60 minSeason 1 • Episode 5
LatestIn episode five, the last of Griff’s epic adventures through Africa by train, he crosses a thousand miles of South Africa, reaching the most southerly passenger railway station on the continent.
In this series, Griff Rhys Jones embarks on a leisurely journey across Africa, utilizing the continent's railways as a means to truly experience its beauty and charm. Spanning 7,000 miles over five separate journeys, Griff explores diverse landscapes, encounters remarkable wildlife, and meets intriguing individuals. Through a combination of breathtaking aerial footage and insightful travelogue, Griff shares his unique perspective on Africa, gained from his experiences on and off the train. As he traverses the continent in five episodes, Griff discovers how the railway network offers a window into the history, culture, and daily life of the places he visits. By train, he ventures into remote deserts, forests, villages, and cities, uncovering their stories and learning about their modern-day significance.
Cinematography
Stunning aerial shots that make dusty train tracks look like poetry.
Production
Genuine access to working railways most tourists never see.
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Many railways Griff rides were built by colonial powers and have barely changed since independence—he rarely confronts this directly.
The series captures a specific 2015 moment before Chinese infrastructure investment transformed several of these same rail corridors.
GB
