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STEAM TRAIN EXPERIENCE TO ELGIN MARKET - CAPE TOWN

STEAM TRAIN EXPERIENCE TO ELGIN MARKET – CAPE TOWN

Explore the Cape on this unique 160km round-trip rail journey to the Elgin Railway Market on a Vintage train. Departing on Saturdays and Sundays from Cape Town.

BOOK NOW

Enjoy a scenic 160km round-trip rail journey from Cape Town to the Elgin Railway Market on a vintage train. This full-day experience takes you through Sir Lowry’s Pass, up one of the steepest railway lines in South Africa, and into the beautiful Elgin Valley before arriving at the popular Elgin Railway Market. Once there, enjoy live music, browse the stalls, relax in the family-friendly atmosphere, and make the most of this unique day out.

Highlights

  • Vintage train journey from Cape Town to Elgin Railway Market
  • Scenic rail route through Sir Lowry’s Pass and the Elgin Valley
  • Free time to enjoy the Elgin Railway Market
  • Live music, food stalls, shopping, and a family-friendly atmosphere
  • Multiple seating options available on board
Seating Option Description Notes Book
Bar Lounge Seating Adult-only seating area with access to the onboard bar. No under 18’s permitted Book Now
Lounge Seating Comfortable lounge-style seating with great views along the scenic route. Most Popular Book Now
Day Sitter Seating Classic train seating for guests wanting a traditional rail experience. A simple and comfortable option Book Now
Family Coupe Private family seating for smaller groups. Maximum 2 adults and 2 children Book Now
Family Compartment Larger private compartment ideal for bigger families or groups. Maximum 4 adults and 2 children Book Now

 

Inclusions & Exclusions

Duration: Full day (approximately 10 hours, subject to railway delays)

Inclusions: Return rail journey from Cape Town to Elgin Railway Market and back

Exclusions: Food, drinks, and personal purchases are for your own account

Payment on board: Cash and card facilities are available

Journey Timeline

  • 07h00 – 07h30: Passengers arrive
  • 07h15: Train arrives at the platform
  • 07h15 – 07h55: Passenger boarding
  • 08h00: Departure from Cape Town
  • 11h45: Arrival at Elgin Railway Market
  • 13h30: Train opens for reboarding
  • 14h15: Departure from Elgin Railway Market
  • 18h00 – 19h00: Arrival back in Cape Town

Important Information

  • Railway Delays: Arrival and departure times may change due to crossing other trains, infrastructure maintenance, and safety checks. Delays of 30 to 60 minutes are not uncommon.
  • Steam Train Notice: The steam locomotive may occasionally be replaced with a diesel-powered locomotive due to resource availability. The vintage carriages and overall experience remain the same.
  • Onboard Dining: No personal food or drink may be brought on board. A full-service bar, coffee, and snacks are available on the train.
  • Dress Code: Closed shoes must be worn at all times. A light jersey or jacket is recommended for changing weather conditions.
  • Accessibility: The train is not wheelchair accessible unless the guest is able to board without the wheelchair.
  • Family Friendly: Children are welcome, but Bar Lounge Seating is strictly for guests aged 18 and older.
  • Evening Plans: Guests are advised not to arrange evening plans too close to the scheduled return time, as delays may affect arrival back in Cape Town.

Onboard Information

  • Your ticket is a return ticket and includes the full cost of your rail journey
  • No smoking is permitted on board
  • Payment on board can be made by cash or card
  • If you need assistance, please go to the Coach Controller or Train Manager

General Rules & Safety

  • Please follow the instructions of the Train Manager and Coach Controllers at all times
  • No standing or kneeling on furniture or tables
  • Please do not hang out of the windows due to vegetation and soot along the route
  • Do not throw litter out of the windows – bins and cleaning staff are available on board
  • No bare feet are allowed, especially between coaches where shifting plates may cause injury
  • Passengers should be well on the day of travel. Guests who are unwell should postpone their journey

How To Book

  • Click the Book Now button
  • Choose your preferred date and time slot
  • Add the number of adults and children
  • Enter your details and proceed with payment
  • Once payment has been received, your booking will be confirmed
  • Your activity ticket or voucher will then be sent to you by email
  • Please note that this activity rate includes our admin and service fees, and may differ from the direct operator price. Thank you for supporting a locally owned small business and our WOW team!

Looking for a unique Cape Town day trip? This vintage train journey to the Elgin Railway Market combines scenic travel, relaxed market time, and a memorable heritage rail experience all in one day.

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HOW TO BOOK: the BOOK NOW button for this activity takes you directly to the live booking page.

– Click the BOOK NOW button
– choose your date and time slot
– add the number of adults and kids for the activity
– BOOK – enter your details and proceed with payment
– only once payment has been received, will your booking be confirmed and your Activity Ticket/Voucher be sent to you by e-mail
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