Rovos Rail's Copper Trail: A 15-Day Luxury Train Journey from Lobito to Victoria Falls
Overview
Embark on an extraordinary 15-day rail adventure with Rovos Rail, traversing 3100 kilometers through the heart of Southern Africa. The Copper Trail journey takes you from Lobito, Angola, on the Atlantic coast, eastward across the continent to the majestic Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. This meticulously crafted itinerary invites you to discover the rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant cultures of four nations: Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
As you settle into the opulent surroundings of your Rovos Rail suite, the journey begins in Lobito, a coastal gem with a storied past. From there, the train winds its way through Angola's central plateau, offering glimpses into the old kingdoms of Huambo and the historical heart of Kuito. The expedition delves deep into the Copperbelt region, an area renowned for its vast mineral resources, with a significant visit to a working copper mine near Kolwezi in the DRC. This segment provides a unique insight into the industrial backbone of Central Africa.
The journey seamlessly blends cultural immersion with breathtaking natural beauty. You'll experience the bustling city life of Lubumbashi before venturing into the untouched wilderness of South Luangwa National Park in Zambia. Here, a three-night stay at a luxurious lodge offers thrilling game drives and the chance to witness Africa's iconic wildlife in their natural habitat. The adventure continues through Zambia, visiting Lusaka's elephant sanctuary, enjoying a sunset cruise on the Kafue River, and exploring the cultural heritage of the Tonga tribe in Choma.
Every detail of this Rovos Rail experience is designed for the discerning traveler. Onboard, gourmet meals are served in elegant dining cars, complemented by fine South African wines. Lectures by an onboard historian enrich your understanding of the regions you traverse, while the lounge and observation cars offer panoramic views of the ever-changing scenery. This epic journey culminates at the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, where the Zambezi River plunges into a chasm, creating one of the world's most spectacular natural wonders. The Copper Trail is an unparalleled opportunity to explore the heart of Africa in the utmost luxury and comfort, leaving you with indelible memories of an unforgettable continent.
Images: Courtesy - Rovos Rail
Itinerary
Your Itinerary
BENGUELA PROVINCE & HUAMBO & LOBITO
You step onto the train in Lobito, the salty Atlantic air still clinging to your clothes. The polished wood of the carriage, the soft hum of anticipation – it’s a world away from the bustling port. As the train eases into motion, the Angolan coastline slips past your window, a blur of green and blue.
You find your suite, a haven of quiet luxury, and feel the gentle sway of the rails begin to tell its story.Later, over a formal dinner, the clinking of glasses and hushed conversations fill the dining car. Outside, the Benguela province unfolds under a darkening sky.
BOAS AGUS & HUAMBO & KUITO
You wake to the rhythmic rumble of the train, sunlight filtering through your window. Huambo reveals itself as a city of quiet resilience, its wide avenues and colonial architecture whispering tales of old kingdoms. Walking its streets, you feel a connection to the historical heart of Angola, a place of profound significance.
Back on board, the landscape outside transforms, giving way to the vast, green expanse of Angola's central plateau. You sip tea in the observation car, watching small villages and lone figures pass by. The world outside feels immense, yet your carriage is a cozy cocoon, carrying you deeper into the continent's embrace.
KUITO & LUENA & SAVINGUILA
A morning stroll through Kuito feels like stepping into a living history book. The town, nestled in the heart of the Ovimbundu kingdom, carries the weight of its past with quiet dignity. You notice the textures of the buildings, the rhythm of daily life, and the enduring spirit of its people.
As the train pulls away, you reflect on the stories told by the land. The journey eastwards towards Luena is a passage through changing scenery, from open plains to more wooded areas. The sun dips low, painting the sky with fiery hues, and you feel the vastness of Angola stretching out before you, an endless horizon of discovery.
CAMEIA & CASSAI & LUAU & LUENA
Luena reveals a more recent chapter of Angolan history, a narrative of resilience and change. Your walking tour provides a nuanced perspective, connecting you to the contemporary pulse of the region. The air carries the scent of damp earth and distant woodsmoke, a reminder of the raw beauty of the land.Later, the train glides beside the Cassai River, a ribbon of life winding through a massive eco-region.
