Overview
Africa's Heart, Unveiled by Rail, One Copper Trail.
Imagine the gentle rumble of the rails beneath you, a rhythmic lullaby as Africa unfurls outside your window. This isn't just a journey; it's a slow, deliberate immersion into the continent's soul, a chance to truly see and feel the landscapes shift from the vibrant green of Zambia to the arid beauty of Angola. You'll find yourself sipping tea as the train glides past local fishermen on the Cassai River, or gazing at a vast copper mine, understanding the very pulse of this land.
This Copper Trail with Rovos Rail is a transformation, moving you from the thundering spray of Victoria Falls to the quiet dignity of Angolan towns, all while surrounded by the timeless elegance of a luxury train. You’ll carry home not just photographs, but the memory of a lion's roar in South Luangwa, the smell of dust on a DRC mine visit, and the feeling of a continent's history unfolding, one rail at a time.
Images: Courtesy - Rovos Rail
Itinerary
Your Itinerary
LIVINGSTONE & VICTORIA FALLS
You feel the subtle shift as the train pulls away from Victoria Falls, the distant roar of the cataract fading behind you. The late afternoon light streams through your window, illuminating the polished wood of your suite. Later, in the lounge car, the clink of teacups and quiet conversation fills the air, a gentle introduction to the journey ahead.
Dinner brings the first taste of onboard elegance: the crisp white linen, the glint of silver, and the rich aroma of a formal meal. You settle into the rhythm of the rails, the outside world a blur of deepening twilight, anticipating the adventures to come.
LUSAKA
The train's gentle sway accompanies your morning coffee, a quiet prelude to the day's discoveries. As you cross the Kafue railway bridge, you catch glimpses of the river below, a silvery ribbon winding through the landscape. The afternoon brings the scent of fresh river air as you step off the train.
Later, on the Kafue River, the setting sun paints the water in hues of orange and gold. You sip a drink, the sounds of the African bush alive around you, a moment of profound peace before returning to the train's elegant embrace.
LUSAKA
You wake to the soft light of dawn filtering through your suite, the promise of a meaningful day ahead. At the elephant sanctuary, you stand close to these magnificent creatures, witnessing the dedication of those working to return them to the wild. There's a quiet dignity in their presence, a reminder of Africa's delicate balance.
Back on the train, the Central Province rolls by, a mosaic of green fields and small villages. The rhythm of the rails becomes a comforting companion as you reflect on the stories of resilience and hope you encountered, carrying them with you into the evening.
SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK
The anticipation builds as you pack a small bag, the thought of wild encounters replacing the rhythm of the rails. From the air, Zambia unfurls below, a vast canvas of green and ochre, hinting at the wildlife hidden within. Landing, the air is thick with the scent of dry earth and distant bushfires, a primal welcome.
The first game drive begins as the sun dips low, casting long shadows across the plains. You hold your breath, scanning the horizon for movement, the raw beauty of the Luangwa Valley settling deep within you. Tonight, the sounds of the bush replace the train's hum.
SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK
The crisp morning air wakes you, carrying the distant calls of birds and the faint scent of dew on the grass. On the early game drive, the world feels hushed, almost reverent, as you watch a herd of elephants move silently through the trees. The light is soft, painting everything in shades of amber and gold.
Afternoon finds you in quiet contemplation, perhaps by the lodge pool, the sounds of the bush a constant, gentle companion. As the sun begins its descent again, you set out, hoping for another glimpse of the wild, feeling completely connected to this ancient land.
SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK
The rhythm of the bush has become your own. You move with the sun, rising early to catch the first stirrings of wildlife, the air cool and fresh against your skin.
Each game drive offers new sightings, new stories, and a deeper appreciation for the intricate ecosystem around you. The light here seems to have a special quality, illuminating every leaf and feather.Later, during a quiet afternoon, you find a comfortable spot to simply listen – to the rustle of leaves, the distant call of a bird, the subtle hum of insects.
SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK
You take one last deep breath of the Luangwa air, the sounds of the bush still echoing in your mind as you board the flight back to Ndola. The shift from open safari vehicle to the familiar embrace of the train feels both comforting and exhilarating, a return to a different kind of luxury. The polished wood and crisp linens welcome you back.
As the train moves towards the border, the landscape changes once more. You feel the subtle shift as you cross into the Democratic Republic of Congo, anticipating the new sights and sounds of Lubumbashi, a fresh chapter unfolding with each mile.
Lubumbashi City Drive and Copper History
The energy of Lubumbashi washes over you during the city drive, a vibrant tapestry of daily life. The air is warm and carries the sounds of bustling markets and conversations. It’s a stark contrast to the quiet wilderness of the past few days, a reminder of Africa’s diverse urban pulse.
As the train pulls away, you watch the landscape transform, passing the ghosts of old mines at Luishia. The history of copper and cobalt feels tangible here, a story written in the earth itself, leading you deeper into the heart of the Copper Trail.
DRC's Copper Heart: Kolwezi Mine Visit
The sheer scale of the copper mine in Kolwezi is striking, a testament to the earth's raw power and human endeavor. You feel the dust on your skin, the hum of machinery, a stark contrast to the quiet luxury of the train. It's a profound connection to the very resource that gives this journey its name.
Later, brunch at Katebi Lodge offers a moment of reflection, the cool shade a welcome respite. As the train pulls away, you carry the image of the vast open pit, a tangible connection to the 'Copper Trail' beneath the wheels, a story etched into the land.
Leisurely Travel to the Angolan Border
The train becomes your sanctuary today, a moving haven as the Congolese landscape drifts by. You might choose to read in the lounge car, gazing out at the passing villages and endless plains, the gentle rocking a soothing rhythm. The air, even through the windows, carries the scent of distant earth and open sky.
As evening approaches, the excitement of crossing into Angola builds. You adjust your watch, feeling the shift not just in time, but in the unfolding narrative of your journey. Tonight's themed dinner, perhaps adorned in African prints, adds a playful touch to the anticipation.
Angolan Entry: Luau and Cassai River
Stepping off the train in Luau, you feel the warm Angolan sun on your skin, the sounds of a new country filling the air. The walking tour offers a glimpse into local life, connecting you with the energy of this historic railway town. It's a different rhythm here, a fresh perspective.
Later, as the train follows the Cassai River, the light softens, reflecting off the water. You might spot local fishermen, their movements graceful against the vastness of the landscape. It's a quiet, reflective moment, watching life unfold along the riverbanks, feeling the deep history of this land.
Luena's Recent History and Central Angola
In Luena, you walk through streets that hold the echoes of recent history, the stories of Angola unfolding around you. The air feels heavy with memory, yet vibrant with the present. It’s a poignant reminder of the resilience of its people, a deeper understanding of the country's journey.
As the train continues its westward journey, the Angolan plateau stretches out, vast and beautiful. You watch the sun set, painting the sky in fiery hues, feeling the weight of the past give way to the promise of the future, carried forward by the steady momentum of the rails.
Kuito: Heart of the Ovimbundu Kingdom
As you stroll through Kuito, the heart of the Ovimbundu Kingdom, a profound sense of connection envelops you. You feel the resilience of a town that has risen from the shadows of its past, each step revealing stories etched in time, igniting your spirit with wonder and hope.
Amidst the vibrant streets, you discover a profound peace as you engage with locals who share their heritage and dreams. This moment of authentic connection becomes a cherished memory, reminding you of the beauty in rebuilding and the joy of human spirit. As the train glides towards Huambo, you carry the warmth of Kuito in your heart.
Huambo City Tour and Plateau Views
Huambo welcomes you with its unique character, a city of historical significance on the Angolan plateau. You explore its avenues, feeling the cooler air at this elevation, a refreshing change. The architecture tells tales of its past, a silent narrative unfolding as you walk. The sounds of the city are a gentle hum against the backdrop of the hills.
