About the Blue Train
Southern Routes have been sending local and international guests, including conference and sports groups on train journeys through Southern Africa for many years.
We can arrange everything from the pre and post train trip accommodation to tours and safaris that can be included to your itinerary that will make your holiday experience truly memorable.
What to expect on the Blue Train
Your Blue train experience starts the moment you step into the pre-departure lounges in Pretoria or Cape Town.
A warm-hearted South African welcome begins your journey that is defined by personal attention and devotion to detail. The Blue Train Journeys, both scheduled and chartered, take guests through some of the most breathtaking countryside to be found anywhere in the world.
The Blue Train route between Pretoria and Cape Town is a 31-hour journey of 1 600 kilometres (994 miles), through some of the most diverse and spectacular scenery offered by the African sub-continent.
The train departs Pretoria usually on a Monday morning at 08h30 arriving in Cape Town the next day at 15h00 in the afternoon.
The return journey departs on a Wednesday morning also at 08h30 and arrives in Pretoria at 15h00.
All meals, a high tea, drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) as well as off-train excursions are included in the fare.
Other routes include Pretoria to the Kruger Park.
Experiencing a trip on one the Blue Train routes really is a case of
"The Journey is as important as the Destination"
Blue Train Lounges
- The Lounge Car
The elegant lounge car with its large windows allows for panoramic views of the passing countryside. The Blue Train interior, resplendent with original works of South African art adorning the walls, plush and comfortable couches and bouquets of flame lilies complementing the plush décor, makes the lounge car the ideal setting for sharing an apéritif with fellow guests, an interlude between meals, or after-dinner conversation over coffee. As an added treat, indulge in the English ritual of high tea, served every afternoon at your leisure.
- The Observation car
On most of the journeys the Blue Train has an Observation Car attached at the back of the train with large windows offering panoramic views of the passing landscape and the rail tracks.
Their are staff available for any drinks and snack requirements.
The Observation Car can be used as a 22 seater conference facility with laptop computer, overhead projector, video, slide facilities and other modern conference equipment that can cater for various types of meetings and conferences
- The Club Car ( Cigar Lounge )
The club car has the relaxed atmosphere of a gentlemen's club, with card tables, a small library and a fully-equipped bar.
Guests can watch a short film about the train's route or enjoy a Cuban cigar and cognac before retiring for the night. You can while away the miles with a game of cards, chess or backgammon or browse through a volume from the library while savouring your beverage of choice from the well-stocked bar.
There are large windows which allow for panoramic views of the passing countryside.
- Dining
All meals are freshly prepared on board the train by executive chefs. A selection of South African wines complement the gourmet cuisine served on The Blue Train. Enjoy wonderful food, freshly prepared in a state-of-the-art kitchen where gourmet chefs can cater for dietary requirements of today.
The dining car caters for 42 guests per sitting. Discerning diners can have the pleasure of the best silver and crystal service where formal dinner attire adds to the grandeur.
