Cape Town to Elgin: Steam Train Ride & Market Day Trip

Summary

Steam train journey past Table Mountain to Elgin’s lively market with food, views and local color

You’ll board a vintage steam train in Cape Town, roll past Table Mountain’s shifting light, cross dramatic Sir Lowry’s Pass with sweeping bay views, then spend hours exploring Elgin Railway Market’s food stalls and crafts before riding home through evening colors—let yourself slow down for once.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit it — I almost missed the train because I got distracted watching the clouds snag on Table Mountain. There’s something about seeing that old steam engine waiting at the platform in Cape Town, hissing and clanking like it has its own personality. The conductor (he had this deep laugh) checked our tickets and winked at my attempt to pronounce “Elgin” properly — apparently I still say it too British. Once we started moving, the city faded fast and everything outside turned green and gold in the morning light.

The rhythm of the wheels is weirdly soothing. At one point, a little boy ran up and down the aisle pretending to be a ticket inspector — his dad just shrugged and said, “He’s been waiting for this all week.” Our guide pointed out Table Mountain again as we curved away from it; you really can’t escape that view here. The climb up Sir Lowry’s Pass was slower than I expected — you feel every turn as the train works its way up. The windows fogged up a bit near the top (maybe from everyone breathing “wow” at once), but when they cleared, False Bay just opened up below us. It’s hard not to stare.

Elgin Railway Market smells like woodsmoke and cinnamon buns — seriously, you walk in and get hit by both. There were roaring fires going (it was chilly), kids dipping churros into hot chocolate, someone playing guitar near a stall selling biltong. I tried some local cider that tasted like apples and sunshine — or maybe that was just me being sentimental after seven hours on a steam train. We wandered between stalls for ages; I bought a hand-carved spoon that’ll probably live in my backpack now.

The ride back felt quieter somehow, everyone a bit sleepy or lost in their own thoughts as dusk crept over Table Mountain again. I kept thinking about how old trains make time feel different — slower but also more vivid? Anyway, if you’re looking for something gentle but memorable near Cape Town, this day trip to Elgin by steam train is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Steam train journey to Elgin Market

• Depart Cape Town by steam train
• Pass Table Mountain in morning light
• Climb Sir Lowry's Pass peak
• Enjoy panoramic views of False Bay
• Arrive at Elgin Railway Market
• Explore local food and crafts
• Return to Cape Town by train

Top questions

How long does the steam train day trip from Cape Town to Elgin take?

The round-trip journey takes about 7 hours including time at Elgin Railway Market.

Is there food available during the Elgin Railway Market visit?

Yes, you can buy local food and drinks at various stalls inside the market.

Does this tour include pickup from my hotel?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet at the departure station in Cape Town.

Are restrooms available on board the steam train?

Yes, there are restrooms on board for passengers’ use during the journey.

Is this day trip suitable for children or infants?

Yes, infants can ride on an adult's lap or in a stroller; it's family-friendly.

Can service animals come on this steam train tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on board during the trip.

What kind of weather should I expect at Elgin Railway Market?

The market is warm by roaring fires in winter and cooled by large fans in summer.

Will we see Table Mountain during this train ride?

Yes, you'll have clear views of Table Mountain both leaving Cape Town and returning in the evening light.

What’s included

Your day includes return rail tickets from Cape Town to Elgin with all fees and taxes covered; there are restrooms on board so you don’t have to worry about long stretches between stops—just bring your appetite for local flavors at Elgin Railway Market before heading back through mountain scenery.