Visiting the cities of South Africa with the 80-year-old blue train!
The Blue Train in South Africa is renowned as a symbol of luxury and elegance in the realm of rail travel. It offers passengers one of the world’s most unique travel experiences, covering a journey of approximately 1,608 kilometers and spanning 27 hours. The route typically runs from Pretoria to Cape Town, showcasing the diverse landscapes of South Africa, from the arid deserts of the Karoo to the lush vineyards of the Western Cape.
With its imposing stature and luxurious amenities, the Blue Train resembles a moving residence. Each compartment is outfitted with lavish features, including 3-bedroom suites, a bedroom, and a bathroom. Every detail of the train’s design, from the delicate gold accents on the windows to the convenient electric shutters, is crafted with meticulous care to ensure passengers enjoy a truly unforgettable journey.
The history of the blue train
The history of the Blue Train dates back to 1923, with the introduction of the Union Express service between Johannesburg and Cape Town. The return journey was known as the Limited Union. In 1933, luxury amenities such as dining halls were added to the service, followed by the introduction of air-conditioned sleeper cars in 1939. During World War II, the service was suspended but resumed in 1946 after the war ended. It was during this time that the train became colloquially known as the Blue Train, owing to the introduction of blue-colored steel wagons in 1937.
In 1955, the train began operating with 3E electric locomotives between Cape Town and Touws River. In 1959, Wegmann & Co constructed air-conditioned dining cars and kitchens for each set. In September 1972, Union Carriage & Wagon introduced two sets with 16 compartments each. The train underwent restoration in 1997 and was relaunched as a tourist attraction, maintaining its status as a symbol of luxury and elegance in rail travel.
Watching spectacular views from the water train
The Blue Train, consisting of 16 carriages, embarks on its journey following a grand farewell ceremony, captivating travelers interested in exploration, African cuisine, and scenic beauty. Throughout the journey, passengers indulge in the delectable flavors and exceptional quality of the onboard cuisine while gazing upon the vineyards and plateaus of Cape Town, gradually transitioning into the vast semi-desert landscape of the Karoo. Operating at a leisurely speed of approximately sixty kilometers per hour, passengers have the option to open windows to relish the fresh air or capture breathtaking photographs of the natural scenery through special glass windows, ensuring moments are captured without worry of dust.The Blue Train offers a luxurious expedition from Pretoria to Cape Town, treating passengers to awe-inspiring vistas of untouched landscapes adorned with palm trees and mountains, providing an immersive experience in both culture and natural splendor. En route, the train makes stops at historic sites such as the Kimberley diamond mines and the Matjiesfontein district, enriching the journey with tales of rich history and cultural heritage. However, the true allure of the voyage lies in the impeccable and hospitable services and amenities provided by the train crew, ensuring passengers are pampered and catered to throughout the duration of the trip. The Blue Train promises an experience that exceeds expectations for travelers seeking an unforgettable exploration of South Africa’s diverse landscapes and cultural treasures.
Travel by water train in South Africa
The Blue Train covers a journey of approximately 1,600 kilometers in South Africa between Pretoria and Cape Town. It is one of the most luxurious train journeys in the world, with butler service, two smoking and non-smoking lounges, an observation car and compartments with gold-tinted glass, in soundproofed and fully carpeted compartments, each with its own suite. And many are equipped with a full-sized bathtub. South Africa’s water train is advertised as a five-star luxury mobile hotel by its operators and has been traveled by many kings and presidents.
Time and route of the South African water train
On its journey to Cape Town, South Africa’s Blue Train makes a stop for an excursion in Kimberley. Departing from Cape Town, the train leaves at 12:00 and arrives at Pretoria station around 18:00. One of the highlights of the trip is a visit to the Lord Milner Hotel in Matjiesfontein. Upon arrival, passengers are welcomed to the bar for a refreshing drink. The Victorian-era buildings and original 19th-century London lampposts lend an enchanting ambiance, evoking a sense of stepping back in time to the colonial era, creating an oasis suspended in a different epoch.
For travelers planning to embark on this luxurious journey, it’s important to note that entry into the Pre-Departure Lounges at both Pretoria and Cape Town stations is required one hour before departure. The Blue Train comprises two trains operating in opposite directions—northbound and southbound—offering daily departures from both ends of the route. The first train accommodates 74 guests in 37 suites, while the second train caters to 58 guests in 29 suites and features a conference or observation car located at the rear of the trai.
The last word
The South African Blue Train not only serves as a luxurious mode of transportation within the country but also offers an enriching and unforgettable cultural and natural experience of South Africa. With its abundance of amenities and top-notch services, the train provides passengers with a window into the country’s natural splendor and rich history. Stops at iconic locations such as the Kimberley Diamond Mines and the Matjiesfontein area allow travelers to immerse themselves in South Africa’s historical and cultural landmarks.
Moreover, the warm and welcoming demeanor of the train crew adds to the overall experience, creating lasting memories for passengers. The Blue Train’s captivating route, coupled with its luxurious accommodations, invites passengers to explore the continent’s diverse landscapes and cultural treasures, offering a truly unique experience aboard one of the world’s most luxurious trains.
As a Travel by Turkey company, we would love to help you enjoy your trip while you are in Istanbul. We also have tours like Cappadocia Jeep Safari Tour, Bosphorus Cruise with Cable Car Tour, Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Tour, Istanbul Airport Transfer, Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport Transfer, Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise, Cappadocia Tour, Istanbul to Pamukkale Tour, Istanbul Princes Island Tour, Istanbul Old City Tour, Trabzon & Uzungol Tour, Ephesus Tour, Sapanca and Masukiye Tour, Green Bursa Tour and more.
The best tourism agencies in Türkiye can be mentioned as Manolya Tour.