You might spot local fishermen, their boats mere specks against the wide expanse.
DRC & KASAJI & MALONGA
Today is a day of quiet contemplation, the landscape outside a blur of green and red earth. Border formalities unfold with a gentle efficiency, a reminder of the meticulous planning behind this grand journey. You might read, write, or simply gaze out the window, letting the vastness of the DRC wash over you.
The evening brings a festive 'Africa' theme to dinner. The vibrant colors and patterns of fellow travelers’ attire fill the dining car, a celebration of the continent you are traversing. Laughter and stories mingle, creating a warm counterpoint to the wild beauty passing by in the twilight.
KOLWEZI & MUNGULUNGA & MUTSHATSHA
The train glides through the heart of the DRC today, a continuous canvas of dense bush and remote settlements. The rhythm of the rails becomes a comforting pulse, a soundtrack to your journey. You find yourself lost in thought, the ever-changing light outside playing tricks with the shadows in your suite.
Afternoon tea offers a moment of quiet indulgence, the clink of porcelain against the backdrop of the passing wilderness. The expectation of tomorrow's copper mine visit builds, adding a layer of anticipation to the tranquil evening. The formal dinner, a ritual of elegance, rounds off another day of deep continental passage.
KATEBI LODGE & KOLWEZI & SOFUMWANGO & TENKE
The morning air in Kolwezi is thick with the promise of discovery. Disembarking, you feel the gritty earth underfoot as you head to the copper mine, a stark and powerful testament to human ingenuity and the earth's bounty. The scale of the operation is immense, a visceral experience that connects you to the global economy.After the raw power of the mine, brunch at Katebi Lodge offers a serene contrast, a moment of lush tranquility.
Back on the train, the day’s impressions settle in.
LUBUMBASHI & MUSHOSHI & NDOLA & SAKANIA
Lubumbashi pulses with an energy unique to Central Africa. Your city drive offers a kaleidoscope of sights and sounds – bustling markets, grand buildings, and the vibrant flow of daily life. It’s a sensory overload, a vivid reminder of the diverse human stories that animate this continent.
As the train makes its way towards the Zambian border, a new anticipation builds. The instructions for your South Luangwa safari shift your focus to the wild. You pack a small bag, the thought of open vehicles and starlit nights in the bush a thrilling contrast to the luxury of the train. The world outside beckons with its untamed beauty.
LUANGWA VALLEY & NDOLA & SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK
The transition from train to plane, and then to the wild, is swift and exhilarating. As your small charter plane descends towards South Luangwa, the vastness of the park stretches beneath you, a mosaic of green and brown. The air, when you step off the plane, is warm and carries the scent of dry grass and distant dust.Your first game drive in the Luangwa Valley is an immersion.
The engine of the open vehicle hums quietly, and the guide’s voice is a low murmur as you spot your first impala, then an elephant, a giant against the setting sun.
SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK
The morning chill bites as you set out on your early game drive, the air crisp and alive with the sounds of the bush awakening. You hold your breath as a leopard might slink through the tall grass, or a herd of elephants silently cross your path. Every rustle, every distant call, sharpens your senses.After a leisurely afternoon, the golden light of late afternoon draws you back into the wilderness.
The air is softer now, warmer, and the animals are more active. As darkness descends, the spotlight picks out the glowing eyes of nocturnal creatures, transforming the familiar landscape into a mysterious new world.
SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK
Another dawn in the bush brings new possibilities. The cool air on your face, the scent of wild sage, the anticipation of what lies around the next bend – it's a rhythm that has become familiar, yet never loses its thrill. You might witness a dramatic interaction between animals, or simply marvel at the quiet grace of a giraffe grazing.The afternoon game drive feels like a farewell to this incredible wilderness.
The setting sun casts long shadows, highlighting the unique textures of the landscape.
KAPIRI MPOSHI & NDOLA & NGWERERE & SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK
The final morning in South Luangwa offers a bittersweet game drive, a last chance to breathe in the wild air. You say goodbye to the lodge staff, their warmth lingering as you transfer to the small plane. The aerial view of the park, a vast, untamed expanse, is a stunning parting image.Rejoining the Rovos Rail train in Ndola feels like returning to a familiar, elegant home.