As the train makes its final overnight journey towards the coast, a '1920s' themed dinner adds a touch of playful nostalgia. You raise a glass, celebrating the incredible journey, the landscapes and stories etched into your memory, ready for the final destination.
Arrival at Lobito, Angola's Coast
The final breakfast on board feels bittersweet, the familiar clinking of cutlery accompanied by the knowledge that the journey is nearing its end. You gather your belongings, the anticipation of Lobito's coastal air a fresh sensation. The train slows, a gentle sigh as it pulls into the station, and you feel the final, satisfying stop.
Stepping onto the platform in Lobito, the scent of the Atlantic Ocean mingles with the dry Angolan air. You look back at the gleaming carriages, a vessel that carried you through the heart of Africa, feeling profoundly changed by the landscapes, stories, and moments experienced along The Copper Trail.
Book This Tour
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Terms & Conditions
Payment Schedule
Upon written request via email and subject to availability, Rovos Rail will provisionally book your place. Space is allocated and held, but if another client requires definite suites, the holding agent/guest will be asked to confirm with a deposit payment or release the suite. Upon written confirmation via email and a completed Reservation Form, confirmation details and a proforma invoice will be sent. Upon receipt of the relevant payment, the booking will be confirmed. On confirmation of a reservation, Rovos Rail's Terms & Conditions will be deemed to have been accepted and will be strictly adhered to.
Individuals: Deposit Payment Schedule
| Time Before Departure | Deposit Required | Final Payment Due |
|---|---|---|
| 61+ Days Before | 25% of per person tour price | 60 days prior to travel |
Groups (10 or more guests): Payment Schedule
| Time Before Departure | Non-Refundable Payment Required |
|---|---|
| 365-246 Days | 10% of per person tour price |
| 245-181 Days | 30% of per person tour price |
| 180-121 Days | 50% of per person tour price |
| 120-61 Days | 100% of per person tour price |
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation of a confirmed booking received prior to departure is subject to a fee of the per person tour price. Cancellation insurance is compulsory as these fees will not be waived. Rovos Rail offers insurance to South African residents. For international guests, it is recommended to contact your local insurance agent for assistance. Please bring a copy of your travel insurance policy stating clearly the company, policy number, and 24-hour medical emergency telephone number.
Individuals: Cancellation Fees
| Time Before Departure | Cancellation Fee (as % of tour price) |
|---|---|
| 365-91 Days | 10% |
| 90-61 Days | 25% |
| 60-31 Days | 50% |
| 30-0 Days | 100% |
Groups (10 or more guests): Cancellation Policy Notes
- For every 15 paying passengers, the 16th person sharing travels free of charge; this is confirmed at the final invoice 60 days before departure.
- 275 days before departure: The agent/group must provide an allocation sales update and release 20% of the unsold space (if a waitlist persists).
- 245 days before departure: The agent/group must release a further 50% of the unsold space (if a waitlist persists).
- 180 days before departure: The agent/group must release 100% of the unsold space.
Payment Methods
Payment can be made via bank transfer or credit card (direct guests only via Paygate). Details are provided at the time of booking. Due to the high cost of credit card charges in South Africa, Rovos Rail prefers all clients pay via bank transfer. Please reference the payment with your full booking reference number and email proof to payment@rovos.co.za. Rovos Rail is a South African company and reserves the right to charge/refund in ZAR. As legally required, refunds are processed into the same account from which the initial payment was received. Journeys invoiced in ZAR: All bank transfers are processed/refunded in ZAR. Journeys invoiced in USD: USD bank transfers are processed/refunded in USD. All credit card payments for all journeys are processed/refunded in ZAR. Rovos Rail is not liable for any loss in currency due to rate of exchange fluctuations. There are no refunds for any part of a tour that might be missed due to personal reasons. Rovos Rail will never change banking details or credit card links via email; if you receive such an email, notify Rovos Rail immediately.
