update (03 December 2025): Classic Rail and the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe company began this week to clear the vegetation that has overgrown the George-Knysna line in many places.
According to Alan McVitty, CEO of Classic Rail and the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe, this was necessary so that engineers can make a proper assessment of the line in order to finalise the capital expenditure that will be required to put the iconic train back on track.
Clearing began at the Sedgefield Station, and will continue towards Knysna, with the George-Sedgefield section to be cleared in the second phase.
update (27 October 2025): Transnet is set to host an official signing ceremony today at George in the Western Cape, paving the way for the reintroduction of the iconic Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe.
After almost two decades of silence, one of South Africa’s most beloved heritage trains - the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe - is set to return to the tracks. The legendary steam train of the Garden Route, which once ran between George and Knysna, will soon be revived as a flagship tourism attraction thanks to renewed investment and local collaboration.
Alan McVitty, CEO of Classic Rail and the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe, confirmed that his company has secured all the required contracts and partnered with new funding partners to rebuild the historic railway line. “We’re thrilled to announce that everything is now on track. The Outeniqua Choo Tjoe is coming back,” McVitty said on 06 October 2025.
A South African rail icon
The Outeniqua Choo Tjoe first began operating in 1928, quickly becoming one of South Africa’s most scenic rail journeys. Winding its way along the spectacular Garden Route coastline, the train offered breathtaking views of lakes, forests, and beaches, making it a favourite among local travellers and international visitors alike.
The service was discontinued after severe flood damage to the line in 2006, followed by years of uncertainty and stalled negotiations. Since then, railway enthusiasts, tourism bodies, and the local community have been campaigning passionately for its return - and now, after nearly 20 years, that dream is finally becoming reality.
Two-Phase Return to the Tracks
Classic Rail plans to reopen the route in two phases:
The first phase is expected to take about 12 months to complete. A Ceremonial Signature Event will soon be held to mark this landmark milestone - a celebration of the joint effort between Classic Rail, Transnet Freight Rail, and local Garden Route businesses that made the revival possible.
Restoration and engineering work underway
Several locomotives are currently undergoing restoration in Gauteng, while the passenger carriages are being refurbished in George. Plans also include the establishment of a dedicated steam workshop along the line. Once ready, the rolling stock will be transported by road to the Knysna–Sedgefield section, where the first passenger services will begin.
“Our team is already clearing vegetation from the line so that we can inspect the tracks, bridges, and engineering structures,” McVitty explained. “Safety is our top priority - both for passengers and the project team.”
Tourism revival for the Garden Route
The return of the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe is expected to reignite tourism along the Garden Route, attracting thousands of visitors eager to relive one of South Africa’s most iconic travel experiences. The project promises to create sustainable local jobs, boost small businesses, and strengthen the region’s reputation as one of Africa’s top coastal destinations.
“It’s too early to start taking bookings, but we’ll keep everyone updated through our social media platforms,” said McVitty. “The Outeniqua Choo Tjoe is more than a train – it’s a symbol of heritage, community, and collaboration. Together with local businesses, everybody wins.”
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