Classic Train Journeys

Classic Train Journeys

A trip aboard the famous Blue Train (011/773-7631. www.bluetrain.co.za) between Cape Town and Tshwane (Pretoria) has long been a highlight of a trip to South Africa. Compartments are individually air-conditioned and have remote-operated blinds and curtains, TV, CD player, and a personal mobile phone for contacting your butler/valet or making outgoing calls. The comfortably furnished lounge car offers refreshments and drinks throughout the day and is a good place to meet fellow travelers. There are two trains: the Classic and the African theme, which, while maintaining the same very high standard, is decorated with African touches such as faux animal-skin furniture and somewhat more exotic uniforms for the staff. In the well-appointed dining car, men are required to wear jacket and tie to dinner.

Another luxury option is Rovos Rail (012/323-6052. www.rovos.co.za). Fifty-three beautifully restored cars make up three trains, which are drawn by a steam engine on certain sections. Some cars date to the Edwardian era. Each opulent train carries a maximum of 72 passengers, attended by up to 21 staff members, including two gourmet chefs. Regular weekly trips are run between Tshwane and Cape Town with a stop in Kimberly for a tour of the Big Hole and Diamond museum and Tshwane and Victoria Falls (both two nights). But, if you're looking for something even more epic, there's the journey in July from Cape Town to Dar es Salaam (and, of course, back again), as well as themed trips like the golf safari.