Passports & Visas
The onus is upon the client to ensure passports and visas, as may be required, are valid prior to departure for Africa. Passports must have at least five blank VISA pages and must be valid for at least six months from your return-home date. Some nationalities are eligible to purchase port-of-entry visas. Immigration forms will be available on board. Please ensure you have a minimum of US$200 in cash. Angolan and DRC visas must be obtained prior to travel. Tanzanian visas are requested prior to travel when possible. Please enquire with Rovos Rail or check with relevant embassies in good time. Visas are also available through visa/booking agents.
Scheduling Times, Routes & Excursions
Rovos Rail is solely reliant on the traction and railway services provided by the countries through which the train travels. Rovos Rail is not responsible and cannot be held liable for any delays or changes in tour arrangements that may be caused by natural or other factors beyond its control (e.g., locomotive failures, signal issues, power-cable damage, vandalism, electricity outages, track problems, driver issues). Delays can occur due to reliance on these national organisations. Rovos Rail reserves the right to cancel or amend routing, any excursions, and tour departure dates, provided alternative excursions or departure dates can be offered. Rovos Rail cannot guarantee excursions or departure and arrival times. The obligation to transport guests from departure to arrival points on schedule will override any commitment to excursions, although efforts will be made to carry out all off-train experiences. Rovos Rail strongly cautions against same-day air travel on departure/arrival days due to possible delays with flights or the train. Should you be delayed, kindly contact +27 (0)12 315 8242.
Guest Indemnity
Although certain limited insurances have been arranged, neither Rovos Rail Tours (Pty) Ltd and/or Shongololo Express (collectively referred to as ‘Rovos Rail’), nor its servants, agents, or employees, shall be liable for any loss or damage to passengers’ luggage or effects. Insofar as one of the tours may include a visit to a game reserve, and whilst attacks by wild animals are extremely rare, similarly neither Rovos Rail, nor its servants, agents, or employees, accept any liability whatsoever for any injury or incidents to passengers or their belongings. The passenger hereby waives any claim which he/she may have against Rovos Rail, its servants, agents, employees, or subcontractors for any injury and/or loss of any nature whatsoever (including, without limiting the generality of the aforegoing, consequential loss) arising for any reason of any nature whatever directly or indirectly out of any aspect of the tour including, without limiting the generality of the aforegoing, any form of transport used for the purpose of the tour. This waiver shall be binding on the passenger’s executors, heirs, trustees, and dependants. The passenger records that all the services and facilities provided to the passenger are accepted voluntarily and with full knowledge that they may expose the passenger to injury, danger, or loss. The passenger further records that any statement, representation, or information given to him/her by Rovos Rail shall, unless given in writing, not prejudice this waiver in any manner whatsoever. The passenger indemnifies Rovos Rail in respect of any claim that may be made by any third party against it arising out of any claim in respect of which the passenger gives the aforementioned waiver. This agreement shall be governed solely by laws of the Republic of South Africa. On confirmation of a reservation, Rovos Rail's T&C will be deemed to have been accepted and will be strictly adhered to. Persons completing this form accept and agree to all T&C. Persons completing this form on behalf of others warrant that they have full authority to do so and, on their behalf, accept and agree to all T&C.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Your Tour Price Includes
- Accommodation on board the Rovos Rail train
- All meals served in the dining cars
- All beverages (excluding international/French Champagne and premium wines/spirits off-train)
- Room service
- Limited laundry service (10 items per day, 48-hour turnaround)
- Excursions with a qualified guide (where applicable)
- Entrance fees as per the itinerary
- On-board historian
- On-board hairstylist
- On-board doctor (on African Trilogy, Copper Trail, Trail of Two Oceans, and Dar es Salaam journeys)
- Government tax
- Chartered flights to/from South Luangwa National Park (for off-train accommodation)
- Overnight bag for safari stays
- Meals during off-train accommodation
- Standard bar drinks during off-train accommodation
- Game activities during off-train accommodation
- Laundry service during off-train accommodation
- Park fees during off-train accommodation
- Government tax and levies during off-train accommodation
Your Tour Price Excludes
- Off-train beverages (except standard bar drinks included with off-train accommodation)
- International/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 guides and staff)
- Personal expenses
- Visas (Angolan and DRC visas must be obtained prior to travel)
- Travel insurance (compulsory)
- Pre- and post-tour accommodation
- Pre- and post-tour flights
- Pre- and post-tour transfers
- Premium wines, Champagne, and spirits during off-train accommodation
Accommodations
Accommodation Overview
Each Rovos Rail train features elegant and spacious accommodation carriages, dining cars, a lounge car (seating approximately 26), a small gift shop, a smoking lounge (seating approximately 11), and an observation car with an open-air balcony (seating approximately 32). The suites are designed to offer privacy, comfort, and luxury, equipped with either double or twin beds and fittings of the highest standard. All suites include en-suite bathrooms, tea facilities, personal safes, air conditioning, fresh linen, and daily amenities, with daily servicing. Ample storage is available, including small cupboards with hangers and shelves.
