated butler service available around the clock to cater to every need. The level of service has attracted high-profile travellers for decades, including kings and presidents, cementing The Blue Train’s status as one of the world’s most luxurious rail journeys.
Dining is a highlight, with gourmet meals freshly prepared on board by executive chefs. The menus showcase exquisite South African cuisine, including local specialties like Karoo lamb and ostrich fillet, all presented with Silver Service tradition. These culinary delights are perfectly complemented by a connoisseur selection of award-winning South African wines. Dinner is a formal affair, with guests requested to wear a jacket and tie for gentlemen and elegant evening wear for ladies.
The train boasts two stylish communal areas: the Lounge Car, where High Tea is served each afternoon, and the Club Car, a more intimate, wood-panelled space where guests can enjoy after-dinner cognacs and cigars. For maximum enjoyment of the passing landscape, most departures include an Observation Car at the rear of the train with windows on three sides.
The main scheduled route is a roughly 27-hour, two-night odyssey connecting the administrative capital, Pretoria, with the “Mother City,” Cape Town. Along the way, the journey includes an unforgettable off-train excursion. Southbound trips stop at Kimberley for a visit to the famous Big Hole and Diamond Mine Museum, while northbound trips include a stop at the historic Victorian village of Matjiesfontein.
As the train glides through the diverse landscapes—from the Highveld’s flat terrains to the semi-arid Great Karoo and the lush Cape Winelands—The Blue Train offers a slow, luxurious glimpse into the heart and soul of South Africa. It is a world where every detail is meticulously chosen to ensure that a simple rail journey becomes an extraordinary, five-star experience.
