South Africa’s iconic Choo Tjoe Train set for return on Garden Route by 2027

The long-awaited return of one of South Africa's most iconic railway experiences has taken another significant step forward. Plans to restore the historic Outeniqua Choo Tjoe tourist train along the Garden Route are gaining momentum, with project leaders now aiming to have the first section between Knysna and Sedgefield operational by 2027.

According to a report by the George Herald, the latest update was presented by Classic Rail CEO Alan McVitty and communications consultant Martin Hatchuel during a recent meeting of the Plettenberg Bay Men's Probus Club.

For travellers, the revival of the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe would mark the return of one of the country's most scenic rail journeys. The route once carried visitors through indigenous forests, across dramatic coastal landscapes and over estuaries between George and Knysna, becoming a beloved attraction for both domestic and international tourists.

Significant progress is already being made on the ground. Clearing operations have commenced along sections of the railway line between Knysna and Belvidere, where invasive vegetation has encroached on the tracks during years of inactivity. Railway safety regulations require a three-metre clearance on both sides of the line before services can resume.

Project planners are also exploring an innovative sustainability initiative that could see timber removed during the clearing process converted into charcoal and marketed under the Choo Tjoe brand.

Meanwhile, engineering assessments are under way on two of the route's most important structures: the Knysna Estuary Bridge and the Kaaimans River Bridge near Wilderness. Both bridges require extensive evaluation and rehabilitation before trains can operate safely, although project leaders indicated that viable engineering solutions have already been identified.

Work is also progressing behind the scenes to secure and restore suitable rolling stock. Plans include the refurbishment of both steam and diesel-electric locomotives, together with passenger coaches. Depending on weather conditions and wildfire risks along the route, locomotives may operate using coal, diesel or bunker fuel.

The initial phase of the project focuses on restoring services between Knysna and Sedgefield. If successful, it could pave the way for the eventual return of the full George-to-Knysna railway experience that made the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe famous.

For visitors to the Garden Route, the prospect of once again travelling by rail through some of South Africa's most spectacular coastal scenery is an exciting development. While considerable work remains before the first passengers can board, the latest progress suggests that the dream of seeing the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe steaming through the Garden Route may finally be moving from vision to reality.

 

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Outeniqua Choo Tjoe Train Update: Progress continues toward Garden Route rail revival

Travellers hoping for the return of the iconic Outeniqua Choo Tjoe steam train along South Africa’s Garden Route have received a positive update, with Oteniqua Choo Tjoe Pty Ltd (OCT) confirming that restoration work on the historic railway line is now actively underway.

The scenic rail route between George and Knysna, once one of South Africa’s most popular tourist train experiences, has been out of operation for years due to storm damage, infrastructure deterioration, and concession delays. OCT now says the project is moving forward following the formal award of the railway concession.

OCT confirms concession awarded

OCT has confirmed that it has officially been awarded the concession for the line, allowing long-term rehabilitation planning and restoration work to proceed.

While no reopening date for passenger services has been announced yet, the company says comprehensive planning is already underway with the goal of restoring and operating the route successfully.

For Garden Route travellers, this is one of the clearest signs yet that the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe is moving closer to a future return.

Rail line clearing and bridge assessments underway

The current focus is on systematically clearing the railway line through OCT’s appointed perway subcontractor.

This work goes beyond vegetation removal. As sections are cleared, teams inspect the actual condition of the track, terrain, and surrounding infrastructure, collecting daily data needed to plan the full rehabilitation programme accurately.

At the same time, OCT says front-end engineering work is progressing on key structures, especially the Kaaimans Bridge and the Knysna Estuary Bridge — both critical for reopening the full George–Knysna route safely.

Safety and legal compliance remain key

OCT says strict railway safety regulations control how and when work can begin on each section of the line. Areas must first be assessed and declared safe before further rehabilitation can proceed.

This careful approach may slow visible progress, but it is necessary to ensure the long-term success and safety of the project.

What This Means for Travellers

The Outeniqua Choo Tjoe was once one of South Africa’s most spectacular train journeys, travelling through forests, over dramatic bridges, and along the coastline between George and Knysna.

Although there is still no confirmed reopening date, OCT’s latest update confirms that restoration is progressing behind the scenes.

Bottom line

The return of the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe will take time, but the latest update shows that the concession is secured, line clearing is underway, and major bridge planning has started.

For travellers, this means the possibility of riding one of South Africa’s most famous heritage rail journeys remains firmly on track.

 

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Outeniqua Choo Tjoe: Restoration progress on South Africa’s historic George–Knysna railway (January 2026)!

last update 27 Januay 2026 

Classic Rail, the successful tenderer for the return of the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe steam train, has issued a progress report confirming that restoration work on the George-Knysna railway line is well underway. This marks a key milestone in the revival of one of South Africa’s most historic and scenic rail routes.

As of 26 January 2026, vegetation clearing along the railway reserve has reached the 12 km mark from Sedgefield Station. This essential groundwork is preparing the century-old railway corridor for track rehabilitation and safe future operations.

Early inspections indicate that most of the original wooden sleepers remain structurally sound, despite being nearly 100 years old, reinforcing the overall viability of the restoration project.

The restoration has been structured into two operational phases:

• Phase 1 – Waterfront Express: Sedgefield to Knysna
• Phase 2 – Museum Limited: Sedgefield to the George Railway Museum

Behind the scenes, work is progressing on locomotive and heritage carriage refurbishment, regulatory compliance, and supporting infrastructure. This includes the overhaul of steam and diesel locomotives, restoration of historic coaches, and planning for a new steam hub at Sedgefield Station, complete with a turntable and workshop facilities.

Classic Rail has also secured the necessary rail safety approvals, ensuring that the project meets all regulatory requirements ahead of operational testing.

Further updates on bridge rehabilitation, operational readiness, and marketing plans are expected in the coming months as the project advances toward the return of South Africa’s most scenic heritage rail journey.

A South African rail icon
The Outeniqua Choo Tjoe first began operating in 1928. 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. 

 

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