Royal Suites
At approximately 16m² (172ft²), Royal Suites are the most spacious, each occupying half a carriage. They feature a private lounge area for relaxation.
Amenities
- Minibar
- Air conditioning
- Writing desk
- Luggage shelf
- Cupboards
- Safe
- En-suite bathroom with Victorian bath
- Separate shower
- Toilet
- Basin
- Tea facilities
- Linen and amenities
Bed Configurations
Double: 200×189cm
Split Twin: 200×75cm
Deluxe Suites
These suites offer approximately 10m² (108ft²) of space, providing a comfortable lounge area within the suite.
Amenities
- Minibar
- Air conditioning
- Writing desk
- Luggage shelf
- Cupboards
- Safe
- En-suite bathroom with shower
- Toilet
- Basin
- Tea facilities
- Linen and amenities
Bed Configurations
Lengthways Double: 189×189cm
Crosswise Double: 189×160cm
Split Twin: 189×75cm
Pullman Gold Suites
Designed for long journeys, Pullman Gold Suites are approximately 7m² (76ft²). 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
- En-suite bathroom with shower
- Toilet
- Basin
- Linen and amenities
Bed Configurations
Double: 189×189cm
Split Twin: 189×75cm
Frequently Asked Questions & Tips
During the day on board, the dress code is smart casual, meaning neat and conventional yet relatively informal attire. For dinner, it is a formal affair. Gentlemen are required to wear a jacket and tie (from 2024, a collar and tie will be mandatory, with a jacket optional), while ladies are encouraged to wear cocktail or evening dresses or suits. The Copper Trail journey also features themed evenings, specifically an 'Africa' theme and a '1920s' theme, where guests can dress accordingly or opt for smart casual. For off-train excursions and game drives, comfortable walking shoes, hats, and sun lotion are recommended. Game drives are on open vehicles, so layering warm clothing is advised as temperatures can vary significantly between cool mornings/evenings and warmer afternoons. Rain capes are available.
Meals on board Rovos Rail are served in one sitting in the elegant dining cars. Breakfast is available from 07:00-10:00, lunch at 13:00, afternoon tea at 16:30, and formal dinner at 19:30. These times are consistent unless otherwise specified in your daily itinerary. A distinctive gong is sounded to announce lunch and dinner. All meals are complemented by a selection of fine South African wines. The bar service operates from 07:00 until approximately 01:00. Rovos Rail can accommodate food allergies if a detailed request is made at the time of your reservation. However, they regret they cannot prepare meals requiring strict religious observance in preparation.
The Copper Trail offers three types of luxurious suites. Royal Suites are the largest, at approximately 16m² (172ft²), each occupying half a carriage and featuring a private lounge area and an en-suite bathroom with a Victorian bath and separate shower. Deluxe Suites are approximately 10m² (108ft²) and include a lounge area with an en-suite bathroom with a shower. Pullman Gold Suites, designed for long journeys like this one, are about 7m² (76ft²) and feature an en-suite bathroom with a shower, with daytime seating converting from split twin beds. All suites are air-conditioned, have tea facilities, safes, and are serviced daily.
