Traveling Across South Africa, Cameroon, Egypt, and More
Train travel is an option that may not be favored by everybody; however, when you compare it to flying, you will certainly enjoy more breathtaking views when you travel by railway than you will at cruising altitude.
Trains also offer a great way to travel between destinations without going through customs and the typical airport security checks. Moreover, they generally provide a more relaxed travel experience than flying.
On these train journeys across Africa, you will not only reach various destinations but also enjoy wonderful vistas through the window during your travels.
Johannesburg to Cape Town, South Africa
While the Blue Train may be the most famous train in South Africa, you do not need to spend a fortune to enjoy the scenery. The Shosholoza Meyl trains follow the same routes, are significantly more economical, and are still perfectly safe. The iconic views of Table Mountain are just a part of the attractions, with the stunning wine region around the Cape providing lovely scenery as well.
Yaounde to Ngaoundere, Cameroon
This is quite a lengthy journey, taking around 17 hours when running on time, revealing fascinating cultural interactions. The vendors carrying trays of fruit and food on their heads at each stop enhance the character of the trip. Along the way, you will see rolling hills and lush forests, making the scenery quite beautiful. While it may not be the most modern of trains, it is undoubtedly the best way to traverse this journey.
Cairo to Aswan, Egypt
This is a stunning line that follows the route of the Nile for a significant portion, and the sights of herds of camels, along with the striking contrast between the green banks of the Nile and the surrounding desert, create a visually stunning journey. One limitation of this route is that tourists cannot buy tickets for the daytime trains at the station; you can only purchase tickets for the more expensive overnight sleeper trains. Therefore, tickets must be obtained online in advance or from the conductor on the train.
Umgeni Steam Railway, South Africa
This preserved railway is located in the KwaZulu Natal National Park and has been operating for over 25 years. It is one of the most engaging ways to experience the superb scenery of this national park. The train, pulled by a historical steam engine, operates from the station at Kloof to Inchaga. There are steep sections along the line as it climbs through the 1000 Hills region, making for an exciting ride.
Nairobi to Mombasa, Kenya
Few journeys contrast the two destinations like this one, as you descend over 5,000 feet from Nairobi in the mountains to the tropical warmth of Mombasa, which lies at less than 100 feet above sea level. The route features beautiful open areas, and it is common to spot giraffes, ostriches, impalas, and various other species during the journey.
Bulawayo to the Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
This train operates with historic rolling stock from the 1950s. Although it shows some signs of neglect due to the economic situation in Zimbabwe, first-class sleeping compartments remain quite affordable for most international travelers. The experience is what makes this route unique; as it is an overnight train, the breathtaking sunrise while approaching the falls is exceptional. Wildlife sightings are common, and you can see the spray of the falls rising on the horizon.
Metlaoui to Redeyef, Tunisia
This seasonal train travels through the Selja Gorge, offering spectacular views of the Atlas Mountains. Originally owned by the Bey of Tunis, it has now been adapted for tourism. This line attracts visitors precisely for its breathtaking views along the route, which was originally built to transport phosphates from these mountains.
