Did you know a luxurious 9-day rail journey in South Africa costs £3,285 per person? This price reflects the cost of travel and the amazing experience on South Africa’s Blue Train. It’s a top example of luxury rail travel, mixing comfort with adventure.
As you travel from Cape Town to Pretoria, you’ll enjoy top-notch hospitality, fine dining, and rich history. The Blue Train is a special part of a South Africa train tour. It offers a 54-hour journey through stunning landscapes and heritage.
We’ll explore the pricing, features, and special offers that make this trip unforgettable. It’s more than just a journey; it’s a cherished memory in luxury rail travel.
Key Takeaways
- The Blue Train offers an extraordinary 9-day experience in luxury rail travel.
- Prices commence at £3,285 per person for the elite experience.
- Booking before 2nd December 2024 may yield savings of £200 per person for 2025 holidays.
- Optional excursions enhance the journey, with activities ranging from city tours to safaris.
- Accommodations include 4-star hotels and Deluxe Cabins onboard.
Introduction to the Blue Train Experience
The Blue Train offers a luxury tour like no other in South Africa. It started in 1946 and is known for its luxury and service. On its 54-hour trip from Cape Town to Pretoria, guests see South Africa’s stunning views.
Each suite on the Blue Train is designed for comfort. Guests enjoy fine dining with canapés, lunch, and dinner. Every meal is a feast for the senses.
There’s more to the Blue Train than just the ride. Guests can go on excursions to see local culture and nature. They can visit the Winelands and Table Mountain, learning about South Africa’s heritage.
The dress code adds to the charm, with men wearing jackets or waistcoats at dinner. This journey is not just about seeing beautiful views. It’s about experiencing the heart of South Africa.
The History of the Blue Train
The Blue Train is a symbol of luxury and elegance in South African railways. It started in 1946, designed for dignitaries and the wealthy. It has always provided top service and comfort.
Renovations over the years have kept its beauty and heritage alive. They’ve added modern comforts too.
The Blue Train’s famous route covers about 1,600 kilometres from Pretoria to Cape Town. It shows off Africa’s diverse landscapes. A trip from Pretoria to Kruger National Park offers a luxury safari experience.
In 1997, the Blue Train added a new route from Cape Town to Pretoria. It includes places like Victoria Falls and Port Elizabeth. The train runs two sets a day, carrying up to 74 and 58 passengers.
The Blue Train is perfect for special events like graduations and weddings. It has a Conference Car for 22 delegates. Customers love the dining, service, and luxury, saying it’s like a five-star hotel.
Even with occasional delays, the Blue Train remains a top choice for luxury travel.
Features of the Blue Train
The Blue Train offers top-notch luxury features for a comfortable journey. It has various rooms and fine dining options. This makes it perfect for those who love luxury travel.
Accommodation Options
Guests can pick from Luxury and De Luxe suites. Each suite has air-conditioning and sleeping options. Luxury suites also have a digital entertainment centre and a butler to meet your needs.
Catering and Dining Experience
The dining on the Blue Train is exceptional. It serves local dishes like Karoo lamb and Knysna oysters. Award-winning wines from the Cape Winelands add to the meal. They also cater to dietary needs and offer room service.
Onboard Luxury Amenities
The Blue Train has more than just great food and rooms. It has a lounge car for socialising, spa services for relaxation, and a business centre. These features make it a favourite for luxury train travel.
Blue Train Prices
The Blue Train offers luxury at various prices, fitting different budgets. Knowing the blue train prices helps plan a memorable trip.
Pricing for 2024
In 2024, the luxury train’s prices reflect its top-notch service and amenities. Prices change with the season and suite type:
| Suite Type | Low Season Price (R) | High Season Price (R) |
|---|---|---|
| Luxury Double Suite | 41,380 | 50,560 |
| De Luxe Double Suite | 32,435 | 40,035 |
Prices are for two people, including meals, drinks (except premium ones), and some off-train tours. The route spans 1,600 km.
Pricing for 2025
For 2025, prices will go up a bit. The Luxury Double Suites will cost more:
| Suite Type | Low Season Price (R) | High Season Price (R) |
|---|---|---|
| Luxury Double Suite | 46,345 | 56,625 |
These prices include meals and amenities, promising a luxurious journey through South Africa.
For more information on packages and itineraries, visit the Blue Train official site.
High Season vs Low Season Pricing
The Blue Train offers a unique travel experience. Prices change a lot between high and low seasons. Knowing the seasonal rates helps plan a trip that fits your budget and preferences.
With a luxurious journey of nearly 1600 kilometres from Pretoria to Cape Town, prices vary by season.
Understanding Seasonal Rates
High season pricing for the Blue Train is from 1 September to 15 November. This is when most people travel. Low season rates are from January to August and mid-November to December. This change affects what you pay for your stay and services onboard.
| Season | Dates | Rates (ZAR) | Rates (EUR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| High Season | 1 September – 15 November | 14,295 – 24,530 | €800 – €1,400 |
| Low Season | January – August & Mid-November – December | 11,583 – 19,900 | €665 – €1,155 |
Impacts on Booking Decisions
When booking the Blue Train, timing is key. The lower prices in low season are attractive for those on a budget. Booking early is wise, as it ensures you get the suite you want, more so in high season.