In the Royal Suites, bed configurations include a Double bed measuring 200×189cm or Split Twin beds measuring 200×75cm each. Deluxe Suites offer more options: Lengthways Double 189×189cm, Crosswise Double 189×160cm, or Split Twin beds measuring 189×75cm each. For Pullman Gold Suites, the beds can be configured as a Double measuring 189×189cm or Split Twin beds measuring 189×75cm each, which also convert into couches during the day. All beds are fitted with electric under-blankets.
A doctor is on board for The Copper Trail journey. Each train is equipped with a standard medical kit, oxygen, an automated external defibrillator (AED), and a wheelchair. Train Managers are certified in First Aid up to Level 3. Anti-malarial precautions are recommended as the route passes through malaria areas in Zambia, DRC, and Angola. Recommended (but not required) immunisations include Hepatitis A + B, Polio, Tetanus, and Cholera (low risk). A Yellow Fever/Medical Exemption Certificate is essential if you are travelling to/from DRC and Angola, as many countries require it for re-entry after visiting these nations. Guests are responsible for their capability to undertake tours, and any medical conditions or disabilities should be informed at booking. It is strongly advised to have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies and potential evacuations.
On board Rovos Rail, there are no strict luggage restrictions, and ample storage is available under beds or on luggage racks in your suite. However, bringing more than two large suitcases is not recommended. For the chartered flights to and from South Luangwa National Park, a soft bag is preferable, and there is a luggage weight restriction of 15kg per person. For your convenience during the safari, an overnight bag is provided in your suite on the train.
On the train itself, all major credit cards are accepted, and transactions are typically in South African Rands (ZAR). Outside of South Africa, US Dollars are accepted in Zimbabwe, Tanzania (Dar es Salaam only), DRC, and Angola, with cash being highly recommended in these countries. Rands are also accepted in Namibia and eSwatini. Hotels and major dealers usually accept credit cards. It is important to note that US Dollar notes printed before 2013 or those that appear worn will not be accepted. It's advisable to carry low denominations for shopping and gratuities, while larger denominations may yield better exchange rates when converting to local currency, especially in Tanzania.
To maintain the traditional spirit of train travel, there are no radios or television sets on board Rovos Rail. The use of mobile phones, laptops, and other devices that might disturb fellow guests is restricted to the privacy of your suite. Mobile phone reception can be poor while the train is moving, so it's advisable to check with your service provider for correct network settings. While there is no Wi-Fi on the train itself, it is generally available at Rovos Rail lounges in Cape Town and Pretoria, and at most off-train accommodation, though its availability cannot always be guaranteed.
Rovos Rail provides a complete amenity bag in each suite, featuring South African biodegradable and/or recyclable products. This includes a 40g soap, bamboo tissues, 50ml shampoo, 50ml hand and body wash, 50ml hand and body lotion, 15ml/7g lip balm, and a 100ml insect repellent spray (for journeys over 4 days). The bag also contains reusable bamboo rounds, bamboo ear buds, and a compostable shower cap. Additionally, plug-in hairdryers (besides any fitted bathroom units), sun cream, shoe mits, nail files, sewing kits, ear plugs, and extra insect repellent are available on board.
Rovos Rail does accommodate children, but parents are kindly asked to be sensitive to the adult nature and atmosphere of the train by ensuring children are respectful and quiet. Long journeys such as The Copper Trail are generally not recommended for children under 13 years of age. Children between 0-2 years old are not permitted to travel. There are no child-minding facilities or specific activities available for children on board the train.
The train operates on 220V AC 50Hz, and suites are equipped with 3-point round-pronged wall plugs. There are also 110V/220V 2-pin plugs suitable for shavers and chargers. Each suite includes USB ports for convenient charging of smaller devices. International adaptors are available on board. Power is supplied by a generator, and guests should be aware that certain breaks in power are necessary when servicing is required. Windows should be closed when the individual air conditioning unit in your suite is operating.
