Rail tourism is gaining renewed momentum in South Africa with the Western Cape positioning heritage rail as a central pillar of its niche tourism strategy a segment the province says is key to stimulating economic growth, regional dispersal and job creation.
According to a media release from Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism Ivan Meyer , the province is prioritising special interest segments that attract high-value travellers and drive spending into rural and small town economies. Rail tourism, Meyer said, is emerging as one of the most promising.
During a recent visit to a rail tourism initiative between Hartenbos and Albertinia, Meyer highlighted how train-based travel blends heritage appeal with nature-based adventure. The experience, delivered in partnership with Atlantic Rail, Bon Game Reserve and the Mossel Bay and Hessequa municipalities, includes a scenic rail journey, a stopover for game drives and a hovercraft trip.
