After an absence of nearly sixteen years, the rhythmic clack of passenger rail is echoing through the Outeniqua landscape once again. For the first time since 2010, holidaymakers and families are traveling by rail between George and Great Brak—but the clock is ticking.
This exclusive winter school holiday initiative has already drawn hundreds of excited commuters back to the tracks. Driven by an ambitious 18-month planning phase, the historic comeback is a successful joint venture between Atlantic Rail, Ceres Rail Company, and Transnet. With vintage coaches previously stationed in Mossel Bay, the operators pivoted creatively to revive this long-dormant section of South African rail history. However, this nostalgic winter experience is highly limited: only two days of running remain.
The Dynamic Duo: Daphne and Daisy
At the heart of this historical revival are two beloved diesel locomotives, affectionately named Daphne and Daisy. The heavy-duty pair is tasked with hauling a massive 10-carriage train capable of accommodating up to 350 passengers per trip. For rail enthusiasts and nostalgic locals, seeing these two engines operating along the Garden Route coastline is a standout highlight of the season.
While Daphne and Daisy handle the heavy lifting, another iconic locomotive—Clare—is currently resting at the depot to undergo essential maintenance, including the replacement of her boiler tubes, preparing her for future regional adventures.
Tunnels, Bridges, and Coastal Panoramas
The 3.5-hour return journey treats passengers to some of the most spectacular, otherwise inaccessible views of the Southern Cap
e coastline. The train winds its way along the edge of the ocean, tackling two legendary engineering marvels:
The Gwaing Bridge: A breathtaking, towering concrete structure spanning the river gorge.
The Glentana Tunnel: A dramatic passage carved through the coastal cliffs that opens up to sweeping ocean vistas.
From Museum Markets to Station Gardens
The adventure begins directly at the Outeniqua Transport Museum in George. Passengers can arrive early to soak up the local railway heritage and explore the vibrant, seasonal Museum Market before boarding the diesel-hauled train to Great Brak.
Upon arrival at Great Brak, the train stops for roughly 20 to 30 minutes, allowing Daphne and Daisy to safely execute a “run-around” maneuver to change ends for the trip home. During this interval, passengers are encouraged to disembark, stretch their legs, and stroll through the beautifully manicured station gardens, modern pathways, and scenic lookout points while enjoying local food and refreshments.
Final Call: Book Now for July 11 & 12
With the first sets of trips successfully completed, the final two days on the schedule are Saturday, 11 July and Sunday, 12 July 2026.
Each day offers a morning departure at 09:00 and an afternoon slot at 14:00. Tickets are selling out incredibly fast—particularly for the morning slots—though the 14:00 afternoon departures currently offer the best remaining choice of seating. Ticket prices range from standard passenger coaches at R350 per person to premium observation and lounge cars at R550–R650 per person, as well as private family compartments.
Travel Note: To secure a spot on these final historic journeys, bookings must be made online via Atlantic Rail or Ceres Rail / SC Rail. Outside food and drinks are not permitted, as the train features three fully stocked bar lounges and an onboard snack kiosk.