The clinking of silver, the crisp linen of the dining car, and the gentle rocking of the carriage are a welcome comfort after the intensity of the bush.
KAFUE NATIONAL PARK & KAFUE RIVER & LUSAKA
In Lusaka, the elephant sanctuary is a place of profound hope. Watching the orphaned elephants, so vulnerable yet so resilient, touches something deep within you. Their journey back to the wild is a powerful testament to compassion and conservation, a truly moving experience.
Later, the Kafue River cruise unfolds with a tranquil beauty. The setting sun paints the water in hues of orange and purple, and the gentle lapping of the water against the boat is the only sound. You sip a cool drink, watching hippos emerge and birds glide by, feeling the peaceful pulse of the Zambian wilderness.
CHOMA & KAFUE RAILWAY BRIDGE & LIVINGSTONE & MAKOLI
Crossing the Kafue railway bridge, you feel the sheer scale of human ambition against the vastness of the river below. The steel girders hum, a symphony of engineering that carries you onward. In Choma, the museum offers a window into the rich cultural tapestry of the Tonga tribe, their history and artistry speaking volumes.
The evening brings a charming '1920s' theme to dinner, a playful nod to a bygone era. The train chugs towards Makoli, the anticipation of Victoria Falls now a palpable excitement. You find yourself reflecting on the incredible diversity of experiences this journey has offered, from wild plains to bustling towns, all connected by the rails.
LIVINGSTONE & VICTORIA FALLS
The final morning on the train is filled with a unique blend of excitement and nostalgia. You enjoy breakfast as the train pulls into Livingstone, the air thick with anticipation. Then, the moment arrives: crossing the Victoria Falls Bridge. The spray of the Falls is a distant mist, then a roaring cloud, and you feel the thunder in your chest before you even see the full spectacle.Arriving at Victoria Falls Station, the journey culminates in a grand finale.
The memories of the vast landscapes, the vibrant cultures, and the unparalleled luxury of Rovos Rail settle within you.
Book This Tour
Loading departure information...
Terms & Conditions
Payment Terms
25% of total tour cost due at the time of booking. 75% balance due no later than 65 days prior to tour departure date. All reservations are subject to availability and will be confirmed upon receipt of the required deposit. A provisional booking will be held for 14 days, after which the 25% deposit is due.
Cancellation Fees
| Timeframe Before Departure | Cancellation Fee |
|---|---|
| More than 95 days | 10% of total tour price |
| 95–66 days | 25% of total tour price |
| 65–36 days | 50% of total tour price |
| 35 days or less / failure to travel | 100% of total tour price (no refund) |
A 5% Administrative Fee will be charged by Palace Tours on any applicable refunds. All cancellation fees apply to the full tour price before any discounts or coupons. Cancellation insurance is compulsory as these fees will not be waived. All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing.
Change of Date / Name / Occupancy
Changes may be requested up to 125 days prior to departure and are subject to availability and supplier approval. No changes will be permitted within 65 days prior to departure. Any request within this period will be treated as a cancellation and subject to the applicable cancellation fees. All changes may incur additional costs, which will be advised prior to confirmation. No changes will be processed without written authorization and payment of any applicable fees.
Payment Methods
Payments may be made via bank transfer or credit card. All payments must reference the booking number and be supported by proof of payment. Refunds, when applicable, will be processed to the original form of payment. Any exchange rate fluctuations or bank charges are the responsibility of the client.
What's Included
- Accommodation on board
- All meals on board
- All beverages on board
- Room service
- Limited laundry
- Excursions with a qualified guide (where applicable)
- Entrance fees as per itinerary
- Government tax
- Flights to/from Sossusvlei
- Overnight bag
- Off-train accommodation (Sossusvlei and Etosha) including meals, water, tea/coffee, and breakfast juices
What's Not Included
- All off-train beverages (excluding water, tea/coffee, and breakfast juices at lodges)
- International sparkling wine
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
- Visas
- Travel insurance
- Pre- and post-tour transfers, accommodation, and flights
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is strongly recommended and is required to cover cancellation fees, medical emergencies, and unforeseen circumstances. Clients are responsible for securing their own insurance coverage and should travel with a copy of their policy including the insurance company name, policy number, and 24-hour medical emergency telephone number.
