Heritage Trains: The Umgeni Steam Railway in Kwazulu-Natal
South Africa has a lot of heritage, from its kwaito to its koeksisters! Here’s where and how to catch the Umgeni Steam Train in KZN.
South Africa has a lot of heritage, from its kwaito to its koeksisters!
But have you ever thought about the history of the country’s railway system, and that there might still be active steam trains that make up part of our important history?
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If you’re visiting the Kwazulu-Natal province, the Umgeni Steam Railway located in Inchanga is a must-see for any train enthusiasts. There’s nothing quite like the train’s whistle – and there’s almost nothing that can compare to the view.
Here’s more about this part of South Africa’s railway heritage, and when you can join.
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HERITAGE SA: WATCH THE UMGENI STEAM TRAIN
The Umgeni Steam Train, also affectionately known as the Inchanga Choo Choo, has been in operation on the railway line built in the 1880s. This makes it one of Africa’s oldest still-functioning steam trains: Hogwarts Express has nothing on this great local wonder!
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Watch footage of the Umgeni Steam Train in action during a 2017 trip here.
Patrons can book a trip of their own, joining the engineers on a trip lasting “roughly 75 minutes.” The trip takes you from Inchanga Railway Station (Kwazulu-Natal), through a heritage trip that turns at Botha’s Hill – and of course, comes back.
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If you’ve ever wanted to know what it feels like to be on a real-life steam train, this is your chance to experience a trip back through SA’s heritage.
THE HERITAGE RAILWAY TRIP
The Heritage Railway Trip runs from Inchanga Station at the end of every month. Bookings must be made 48 hours in advance.
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The next trip is planned for 28 and 29 October, with three departure times set throughout the day. The departure times are:
- 09:00
- 11:30
- 14:00
If you would like to cruise through to Inchanga, prices are as follows:
- Adults R170
- Pensioners and children R110
Yes, refreshments are available at the venue – and there’s an accompanying craft-and-food market. There’s no promise of chocolate frogs, though, but there is an appropriate stall where cloaks and wands are for sale this October.
UMGENI STEAM RALIWAY: WHERE TO BOOK
Bookings for the Umgeni Steam Railway can be made at their website, or submitted thruogh the email address: info@umgenisteamrailway.com