Outeniqua Choo Tjoe Revival
In a big win for South Africa’s tourism and heritage sectors, Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) has signed a 25-year concession agreement with the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe Company to restore and run the famous Outeniqua Choo Tjoe heritage railway. This deal paves the way for the return of the much-loved steam train service, which has sat idle since 2006, offering a fresh boost to the Garden Route’s economy and cultural scene. The agreement covers the line between George and Knysna, turning a piece of railway history into a modern tourist draw. Signed in George on Monday, 27 October 2025, the partnership shows how public and private teams can work together to save national treasures while creating jobs and drawing visitors.
A Rich History: From 1920s Glory to 2006 Shutdown
The Outeniqua Choo Tjoe, often called South Africa’s last full-sized narrow-gauge steam train with a regular service, has deep roots in the country’s railway past. [13] Built in the 1920s, the 67km line from George to Knysna took four tough years to finish, with engineers even using divers to build bridges over rivers along the rugged coast. [13] Its first trip in 1928 carried the then-Minister of Railways and Harbours, C.W. Malan, and it soon became a hit for its stunning views of the Garden Route coastline. [13] By the early 2000s, it carried about 115,000 passengers a year, mostly foreign tourists who loved the “42 miles of smiles” ride. [13]
But heavy floods in 2006 damaged the tracks, forcing a shutdown. [13] The train briefly shifted to a George-Mossel Bay route, but by 2010, state-owned Transnet could not find a buyer and ended services for good. [13] The last trip ran on 17 September 2010, leaving the line quiet for nearly two decades. [13] Over the years, it became a symbol of lost heritage, with locals and tourists alike missing its chugging steam and scenic charm.
Efforts to bring it back started in 2010, when Western Cape MEC for Tourism Alan Winde (now Premier) pushed for talks with Transnet. [13] This led to years of back-and-forth, with proposals in 2017 and a full plan from the Classic Rail consortium in 2018. [13] A tender process kicked off in 2021, with bids closing in 2022, but delays held things up until Transnet picked the winners in 2024. [12]
The Landmark 25-Year Concession Agreement
The new deal hands the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe Company, linked to Classic Rail, control to fix up, run, and grow the line for 25 years. [12] It fits into Transnet’s bigger plan to make the most of non-core assets through partnerships that keep history alive, support tourism, and drive fair economic growth. [0] The agreement was one of two bids in the tender, showing strong interest in the project. [12]
At the signing in George, Transnet Group Chief Executive Michelle Phillips called it a “model for public-private collaboration in the preservation and activation of strategic heritage infrastructure.” [0] She added, “The Outeniqua Choo Tjoe is more than just a railway; it is a national treasure. This partnership ensures its return as a world-class heritage experience that will bring significant social, cultural, and economic value to the region.” [0]
Outeniqua Choo Tjoe Company Chief Executive Officer Alan McVitty shared his excitement: “We are honoured to partner with Transnet on this visionary journey. Our goal is to breathe new life into the Choo Tjoe, preserving its charm while delivering a safe, memorable, and economically impactful rail experience for locals and visitors alike.” [0] McVitty, who has chased this dream for years, said the team is ready to get the train “steaming again as soon as possible.” [12]
Restoration Plans: Phased Approach and Expert Team
Work to bring the train back will happen in stages, starting with the Knysna to Sedgefield section, which should take about 12 months. [13] The second phase will link Sedgefield to George, completing the full 67km route. [13] The company has lined up experts in bridge building, steam engine fixes, carriage makeovers, and water studies to handle the job. [12] Many on the team helped with the Kruger Shalati Train Hotel project in Kruger National Park, finished in 2020. [12]
Locomotives are already being repaired in Gauteng, and carriages are getting spruced up in George. [13] Plans include setting up a steam workshop along the line and moving stock by road for the first runs. A special signing event will soon share more updates with the public and tourism folks, but no exact opening date is set yet. The focus is on keeping the train’s old-school feel while making it safe and affordable for everyone.
Voices of Support from Local Leaders
George Tourism Manager Joan Shaw welcomed the news, saying the train’s return will “reconnect communities, support jobs and bring new energy to the city’s tourism economy.” She added, “The magic of the billowing steam and riding along the spectacular coastline again will be a powerful symbol of growth, resilience and renewed momentum for tourism in the Garden Route. We cannot wait to welcome passengers aboard this journey of nostalgia and discovery.”
Economic and Social Boost for the Garden Route
This revival is set to spark tourism in the area, creating lasting jobs and drawing more visitors to the Garden Route. With its mix of nostalgia and stunning views, the train could pull in crowds like before, helping local spots like restaurants, hotels, and shops. The deal stresses fair growth, with a nod to community upliftment and green tourism. After years of setbacks, it shows South Africa’s push to use heritage for economic wins, much like other rail projects in the works.
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