Choo-choo-choose your own adventure on this luxury hotel train

There’s nodding off on the subway during your commute home, and then there’s falling asleep in the luxe Kruger Shalati: The Train on the Bridge in South Africa: a 1950s-era vessel that’s been converted into a new boutique hotel.

Stationed 50 feet above ground on the Selati Bridge, overlooking the Sabie River in Kruger National Park, the luxe hotel is permanently posted where trains parked overnight in the 1920s in order to let travellers take in the sights of the wildlife below. Today, lions, leopards, elephants and rhinos still roam freely at the park’s nearby Skukuza Camp.

Inside the train, all 24 glass-walled carriage rooms (from $675) boast both stunning views of the river below — and Juliet balconies so you can revel in the vistas while lounging. Adorned with objets d’art crafted by local artisans, the suites are accessed by walking along the train deck, which is also home to a stunning pool that overhangs the bridge.

Right now, stays are limited to adults and kids over 12, but families with younger children (or those who nervous about heights) will soon be able to stay in one of seven elegant bridge house rooms, located firmly on the ground adjacent to the Selati and scheduled to be completed by the end of the year.

And there are lots of pleasures to be found on the grounds: the property below the bridge includes a swish indoor-outdoor dining area that serves high tea, and guests can swing over to nearby restaurant 3838, which offers African takes on international dishes (like crispy venison bobotie samosas) by renowned South African chef Andrew Atkinson. Just be sure to leave enough time to take advantage of the twice daily game drives, guided by expert rangers who share insight into the land and culture while pointing out native wildlife. Full steam ahead.

The Star understands the restrictions on travel during the coronavirus pandemic. But like you, we dream of travelling again, and is publishing this story with future trips in mind.