Introduction
Africa is known for many beautiful things, such as its culture, people, tourist centres, and lots more. It will please you to know that Africa also offers some incredible train trips that provide unforgettable experiences, unravelling Africa’s diverse landscapes, cultures, and wildlife.
Read on as we list some of the best train trips in Africa!
1. The Blue Train
The Blue Train is a luxurious train journey from Pretoria to Cape Town in South Africa, offering a unique blend of elegance, comfort, and breathtaking scenery.
Pros
- Luxury and comfort: The Blue Train offers you luxurious suites with high-quality amenities, gourmet dining by renowned chefs, and attentive service from a dedicated butler.
- Relaxation: The journey offers a chance to unwind and relax in a luxurious environment, offering comfortable seating and panoramic views.
- Scenic journey: The train journeys through South Africa’s stunning landscapes, including the Karoo Desert and Cape Winelands. This offers you a chance to explore a variety of breathtaking landscapes, such as mountains, valleys, and grasslands.
- Unique experience: The Blue Train provides an unforgettable experience with a unique blend of luxury, comfort, and adventure, leaving lasting memories of South Africa’s beauty and luxury.
Cons
- Cost: The Blue Train is a one-way trip that is expensive. Its luxurious experience can be expensive, and may not be feasible for those on a tight budget.
- Limited departure schedule: The train operates on specific days and times, which may not be suitable for all travellers.
Here are some detailed aspects of the Blue Train:
- History: The Blue Train is a luxury train between Johannesburg and Cape Town that was introduced in 1923 and reintroduced in 1946. It was renamed following the 1937 blue-painted steel carriages’ introduction. The train was hauled by 3E electric locomotives between Cape Town and Touws River in 1955, and in 1972, two 16-carrier sets were introduced. Notable past passengers include Nelson Mandela, Quincy Jones, and Kylie Minogue.
- Travel route: As of 2007, the only regular route in operation was Pretoria-Cape Town, with special package tours to Durban or Bakubung Game Lodge.
- The train schedule includes a departure from Pretoria at 8:30 a.m., an arrival in Cape Town at 10:30 a.m. the following day, and a journey duration of approximately 27 hours.
2. Rovos Rail
Rovos Rail is a luxury train journey through Southern Africa, known as the “Pride of Africa,” offering unforgettable journeys through stunning landscapes and opulent interiors.
It offers various journeys, including Pretoria to Victoria Falls, Pretoria to Durban, Cape Town to Victoria Falls, and Namibia Safari.
Pros
- Luxury and comfort: Rovos Rail provides luxurious suites with private bathrooms, 24-hour room service, and butler service for guests to enjoy. It offers a luxurious travel experience with its opulent interiors, plush suites, and world-class amenities.
- Unique experience: Rovos Rail offers a unique and unforgettable experience that combines luxury, comfort, and adventure.
- Cultural experience: Rovos Rail offers numerous off-train excursions, allowing passengers to explore local cultures, visit historical sites, and engage with communities.
- Scenic routes: The train journeys provide stunning views of Africa’s diverse landscapes, such as the Drakensberg Mountains, Kalahari Desert, and Victoria Falls.
Cons
- Cost: Rovos Rail is a premium train service that’s quite costly, making it inaccessible to many travellers.
- Travel time: Rovos Rail train trips can be lengthy, with some routes taking up to 10 days. This may not be suitable for those with limited time.
Here’s an additional detail about the Rovos Rail:
- Routes: Popular routes include Cape Town to Pretoria, Pretoria to Victoria Falls, Pretoria to Durban, and a Namibia safari. They are giving you a chance to explore South Africa’s diverse landscapes, cultural heritage, and stunning African bush views.
3. Trans-Namib
The Trans-Namib Railway is Namibia’s national railway company, offering you a train journey through Namibia’s diverse landscapes, including the Namib Desert and Etosha National Park. This train trip offers breathtaking views, wildlife viewing, comfortable accommodations, and on-board activities like guided tours and lectures.
Pros
- Unique experience: The Trans-Namib provides a unique opportunity to explore Namibia’s stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, allowing visitors to enjoy the breathtaking views of Namibia’s diverse landscapes.
- Comfort: The Trans-Namib provides comfortable, well-appointed cabins for a pleasant journey. It also offers comfortable seating options.
- Affordable: The Trans-Namib train journey is a more affordable option compared to other train journeys. Thus making it a relatively budget-friendly train journey in Africa.
Cons
- Basic amenities: Compared to other luxury trains, Trans-Namib’s amenities, while comfortable, are basic.
- Limited routes: The Trans-Namib operates on a limited number of routes within Namibia, which may restrict your travel options.
- Limited Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi access on the Trans-Namib may be limited to no internet connectivity.
Here are some additional details about the Trans-Namib Railway:
- History: The Trans-Namib Railway was established in 1904 during Namibia’s colonial era. It has become a crucial component of the country’s transportation network.
