Outeniqua Choo Tjoe

About Outeniqua Choo Tjoe

It is with great sadness that we need to report that the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe is no longer in operation. Information supplied here for historical purposes only.

Did you know? The Choo Tjoe used to offer passengers a unique, picturesque and scenic 52-kilometre journey experiencing the Garden Route with spectacular views of the Indian Ocean before flood damage rendered the line un-usable in 2006 - Reference: Outeniqua Transport Museum.

The only remaining passenger steam train in Africa that operates according to a schedule, the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe runs between George and Mossel Bay on the Garden Route; an exciting journey, and one of the greatest experiences on this part of the coast.

The railway, officially opened in 1907, actually links the towns of George and Knysna, entailing an incredible 3 hour voyage through Wilderness, Goukamma and Sedgefield - kilometres of amazingly scenic and rugged coastline - one of the most beautiful in the world.

However, a mudslide in 2006 brought the line to a grinding halt, and put paid to the trip all the way to Knysna due to unsafe conditions below the slip at Kaaimanspass. Closing the line was unthinkable, hence the shortening of the line so that it continues to operate between George and Mossel Bay.

A trip on the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe begins at the Outeniqua Transport Museum in George. The train initially wends its way through farm land with the Outeniqua Mountains looming in the background (hence the train's name), crosses two major rivers - the Gwaiing and Malgate - winds through the beautiful Malgate Valley, and offers unmatchable views over the Indian Ocean and Glentana.

An exciting dip through a tunnel is followed by sweeping views over Mossel Bay. Further river crossings ensue as one traverses the Great and Little Brak River lagoons, and then pass through a fynbos reserve, past Hartenbos, before the final leg into Mossel Bay via the Voorbaai Yards, the biggest steam locomotive maintenance workshop in South Africa.

The journey comes to an end at the Dias Museum Station at Santos Beach in Mossel Bay, where, you can either remain at the station and await the return trip, or venture off for some sightseeing.

Please Note that the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe is no longer in operation.