Outeniqua Transport Museum

About Outeniqua Transport Museum

Located in the charming town of George, the Outeniqua Transport Museum invites visitors on a journey through South Africa's railway legacy. This museum, dedicated to preserving transport history, showcases an extensive collection of vintage steam locomotives, historic road vehicles, and railway artifacts, making it an ideal stop for transport lovers and history enthusiasts.

Central to the museum's collection are its steam locomotives, each with a distinct story to tell. Visitors can admire the historic Emil Kessler, Johannesburg's very first steam engine, which played a significant role in launching rail travel in South Africa. Another must-see is the powerful GL Garrett locomotive, admired for its size and engineering, as well as an array of restored train carriages from different time periods. Among these is a coach from the 1947 Royal Train that carried British royalty, as well as Paul Kruger's private coach, offering glimpses into the lives of historical figures who shaped the country.

The museum's displays extend beyond locomotives, featuring an impressive collection of original locomotive number plates and makers' plates, each one providing details of these engineering marvels. Younger visitors and train enthusiasts will appreciate the model train room, where miniature trains wind through intricate landscapes and scenes. Further adding to the museum's charm is a selection of classic motor vehicles and a privately-owned vintage car collection, showcasing different eras in South African road transport.

For anyone intrigued by history, engineering, or the romance of the rails, the Outeniqua Transport Museum provides an insightful look into South Africa's past. This museum's collection stands as a tribute to innovation and craftsmanship, making it a must-see attraction for visitors to George.