Day 1: Cape Town to Matjiesfontein, South Africa

At Cape Town station, guests need to register and check-in at the Blue Train Lounge an hour before departure. Here, pre-departure snacks and drinks can be enjoyed in comfort while luggage is taken care of by friendly staff. Boarding begins at 8:30am and you will be introduced to your Butler for the journey. Your Butler will usher you on-board and proceed with a Suite orientation before departure.

Once you are settled and comfortable, you can relax in your suite or in the Lounge cars, enjoying passing views of the magnificent Cape Winelands and spectacular mountain vistas. Later, sit down to a delicious Brunch in the dining car - there are 2 sittings to choose from.

Shortly after the 2nd sitting ends there is a scheduled stop at the historic little town of Matjiesfontein. The village was founded in 1884 and completely restored in 1970 - it is now a National Historic Monument. Guests are invited on a 45 minute off-train excursion and a glass of sherry – the glass is a unique gift to you and a memento of your journey. You can step back in time and soak up the ambiance of the town with its Victorian buildings and original 19th century lampposts before boarding The Blue Train again for your onward journey to Pretoria.

Scrumptious High tea is served in the elegant Lounge car at 3:30pm. Daily papers are provided to keep you up to date, or you can follow the changing scenery as the Blue Train makes its way through dramatic Karoo landscapes. These endless arid plains ringed by blue mountain ranges and rocky outcrops are a sight to see as you move swiftly past.

As your first day on the Blue Train draws to a close, you can freshen up in your suite before dinner. The evening meal is an elegant occasion – the dress code is traditional evening dress. Gentlemen are required to wear a jacket and tie and ladies, stylish evening wear.

You can meet other fellow travellers for a sundowner in the plush Bar while watching the sunset. Dinner is also served in 2 sittings in the Dining car. Perhaps a night cap or coffee is in order before retiring for the night to your suite.