Rovos: Copper Trail

From Victoria Falls to Lobito OR From Lobito to Victoria Falls
  • Zambia
  • Zimbabwe
  • Luxury
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Tour Description

Embark on an extraordinary 15-day journey aboard Rovos Rail, starting from the majestic Victoria Falls and ending in Lobito, Angola.

Your expedition begins in Victoria Falls, where the thundering waters create an awe-inspiring backdrop for the start of your journey. From here, Rovos Rail ventures into Livingstone, named after the renowned explorer David Livingstone, setting the stage for a voyage filled with exploration and elegance. 

As the journey unfolds, the train winds its way through Zambia's diverse landscapes. Enjoy exquisite dining experiences in the elegant dining cars, savoring gourmet meals as you travel towards South Luangwa National Park. This stunning park is defined by its dramatic topography, with the Muchinga Escarpment forming its western and northwestern boundaries and the Luangwa River winding along its southern edge. The park is renowned for its abundant wildlife and captivating landscapes.

Next, take a guided tour of Lubumbashi in the DRC, immersing yourself in the local culture and history. Follow the historical copper trail into Angola, where short walking tours will provide insights into the country's recent past. Conclude your extraordinary journey in the coastal town of Lobito, rich in history and vibrant local life.

This journey is also available in reverse.

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The journey aboard the Rovos Rail promises an unparalleled blend of luxury and adventure. From elegant dining cars to comfortable suites, the train itself becomes a highlight of the experience, offering a nostalgic way to traverse Africa's landscapes.

Traveling through diverse landscapes, from lush valleys to historic mining regions, passengers can relax in the lounge and observation cars, enjoying panoramic views and the ever-changing African scenery.

Visit Lusaka’s elephant sanctuary, explore local villages along the railway routes, and enjoy guided tours of historical cities like Lubumbashi, Kuito, and Huambo. Each stop provides insights into local traditions and heritage.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1
Victoria Falls

In the afternoon embark on your Rovos Rail's journey from Victoria Falls, crossing into Livingstone, named after David Livingstone, the renowned explorer. Freshen up in your suite before enjoying tea in the lounge or observation cars. Dinner awaits in the elegant dining cars as we head to Choma. Relax and savor the exquisite scenery on this unforgettable day one of our voyage to Lobito.

Day 2
Kafue River

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on your first morning aboard the Rovos Rail. As we journey onward, indulge in a delicious lunch served in the dining cars, accompanied by breathtaking views as the train crosses the Kafue railway bridge, an architectural marvel spanning 477 meters over the majestic river below. Prepare for an amazing experience as we disembark for a sunset cruise on the tranquil waters of the Kafue River, immersing ourselves in the serene beauty of the African landscape. Return to the train for dinner as we head to Lusaka, where we'll spend the night.

Day 3
Elephant Sanctuary

Immerse yourself in a visit to Lusaka’s elephant sanctuary, where dedicated teams work tirelessly to rescue and rehabilitate orphaned elephants, with the ultimate goal of reintroducing them to the wild in Kafue National Park. After a fulfilling morning, return to the train for a delightful lunch served in the dining cars as we journey through the scenic Central Province to Kabwe. Enjoy tea in the lounge car before dinner en route to Kapiri Mposhi for our overnight stay.

Day 4
South Luangwa National Park

Prepare for an adventure as we transfer to Ndola Airstrip for a chartered flight to South Luangwa National Park, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts since its establishment in 1938. Marvel at the park's vast expanse, spanning over 9,050 square kilometers of the picturesque Luangwa Valley floor, framed by the majestic Muchinga Escarpment and the meandering Luangwa River. Upon arrival, transfer to your respective camps, where a warm welcome and a delicious lunch await you. After settling in, embark on an afternoon game drive in the captivating Luangwa Valley, immersing yourself in the pristine wilderness and the abundance of wildlife that call this park home.

Day 5-6
South Luangwa National Park

The next two days promise unforgettable wildlife encounters and moments of tranquility in the heart of the African wilderness. Start your mornings with continental breakfast, fueling up for the adventures ahead. Set out on early morning game drives as the wildlife awakens with the dawn. Witness the African savannah come to life, with the chance to spot predators and iconic species roaming freely in their natural habitat. Return to camp for a leisurely brunch, followed by a relaxing afternoon to unwind and soak in the serenity of your surroundings. Later in the day, embark on another exhilarating game drive, exploring different areas of the park and encountering its diverse wildlife population once again. As the sun sets on the horizon, return to camp for a delicious dinner.