Passports & Visas
Valid passports and any required visas are the sole responsibility of the client and must be obtained prior to departure. Passports must have at least five blank visa pages and must be valid for at least six months from the return-home date. This tour passes through South Africa and Namibia; please confirm visa requirements for your nationality well in advance.
Health & Medical
Guests are solely responsible for ensuring they are capable of undertaking the tours and activities. Please inform us at the time of booking if you have any medical conditions, physical disabilities, or allergies. Anti-malarial precautions are recommended for certain areas visited on this itinerary, including Etosha National Park. Please consult your clinic or doctor for the latest medical advice prior to travel.
General Conditions
All services are provided subject to availability and supplier terms and conditions. Schedules, routing, and excursions are subject to change and cannot be guaranteed. Times are approximate and excursion arrangements may be altered due to operational, weather, or other factors beyond our control. The operator is not liable for loss, damage, injury, delays, or unforeseen events beyond its control. Participation in tours and related activities is voluntary and at the client's own risk.
Guest Indemnity
Although certain limited insurances have been arranged, the operator and its agents, servants, or employees shall not be liable for any loss or damage to passengers' luggage or effects. The passenger waives any claim against the operator, its servants, agents, employees, or subcontractors for any injury and/or loss of any nature whatsoever (including consequential loss) arising directly or indirectly from any aspect of the tour, including any form of transport used. This waiver binds the passenger's executors, heirs, trustees, and dependants. The passenger accepts all services and facilities voluntarily, with full knowledge that they may expose them to injury, danger, or loss.
Important Note
All timeframes are based on the local time of the destination. To allow sufficient processing time, clients must submit payment or cancellation requests with a minimum 5-day advance margin prior to the applicable deadlines.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Your Tour Price Includes
- Accommodation on board Rovos Rail
- All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Tea, Dinner)
- All beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic, excluding premium wines, Champagne and spirits)
- Room service
- Limited laundry service (10 items/day, 48-hour turnaround)
- Excursions with a qualified guide (where applicable)
- Entrance fees as per itinerary
- On-board historian
- Hairstylist
- Doctor
- Government tax
- Flights to/from South Luangwa National Park
- Overnight bag for South Luangwa stay
- Meals during off-train accommodation (South Luangwa)
- Standard bar drinks during off-train accommodation
- Game activities during South Luangwa stay
- Laundry during off-train accommodation
- Park fees for South Luangwa
- Government tax and levies for South Luangwa
Your Tour Price Excludes
- Off-train beverages (excluding standard bar drinks during off-train accommodation)
- International and French Champagne
- Gratuities (suggested ZAR100-300 / US$10-20 per person per night for train staff, ZAR150 / US$10 per guest per day for game lodge staff/guides)
- Personal expenses
- Visas
- Travel insurance
- Pre- and post-tour accommodation
- Flights and transfers not specified as included
- Premium wines, Champagne and spirits during off-train accommodation
Accommodations
Accommodation Overview
Each Rovos Rail train features accommodation carriages, dining cars, a lounge car (accommodating approximately 26 seats), a small gift shop, a smoking lounge (approximately 11 seats), and an observation car (approximately 32 seats) with an open-air balcony. The three distinct types of suites are designed to provide passengers with privacy, comfort, and luxury. All suites feature either double or twin beds, en-suite bathrooms, tea facilities, safes, and air conditioning. Each suite is serviced daily, and ample storage is provided with small cupboards, hangers, and shelves.
ROYAL SUITES
Spanning approximately 16m² (172ft²), Royal Suites occupy half a carriage, offering a truly spacious and elegant retreat. Each suite includes its own private lounge area for relaxation.
Amenities
- Minibar
- Air conditioning
- Writing desk
- Luggage shelf
- Cupboards
- Safe
- En-suite bathroom with toilet, basin, bath and shower
- Tea facilities
Bed Configurations
Double: 200x189cm, Split Twin: 200x75cm
DELUXE SUITES
Measuring approximately 10m² (108ft²), Deluxe Suites provide a comfortable lounge area within the suite.