Yes, specific visa requirements apply. The onus is on the client to ensure passports and visas are valid prior to departure. Passports must have at least five blank VISA pages and be valid for at least six months from your return-home date. Angolan and DRC visas must be obtained prior to travel. Rovos Rail requests that Tanzanian visas also be obtained prior to travel when possible. Some nationalities may be eligible to purchase port-of-entry visas. A Yellow Fever/Medical Exemption Certificate is essential if you are traveling to/from DRC and Angola, as many countries will require this for re-entry.
Gratuities for the Rovos Rail staff are at your discretion. If you wish to show your appreciation, a suitably marked envelope will be in your suite, which you can hand directly to the Train Manager. The Train Manager will then distribute the amount on a pro-rata basis among the staff on board. A suggested amount is between ZAR100-300 (approximately US$10-20) per person per night, depending on the length of your journey. At game lodges, it is customary to tip guides and lodge staff an estimated ZAR150 (approximately US$10) per guest per day.
Check-in Information
For your Victoria Falls departure, check-in is at the Victoria Falls Hotel and Station, Mallet Drive, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. Please check-in a minimum of one hour before the scheduled 16:00 departure. Passports are required at check-in; no vouchers are needed. Your luggage will be tagged and placed directly in your suite on board the train, where a full itinerary pack awaits you. For your arrival in Lobito, check-in for onwards arrangements will be at Hotel Terminus, R. Robert Williams 16, Lobito.
Dining Schedule
Meals on board Rovos Rail are a highlight, served in one sitting in the elegant dining cars and complemented by a selection of fine South African wines. Breakfast is available from 07:00-10:00, lunch is served at 13:00, afternoon tea at 16:30, and formal dinner at 19:30. These times apply unless otherwise stated in your daily timetable. A distinctive gong heralds lunch and dinner. Bar service is available from 07:00 until approximately 01:00. Rovos Rail caters for food allergies provided a detailed request is made at the time of reservation. If no special request is made, chefs will endeavor to prepare suitable meals with available ingredients. Meals requiring strict religious observance in preparation cannot be accommodated.
Dress Code
During the day, the dress code on board is smart casual – neat, conventional, yet relatively informal, combining casual and formal pieces. Dinner on board is a formal affair; for gentlemen, a jacket and tie are a minimum requirement (from 2024, a collar and tie will be mandatory, with a jacket optional). Ladies are encouraged to wear cocktail/evening dresses or suits. Please respect this dress code. On longer journeys such as The Copper Trail, themed evenings may include an 'AFRICA' evening and a '1920s' evening, allowing guests to 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 if needed. Game drives are conducted in open vehicles, so dress in layers: mornings can be cool before warming considerably, and afternoons can be warm before cooling down. Warm clothing, hats, comfortable shoes, and sun protection are advised, depending on the season.
Electricity & Connectivity
The train operates on 220V AC 50Hz, with 3-point round-pronged wall plugs and 110V/220V 2-pin plugs suitable for shavers and chargers. Each suite is equipped with USB ports. International adaptors are available on board. Power is supplied by a generator, and certain breaks for servicing are necessary. To maintain the spirit of train travel, there are no radios or television sets on board. The use of mobile phones, laptops, and any device that might disturb other guests is restricted to the privacy of your suite. Mobile reception can be poor while the train is in motion; it's advisable to contact your service provider to ensure correct settings for network services are activated. 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 Copper Trail route. For instance, in Lusaka, Zambia, average minimums range from 8°C (Jul/Aug) to 17°C (Jan/Feb), with maximums from 16°C (Jul/Aug) to 25°C (Jan/Feb, Nov/Dec). South Luangwa sees minimums from 11°C (Jul/Aug) to 20°C (Jan/Feb, Nov/Dec) and maximums from 20°C (Jul/Aug) to 35°C (Sep/Oct). In Lubumbashi, DRC, minimums are 8°C (Jul/Aug) to 16°C (Nov/Mar), with maximums from 26°C (May/Jun) to 32°C (Sep/Oct). Lobito, Angola, is generally warmer, with minimums from 20°C (Jul/Aug) to 29°C (Mar/Apr) and maximums from 25°C (Sep/Oct) to 34°C (Mar/Apr). Rainfall typically occurs from November to March in most regions. Given these variations, dressing in layers is crucial, especially for game drives where mornings can be cool and afternoons warm. Warm clothing, hats, comfortable shoes, and sun protection are essential.
