Vintage Train to Elgin Railway Market in Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town, South Africa

Vintage Train to Elgin Railway Market

Outty Ranking 84 4.7 · 656 traveler reviews10 hoursFrom R 975
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Outty Ranking

84/100

Exceptional. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.7/5

Based on 656 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Vintage Train to Elgin Railway Market worth booking?

Vintage Train to Elgin Railway Market is a 10-hour experience in Cape Town, South Africa, from R 975 per person. It scores 84 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.7/5 rating across 656 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
84 / 100
Rating
4.7/5 (656)
Duration
10 hours
From
R 975 per person

Trains have a certain inextricable mystique about them – no wonder they’re often the setting for romantic rendezvous, murder mysteries and elaborate heists. Perhaps it’s the unstoppable forward momentum; the intimacy of the enclosed space or the sense of adventure and anticipation they evoke. Situated in a an already beautiful country, the overpowering allure of the country draws one in when sitting in this steam-hauled train as you overlook the ever-changing scenery. Our guests spend their time on the train doing what they enjoy best, whether mingling in the bar, reading a book, taking in the sights, catching up with family, or closing their eyes to enjoy the soothing sounds of the rail.

What you get

    About this experience

    Trains have a certain inextricable mystique about them – no wonder they’re often the setting for romantic rendezvous, murder mysteries and elaborate heists. Perhaps it’s the unstoppable forward momentum; the intimacy of the enclosed space or the sense of adventure and anticipation they evoke. Situated in a an already beautiful country, the overpowering allure of the country draws one in when sitting in this steam-hauled train as you overlook the ever-changing scenery. Our guests spend their time on the train doing what they enjoy best, whether mingling in the bar, reading a book, taking in the sights, catching up with family, or closing their eyes to enjoy the soothing sounds of the rail.

    What's included

    Included

    • All Fees and Taxes
    • Rail Ticket (return trip)
    • On-board restrooms

    Not included

    • Food, Drinks, and Coffee (available onboard at extra cost)
    • Transfers to/from Departure Point

    What you'll see and do

    1. Table Mountain

      Travelers will glide by Table Mountain as they depart Cape Town by steam train, able to see the massive mountain in all its glory in the morning, and evening light. Train ride will take 7 hours going to Elgin railwamarket and going back.

      Pass by without stopping

    2. Sir Lowry's Pass

      The majestic Sir Lowry's Pass stretches to 417 m above sea level; no easy climb by train. Arriving at the peak, guests are treated to incredible scenery and panoramic views of False Bay, Cape Town and Table Mountain in the distance.

      Pass by without stopping

    3. Elgin Railway Market

      The Steampunk, Art-Deco "Elgin Railway Market" boasts a variety of local food, beverage and craft offerings immersed in a truly one-of-a-kind setting. Kept warm by roaring fires in winter, and cooled by gigantic fans in summer.

      120 minutes here

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Cape Town

    The rail platform running alongside Dockrail Road is the meeting point.

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    The rail platform running alongside Dockrail Road is the meeting point.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun
    Group size
    Up to 30 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Cape Rail Company

    Know before you go

    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    An early morning departure with one of our steam locomotives showing off!, Vintage Train to Elgin Railway Market in Cape TownGuests with a birthday onboard spoiled with Sparkling Wine and Flowers., Vintage Train to Elgin Railway Market in Cape TownFriendly bar staff, Vintage Train to Elgin Railway Market in Cape TownOn our way to the destination through a canopy of trees up Sir Lowry's Pass, Vintage Train to Elgin Railway Market in Cape TownOur main bar area, Vintage Train to Elgin Railway Market in Cape TownClass 19 D Steam Locomotive "Clare", Vintage Train to Elgin Railway Market in Cape Town

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 657 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    Organization

    3 mentions

    Pickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.

    Traveler reviews

    657 verified traveler reviews for Vintage Train to Elgin Railway Market. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    545
    4 star
    75
    3 star
    20
    2 star
    7
    1 star
    10
    Sort
    ZStarr27 · October 2026

    Exceptional Train Ride

    The whole experience from before we even departed until we returned was fantastic, it was so well organised! From pre-departurr comms, to a WhatsApp group on the day for info and updates! Onboard the staff were friendly and couldn't do enough for you including a dedicated carriage waiter! We had the best day and will be returning in thr future!

    Response from the operator: So glad you joined us and had such a great time! We look forward to having you on board in the future 🤩

    via Tripadvisor

    O7930FTchristelleb · October 2026

    GREAT 👍🏼

    Was a wonderful experience. Beautiful route. The market was fantastic.

    Response from the operator: Thank you for spending your Saturday with us, and for leaving this review 🤩

    via Tripadvisor

    LynetteSusan · October 2026

    Steam Train trip from Hermanus to Elgin

    Excellent trip from Hermanus to Elgin with wonderful views from train and very friendly & helpfull staff🚆you are allowed to take own drinks paying a corkage fee or buy at bar on train 🥂👍

    Response from the operator: We are so glad you joined us on one of our trips from Bot River to Elgin Railway Market. Happy to hear that it was a good time 🤩

    via Tripadvisor

    stoffelm2021 · October 2026

    Memorable train to Elgin

    Lovely experience. Very well organised. Highly recommended!

    Response from the operator: We appreciate the review and glad you enjoyed your time with us!

    via Tripadvisor

    Climber00072573655 · October 2026

    What an great experience!

    Absolutely amazing. Everyone loved it. And the crew on the train was superb!

    Response from the operator: We really have the best crew! Thank you for joining us :)

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    10 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun
    Price range
    R 975 to R 1,050
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    230
    Verdict
    Exceptional

    Why this scores 84

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)79
    Review evidence (18% weight)100
    Booking momentum (14% weight)100
    Value for money (12% weight)77
    Listing quality (10% weight)83
    Local standing (8% weight)40
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Vintage Train to Elgin Railway Market: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Cape Town.

    How much does Vintage Train to Elgin Railway Market cost?

    +

    Prices start at R 975 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Cape Town usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Vintage Train to Elgin Railway Market take?

    +

    Plan for about 10 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Cape Town is not rushed.

    Is Vintage Train to Elgin Railway Market worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 84 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.7/5 across 656 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most highly reviewed in Cape Town, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Vintage Train to Elgin Railway Market?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Vintage Train to Elgin Railway Market suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 10-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Vintage Train to Elgin Railway Market?

    +

    Around 230 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Cape Town can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Cape Town and add a light layer if any part of the 10-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Vintage Train to Elgin Railway Market start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Cape Town within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Cape Town?

    +

    On Outty we rank every Cape Town experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Cape Town: Lion's Head Sunrise/Sunset Hike, Hike Table Mountain or Lions Head in Cape Town Like a Local, Cape Point and Boulder's Penguins Full Day Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Cape Town?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Cape Town?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Vintage Train to Elgin Railway Market?

    +

    Included: All Fees and Taxes; Rail Ticket (return trip); and On-board restrooms. Not included: Food, Drinks, and Coffee (available onboard at extra cost); and Transfers to/from Departure Point. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for Vintage Train to Elgin Railway Market?

    +

    The rail platform running alongside Dockrail Road is the meeting point. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    What languages is Vintage Train to Elgin Railway Market offered in?

    +

    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Vintage Train to Elgin Railway Market?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Vintage Train to Elgin Railway Market wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; and Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Vintage Train to Elgin Railway Market if the weather is bad?

    +

    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Cape Town. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about Vintage Train to Elgin Railway Market?

    +

    Across 656 reviews averaging 4.7 out of 5, recurring themes include organization. Pickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Vintage Train to Elgin Railway Market.

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