gallery of 7 photos

, South Africa

The Blue Train

The Blue Train is not an experience that we have had the pleasure to enjoy yet. As backpackers, we did take the unadvised overnight local train along the same rail and it is a beautiful journey. Add a private suite, champagne and a dinner jacket to this and we can envision a great time. At the price tag of close to $1,000 per person for a 24 hour experience, it is not an inexpensive addition to your trip in Southern Africa.  — Mango's view

A champagne reception will welcome you onto this luxurious and memorable trip.

All the suites are equipped with 100% percale cotton linen, goose down duvets and pillows and private bathrooms with marble vanity basins, marble wall and floor tiles, gold fittings, and a choice of shower or bath. Each suite is a world of its own, with individually controlled air conditioning and an entertainment center with a choice of movie and radio channels. The suites also have under floor heating in the rooms and bathrooms.

Board The Blue Train in the jacaranda city of Pretoria, the administrative capital of South Africa and travel south through farmlands and along the 'golden arc;' visible only by the mining shafts in the distance.

Enroute to Cape Town, you will stop in Kimberly for an off the train excursion. Kimberly was once the epicenter of a worldwide diamond rush. This city's checkered history is inextricably linked with the romance of those rare and beautiful stones.

Here The Blue Train guests are cordially invited to disembark, take a tour through the streets of modern day Kimberly to visit the Kimberly Mine Museum and the 'Big Hole.' The Blue Train luxury coach is used to transport guests; alternatively they can be taken on a historic electric tram when it is available.

Step back into a world of pioneers and adventurers circa 1880. Marvel at the sheer magnitude of the "Big Hole," the largest hole in the world excavated by hand. At a replica of an alluvial diamond diggers, try your luck at panning and possibly finding a diamond of your very own!

Board The Blue Train once more and continue on to a southbound journey into the heartland of the Great Karoo. Awaken to the sight of vineyards and orchards as you descend through mysterious and beautiful valleys and mountains such as Drakenstein, Slanghoek and Elandskloof towards Cape Town's imposing and instantly recognizable Table Mountain, sentinel and gateway to the African continent.

Includes: All meals, drinks and excursions