Whether you choose a Luxury Double cabin or a De Luxe suite, you’ll enjoy many amenities. These include CD players and spacious baths.
Luxury Suites Overview
The Blue Train offers luxury suites that are both elegant and comfortable. They ensure a memorable journey. Each suite has everything you need for a relaxing stay. You can choose from two types of suites, each with its own special features.
Luxury Double Suites
The Luxury Double Suites are known for their large size and luxurious furnishings. They are perfect for couples or those who love having space. Inside, you’ll find plush bedding and comfy seating areas.
There’s also a writing desk, entertainment options, and stunning views. These suites offer a peaceful and private space while you’re on the train.
De Luxe Suites
The De Luxe Suites are a bit smaller but just as luxurious. They have modern en-suite bathrooms that are both functional and stylish. Each suite has elegant decor and thoughtful amenities.
They are great for solo travellers or couples. The comfortable setting is ideal after a day of exploring. It shows the Blue Train’s commitment to luxury for all its guests.
| Suite Type | Size | Features | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Luxury Double Suites | Spacious | Plush bedding, writing desk, entertainment options, stunning views | 2 |
| De Luxe Suites | Compact | Modern en-suite bathroom, elegant decor, comfort amenities | 2 |
Included and Excluded Services
Knowing what your fare covers and any extra costs is key for planning your Blue Train trip. This luxury travel offers many services to make your journey comfortable and enjoyable.
What’s Covered in Your Fare
Your fare includes many services for a smooth trip. Guests get:
- Two nights of luxurious accommodation on the train
- Butler service, ensuring personalised attention
- All meals, with the exception of caviar
- High tea featuring an assortment of delicacies
- A selection of drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, excluding champagne
- Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the journey
- Access to off-train excursions, adding to the overall adventure
Additional Costs and Supplements
While your fare covers a lot, some extra costs might come up. Key costs include:
- Requests for specific dietary needs, such as kosher or halaal options
- External telephone calls made from the train
- Gratuities for onboard staff, typically suggested between R100.00 to R200.00
Knowing these extra costs helps you budget better and enjoy your Blue Train journey.
Off-Train Excursions and Experiences
The Blue Train offers more than just a ride. It takes guests on off-train excursions to see South Africa’s beauty and culture. These trips let you explore famous sites and enjoy exciting activities.
Visits to Kimberley are a big highlight. This town is known for its diamond mining history. Guests can visit the Kimberley Mine Museum to learn about its past.
Another great stop is Matjiesfontein. It’s a quaint village that shows South Africa’s colonial history. It’s a must-see for history buffs.
For adventure lovers, game drives in the Kruger National Park are a must. Here, you can see the “Big Five” in their natural home. It’s an experience you’ll never forget.
The Blue Train’s excursions are carefully planned. They mix comfort with exploration, showing off South Africa’s varied landscapes. These trips make sure you leave refreshed and ready for more.
Many of these excursions are part of South Africa tours. For more details on this amazing journey, check out Blue Train experiences.
Booking Your Journey
Booking your spot on the Blue Train is an exciting step. It’s a chance to enjoy a luxurious ride across South Africa. You can book online or through a travel agent. It’s best to book early, as spots fill up fast, even more so during peak times.
How to Make Reservations
Here’s what you need to do to book your Blue Train trip:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to the Blue Train website to see dates and cabin types.
- Choose Your Journey: Pick your route, Pretoria to Cape Town or the other way, and how many are coming.
- Complete Reservation Form: Fill out the form with all the needed details.
- Submit the Deposit: Pay a 25% deposit to book, with the rest due 60 days before your trip.
- Confirmation: After booking, you’ll get an email with all the trip details.
Important Terms and Conditions
It’s important to know the rules for a smooth trip. Here are some key points:
- A 7-Day Change of Mind Guarantee lets you cancel for a full refund if you book at least 150 days before.
- Deposits are non-refundable, and there’s a A$300 service fee in some cases.
- Cancellation fees are 25% for more than 60 days before, and 80% for less than 60 days.
- Children over 6 can travel with an adult in the same room.
- Travel insurance is required for medical and repatriation needs.
Knowing these rules helps you book with confidence. It’s all part of planning your dream Blue Train journey.
| Cancellation Period | Fee |
|---|---|
| More than 60 days before departure | 25% |
| Within 60 days before departure | 80% |
| No Show | No refund |
Special Offers and Discounts
The Blue Train offers a luxurious travel experience. To make it more affordable, there are special offers and discounts. Club members get a 2.5% discount on standard fares.
There are also great savings for families. Children aged 6-11 get a 50% discount, and kids under 5 travel for free. This makes luxury rail travel accessible for families.
Club Member Advantages
Club membership offers more than just discounts. Members get exclusive access to special promotions. This is perfect for those who travel often.
The savings on different journeys make the experience even better. Guests enjoy the luxury of the train and save money. Club members also get priority access to the limited De Luxe double bed suites.
Children and South African Resident Discounts
South African residents get special pricing. This makes luxury travel more accessible for local families. It’s a great way to create lasting memories.
With seasonal itineraries and rail safari packages, now is the best time to travel with the Blue Train. The special offers provide great value for all passengers. Whether you’re a family or a local resident, you can explore South Africa’s beauty in style.
