---
title: "Train Rides from Cape Town: The Most Scenic Journeys in South Africa"
description: Explore Cape Town and the Western Cape by train. Scenic coastal rides, steam adventures, and luxury rail journeys for visitors and locals alike.
image: https://blog.nox.capetown/hubfs/Cape%20Town%20Trains.jpg
---

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# Train Rides from Cape Town: The Most Scenic Journeys in South Africa

by [Nox](https://blog.nox.capetown/blog/author/nox) | Feb 26, 2026

Cape Town is celebrated for its mountains, coastline and vineyards, but some of its most memorable experiences unfold slowly, by rail. Train travel in and around the city offers a different perspective on the Western Cape: coastal curves, dramatic mountain passes, orchard-filled valleys and vast semi-desert landscapes.

Whether planning a short scenic outing or a multi-day rail adventure, there is a train journey from [Cape Town](https://www.noxrentals.com/cape-town) suited to both visitors and locals seeking something distinctive.

## In this blog we cover…

- **Cape Town to Elgin Railway Market** – A vintage steam train journey over Sir Lowry’s Pass to a vibrant weekend market in the Elgin Valley.
- **Cape Town to Simon’s Town** – A scenic and affordable coastal train ride along False Bay, ideal for a relaxed day trip.
- **Cape Town to Pretoria on Rovos Rail** – A luxury cross-country journey showcasing South Africa’s most dramatic landscapes.

## Cape Town to Elgin Railway Market

A journey to the Elgin Railway Market aboard a vintage steam train is one of the Western Cape’s most charming rail experiences. Operated by [Ceres Rail Company](https://ceresrail.co.za/), this full-day return trip departs from Cape Town’s Foreshore and travels approximately 160 km into the Elgin Valley.

The route climbs Sir Lowry’s Pass, one of the steepest rail lines in South Africa, revealing sweeping views of fynbos-covered hills, farmland and fruit orchards. The steady ascent and the sound of the steam locomotive create a sense of nostalgia rarely found in modern travel. Two onboard baristas and fully stocked bars add to the experience, making both the outbound and return journeys relaxed and enjoyable. 

The Elgin Railway Market itself is housed in a restored 1940s apple warehouse originally built by Italian prisoners of war. Today, it is a vibrant Steampunk-inspired space filled with local food stalls, craft vendors and live entertainment.

Operating on selected weekends, this train ride from Cape Town is particularly popular with families and heritage rail enthusiasts.

[![Elgin Railway Train](https://blog.nox.capetown/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog%20Content/Elgin%20Railway%20Market.png?width=1200&height=630&name=Elgin%20Railway%20Market.png)](https://www.instagram.com/ceresrailcompany?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==)Images: [@ceresrailcompany](https://www.instagram.com/ceresrailcompany?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==) on Instagram

## Cape Town to Simon’s Town

For those seeking a scenic and affordable train ride in Cape Town, the route to Simon's Town is a standout choice.

Departing from Cape Town Central, the train runs south along False Bay, stopping at Muizenberg, St James, Kalk Bay and Fish Hoek before continuing to Simon’s Town. Between Muizenberg and Kalk Bay, the railway hugs the coastline so closely that passengers enjoy uninterrupted ocean views. Sitting on the left-hand side (when travelling south) offers the best perspective.

Tickets are remarkably inexpensive, often ranging between R20 and R40 one way, making this one of the best-value scenic train journeys in South Africa.

### The Coastal Stops Along the Way

**Muizenberg**  
Known for its long sandy beach and colourful Victorian bathing huts, Muizenberg is one of Cape Town’s most popular surfing destinations. Its gentle waves make it ideal for beginners, while the beachfront promenade is lined with cafés and casual eateries.

**St James**  
A small and picturesque seaside enclave, St James is famous for its tidal pool and brightly painted beach huts. It is quieter than Muizenberg and offers a peaceful coastal atmosphere with scenic walking paths.

**Kalk Bay**  
Arguably the most characterful stop on the route, Kalk Bay is a working fishing harbour blended with boutique shops, art galleries and renowned restaurants. Visitors can watch fishing boats unload their catch, explore independent bookstores and enjoy some of the best seafood along False Bay.

**Fish Hoek**  
Fish Hoek offers a wide, sheltered beach popular with swimmers and families. The bay is known for its calm waters and scenic mountain backdrop, making it an excellent stop for a relaxed seaside walk.

**Simon’s Town**  
The final stop is steeped in history. Simon’s Town is home to the South African Navy and features charming colonial-era architecture, museums and waterfront restaurants. It is also the gateway to Boulders Beach, where visitors can see the resident African penguin colony.

