Like all the world’s great train journey’s The Blue Train is synonymous with luxury and personal service. And whilst totally up-to-date in terms of technology and efficiency, its style is still unapologetically anchored in that of a bygone era. Indeed the train has been operating for almost sixty years now, passengers enjoying some of Africa’s most
diverse and spectacular scenery as they take the 27 hour journey of 1,600 kilometres between Pretoria and Cape Town or vice versa.

Each train has either 37 or 41 classically-styled suites and you can choose between deluxe or luxury accommodation, all with individual temperature controls and custom-designed foldaway beds. Most of the deluxe suites feature marble-clad bathrooms with showers, whilst the larger luxury suites all come with deep-soaking tubs and digital
entertainment centres. The goose-down duvets, monogrammed gowns and personal stationery show the standards to expect.

Not that you’ll want to stay inside too long, of course, even if there is a dedicated butler catering to your every whim! From high tea in the wood-panelled lounge to post-prandial brandies in the well-stocked bar, journeys aboard The Blue Train are usually highly sociable affairs. And whilst breakfasts and lunches are delightfully informal, evenings
are definitely dress-up affairs, the ‘Cordon Blue’ cuisine and fine Cape wines set off by crystal glassware and crisp white linens. Jackets and ties obligatory!

2008 SCHEDULE:
SOUTHBOUND: DEPART PRETORIA 8:50 A.M.
ARRIVE CAPE TOWN 12 NOON NEXT DAY
WITH STOP IN KIMBERLEY.
NORTHBOUND: DEPART CAPE TOWN 8:50 AM ARRIVE PRETORIA 12 NOON NEXT DAY WITH STOP IN MATJIESFONTEIN.

COST:
£630 P.P. ONE-WAY, WITH A SUPPLEMENT OF
£155 P.P. 1 SEPTEMBER TO 15 NOVEMBER.
RATE INCLUDES ALL MEALS, HIGH TEA, MOST
DRINKS AND OFF-TRAIN EXCURSIONS.