The Blue Train has an aura of
mystique about it. Kings and Presidents have
travelled on this magnificent moving five-star hotel. Its
very name has become synonymous with the ultimate in luxury.
This is not merely a train but a combination of one of the
world's leading hotels with the charm of train travel. Think
of it as an all inclusive luxury rail cruise with an
opportunity to view South Africa's spectacular landscapes
and visit interesting tourist attractions along the way.
Once you are on board The Blue Train, you will not need an
extra penny except to acquire personal gifts such as
exquisite jewellery and The Blue Train branded mementos.
Since its launch in 1946, it has been synonymous with
elegance and luxury and this latest incarnation is
guaranteed to make it the focus of global attention.
Blue Train Routes
Departures ex
Cape Town January 4, 9, 16, 23, 30
February 6, 11, 15, 22, 27
March 7, 12, 19, 26
April 2, 9, 14, 16, 23, 30
May 14, 21, 28
June 6, 11, 18, 25
July 11, 16, 23, 30
August 6, 13, 20, 25, 29
September 3, 8, 12, 17, 22, 26
October 1, 3, 6, 10, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, 27, 29,
31
November 3, 5, 7, 10, 12, 17, 24, 28
December 3, 8, 12, 22
Departures ex Pretoria January 2, 7, 14, 21, 28
February 4, 8, 13, 20, 25
March 5, 10, 17, 24, 31
April 7, 11, 14, 21, 28
May 12, 19, 26
June 4, 9, 16, 23
July 9, 14, 21, 28
August 4, 11, 18, 22, 27
September 1, 5, 10, 15, 19, 24, 29
October 1, 3, 8, 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, 27, 29,
31
November 3, 5, 7, 10, 14, 21, 26
December 1, 5, 10, 15, 19
Pretoria to Cape Town
(or visa versa)
2 Days
The route between Pretoria and Cape Town is a 27-hour
journey of 1600 kilometres, through some of the most
diverse and spectacular scenery offered by the African
subcontinent.
On the southbound trip, the train departs from Pretoria
early morning and arrives into Cape Town the following
day at lunchtime. En-route to Cape Town there is a
stopover and excursion to the open Mine Museum in
Kimberley with an old tram ride, stepping back in time
to the days of the diamond rush.
On the northbound journey, the train leaves Cape Town
again early morning and arrives in to Pretoria at
lunchtime the following day. Leaving Cape Town the train
makes a stop at Kleinstraat for an excursion to the
Aquila Private Game Reserve. Here there is the
opportunity to interact with cheetahs after an
educational talk on the habits and conservation of these
cats.
DAY 1
On check- in at the station enjoy pre-departure snacks
and drinks before boarding the train.
The Blue Train departs at 08h50.
Brunch is served with two sittings
High tea is served in the Lounge Car.
The Blue Train arrives at Kimberley station.
Guests disembark and are taken to the centre of
Kimberley to join an old tram ride down to the mine for
a guided tour of several interesting and historical
sites and to an enclosed ramp on the edge of the
Kimberly hole.
Return to the train for pre-dinner drinks.
Dinner is served complimented by the best wines South
Africa has to offer - it is an elegant affair and men
are requested to wear a jacket and tie or dress in
traditional attire with the ladies in elegant evening or
traditional wear.
DAY 2
Breakfast is served. The Blue Train arrives into Cape
Town station at 12h00.
Uncomprising luxury is the Blue Train's theme. By day, the elegantely furnished suites offer generous lounge chairs which afford unequalled views of Africa. As night falls the suites become sumptuous and subtly-lit bedrooms with a choice of either two single beds or a double bed, clothed in fine cotton linen and duvets. Considerable attention is paid to guest's needs. There is a writing desk next to the window, individually controlled air-conditioning, telephone and video monitor. A laundry service and the discreet availability or your own professional butler ensure that the Blue Train's guests will want for nothing.
All accommodation aboard the Blue Train is en-suite, featuring either a private shower or bath. Guests may choose between a Deluxe (4 metres length) or a Luxury suite (5.13 metres length). The bathrooms are luxuriously appointed and small basic amenities are provided in your bathroom. The beds fold out of the panel concealing the seats under it.
A snack menu can be served in the privacy of your suite, simply ask your butler. Each coach has a professionally trained butler who's pleasure it will be to ensure that your journey is as memorable and comfortable as possible. Butlers are available for duration of the journey to anticipate and accommodate your every need.
2 Days/1 Night
Cost Per Person
Twin
Single
Deluxe - 16 Nov – 31
Dec 07
$1465
$2196
Deluxe - 01 Jan – 31
Aug 08
$1530
$2300
Deluxe - 01 Sep – 15
Nov 08
$1890
$2800
Luxury - 16 Nov – 31
Dec 07
$1585
$2375
Luxury - 01 Jan – 31
Aug 08
$1655
$2480
Luxury - 01 Sep – 15
Nov 08
$2060
$3060
Included: All meals, drinks and excursions (excluding French champagne and caviar).
Departures: vary during the year from weekly
to three times weekly - refer to departures lists.
Have you
considered adding a luxury hotel or game park stay
before or after your rail trip?
Please confirm prices and dates with Bench International prior
to booking your trip.
There could be changes beyond our control that have not made it to
the web site yet.