[![Cape Town to Simons Town](https://blog.nox.capetown/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog%20Content/Cape%20Town%20to%20Simons%20Town.png?width=1200&height=630&name=Cape%20Town%20to%20Simons%20Town.png)](https://www.instagram.com/metrorailwc?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==)Images: [@metrorailwc](https://www.instagram.com/metrorailwc?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==) on Instagram

## Cape Town to Pretoria on Rovos Rail

For a world-renowned luxury rail journey, the route from Cape Town to Pretoria aboard [Rovos Rail](https://rovos.com/) is widely regarded as one of the finest train experiences in the world.

Departing from Cape Town Station, the train eases out beneath the dramatic silhouette of Table Mountain before rolling through the Cape Winelands towards Worcester. As the journey progresses, the train climbs approximately 750 metres up the face of the escarpment, passing through a series of tunnels - including one stretching 13.5 kilometres - before descending into the expansive landscapes beyond.

### Landscapes Along the Way

This four-day rail journey is as much about geography as it is about heritage.

- **The Cape Winelands** – Lush vineyards framed by mountain ranges, historic estates and fertile valleys define the early part of the journey.
- **The Great Karoo** – A vast semi-desert region that was once an inland sea millions of years ago. Its dramatic stillness, flat horizons and wide skies create one of South Africa’s most striking landscapes.
- **The Highveld Grasslands** – As the train approaches Gauteng, the scenery shifts to open plains rich in gold-mining history before arriving in Pretoria.

The slow pace of rail travel allows these transitions to unfold gradually, offering a deeper appreciation of South Africa’s geological and cultural contrasts.

### Notable Stops and Excursions

**Matjiesfontein**  
Arriving early on Day Two, passengers disembark in this remarkably preserved Victorian village founded in 1890 as a railway refreshment stop. The entire town feels like a step back in time. Of particular interest is the museum on the platform and the collection of historic cars and railway carriages near the Lord Milner Hotel. The stop offers insight into late 19th-century rail travel and colonial history in the Karoo.

**Kimberley**  
On Day Three, the train stops in Kimberley, capital of the Northern Cape and the historic heart of South Africa’s diamond rush. Guests visit the Diamond Mine Museum and the Big Hole - the world’s largest hand-dug excavation. The discovery of diamonds here in 1871 fundamentally shaped the country’s economic development, making this stop historically significant as well as visually impressive.

For travellers seeking a luxury rail experience that combines scenery, history and exceptional service, this journey remains one of Africa’s most iconic rail adventures. 

[![Rovos Rail - CPT - Pretoria](https://blog.nox.capetown/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog%20Content/Rovos%20Rail%20-%20CPT%20-%20Pretoria.png?width=1200&height=630&name=Rovos%20Rail%20-%20CPT%20-%20Pretoria.png)](https://www.instagram.com/rovosrail?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==)Images: [@rovosrail](https://www.instagram.com/rovosrail?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==)on Instagarm

## Discover Cape Town by Rail

Train journeys from Cape Town offer more than simple transport; they provide perspective. From the close-up drama of False Bay’s coastline to the expansive stillness of the Karoo, rail travel reveals the Western Cape at an unhurried pace.

For those planning a stay in the city before or after their rail adventure, [Nox Cape Town](https://www.noxrentals.com/rentals) offers a curated collection of holiday rentals in prime locations, providing a comfortable and well-positioned base from which to explore.

[![Nox Rentals Cape Town](https://blog.nox.capetown/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog%20Content/Blog%20End%20Media.png?width=1080&height=1080&name=Blog%20End%20Media.png)](https://www.noxrentals.com/rentals)

# Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the most scenic train ride from Cape Town?

The Cape Town to Simon’s Town route offers exceptional coastal scenery, while the Elgin steam train provides dramatic mountain and valley views. For vast landscapes, the Rovos Rail journey across the Karoo is unmatched.

### Are train rides from Cape Town suitable for families?

Yes. The Elgin steam train is particularly popular with families, and the Simon’s Town route is an accessible and enjoyable day trip.

### How far is Elgin from Cape Town by train?

The round trip covers approximately 160 km, with the one-way journey taking around three and a half hours.

### Do these trains operate daily?

The Simon’s Town route operates frequently as part of the regular commuter service. The Elgin steam train and multi-day journeys operate on selected dates and require advance booking.

### Is Rovos Rail a luxury experience?

Yes. Rovos Rail is internationally recognised for its luxury service, refined dining and curated off-train excursions.

 

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