All About the luxury train that goes nowhere

Image: Instagram/@kruger_shalati

29 March 2024

‘Kruger Shalati: The Train on the Bridge' is a luxury hotel made up of renovated carriages spanning a historic bridge in the middle of Kruger National Park, in South Africa

Image: Instagram/@kruger_shalati

The park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the best places to see Africa's "Big Five" - elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos and buffalos

Image: Unsplash

The hotel's position over the Sabie River is a particularly good location for watching wildlife

Image: Instagram/@kruger_shalati

The hotel comprises a set of train carriages that have been renovated into 24 modern suites with balconies and a pool overlooking the Sabie River 

Image: Instagram/@kruger_shalati

Most of the hotel's rooms are converted old Transnet train carriages, as per CNN

Image: Instagram/@kruger_shalati

The hotel was inspired by a train service that would pass through Kruger National Park a century ago

Image: Instagram/@kruger_shalati

The hotel today has embellished the bridge with luxury touches including pools

Image: Instagram/@kruger_shalati

The carriages' interiors have also been renovated with a modern finish. There are door-to-ceiling glass windows and a dedicated viewing deck 

Image: Instagram/@kruger_shalati

The nearby historic Kruger Station has been renovated to feature a restaurant, bar, deli, coffee and ice cream shop

Image: Instagram/@kruger_shalati

The hotel offers safari guides as part of its standard package, with visitors whisked into the park by experienced guides

Image: Instagram/@kruger_shalati

Apart from the "Big Five," the area surrounding the hotel is also rich in bird life

Image: Unsplash

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Image: Instagram/@kruger_shalati

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