Train travel from Cape Town city centre offers a fun and thrilling way to experience the region’s natural beauty and cultural richness.
From charming coastal routes to scenic mountain passes, each journey offers a unique adventure. Here’s a guide to some must-try train trips that promise unforgettable experiences.
People’s Train
You may have spotted this viral, budget-friendly train trip on your social media feed. This fun day out is loved by locals and international visitors alike—promising postcard-perfect views. You can take a scenic trip along the coast with the Southern Line, which winds through Muizenberg, Kalk Bay, Fish Hoek, and Simon’s Town. For under R10 per trip—depending on your starting point—you’ll be treated to stunning views of some of Cape Town’s most iconic beaches.
Begin your journey at Cape Town Station or conveniently park and ride from stations like Rondebosch, Kenilworth, or False Bay. Make it a full-day adventure, ticking off these coastal gems from your bucket list. Just be sure to check the schedule in advance, as service times may vary.
What to expect on board: The People’s Train’s exterior design draws inspiration from the diverse nature of South African society, offering some of the best city and coastal views. The train is wheelchair accessible.
Website: cttrains.co.za/
Ceres Rail Company
If you’re looking for a fun day out with loved ones, why not take a scenic train journey to Elgin or Simon’s Town with the Ceres Rail Company? Departing bright and early from the city centre, this trip treats you to some of the city’s most stunning views from a unique perspective. After the journey, you’ll arrive at a new destination, ready to sample the local cuisine, soak in the sights and sounds, and enjoy a few activities before heading back to the Mother City.
What to expect on board: Select from an array of seating options, including day sitters, compartments, bar lounges, coupes, lounges, lounges, and the observation car. The train features two well-stocked bar areas, offering a selection of standard beers, wines, sparkling wines, and cocktails. Additionally, two skilled baristas are on hand to serve everything from Americanos to frozen mochas. A variety of meals and snacks are available for purchase throughout the journey. On some trips, you can treat yourself to spa treatments, available at affordable rates. Your host will be there to assist you every step of the way to ensure a smooth journey.
Website: www.ceresrail.co.za/
Rovos Rail
Rovos Rail is one of the most luxurious rail journeys in the world, with itineraries that showcase iconic destinations such as Cape Town and Victoria Falls. There are trips with departures to and from Cape Town, including a three-night, 1,600 km journey that highlights the spectacular mountain ranges and scenic winelands of the Cape, the historic village of Matjiesfontein, and Kimberley.
What to expect on board: Each Rovos Rail train offers an elegant selection of accommodation carriages, dining cars, a charming lounge car, a small gift shop, a smoking lounge, and an observation car with an open-air balcony. Embracing the spirit of a bygone era, Rovos Rail is a peaceful escape from modern technology—no radios or televisions are found on board.
Guests can choose from three types of suites: Pullman, Deluxe, and the luxurious Royal suite. Each suite is equipped with double or twin beds, a shower, toilet, basin, and, in the Royal suites, a bath. Tea facilities and air conditioning are included. Meals are served in one sitting in the dining cars, perfectly paired with a selection of fine South African wines.
Website: rovos.com/journeys/cape-town/
Franschhoek Wine Tram
One of the best ways to discover the Franschhoek Valley is on the wine tram. The most popular option, the Hop-on Hop-off Experience, allows you to go on wine tasting, cellar tours, lunch with vineyard views, and a stroll through the vineyards. You can also book Curated Wine Experiences. The wine tram leaves from Franschhoek or Groot Drakenstein Terminal (dependent on which tour/ line you choose). Make a stop at their French-inspired café, Café Beignet, for a few freshly made beignets.
Website: winetram.co.za/
Western Province Live Steamers
Aiming to preserve and promote the construction of miniature steam locomotives and celebrate railway heritage, the Western Province Live Steamers opens on the first Saturday of every month from 1:30pm to 4pm in Parow. Here, they showcase miniature trains inspired by locomotives from 1860 to 1970.
There’s an open field for children to play, as well as a four-minute train ride. All proceeds collected from the R15 tickets go towards the maintenance of the grounds, new projects, and community outreach.
Location: Bertie Genade Street, Parow
Website: wpls.co.za/
Winelands Light Railway
This isn’t your typical journey, but it’s perfect for the little ones. Winelands Light Railway in Stellenbosch offers a seven-minute train ride, taking you on a 760-metre journey within the park. Hop on board one of their trains at Park Station and experience a locally designed and built miniature railway. Steam trains will haul passengers between 9am and 4.30pm on Saturdays and Sundays. There are also two electric engines, Dozer and Fritz, ready to provide guests with just as much fun when the steam trains are off duty.
You’re welcome to bring your own picnic baskets to enjoy on the shaded lawns.
Location: R304, Koelenhof, Stellenbosch (across from Koelenhof Wine Cellar)
Website: www.winelandsrail.co.za/
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