Onboard Amenities
Rovos Rail provides a comprehensive amenity bag featuring South African biodegradable and/or 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, in addition to any fitted bathroom units. Sun cream, shoe mits, nail files, sewing kits, ear plugs, and additional insect repellent are also available. A limited laundry service is provided (10 items per day per guest) with a 48-hour turnaround, using household washers, dryers, and steam irons; dry-cleaning facilities are not available. A small gift shop is on board. Comfortable one-size-fits-all dressing gowns and slippers are provided for use on the train and can be purchased from the Gift Shop.
Medical Information
All guests are solely responsible for ensuring they are capable of undertaking the tours and activities. Please inform Rovos Rail at the time of reservation about any medical conditions, physical disabilities, or allergies. A doctor is on board for the Copper Trail journey. Anti-malarial precautions are recommended, as the route passes through malaria areas in Zambia, DRC, and Angola. Recommended (but not required) immunisations include Hepatitis A + B, Polio, Tetanus, and Cholera (low risk). Ebola is confined to northeast DRC, thousands of miles from the southern tip traversed by the Lobito journeys. A Yellow Fever/Medical Exemption Certificate is essential if traveling to/from DRC and Angola; while not always required by countries visited, it may be necessary for countries guests return to after the trip. Consult your clinic or doctor; Travel Doctor Africa can be reached locally at 0861 300 911 or internationally at +27 (0) 11 214 9030. Each train is equipped with a standard medical kit, oxygen, an automated external defibrillator, and a wheelchair for emergencies. Private healthcare hospitals are available, though not guaranteed outside of South Africa. Evacuation by road or air to a medical facility can be organised at your own account. All Train Managers are First Aid Level 3 certified and trained in emergency situations. It is strongly recommended to discuss medical concerns with your travel insurance company to ensure adequate cover.
Luggage
Luggage can be stored in your suite under the bed or on a luggage rack above the door, providing ample space. While there are no strict luggage restrictions on board the train, it is not recommended to bring more than two large suitcases per person. On selected long journeys, including The Copper Trail, guests receive a Rovos Rail tog bag which can be used for overnight trips or as hand luggage for aircraft transfers. A soft bag is preferable for plane transfers, as there is a luggage weight restriction of 15kg for these flights.
Currency
In South Africa, only Rands are accepted, and all major credit cards are accepted on the train. Outside of South Africa, Rands are accepted in Namibia and eSwatini. US Dollars are accepted in Zimbabwe, Tanzania (Dar es Salaam only), DRC, and Angola, with cash highly recommended. Hotels and major dealers generally accept credit cards. Please note that US Dollar notes printed before 2013 or those that appear worn will not be accepted. Low denominations are recommended for shopping and gratuities, while larger denominations are better for exchanging money into local currency, especially in Tanzania, where you may get a better rate.
Media Gallery
Rovos Rail Suites - Cutaways - ROYAL Split Twin
Rovos Rail Suites - Cutaways - ROYAL Double
Rovos Rail Suites - Cutaways - PULLMAN GOLD Split Twin
Rovos Rail Suites - Cutaways - PULLMAN GOLD Double
Rovos Rail Suites - Cutaways - PULLMAN Double
Rovos Rail Suites - Cutaways - PULLMAN Daytime
Rovos Rail Suites - Cutaways - PULLMAN Bunks
Rovos Rail Suites - Cutaways - DELUXE Split Twin
Rovos Rail Suites - Cutaways - DELUXE Lengthways
Rovos Rail Suites - Cutaways - DELUXE Crosswise
Rovos Rail Public Cars - OTHER - Lounge Car Tea
Rovos Rail Suites - Images - Deluxe Split Twin
Rovos Rail Suites - Images - Deluxe Double
Rovos Rail Suites - Images - Royal Bathroom