The Blue Train defines an era of luxury travel and travels through South Africa and its breathtaking scenery. Kings and presidents have enjoyed this magnificent and moving five-star hotel on wheels; The Blue Train. From honeymooners in love to revered celebrities; and even ordinary people who dream of a life of spectacular luxury; a life that seemed tantalizingly unattainable. Up to now…
Since its inception in 1946; the Blue Train has become recognized as the epitome of luxury rail travel; an icon of the Southern African tourism, hospitality, and leisure industry. The luxury element on the train is accentuated by the personalized butler service, fine cuisine, and of course; a wide selection of South Africa’s finest wines.
So, step aboard and journey into a timeless world of grace, elegance, and romance on The Blue Train.
The Blue Train Accommodation
Comparable to the world’s finest hotels, each suite onboard the train offers five-star luxury accommodation with private en-suite bathroom facilities. Of course; all the suites have an individually-controlled air-conditioning system, under-floor heating, opulent marble and gold fitted bathroom with scented bath salts; plush monogrammed towels; even electronic entertainment options. Goose down duvets and pillows and 100 percent percale cotton bedding; envelop you as you drift off after a soothing, scented soak or shower in your marble and gold-appointed bathroom; lulled by the rhythm of the clickety-clack of the train on the tracks. This is what makes The Blue Train one of Africa’s luxury trains.
The suites are a lounge area by day and are converted into a comfortable bedroom during the night. And then, of course, all of this is accompanied by the ever-changing vistas of the countryside…
Suite Types on The Blue Train
De Luxe Suites
The De Luxe Suites measure 8 sqm of space and all but one offer twin beds with showers. There is one luxury suite with a double bed and a ¾ sized bath with a handheld shower.
The Blue Train De Luxe Suite twin accommodation
Luxury Suites
Your Luxury Suite will enchant you from the moment your personal butler ushers you aboard. The Luxury Suites are the premier suites that extend the offering from a De Luxe suite even further; measuring 10.26 sqm of space. They offer twin beds or double beds with full-sized baths; we therefore highly recommend couples book this suite.
The Blue Train Luxury Suites
The Blue Train Carriages
Dining Car
The Blue Train has earned a five-star reputation in every way but; its food exceeds even the highest of expectations. The onboard chef regularly updates the menu to captivate and spoil your taste buds; while cooking specialty dishes using fresh local ingredients; from Karoo lamb, ostrich, and venison to Knysna oysters and other award-winning cape flavors. Everything is skillfully presented in delicate crystals or fine China and contributes to the ultimate dining experience. The atmosphere of the dining car is accompanied by a delightful selection of refined background music; from smooth jazz to light classical music or the gentle sounds of the Soweto string quartet.
As the sky darkens over the landscape, dress up in tuxedos and ties; for dinner with new friends or in the intimacy of your suite. All tastes are catered for; including Kosher, Halal, or gluten-free vegan options when requested at the time of booking.
Club Car and Non-smoking Lounge Car
If you can drag yourself away from the cocoons of luxury and comfort; the Blue Train has two social spaces where you can make friends with your favorite drink. Ideally located behind the engines of the train, the Club Car offers the atmosphere of a gentleman’s club; with sophisticated wooden panels where you can wind off the perfect night with a Cuban cigar after dinner. Wind down and relax with a cognac; or your favorite drink poured by excellent bartenders; play backgammon, chess, cards, or grab a book from the library the club car is the ideal setting.
Alternatively; the beautifully designed Lounge Carriage offers captivating views of the ever-changing countryside; conveniently situated in the middle of the train. Afternoon high tea is a highlight in the lounge car; enhanced by the classic elegant luxury of this carriage. Otherwise; it is a great place to end off your perfect night with another glass of award-winning Cape wine or fine port.
The Blue Train Charter
The Blue Train can be chartered for all types of special occasions; from engagements, weddings and honeymoons, anniversaries, to milestone birthdays. It can meander along its standard route, or on bespoke trips or cross-border excursions; that last from hours to nights; just for you and your party.
Conference or viewing carriage
If the conference car is not reserved for use during the trip; it can be converted into a complementary viewing car; that complements the facilities of the lounge car.
For those with stricter plans, The Blue Train offers facilities for business-oriented travel. The well-equipped conference car can comfortably seat 22 people in a boardroom style. It also provides space for smaller work areas.
Why Chose The Blue Train
Not only to ‘slow’ your journey down; but The Blue Train is the oldest luxury train in Southern Africa.
The only luxury train traveling to Kruger National Park
