Tips, questions & answers

Frequently Asked Questions

Transfers have been arranged from OR Tambo International. Details will be provided in due course.

A variety of dining options are available throughout the journey. While Halaal meals cannot be guaranteed aboard The Blue Train, vegetarian and fish selections are available. The gala dinner venue offers Halaal dining and Halaal-friendly breakfast options are available at the hotel.

Aboard the train, a fully inclusive open bar is available, offering a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. At the gala dinner, guests will enjoy the Sanlam exclusive offering, featuring a limited selection of local wines and beers, spirits, cocktails, soft drinks, juices, mineral water, and coffee.

As there are limited double bed cabins on The Blue Train, we are unfortunately unable to guarantee a double bed cabin.

Full connectivity is available throughout all suites and public spaces aboard the train. Please note that signal may occasionally drop in some remote areas along the journey.

A variety of plug points are available for your use both on the train and at the hotel.

For peace of mind, it is better to take any prescription medication with you, in its original packaging, with a signed and dated note from your doctor detailing what it is and why you need it. Please do not place medication into your checked in luggage.

Costs that are not included on the trip include items of a personal nature, i.e. laundry services, room service, phone calls, shopping, spa treatments and any beverages not shown on the Sanlam exclusive offering.

Travel & Blue Train Tips

Cabin & Comfort

  • Settle Into the Slower Pace: unwind rather than wonder why it's not speeding along. It's about all about the journey, not the pace. Treat it like a floating boutique hotel—move around, explore, and enjoy every carriage.
  • Nights in the Karoo can be chilly; having a light sweater makes the cabin more comfortable.
  • Morning tea or coffee delivered just before sunrise enhances the Karoo scenery experience.
  • Don't miss the sunrise. For early risers, watching the Karoo landscape transform in the morning light is one of the quintessential experiences aboard the train.

Dining & Drinks

  • Dietary requirements and allergies are best handled in advance, the onboard kitchen is excellent but limited by space. Please ensure all necessary information is included in your registration.
  • Wine pairings with meals highlight lesser-known South African wines; ask the sommelier for suggestions.
  • Enjoy breakfast early in the cabin to watch the sunrise with coffee or tea.

Scenic Highlights & Photography

  • Don't miss the Karoo: Vast semi-desert landscapes, spend at least an hour in the observation car before sunset to enjoy the Karoo light. Look out the right-hand side just after the Karoo starts, it's prime for sunrise shots.
  • Winelands approach: Near Cape Town, the vineyards and mountain ranges are breathtaking, especially in the late afternoon.
  • The crossing of the Orange River is a rarely noticed highlight.
  • Observation car windows work best for photography early morning and late afternoon to reduce glare.

Onboard Relaxation

  • Lounge and bar cars are ideal for unwinding, enjoying drinks or chatting.
  • Short naps after lunch help refresh energy for afternoon observation and evening dining.
  • Arrive early at the observation car during sunrise and sunset for the best vantage points.
  • Motion comfort: The Blue Train is smooth, but if you're prone to motion sickness, consider mild remedies.
  • Cell signal through the Karoo can be spotty, make sure anything you want offline access to has been downloaded.

Arrival in Cape Town

  • Showering before arrival makes stepping off the train feel fresh.
  • Having your luggage ready outside the cabin allows for a smooth exit.