Tourist Class train from Capetown to Jo'Burg

Hi,
Have a look at the Premiere Class trains.
You have your own compartments, all meals and a very interesting view of South Africa. It takes about 26 hours and is good value for money.
You can catch the Gautrain from OR Thambo airport to Park Station in Johannesburg (and from the station to the airport)so it is very easy.

Rovos rail has a more upmarket train which stops along the way and is very touristy.

Hope this is a good starting point for you.

All the best.

Haven't been there myself, but I assume you already know the seat61 website:

http://www.seat61.com/SouthAfrica.htm

Here is a photo report where you can see the Premiere Class on a Port Elizabeth - Johannesburg train:

http://www.drehscheibe-online.de/foren/read.php?30,7170727

http://www.drehscheibe-online.de/foren/read.php?30,7173282

Thanks! Have been able to find alot online about the Premiere Class train but not much about the experience in Tourist class which is significantly less expensive. Would love to hear about experiences and advice so we know what to expect.

Hi,
Not sure about Tourist Class - depends on time of the year as there isn't air conditioning and might be very crowded. Air conditioning would be useful between December (possibly) and January to April (definitely) which are our hot months.

The train is likely to be crowded around the Christmas holidays - possibly 12 December to 4 January 2015.

You buy your food in the Tourist Class. It is a fast food franchise on a cart during the day. There aren't really places to buy food at the station stops as the stations are small.

As long as you have your own compartment you'll be comfortable (and squashed ) whichever class you choose.

Don't forget in comparing prices the Premiere Class includes food and bedding (and air conditioning!!) whereas you pay extra for your food and bedding in Tourist Class.

Whatever you decide - the train trip is great.
regards
Travelawe

there isn't air conditioning and might be very crowded. Air conditioning would be useful between December (possibly) and January to April (definitely)

Can't you open the window?