South Africa is a country with a rich and diverse history, and one of the most interesting ways to explore this history is by taking steam train trips in Cape Town on the Ceres Railway. The Ceres Railway is a narrow-gauge rail (South African standard gauge) operator that runs through the heart of the Western Cape, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience the breathtaking beauty of the South African landscape and the fascinating history of the region. Let’s take a closer look at the Ceres Railway steam train trips in Cape Town, the company history, its routes, and what you can expect on a journey through this stunning part of South Africa.
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The History of the Ceres Railway
The Ceres Railway has a long and interesting history, dating back to the late 19th century when it was originally built to transport fruit from the fertile orchards of the Western Cape to the bustling city of Cape Town. The railway was constructed by the Cape Government Railways, and it quickly became an important transportation link for the region.
Over time, the railway fell into disrepair, and it was eventually closed in the early 2000s. However, a group of passionate rail enthusiasts saw the potential of the line and decided to undertake the enormous task of restoring it to its former glory. After years of hard work, the Ceres Railway was finally reopened in 2015, and it now offers visitors a unique and unforgettable journey through one of the most beautiful parts of South Africa.
The Elgin Railway Market Tour
This is a full-day tour that is the most popular experience and takes you to the Elgin Railway Market, a vibrant market housed in an old railway shed. You’ll get to explore the market, enjoy some delicious food and drink, and take a scenic train ride through the beautiful Elgin Valley.
- Pricing:
Bar Lounge Seating (not for those under the age of 18) – R860 per person
Lounge Seating – R860 per person
Day Sitter seating – R625 per adult and R450 per child
Family Coupe for a maximum of 2 adults and 2 children – R1725
Family Compartment for a maximum of 4 adults and 2 children – R3350
Observation Car Individual Seating – R975 per person (only for selected dates)
Observation Car – Starts at R19 500 for 20 people - Timeline:
07:00 to 07:30 – Passengers arrive.
07:15 – Train arrives.
07:15 to 07:55 – Passengers board.
08:00 – Train departs.
11:45 – Arrive at Elgin Railway Market (this time may change).
13:30 – Reboarding (passengers may start to board).
14:15 – Depart from Elgin Railway Market (departure may be delayed).
18:00 to 19:00 – Arrive back in Cape Town.
The Steam Train to Ceres
This is a full-day trip that takes you on a journey through the spectacular Witzenberg Valley, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and vineyards. Bring along a packed picnic basket or buy something light onboard while taking a scenic train ride through the countryside.
- Pricing:
Day Sitter seating – R799 per person
Family Coupe for 3 Adults or 2 adults and 2 children – R2200
Family Compartment for 6 people – R3900
Bar Lounge Seating (Not for those under the age of 18) – R899 per person
Observation Car – R1100 per person - Timeline:
07:00 to 07:30 – Passengers arrive.
07:15 – Train arrives.
07:15 to 07:55 – Passenger board.
08:00 – Train departs.
12:30 – Arrive in Ceres (time may change due to delays).
12:30 to 13:30 – Short break for the passengers to stretch their legs.
13:30 – Train departs for Cape Town.
18:00 to 19:00 – Arrive back in Cape Town.
Rules and Information
- Dress accordingly – Be sure to always wear closed shoes and carry a jersey or jacket due to weather changes.
- No smoking – Smoking is prohibited on the train.
- No personal food or drink – You may not bring your food or drinks from home as the train offers provides you with snacks and drinks accordingly. Unless otherwise stated.
- No wheelchair accessibility – unfortunately the train is not wheelchair accessible.
- Children under the age of 2 – Children under the age of 2 years old may board the train free of charge.
- Instructions – Please obey all the instructions given by the Train Manager and Coach Controller.
What to Expect on a Journey on the Ceres Railway
A journey on the Ceres Railway is unlike any other train journey in the world. As you travel through the stunning Western Cape landscape, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, vineyards, and orchards. Along the way, you’ll also have the opportunity to stop at some of the region’s most charming towns and villages, where you can explore the local culture and cuisine.
Whether you’re taking a short day trip or a longer multi-day journey, you can expect to enjoy delicious gourmet meals, luxurious accommodations, and friendly, knowledgeable guides who will share the rich history and culture of the region with you.
A journey on the Ceres Railway is also a chance to step back in time and experience the nostalgia of train travel from a bygone era. The restored carriages and vintage steam locomotives will transport you back in time to the golden age of rail travel, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for train enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
The Ceres Railway in South Africa is a unique and unforgettable way to explore the stunning Western Cape region. Whether you’re a train enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone who loves beautiful scenery and delicious food, a journey on the Ceres Railway is an experience not to be missed.
From the charming towns and villages to the breathtaking mountain vistas and vineyards, the Ceres Railway offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of the Western Cape in a way that simply can’t be matched by any other mode of transport. So if you’re planning a trip to South Africa, be sure to include Ceres Railway steam train trips in Cape Town to your itinerary. It’s a journey through time and nature that you’ll never forget!
Website: https://www.ceresrail.co.za/
Address: Dockrail Rd, Foreshore, Cape Town, 8001
Phone: 079 401 9353