Amenities
- Minibar
- Air conditioning
- Writing desk
- Luggage shelf
- Cupboards
- Safe
- En-suite bathroom with toilet, basin and shower
- Tea facilities
Bed Configurations
Lengthways Double: 189x189cm, Crosswise Double: 189x160cm, Split Twin: 189x75cm
PULLMAN GOLD SUITES
These suites, approximately 7m² (76ft²), are available specifically on longer journeys. During the day, the suite is configured with split twin beds that convert into comfortable couches.
Amenities
- Tea drawer
- Air conditioning
- Fold-out writing desk
- Luggage shelf
- Cupboards
- Safe
- En-suite bathroom with toilet, basin and shower
- Tea facilities
Bed Configurations
Double: 189x189cm, Split Twin: 189x75cm
PULLMAN SUITES (on Short Journeys only)
Also approximately 7m² (76ft²), these suites are designed for short journeys. They feature an en-suite bathroom with a shower, toilet, and basin. During the day, the suite is set up with a comfortable couch that can be converted into various sleeping options for the night.
Amenities
- En-suite bathroom with shower, toilet, and basin
Bed Configurations
Crosswise Double: 189x150cm, Side-by-side Twin: 189x75cm, Single Lower Bunk: 189x94cm, Single Upper Bunk: 189x60cm
Frequently Asked Questions & Tips
Check-in Information
Guests are required to check in a minimum of one hour before departure. If you wish to visit the Rovos Rail museum or partake in a site tour at the Pretoria Station, it is recommended to arrive two hours prior to departure. For arrivals in Pretoria, delaying your pick-up allows time for the site tour. Passports are mandatory for check-in; no vouchers are required. Luggage will be tagged and placed directly in your suite, where a full itinerary pack awaits. For Lobito, check-in is at the Hotel Terminus, R. Robert Williams 16, Lobito.
Dining Schedule
Meals on board are served in a single sitting in the dining cars, accompanied by a selection of fine South African wines. Breakfast is served from 07:00 to 10:00, lunch at 13:00, and tea at 16:30. Formal dinner commences at 19:30. Bar service is available from 07:00 until 01:00. A gong heralds lunch and dinner.
Dress Code
Days on board require smart casual attire – neat, conventional, yet relatively informal, combining casual and formal pieces. For dinner on board, the dress code is formal. Gentlemen are required to wear a jacket and tie (mandatory from 2024), while ladies are suggested to wear cocktail/evening dresses or suits. Long journeys often feature themed evenings (e.g., 'Africa' or '1920s' themes), where guests can dress accordingly or opt for smart casual. For off-train excursions, comfortable walking shoes, sun lotion, and hats are recommended. Blankets and rain capes are available. Game drives are conducted in open vehicles, so dress for varying temperatures: mornings can be cool, warming up considerably, while afternoons can be warm, then cool down considerably.
Electricity & Connectivity
Suites are equipped with 220V AC 50Hz 3-point round-pronged wall plugs and 110V/220V 2-pin plugs for shavers and chargers. USB ports are also available in each suite. International adaptors can be provided. A generator supplies power, though be aware that certain power breaks are necessary for servicing. To maintain the spirit of train travel, there are no radios or television sets on board. The use of mobile phones and laptops is confined to the privacy of your suites. Mobile reception is generally poor while the train is moving. Wi-Fi is available at Rovos Rail lounges in Cape Town and Pretoria, and at most off-train accommodation, though not always guaranteed.
Climate & Weather
Temperatures vary significantly along the route and by season. For game drives, warm clothing, hats, comfortable shoes, and sun protection are advised. Rain capes are available. Consult the detailed 'Average Temps °C' table on page 8 of the brochure for specific monthly temperature ranges for each area visited.
