Travelling by train is not a common means of transportation in this part of the world. It was not among the first options for people in Nigeria until recently, when it started gaining its popularity back, and people started opting for it. In fact, from my last trip, it is a means of transportation that I will always recommend anytime I have the opportunity. It is far more comfortable compared to bumpy bus rides, and interestingly, it is often cheaper.
In this article, I will explore the world of trains in Africa, uncovering hidden rail experiences across Africa.
The Majestic Blue Train – South Africa
Talking about luxury train South Africa, the Blue Train in South Africa perfectly blends with hospitality. The Blue Train route travels from Pretoria to Cape Town. While travelling, you’ll enjoy panoramic views and world-class elegance. It’s safe to call it a moving five-star hotel.
What should you expect while travelling through Pretoria to Cape Town train?
- Personal butler service
- Private accommodation with ensuite bathroom
- First-class fine dining
- Spacious lounges and a club car
- Conference car for family get-togethers and meetings
The image below depicts a luxury train setting with polished wood interiors and vintage seating, depicting the Blue Train South Africa’s elegance.
Image Source: Freepik
Ray Mahlaka, a journalist in South Africa, shared his experience while he took a train ride in Cape Town. He confirmed it’s still safe, reliable, and affordable.
Back on the blue train in Cape Town. Still safe (lots of security guards on board). Still reliable (sticks to the schedule most of the time). Still affordable (R5,50 for a more than 30km trip (Fish Hoek to Cape Town CBD. Peak time pricing is R9). When SOEs work, life is 👍🏾👌🏾. pic.twitter.com/ScczqpbUFh
— Ray Mahlaka (@RayMahlaka) March 25, 2024Maputo Corridor Train – Mozambique to South Africa
The Maputo Corridor train connects the provinces of South Africa, including Gauteng, Limpopo, and Mpumalanga, with Maputo, the port city and capital of Mozambique. The Mozambique rail travel is crucial in facilitating trade, boosting tourism, and promoting regional travel. The train from Maputo to South Africa is a gateway, encouraging more travellers to engage in intra-African business opportunities and fostering investment and growth.
What makes this train route special?
- Reduces barriers to trade.
- Provides affordable logistics for local and regional travellers.
- Offers views of lush savannah landscapes and farmland.
- Strengthens public-private partnerships.
Note: Do you do cross-border business? Contact Travelradio.live to help you make your journey seamless with expert guidance.
Addis Ababa to Djibouti Railway – Ethiopia & Djibouti
The Addis to Djibouti train typifies a modern railway structure. The Ethiopia rail infrastructure is the first cross-border electrified railway in Africa. The infrastructure is a China-funded development and has been pivotal in supporting cross-border trade. The modern train Ethiopia Djibouti offers a more efficient cargo and passenger transport system than the outdated colonial-era line it replaced.
What makes this rail infrastructure stand out?
- Reduces travel time and cost from about 50 hours to about 10 hours.
- Runs at a maximum speed of 120 km/h for the passenger train.
- Runs at a maximum speed of 80 km/h for the freight train.
- Increases trade volumes between Ethiopia and Djibouti.
- Enables sustainable social and economic development.
- Operated with Chinese technical support.
Check out this piece on how to utilise online accommodation booking platforms during your trips.
TAZARA Railway – Tanzania to Zambia
According to Wikipedia, the TAZARA Railway Africa project was to help Zambia, a landlocked country that initially depended on Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) and South Africa for trade. This was not favourable for them at the time because both countries were governed by white-minority governments that did not support newly independent African nations. The Tanzania Zambia train connects Zambia to the Port of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, enabling it to have a direct trade route to the sea.
A traveller who went through this route in 2020 shared his story on Business Insider and said that despite a long journey, he would gladly do it again.
Below are the reasons you should take the Tanzania Zambia train.
- Bears historical significance, built with the support of the Chinese in the 1970s.
- Offers a train through wildlife experience to spot wild animals from parks along the route.
- Affordable long-haul journey with lounge facilities for relaxation.
- Offers lush forest scenery along the journey.
Note: If you want to explore iconic travel locations in Zambia, like Victoria Falls, contact Travelradio.live to plan your journey.
The image below shows the lively Port of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and the city’s skyline backdrop.
Image Source: Pixabay
Lagos–Kano Train – Nigeria
The Nigerian train service has existed for a long time. However, most Nigerian railway routes have experienced setbacks over the years, but are now regaining momentum. One of them is the Lagos Kano train, linking two major commercial hubs in Nigeria’s southern and northern regions.
Why the Lagos Kano train is an excellent ride for you.
- Enables freight operations.
- Reduces the rate of road accidents.
- Affordable means of transportation.
- Boosts local trade by connecting northern and southern economies.
- Connects major cities like Lagos, Abeokuta, Ibadan, Ilorin, Minna, Kaduna, and Kano.
Other African Train Journeys You Should Know
Aside from the train journeys I listed above, below are some other train journey options you can explore.
Cairo to Alexandria Train – Egypt
- Enjoy scenic views of the Nile Delta countryside.
- Explore high-speed rail options with upgraded cabins.
The image below shows the Nile River flowing through the countryside of Cairo, with modern city buildings lining its banks.
Image Source: Pixabay
Sousse–Tunis Train – Tunisia
- Offers tourists scenic views across the Mediterranean coast.
- Journeys through historic sites.
Lobito Atlantic Railway – Angola to DR Congo
- Facilitates the transport of mineral resources
- Offers sustainable freight options for regional trade
Note: Planning a journey can be overwhelming without the proper support. Travelradio.live is here to guide you with professional travel consultations.
Final Thoughts
Africa networks are full of scenic adventures and remarkable engineering feats. Travel options are not limited to air travel and road trips, and train journeys also offer a unique way to experience the continent’s rich landscapes and diverse cultures. Depending on your destination and aim, there are various options to explore, whether to experience luxurious elegance or cross-border trading opportunities.
Railways offer a more sustainable option than road and air travel, contributing less to carbon emissions.
As more African nations continue to modernise and improve their railway systems, the future holds exciting possibilities for tourists and locals alike. So, don’t just fly through Africa or drive through it, ride through and experience the stories unfold.
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