Passage through Asia

Take a ride on one of our two impressive steam engines, Excelsior and Superior, as they weave their way through the territories of some of the world's most inspiring animals.

Elephants, rhinos, yaks and camels are just some of the mammals you can expect to see on your journey in the Jumbo Express. With our exciting commentary, we will take you on a safari adventure you will never forget.

Asked why people love the trains so much, driver and engineer Kevin Edwins said: “It’s the sheer magic of a steam-hauled railway. People love to hear the whistle and see the smoke - very few zoos have them.”

Where are we?

Find us on ZSL Whipsnade Zoo daily planner map. 

Whipsnade Map (3.12 MB)

When we are running?

• Daily during October half term
• Weekends during October and November 2014 (until Sunday 20 November)
• The Jumbo Express will finish for 2014 from 21 November and start up again in February 2015

On weekdays this will be an hourly service, commencing at 12.30pm and then 1pm, 2pm, 3pm, 4pm. On weekends and school holidays, this will increase to a half an hour service, starting from 12pm through to one hour before the zoo shuts.

All rail services are subject to weather conditions. 

Please check at the station for times on the day of your visit.

Fares

You can purchase tickets at the main gate and railway gift shop on the day. School groups are required to pre-book.

Disabled access

The Jumbo Express can accommodate two adults wheelchairs.

Capacity:

Maximum: 125
Minimum: 30