Full steam ahead! The famous stream train will operate between Knysna, Sedgefield and George.
Garden Route, South Africa (20 October 2025) – All aboard for some lekker news! The Outeniqua Choo Tjoe, one of South Africa’s most beloved steam trains, is officially on track to return after nearly two decades.
For years, the Choo Tjoe’s whistle was part of the magic of the Garden Route. It carried passengers between George and Knysna with some seriously breathtaking views of mountains, forests, and lagoons along the way.
It’s been almost 20 years since the train last ran, and after nearly two decades of negotiations and disappointments, it’s full steam ahead.
Alan McVitty, CEO of Classic Rail and Outeniqua Choo Tjoe, has confirmed that contracts have been signed, funding partners secured, and plans in place to rebuild the line. The reopening will happen in two phases.
The first being Knysna to Sedgefield, which is expected to take around 12 months to complete. And then from Sedgefield to George.
The project has already kicked off with teams clearing vegetation along the line so that bridges and sections of track can be inspected and repaired. Locomotives are being restored in Gauteng, while carriages are being refurbished in George, with a new steam workshop planned along the line.
The relaunch is expected to bring a wave of tourism back to the area, which will also bring much-needed jobs and opportunities for local businesses along the Garden Route.
While it’s too early to start booking tickets, the announcement drums up some excitement among locals and tourists who’ve been waiting to see steam engines puffing along the Garden Route again.
“We’re just sharing the good news with the public and the tourism industry that everything is on track and we are finally on our way,” says McVitty.
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