What started as a dream journey aboard one of Africa’s most luxurious trains took an unexpected turn when a serious accident occurred near Gwanda, Zimbabwe.
But despite the chaos and fear that followed, the story has taken a more uplifting turn.
The passengers—tourists from all over the world—have now safely arrived in the majestic town of Victoria Falls, full of gratitude, relief, and excitement to finally experience one of Africa’s top destinations.
A Bumpy Ride Ends with a Warm Welcome
The tourists had been on board the Rovos Rail, a well-known luxury train service famous for its elegant, slow-paced safaris through Southern Africa.
Their Easter journey from Pretoria, South Africa, to Zimbabwe was meant to be a scenic escape, but things took a frightening detour when the train collided with a freight locomotive in the southern town of Gwanda.
Several carriages derailed, leaving multiple injuries among the train’s crew and triggering a major emergency response.
But thanks to the quick work of rescuers, government officials, and local support teams, the situation was managed with care and professionalism—something the visitors haven’t stopped praising.
Tourists Stay Positive After the Scare
Despite the trauma, the passengers have remained incredibly upbeat.
One visitor from the UK shared how grateful they were to arrive safely in Victoria Falls, saying, “Accidents can happen anywhere, but we’re just glad to be here.
The weather is great, the views are beautiful, and we’re ready to enjoy every moment.”
Another tourist added, “I can’t wait to explore, try the local food, and just enjoy the sights.
Victoria Falls has been on my bucket list forever.”
Others echoed the same excitement, with one guest saying they were especially looking forward to seeing the Big Five and soaking up the natural wonder of the falls. “Zimbabwe is a stunning country,” one traveller said.
“We’ve been treated with such kindness, and I’m glad we made it through and can now enjoy the rest of the trip.”
What Happened on the Tracks
The collision occurred when the Rovos Rail train, en route to Victoria Falls, ran into a goods train operated by the Beitbridge Bulawayo Railway service.
According to officials, four Rovos Rail crew members were injured, but fortunately, the majority of passengers escaped unharmed.
Photos from the scene—shared widely on social media—showed the wreckage and emergency crews assisting injured passengers, some being carried out through torn-up parts of the train.
The images captured the severity of the crash, but also the fast and heartfelt response from everyone involved in the rescue.
A Ride Known for Its Luxury and Legacy
Rovos Rail, founded in 1989, isn’t just any train—it’s known for offering high-end, tailor-made safaris across some of Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes.
The journey to Victoria Falls is especially popular, taking passengers on a 1,400km route through historic and scenic regions, including a stop in Zimbabwe’s second-largest city, Bulawayo.
This journey, usually spanning three to four nights, is meant to be an indulgent travel experience, with vintage coaches, fine dining, and unforgettable views.
Though this trip hit an unexpected hurdle, the spirit of adventure among the guests hasn’t dimmed one bit.
Looking Forward Despite the Setback
Even after the derailment and the disruption, the visitors are holding onto the joy and wonder that brought them to Africa in the first place.
They’ve praised the Zimbabwean government and locals for their generosity and support, and now, standing at the edge of Victoria Falls, they’re ready to move forward with wide smiles and open hearts.
Their journey serves as a powerful reminder that even when travel doesn’t go exactly as planned, the resilience of the human spirit—and the beauty of a destination like Victoria Falls—can still turn things around.