Heritage Trains: The Umgeni Steam Railway in Kwazulu-NatalSouth 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.
by Alex Coyne
24-10-2023 15:19
in Business
US Dollar eased as higher rate expectations gather steam. Photo by Gary Doughty on Unsplash
South Africa has a lot of heritage, from its kwaito to its koeksisters!
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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?
ALSO READ: New Gautrain routes and expansion to be announced this week
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.
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Here's more about this part of South Africa's railway heritage, and when you can join.
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!
ALSO READ: Heritage Day dishes South African cuisine at its best
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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.
ALSO READ: What does Heritage Day really mean to South Africans?
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.
ALSO READ: Haunted or NOT? Go here to see SA's ghosts!
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
READ MORE ARTICLES BY ALEX COYNE
Is jy Afrikaans? Kliek hier vir nuus in jou taal!
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Heritage Trains: The Umgeni Steam Railway in Kwazulu-NatalSouth 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.