Day 7
South Luangwa National Park

Embark on a last memorable morning game drive. Transfer to the airport for your chartered flight back to Ndola afterwards. Upon arrival, transfer to Ndola Station to reunite with the train, where a delicious lunch awaits in the dining cars as we journey towards the border. Take a moment to relax and enjoy a refreshing tea service in the lounge and observation cars, soaking in the glimpses of the African landscape passing by. As the day transitions into evening, indulge in a delightful dinner served in the elegant dining cars, setting the stage for a calm night aboard the train as we continue our journey towards Lubumbashi. Reflect on the incredible experiences and wildlife encounters of your time in South Luangwa National Park, cherishing the memories made during this extraordinary safari adventure.

Day 8
Lubumbashi

The day begins with a delightful breakfast, preparing you for a day of exploration in Lubumbashi. Embark on a fascinating drive through the city, immersing yourself in its vibrant culture and rich history. Afterward, rejoin the train as we continue our journey towards Lukuni. Enjoy captivating views as the train passes by Luishia, a historic copper and cobalt mine. In the evening, dine in elegance in the dining cars as we travel towards Kolwezi, where we'll spend the night.

Day 9
Copper Mine

Disembark at Kolwezi for a captivating visit to a copper mine, situated in an area renowned for holding one of the world's largest copper and cobalt resources. After an insightful tour, indulge in a brunch at Katebi Lodge, savoring delicious flavors amidst the natural beauty of the surroundings. Return to the train, where we depart for Kasombo. Relax with tea in the lounge and observation cars before dinner en route to Mutshatsha for overnight.

Day 10
At leisure on board

Today you have time to relax and unwind as we enjoy a leisurely day aboard the train. During lunch the train passes by Kakopa en route to Malonga. Take this opportunity to admire the passing scenery and immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of the train. Enjoy a delicious dinner in the dining cars en route to Dilolo.

Day 11
Luau

Embark on a captivating walking tour of Luau, the starting point of the historic Benguela line, immersing yourself in its rich heritage and cultural significance. As the morning unfolds, the train departs for Luena, offering scenic views along the way. Indulge in a delicious lunch served in the dining cars. In the afternoon the train travels alongside the picturesque Cassai River, known for its abundant fish fauna. Keep an eye out for local fishermen at work as we pass through the charming villages of Cassai and Cameia.

Day 12
Luena

Following breakfast, immerse yourself in a walking tour of Luena, delving into the recent history of Angola and gaining insight into the local culture and heritage. As the morning progresses, the train departs for Tchicala Tcholohanga, offering scenic views along the journey. As evening approaches, enjoy a delightful dinner en route to Kuito for overnight.

Day 13
Kuito

After breakfast take a leisurely stroll through the town of Kuito, immersing yourself in its rich history and cultural heritage, rooted in the heart of the Ovimbundu kingdom. Lunch is served on board as we journey towards Huambo, providing the perfect opportunity to savor delicious cuisine while enjoying the passing scenery. We will spent overnight in Huambo.

Day 14
Huambo

Enjoy breakfast in the dining cars, followed by an exploration of Huambo, Angola's second largest city and a historic kingdom on the central plateau. Afterward, we journey onwards to Lépi, enjoying lunch aboard the train. Relax in the afternoon with tea service in the lounge and observation cars as we continue towards Cubal. Your last dinner awaits in the dining cars as we head to Cubal for our overnight stop.

Day 15
Lobito

On the final day of our journey, wake up to breakfast served in the dining cars until 09:30. As we approach our destination, Lobito Station in Benguela Province, Angola, reflect on the memories made and the incredible experiences shared as we arrive at journey’s end. Bid farewell to the Rovos Rail with gratitude for the unforgettable adventure it has provided.

Day 1
Lobito

Embark on your Rovos Rail's journey from Lobito to Victoria Falls. Freshen up in your suite before enjoying lunch in the dining cars as the train travels through the Benguela province. In the afternoon tea is served in the lounge or observation cars. Dinner awaits in the elegant dining cars as we cross into the Huambo province. Relax and savor the exquisite scenery on this unforgettable day one of our voyage to Victoria Falls.

Day 2
Huambo

Enjoy breakfast in the dining cars, followed by an exploration of Huambo, Angola's second largest city and a historic kingdom on the central plateau. Afterward, we journey onwards to Boas Agus, enjoying lunch aboard the train. Relax in the afternoon with tea service in the lounge and observation cars. Your dinner awaits in the dining cars as we head to Kuito for our overnight stop.

Day 3
Kuito

After breakfast take a leisurely stroll through the town of Kuito, immersing yourself in its rich history and cultural heritage, rooted in the heart of the Ovimbundu kingdom. Lunch is served on board as we journey towards Savinguila, providing the perfect opportunity to savor delicious cuisine while enjoying the passing scenery. We will spent overnight in Luena.

Day 4
Luena

Following breakfast, immerse yourself in a walking tour of Luena, delving into the recent history of Angola and gaining insight into the local culture and heritage. As the morning progresses, the train departs towards Cameia, offering scenic views along the journey. During lunch the train travels alongside the picturesque Cassai River, known for its abundant fish fauna. Keep an eye out for local fishermen at work as we pass through the charming villages of Cassai and Cameia. As evening approaches, enjoy a delightful dinner en route to Luau.

