Long-distance trains are becoming increasingly popular among travellers, thanks to its adventurous nature, the opportunity to see various landscapes, and its environmentally friendly credentials. In South Africa, one such journey can be completed on the Blue Train, which covers 1,600 km from the capital, Pretoria, to the world famous city of Cape Town.
The route passes through diverse landscapes, from rolling grasslands and semi-desert regions to vineyards and the dramatic Western Cape mountains. Luxury train travel along this corridor dates back to the late 19th century, linked to the discovery of diamonds and gold, when wealthy travellers and mine owners sought comfort while moving between the administrative capital of Pretoria and the legislative capital, Cape Town. Since standard passenger coaches were insufficient, the Blue Train was fitted with luxurious carriages for the time, featuring card tables, ceiling fans, and sinks with both hot and cold water.
Today, journeys aboard the Blue Train take around 27–30 hours. Not only it is Africa’s longest train route – it is also one of the world’s most luxurious rail journeys. It offers an experience akin to a five-star hotel on wheels, complete with elegant cabins, fine dining, and attentive service.
The train’s origins date back a century, and its interior reflects that. Travellers can enjoy Gatsby-like luxury suites featuring bathtubs, personalised butler service and twin beds. During the meals, guests are served South African food, including regional food like the Karoo lamb and Knysna oysters. There is even an evening wear dress code for dinner each evening. For dinner, men are asked to wear blazers, and women, formal dresses.
Forty years ago, a journalist writing for The Times documented his journey. With South Africa still under apartheid, the train was the only desegregated train, though it was still rare to see Black passengers due to the train’s high cost. He wrote: “Outside the train, you can catch some reasonably telling glimpses of the uneven ways in which land and labor are apportioned under the South African system.”
Today, not much has changed in terms of prices. Spending just two nights on the train starts at around £1,749. A Reddit user commented: “It’s like a mega yacht on tracks, it’s one of the most exclusive experiences you can have in South Africa, second only to the Rovos Rail.”