The journey usually takes around 54 hours as it crosses mountains, vineyards and wide-open landscapes.
By Kris Boratyn, Audience Writer 21:25, Sat, Jan 31, 2026
This story was originally on: https://www.express.co.uk/news/world/2164086/worlds-most-luxurious-train-journey-africa
The route covers around 1,000 miles and is known for its five-star service (Image: The Blue Train)
For many travellers, a long train journey is one of the best ways to see a country. It’s easy, calm and gives you time to take in everything around you. But there is one rail experience that goes far beyond that. It is often described as “the most luxurious train journey in the world” by those who had the pleasure of experiencing it.
Among many things, the train offers comfort, fine dining and incredible views across South Africa. The route covers around 1,000 miles and is known for its five-star service and elegant design. Many say The Blue Train is a journey unlike any other.
Many tourists start the journey in Pretoria (Image: Getty)
The Blue Train travels between Pretoria and Cape Town. The journey usually takes around 54 hours as it crosses mountains, vineyards and wide-open landscapes.
It is often described as a moving hotel because of its butler service, lounge cars, observation areas and private suites. Many compartments include gold-tinted windows, soft carpets and en-suite bathrooms, with some offering full-size bathtubs.Experts at Great Rail Journeys say the train has more than 100 years of history, linked to the discovery of diamonds and gold before the 19th century.
They describe each moment on board as something to savour, whether guests are enjoying gourmet meals, South African wines or afternoon tea in the lounge. As they put it, travellers can “embark on a timeless journey steeped in comfort and charm as the scenery passes by”. The train has two main types of suites. The De Luxe Suites include polished wood panels, soft fabrics and ensuite bathrooms with either a shower or a three-quarter bath.
The Blue Train travels between Pretoria and Cape Town (Image: Getty)
The train is often described as a moving hotel (Image: The Blue Train)
Each carriage has four suites, with most having twin beds and one offering a double. Guests can sit in armchairs and watch the landscape change through the large windows.
The Luxury Suites offer even more space. They have full-size baths, seating areas and goose-down bedding at night.
Butler service is available at all hours, and each suite is designed to feel like a private retreat on wheels.
Dining is also a major part of the experience. The train’s restaurant car includes silverware, crystal glasses and white tablecloths.
Meals feature local ingredients such as South African meats, seafood and fresh produce, along with a wide range of wines.
There is an evening dress code, adding to the traditional feel of the journey. Guests can also enjoy high tea in the lounge or order snacks and drinks through room service at any time.
Guests can sit in armchairs and watch the landscape change through the large windows (Image: The Blue Train)
The train stops in Kimberley on the second day, giving guests a chance to visit the historic diamond-mining area before continuing the journey. There is also a special annual route between Pretoria and Kruger Park, which includes two game drives. Travellers who have taken the journey say it lives up to its reputation. One person said: “This is the most luxurious train journey in the world. The service is impeccable.
“Everything was just perfect. We didn’t even mind the delays because we were so well taken care of. As a matter of fact we were extremely happy that our train got delayed due to cable theft (which is outside the train’s control). Loved every second.”
Another added: “Went on the Blue Train with my wife from Pretoria to Cape Town. It was a magnificent experience. Boarding the train was all through one door of the train, ensuring a personal welcome by the train management. We had been given our room number and when we got to our room/suite our suitcase awaited us.
“The suite was lovely with wood paneling and a separate ensuite with a surprisingly large bath. The suite had a table and we could sit on the sofa or on the chair to look out the window. The restaurant car was beautiful with linen and individual tables in their individually partitioned space with a dinner menu of 2 or 3 starters, 4 main courses, 2 desserts and a large selection of fine South African wines. The food was beautifully presented and of great quality with good quantity, enough to fill you. A third wrote: “For me this was a once in a lifetime experience. Something I’ve dreamed about since I was a little girl. The service was next level. The views from the train were spectacular, especially in the Western Cape.”
Someone else commented: “What an experience, reminiscent of the 1930/40s train travel. Right from arriving at the terminal in Cape Town you felt like you were being greeted by family, lots of smiles and escorted to our cabin on the train after a sumptuous morning tea. The meals and drinks were to a very high standard and service was impeccable.”
