Since 1946, the Blue Train has set the standard for luxury rail travel in Africa, gliding between Pretoria and Cape Town through the vast Karoo and the diamond heartland of Kimberley. Private suites with marble bathrooms, silver-service dining, award-winning Cape wines and a dedicated butler make every mile an experience in itself. Whether you travel the flagship two-night scheduled route or opt for a safari charter to the Kruger National Park, the Blue Train delivers an encounter with South Africa that no other form of travel can match.
At a Glance
| Region | South Africa · Africa |
| Countries | South Africa |
| Journey length | 2 nights |
| Itineraries | Cape Town to Pretoria; Pretoria to Cape Town; Pretoria to Hoedspruit Return; The Blue Train Private Charter |
| Price | from R40,685 per person (low season, double) (varies by cabin & season) |
| Upcoming departures | 38 dates, Jul 2026 – Dec 2026 · view dates → |
| Reservations | 1-800-724-5120 · travel@palacetours.com |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Blue Train and where does it travel?+
The Blue Train is South Africa's most celebrated luxury train, operating since 1946 across the southern African sub-continent. Its flagship scheduled route runs between Pretoria and Cape Town in either direction, passing through sweeping Karoo landscapes and stopping at Kimberley's historic diamond fields. Charter services also connect Pretoria with Hoedspruit (gateway to the Kruger National Park) and other destinations.
What journeys and itineraries are available, and how long are they?+
The two main scheduled itineraries are Cape Town to Pretoria and Pretoria to Cape Town, each taking two nights (three days) and including a guided excursion to the Kimberley Big Hole diamond mine. Charter options include a 19-hour rail-safari to Hoedspruit with Kruger game drives and a Boma dinner, as well as fully bespoke private charters running to destinations such as Sun City, Durban and the Magaliesberg — duration varies by route.
How much does a Blue Train journey cost?+
Fares for the two-night Pretoria–Cape Town route start from R40,685 per person (De Luxe Suite, double occupancy, low season), rising to R95,130 per person for a Luxury Suite in single occupancy during high season. Final prices depend on cabin grade, season, occupancy and party size — contact Palace Trains at travel@palacetours.com or call 1-800-724-5120 (toll-free) / +1-786-408-0610 (international/WhatsApp) to confirm pricing for your preferred departure.
What accommodation options are available onboard?+
Each suite converts from a spacious lounge by day into a serene bedroom by night, with goose-down duvets and private marble bathrooms featuring gold fittings and under-floor heating. De Luxe Suites offer twin beds with shower or a double bed with bath, while Luxury Suites add a long, deep bath and a private digital entertainment centre with music and DVD library — available in twin or double configuration. An accessible suite with easy-entry shower for wheelchair users is located in the Observation Car.
What is included in the fare?+
Most Blue Train fares include accommodation in a private suite, all meals (silver-service lunch and dinner, continental or full English breakfast at leisure, and high tea each afternoon), selected beverages including award-winning Cape wines, and the Kimberley guided excursion on scheduled journeys. Exact inclusions can vary by journey and season, so we will confirm precisely what is covered for your chosen departure — just ask the Palace Trains team.
When does the Blue Train operate and how many departures are available?+
The Blue Train currently has 38 upcoming departures on the Palace Trains schedule, running from July through December, with high-season departures in September, October and November. Departures on both the northbound and southbound routes typically operate on a weekly basis. For the full departure calendar, see the Blue Train departure table on our website, or contact us to check availability for your preferred dates.
Who operates the Blue Train and what makes it special?+
The Blue Train is operated by Blue Train (South Africa) and has been synonymous with luxury and genuine African hospitality since its inaugural run in 1946. What sets it apart is the combination of a dedicated personal butler for every suite, marble bathrooms with gold fittings, Sheffield cutlery, Riedel crystal and menus celebrating South African produce — from Karoo lamb and ostrich fillet to Knysna oysters — all paired with outstanding Cape wines.
What is the Kimberley stopover?+
On both the northbound and southbound scheduled journeys, the Blue Train pauses at Kimberley for a guided bus transfer to the Open Mine Museum, where guests explore the history of South Africa's diamond rush and stand at an enclosed ramp overlooking the famous Big Hole — once the world's largest hand-dug excavation. On returning to the station, each guest receives a commemorative engraved sherry glass, a signature memento of the journey.
Can I combine the Blue Train with a safari to the Kruger National Park?+
Yes — the Pretoria to Hoedspruit Return charter itinerary takes guests directly into the heart of Big Five country on a 19-hour rail journey, incorporating sunrise and sunset game drives, a Boma dinner and traditional dancing at lodges in the Greater Kruger and Sabi Sands area. This charter is the ideal way to pair the Blue Train's signature onboard luxury with an authentic African safari experience in one seamless trip.
How do I book the Blue Train or check availability?+
Contact Palace Trains directly and our specialists will confirm availability, exact pricing and inclusions for your preferred dates and cabin grade. Reach us toll-free on 1-800-724-5120, internationally or via WhatsApp on +1-786-408-0610, or email travel@palacetours.com. You can also view the departure table on the Blue Train page of our website and submit an enquiry online.