- Popular routes: The Trans-Namib train has two popular routes, Windhoek to Swakopmund, offering stunning views of the Namib Desert. The other is the chance to explore Etosha National Park, one of Africa’s most famous wildlife reserves.
4. The Benguela Railway
The Benguela Railway is a railway connecting Lobito, Angola, to Luau, near the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) border. It is a historic and long-distance railway, offering scenic views.
Pros
- Cultural experience: The Benguela Railway offers a unique cultural experience, allowing you to interact with locals and learn about Angola’s history and customs.
- Economic benefits: The Benguela Railway has the potential to significantly enhance Angola’s economic development, fostering trade and tourism opportunities.
- Scenic views: The Benguela Railway offers breathtaking views of the Angolan countryside, including the Benguela Mountains, Benguela Plateau, and the Congo River.
Cons
- Inconvenience: The railway journey can be long and uncomfortable due to limited amenities and unreliable schedules.
- Deteriorated infrastructure: Many parts of the railway are in a state of degradation, causing delays. This calls for large-scale investment to be rehabilitated.
Here are some more details about the Benguela Railway:
- It is one of the longest railways in Africa, stretching over 2,150 kilometers (1,335 miles).
- The Benguela Railway was first constructed in 1902 during the colonial era.
5. Dar es Salaam to Kigoma Train
The Dar es Salaam to Kigoma Train is a scenic train journey through Tanzania. It is a two-day railway line from Tanzania’s largest city to Lake Tanganyika port city.
Pros
- Scenic views: The train journey offers stunning views of Tanzania’s natural landscapes, including the Great Rift Valley, the Selous Game Reserve, and Lake Tanganyika.
- Cultural experience: Travelling by train allows you to interact with the locals and experience the culture and traditions of Tanzania firsthand.
- Affordable: The train journey is often more affordable than other train trips.
Cons
- Safety concerns: While generally safe, there may be safety concerns, such as the risk of crime and theft on the train.
- Basic amenities: The train’s amenities are basic and do not offer the same level of comfort and amenities as some luxury trains.
- Long journey: The trip can be long and tiring, lasting around 24 hours.
- Limited comfort: The sleeping accommodations on the train may be limited in comfort.
Here are some added details about the Dar es Salaam to Kigoma Train:
- The train journey spans 1,205 kilometers, passing through major cities like Morogoro, Dodoma, and Mwanza.
- The train departs from Dar es Salaam every Friday at 11:30 am and arrives in Kigoma on Sunday afternoon.
Overview of Africa Tourism- Best Train Trips in Africa
Africa offers breathtaking train journeys, showcasing its rich history, diverse landscapes, rich cultures, and abundant wildlife, providing a unique way to explore its vast expanse and cultural heritage.
How to Choose the Best Train Trips in Africa
Choosing the best train trip in Africa depends on your interests, budget, and preferences. Here are some consideration:
- Budget: If you’re on a limited budget, luxury trains like the Blue Train and Rovos Rail can be expensive, so consider more affordable options.
- Destination: Consider your African travel interests, as each train journey offers unique sights and experiences due to its diverse routes.
- Safety and security: Research the train’s safety record and security measures.
- Duration and frequency: For optimal travel duration and frequency, choose trips with suitable journey times and departure frequencies.
Pros and Cons of the Best Train Trips in Africa
Pros
- Wildlife spotting.
- Unique experience.
- Scenic beauty.
- Cultural experiences.
Cons
- Limited availability.
- Long travel time.
What to Watch Out For
When planning your train trip in Africa, it’s important to watch out for the following:
- Safety: While most train journeys are safe, it’s always a beneficial idea to research the specific route you’re planning to take and take necessary precautions.
- Health: Ensure you have any necessary vaccinations and medications before your trip. Also, be mindful of the climate and pack accordingly. You can as well carry hand sanitizer, wipes, and other supplies to keep yourself clean and healthy.
- Luggage: Pack light, as train luggage space can be limited.
- Currency: Make sure you have enough local currency to cover your expenses.
- Documentation: Ensure you have all necessary travel documents, including passports, visas, and train tickets.
- Cultural sensitivity: Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
Pro Tips
Here are some pro tips for taking a train trip in Africa:
- Book early: Luxury trains like Blue Train and Rovos Rail often sell out months in advance, so it’s advisable to book beforehand to secure your spot.
- Pack light: Due to limited luggage storage on most African trains, it is advisable you pack light and bring only essential items.
- Carry essential documents: It is crucial to carry your passport, visa, train tickets, and other essential documents with you at all times.
- Enjoy the experience: Train journeys in Africa provide a unique and unforgettable experience. So try to relax, enjoy the scenery, and immerse yourself in local culture.
Recap
Africa offers a variety of scenic train journeys with unique experiences. Ensure to embark on these train trips to enjoy Africa’s diverse landscapes, cultures, and wildlife.
