After more than a decade of inactivity, one of South Africa’s most iconic railway experiences is on track for a revival, as efforts intensify to restore the historic Outeniqua Choo Tjoe steam train along the Garden Route.
Once recognised as Africa’s last scheduled passenger steam service, the railway ceased operations in 2010. Now, a multi-phase rehabilitation project aims to bring the line back to life, reconnecting communities and reviving a major tourism attraction in the Western Cape.
Restoration project gathers pace
The 64-kilometre route stretches between George and Knysna, passing coastal and inland stops such as Victoria Bay, Wilderness, Sedgefield and Goukamma. Built between 1925 and 1928, the line served passengers for nearly 80 years before being declared a preserved railway in 1992.
Operations were disrupted after severe flooding in 2006 damaged sections of the track, forcing a reduced service. The final closure came in 2010 when Transnet withdrew, citing the service as outside its core business, and attempts to secure a private operator failed.
Momentum returned in 2021 when Transnet issued a request for proposals to revive the line. By 2025, Classic Rail secured a 25-year concession to restore and operate the service.
The rehabilitation plan has been divided into two phases. The first phase, known as the Waterfront Express, will restore services between Sedgefield and Knysna. The second phase, Museum Limited, will extend operations to the George Railway Museum.
Initial work has already begun, including vegetation clearing and infrastructure assessments. AfriTrack, appointed as the track maintenance subcontractor, has cleared approximately 12 kilometres of railway line, enabling teams to gather detailed data for planning further restoration.
Rolling stock and infrastructure upgrades underway
Parallel to track rehabilitation, restoration of locomotives and passenger carriages is progressing. Two historic Class 19D steam locomotives will undergo refurbishment, with one converted to oil-fired operation to reduce fire risk during high-temperature periods.
A Class 32 diesel locomotive is also being restored to serve as a backup, ensuring operational flexibility once services resume.
Bridge safety is another priority, with engineering assessments underway for key structures, including the Kaaimans River bridge and the Knysna Estuary crossing.
In addition, passenger coaches are being refurbished to enhance the travel experience while preserving their heritage character. Infrastructure upgrades at Sedgefield Station will establish it as the central hub of the revived railway, complete with maintenance facilities and operational support systems.
The return of the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe is expected to contribute significantly to regional tourism, offering visitors a scenic journey through one of South Africa’s most renowned coastal corridors.
While no official reopening date has been confirmed, project leaders say progress is steady, with further updates to be shared as milestones are reached.
Source: Classic Rail project updates
