SA’s iconic Blue Train gets back on track with a reopening special

With South Africa’s new and more relaxed Level 1 regulations, the famous Blue Train is – quite literally – back on track and hoping to attract travel-hungry locals to enjoy its unique charms.

To this end, a special discount price is being made available between 1 November this year and 31 March 2021.

Given the exclusivity and luxury of one of the world’s great train journeys, the price is still not exactly bargain-basement. But, nevertheless, it’s less costly than what you’d normally fork out for the privilege of a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Photo credit: Blue Train

Aim is more accessible domestic tourism

The special rates follow a nationwide call for more accessible domestic tourism and will be available for all residents of South Africa, as well as tourists who are able enter South Africa, Blue Train management states in a press release.

“Our hope is that these special rates will encourage people in South Africa to experience our beautiful country through the windows of this national treasure,” says Vincent Monyake, Executive Manager at The Blue Train.

“We welcome the announcement of the move to Alert Level 1 with great excitement … the impact of COVID-19 on the tourism sector has been one of the most visceral, felt across the entire tourism industry value chain.”

Photo credit: Blue Train

Reopening special for Cape Town-Pretoria

Although the Blue Train typically offers a variety of journeys, the re-opening special is exclusive to the Pretoria – Cape Town route. This trip features an off-train excursion in Kimberley where guests will visit The Big Hole and the Kimberley Mine Museum.

The experience also includes five-course gourmet silver service for dinners and lunches; breakfast and high teas; live entertainment and overnight hospitality with full 24-hour butler service. All alcohol consumption on board The Blue Train is inclusive, including Cuban cigars for those who are so inclined.

The discounted rates for this trip start from R12 715 per person sharing in a De Luxe suite, and R16 950.00 per person sharing in a Luxury suite. Upon booking, guests, operators and agents need to indicate that they are booking on The Blue Train’s 2020 Re-Opening Special.