Tips, questions & answers

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.
  • Pack light—but pack layers. Cabins are luxurious but compact. Storage is sufficient, but a smaller suitcase is easier to tuck into wardrobes.
  • Choose a suite on the left-hand side for the best Karoo sunset views.
  • Suites farther from the dining car feel slightly quieter at night.
  • Nights in the Karoo can be chilly; having a light blanket or sweater makes the cabin more comfortable.
  • Morning tea or coffee delivered just before sunrise enhances the Karoo scenery experience.
  • The en-suite bath can have especially hot water. Let it run briefly before getting in as the pressure and heat can fluctuate.
  • Don't miss the shower at sunrise. If you're an early riser, showering while watching the Karoo light shift is one of the classic experiences on 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.
  • Try the Karoo lamb and Cape Malay curry—they are signature dishes.
  • 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.
  • Ask your butler about speciality coffees, cappucino, iced coffee, affogato's etc are often available

Scenic Highlights & Photography

  • Don't miss the Karoo: Vast semi-desert landscapes, especially stunning in the late afternoon light. 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.
  • Early morning crossing of the Orange River is a rarely noticed highlight—capture it on camera.
  • 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 downloaded.

Arrival in Cape Town

  • Look out or sit on the right-hand side during the approach for views of Table Mountain.
  • Showering before arrival makes stepping off the train feel fresh.
  • Having your luggage ready outside the cabin allows for a smooth exit.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Halaal meals are unfortunately not able to be guaranteed while on The Blue Train, however vegetarian options will be available. At the hotel and gala dinner Halaal will be available.

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