Outeniqua Choo Tjoe Set for Triumphant Return, Revitalising Garden Route Tourism

The Outeniqua Choo Tjoe, South Africa’s iconic steam train, is poised to reclaim its place as a premier tourism attraction after nearly twenty years off the rails. This long-awaited comeback marks a pivotal moment for the Garden Route, promising new opportunities for growth and collaboration across the region’s hospitality, transport, and heritage sectors.

Alan McVitty, CEO of Classic Rail and the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe, has confirmed that the necessary contracts are in place and funding partnerships secured to restore this legendary journey. “Everything is now on track. The Outeniqua Choo Tjoe is coming back,” McVitty announced on October 6, 2025, ushering in a new era for one of South Africa’s most cherished rail experiences.

Heritage Meets Opportunity

First launched in 1928, the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe quickly became famous for its spectacular coastal route between George and Knysna. Traversing lakes, indigenous forests, and sandy beaches, the train offered passengers an unrivalled vantage point of the region’s natural splendour, drawing both local and international travellers. Its abrupt closure in 2006, caused by devastating floods and subsequent infrastructure challenges, left a void felt by the tourism industry and communities alike. For years, advocates have worked tirelessly to revive what many see as a symbol of South African heritage, and now, those efforts are finally bearing fruit.

Phased Revival to Maximise Impact

Classic Rail’s detailed roadmap will see the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe’s return rolled out in two distinct phases. The first phase will connect Knysna to Sedgefield, with the subsequent extension to George forming the second phase. This strategy is designed to ensure a smooth operational launch and allow for gradual re-integration of the line into the broader tourism economy. The initial phase is projected to take about 12 months, culminating in an official Ceremonial Signature Event. This milestone will not only mark the train’s physical return but will also celebrate the pivotal partnerships between Classic Rail, Transnet Freight Rail, and Garden Route enterprises that made the restoration possible.

Engineering and Craftsmanship at the Forefront

Behind the scenes, intense restoration work is underway. Locomotives are being meticulously overhauled in Gauteng, while passenger carriages receive careful refurbishment in George. A new steam workshop is planned for the line, underscoring the project’s commitment to maintaining authentic rail experiences. Once the rolling stock is prepared, it will be transported by road to the Knysna–Sedgefield stretch, readying the route for its first scheduled journeys.

McVitty emphasises that safety is paramount: “Our team is already clearing vegetation from the line so that we can inspect the tracks, bridges, and engineering structures. Safety is our top priority – both for passengers and the project team.” This approach aligns with global best practices and reassures future visitors that the renewed Outeniqua Choo Tjoe will meet modern standards while retaining its historic charm.

Implications for the Garden Route’s Tourism Revival

The return of the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe is set to catalyse renewed interest in the Garden Route, an area renowned for its biodiversity and scenic wonders. The anticipated influx of visitors, eager to rediscover the region through the lens of a classic steam journey, is expected to generate significant economic activity. This includes the creation of sustainable jobs, revitalisation of small and medium-sized enterprises, and the strengthening of the region’s reputation as a top-tier African destination.

For the accommodation sector, this revival presents a unique chance to attract both domestic and international guests, with hotels, guesthouses, and lodges along the line likely to see increased demand. Transport providers, tour operators, and service businesses are also positioned to benefit as the Choo Tjoe brings new footfall and encourages longer stays. Local artisans, restaurateurs, and experience curators have the potential to craft bespoke products and packages tailored to visitors seeking a blend of nostalgia, adventure, and authentic South African hospitality.

Community-Driven Growth and Long-Term Vision

More than a train, the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe symbolises the power of partnership and community engagement. Its revival is a testament to the effectiveness of collaboration between public entities, private investors, and grassroots advocates. This spirit of unity offers valuable lessons for other regions in sub-Saharan Africa, where heritage tourism can play a decisive role in job creation and cultural preservation.

Looking ahead, the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe’s comeback encourages stakeholders across the continent to consider how historic attractions can be repurposed for contemporary markets. The shift towards experiential tourism, where travellers seek immersive and meaningful journeys, underscores the value of projects that blend tradition with innovation. With global travellers increasingly motivated by stories of resilience, authenticity, and local pride, African destinations have a golden opportunity to rethink and rebrand their own heritage assets.

While bookings are not yet open, Classic Rail has pledged to keep interested travellers informed via its social media channels. In the words of McVitty, “The Outeniqua Choo Tjoe is more than a train – it’s a symbol of heritage, community, and collaboration. Together with local businesses, everybody wins.”

Broader Lessons for Africa’s Rail Renaissance

The Outeniqua Choo Tjoe’s return resonates far beyond South Africa’s borders. Across sub-Saharan Africa, railways are regaining prominence as countries invest in infrastructure to boost tourism and facilitate trade. The successful revival of a heritage service like the Choo Tjoe demonstrates that classic rail can coexist with modern demands, creating fresh value propositions for today’s discerning travellers. For professionals in the African tourism sector, this is a call to action: to champion projects that combine cultural legacy with economic viability, and to anticipate the evolving needs of the market in the years ahead.

As the steam returns to the Garden Route, the message is clear: heritage, when revitalised with vision and collaboration, can drive a new chapter of sustainable tourism across Africa. The Outeniqua Choo Tjoe stands as a shining example of what is possible when history and ambition move forward together.