DISCOVER
The Outeniqua Choo Tjoe: The Comeback Everyone Is Waiting For For decades, the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe ran between George and Knysna, crossing lakes and forested hills like something out of a storybook. Storm damage halted the line, and it slipped into legend, but restoration is now under way. Crews are clearing bush and assessing bridges, and although it is not open yet, the momentum is real. The magic was always in the scenery: cliffs above the ocean, the sweep of the Knysna Lagoon, and an oldworld charm that never faded. When it returns, it will be one of the most scenic rail journeys on the continent.
Why go: Because, well... all of the above. Plus – some comebacks are worth the wait.
Where it will take you: George and Knysna, two towns made for slow, meandering holidays.
Booking tip: It’ s not open yet. Keep an eye on www. outeniquachootjoe. com and, on Facebook, @ ClassicRail for progress updates and the moment tickets go live.
The Gautrain: Yes, really... It might not puff, whistle or rattle, but the Gautrain deserves a place on this list because it is one of the best ways for travellers to explore Johannesburg and Pretoria without touching the traffic. Sleek, fast and surprisingly scenic in parts, the line links the airport with Sandton, Rosebank, Pretoria and Hatfield. For international families, it is the easiest introduction to the city. For locals, it is a reminder that trains can still be modern, reliable, and rather stylish. Pair it with a wander through Rosebank’ s art galleries or a Pretoria heritage walk and it becomes a day out, rather than a commute.
Why go: It’ s a modern contrast to SA’ s heritage lines.
Where it takes you: Art, food, shopping and historical sites.
Booking tip: Buy a reloadable card. Avoid peak commute hours for the most relaxed ride.
Cape Town To Fish Hoek: The Coastal Line That Feels Too Good To Be Real Run by PRASA / Metrorail, this is the train Capetonians take for granted and visitors almost never use, which is a pity, because it is one of the most breathtaking commuter routes in the world. The line leaves the city centre, skirts the harbour, then glides past Muizenberg, St James and Kalk Bay with the ocean so close you could almost dip your feet in it out the window. Seals sun on rocks, surfers dot the waves and the mountains rise sharply behind the stations.
It’ s not luxury travel, and that is precisely the charm. You share the carriages with families, students and beachgoers. It is everyday life with a front-row seat to the False Bay coastline.
Why go: Better views than many road trips and cheaper than an Uber from Cape Town to Kalk Bay.
Where it takes you: To Fish Hoek, where you can take a shuttle to Simon’ s Town for a delish harbour lunch, a stroll to the museum or a visit to the Boulders Beach penguins.
Booking tip: Buy a day pass and hop on and off at seaside cafés.
74 | AUTUMN 2026 • rovesa. co. za