Luxury Train Journeys

Train Travel

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In Southern Africa, two sophisticated trains vie for attention... both offer five star elegance and service, but each train is unique in its design and decor. In Namibia, the Desert Express offers great value for money, friendly Namibian hospitality and expansive views of the desert wilderness.

Train Travel is reminiscent of a bygone era of grace and romance and a wonderful opportunity to view the countryside in comfort and complete relaxation... with a few enticing off-train excursions en route.

Whatever your choice of train, Thompsons will assist you to package your selected route into your Southern African vacation, please do speak to one of our consultants for their expert advice.

South Africa has two superb luxury trains that offer various routes that crisscross South and Southern Africa. Both trains are completely unique and entirely different from each other, but offer outstanding service, cuisine and attention to detail, with beautiful accommodation, dining and lounge carriages.

The BLUE TRAIN is a modern work-of-art and sophistication, where one is completely cushioned from the outside world.

ROVOS RAIL is lovingly restored vintage carriages that are pulled in part by restored steam locomotives which charms with opulent perfection.

Luxury Rail is an elegant mode of travel, through some of Southern Africa's most spectacular scenery that 'only trains will pass through'. A wonderful way to pamper oneself on holiday.

In Namibia, the DESERT EXPRESS showcases Namibia's spectacular sunrise and sunset, with the vast desert in-between. With weekly journeys between Windhoek and Swakopmund, guests are cocooned in understated comfort and welcomed with friendly Namibian hospitality.

Premier Classe

Introduction

The Premier Classe was first introduced in 2001 with only four coaches accommodating 24 guests. In 2006 it became a dedicated luxury train with eleven coaches accommodating 84 guests, travelling from Johannesburg to Cape Town (and back) twice a week. The new Premier Classe train that was introduced in October 2007 accomodates 126 guests.

Discover the refinement of luxury train travel

The moment you board the air-conditioned Premier Classe train, you'll step into a world that recaptures the long lost elegance of luxury train travel and the personalised service of a bygone era. At the same time, you'll enjoy the technology and sophistication of the fast paced, modern world around you. While we accommodate 126 passengers in sheer luxury, you'll enjoy the attention to detail of our spacious compartments and lavishly appointed bathrooms.

At your service

When you're in the hands of Premier Classe staff, you'll notice that attention to detail is something that has made us famous. Any one of our friendly staff members will avail themselves to assist you at any time during your journey. It's our way of making sure that you can relax while enjoying your stay with us.

Products and Services

Your journey begins in the departure lounge

It is a Shosholoza Meyl trademark to make guests feel at home. In the departure lounge, that's exactly how you'll feel thanks to a heart-warming welcome, personal assistance and attention to detail that will set the tone for an experience that will stay with you forever. Tea and coffee is served while you relax in the comfort of the lounge at the Johannesburg and Cape Town stations. Our friendly staff members will introduce themselves and then take care of your luggage for you. And with half an hour to go before departure, you'll be invited to board the train. You'll be given a personal tour of the coaches, giving you the opportunity to familiarise yourself with all the luxuries that Premier Classe has to offer. And while you settle in, the wheels are gently put into motion and your experience with us begins.