Onboard Amenities
Each suite receives a complete amenity bag with South African biodegradable/recyclable products, including soap (40g), bamboo tissues, shampoo (50ml), hand and body wash (50ml), hand and body lotion (50ml), lip balm (15ml/7g), insect repellent spray (100ml for journeys over 4 days), reusable bamboo rounds, bamboo ear buds, and a compostable shower cap. Plug-in hairdryers are available on board, alongside sun cream, shoe mitts, nail files, sewing kits, ear plugs, and insect repellent. A limited laundry service (10 items/day) is available with a 48-hour turnaround; dry-cleaning is not available. There is a small gift shop on the train and at Rovos Rail Station in Pretoria. Dressing gowns and slippers are provided for use on board, with gowns available for purchase.
Medical Information
Guests are responsible for ensuring they are capable of undertaking all tours and activities. Please inform Rovos Rail of any medical conditions, physical disabilities, or allergies at the time of reservation. A doctor is on board for the African Trilogy, Copper Trail, and Dar es Salaam journeys. Anti-malarial precautions are recommended, as malaria areas include eSwatini, Kruger Park, Northern Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Etosha, Tanzania, DRC, and Angola. Recommended (but not required) immunizations include Hepatitis A & B, Polio, Tetanus, and Cholera (low risk). Ebola is confined to the northeast of DRC, thousands of miles from the Lobito journeys. A Yellow Fever/Medical Exemption Certificate is essential for travel to/from DRC and Angola; guests returning from the trip may also require it for their home country. Consult your clinic or doctor; Travel Doctor Africa can be reached at 0861 300 911 (local) or +27 (0) 11 214 9030 (international).
Luggage
Luggage can be stored in your suite under the bed or on a luggage rack above the door. While there are no strict restrictions, more than two large suitcases are not recommended. For selected long journeys, a Rovos Rail tog bag is provided for overnight trips or hand luggage on aircraft. A soft bag is preferable for plane transfers, which may have a 15kg weight restriction.
Currency
In South Africa, only Rands are accepted, and major credit cards are taken. Outside South Africa, Rands are accepted in Namibia and eSwatini. US Dollars are accepted in Zimbabwe, Tanzania (Dar es Salaam only), DRC, and Angola. Cash is highly recommended, and hotels/major dealers often accept credit cards. US Dollars printed before 2013 or worn notes will not be accepted. Low denominations are recommended for shopping/gratuities, while larger denominations are better for exchanging to local currency (especially in Tanzania).
Locomotion
Diesel or electric locomotives are primarily used. Steam locomotives are used exclusively in and around the Rovos Rail Station in Pretoria.
The Track
The railway track can be inconsistently maintained. The train travels at a maximum of 60km/h (37mph), reducing to 20km/h (12mph) on rough sections. Earplugs are available in your amenities bag and at the Gift Shop if you find the noise disruptive.
Water
Water is carried in tanks under each coach and refilled daily. Guests are encouraged to use water responsibly. Water in the suites is filtered and chlorinated, safe for bathing and brushing teeth. Bottled water is provided for drinking in biodegradable, plant-based bottles.
Children
Children are accommodated, but parents are kindly asked to be sensitive to the adult atmosphere of the train. Long journeys are not recommended for children under 13, and children aged 0-2 years are not permitted to travel. No child-minding facilities or activities are available.
Pets
Pets and emotional-support animals are not permitted on board.
Postage
Stamps are available for sale from the Gift Shop, and postcards can be handed to the Administration Deputy for posting.
Security
An electronic safe is provided in the cupboard in each suite. Guests are encouraged to close shutters or shutters and windows when not in their suites, especially when passing through stations. Train doors in the passages are locked from the inside, and your suite door can also be locked.
Service
A dedicated host/ess is available 24 hours a day and can be reached via your suite telephone. Suites are cleaned daily, with a nightly turndown service. The Train Manager and Deputy Train Manager are available for queries, and the Administration Deputy is based in the Gift Shop for administrative requirements.
Smoking
Smoking is permitted only in the smoking Club Lounge. Guests are requested to be mindful of others. It is strictly forbidden to throw flammable items off the train due to the risk of bush fires. Guests should note at the time of reservation if they are smoking or non-smoking to assist with appropriate room requests at hotels/lodges.
Special Occasions
Guests celebrating a special occasion should inform Rovos Rail at the time of reservation so they can help make it memorable.