Day 5
At leisure on board

As the morning unfolds enjoy your breakfast in the dining cars and complete the border formalities to enter DRC. Indulge in a delicious lunch served in the dining cars as the train travels towards Malonga. En route to Kasaji for your overnight stop you will have dinner in the dining cars.

Day 6
At leisure on board

Today you have time to relax and unwind as we enjoy a leisurely day aboard the train. During breakfast the train travels towards Mungulunga and during lunch the train passes Mutshatsha. Take this opportunity to admire the passing scenery and immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of the train. Enjoy a delicious dinner in the dining cars en route to Kolwezi.

Day 7
Copper Mine

Disembark at Kolwezi for a captivating visit to a copper mine, situated in an area renowned for holding one of the world's largest copper and cobalt resources. After an insightful tour, indulge in a brunch at Katebi Lodge, savoring delicious flavors amidst the natural beauty of the surroundings. Return to the train, where we depart for Tenke. Relax with tea in the lounge and observation cars before dinner en route to Sofumwango for overnight.

Day 8
Lubumbashi

The day begins with a delightful breakfast, preparing you for a day of exploration in Lubumbashi in the afternoon. Embark on a fascinating drive through the city, immersing yourself in its vibrant culture and rich history. Afterward, rejoin the train as we continue our journey towards Mushoshi. In the evening, dine in elegance in the dining cars as we travel towards Sakania.

Day 9
South Luangwa National Park

Prepare for an adventure as we transfer to Ndola Airstrip for a chartered flight to South Luangwa National Park, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts since its establishment in 1938. Marvel at the park's vast expanse, spanning over 9,050 square kilometers of the picturesque Luangwa Valley floor, framed by the majestic Muchinga Escarpment and the meandering Luangwa River. Upon arrival, transfer to your respective camps, where a warm welcome and a delicious lunch await you. After settling in, embark on an afternoon game drive in the captivating Luangwa Valley, immersing yourself in the pristine wilderness and the abundance of wildlife that call this park home.

Day 10-11
South Luangwa National Park

The next two days promise unforgettable wildlife encounters and moments of tranquility in the heart of the African wilderness. Start your mornings with continental breakfast, fueling up for the adventures ahead. Set out on early morning game drives as the wildlife awakens with the dawn. Witness the African savannah come to life, with the chance to spot predators and iconic species roaming freely in their natural habitat. Return to camp for a leisurely brunch, followed by a relaxing afternoon to unwind and soak in the serenity of your surroundings. Later in the day, embark on another exhilarating game drive, exploring different areas of the park and encountering its diverse wildlife population once again. As the sun sets on the horizon, return to camp for a delicious dinner.

Day 12
South Luangwa National Park

Embark on a last memorable morning game drive. Transfer to the airport for your chartered flight back to Ndola afterwards. Upon arrival, transfer to Ndola Station to reunite with the train, where a delicious lunch awaits in the dining cars as we journey towards Kapiri Mphosi. Take a moment to relax and enjoy a refreshing tea service in the lounge and observation cars, soaking in the glimpses of the African landscape passing by. As the day transitions into evening, indulge in a delightful dinner served in the elegant dining cars, setting the stage for a calm night aboard the train as we continue our journey towards Ngwerere. Reflect on the incredible experiences and wildlife encounters of your time in South Luangwa National Park, cherishing the memories made during this extraordinary safari adventure.

Day 13
Elephant Sanctuary Kafue River

After breakfast immerse yourself in a visit to Lusaka’s elephant sanctuary, where dedicated teams work tirelessly to rescue and rehabilitate orphaned elephants, with the ultimate goal of reintroducing them to the wild in Kafue National Park. After a fulfilling morning, return to the train for a delightful lunch served in the dining cars. Prepare for an amazing experience as we disembark for a sunset cruise on the tranquil waters of the Kafue River, immersing ourselves in the serene beauty of the African landscape. Return to the train for dinner.

Day 14
Choma

Early in the morning before breakfast the train crosses the Kafue railway bridge, an architectural marvel spanning 477 meters over the majestic river below. As the train continues its journey, lunch is served in the dining cars against the backdrop of the ever-changing scenery en route to Choma. A visit to the Choma Museum & Crafts Centre provides insight into the local Tonga tribe's cultural heritage and offers a chance to shop for unique crafts. Dinner in the dining cars as the train heads to Makoli completes the day.

Day 15
Victoria Falls

On the final day of our journey, wake up to breakfast served in the dining cars until10:00. We are crossing into Livingstone, named after David Livingstone, the renowned explorer for Zambian boarder formalities. As we cross the Victoria Falls bridge and approach our destination, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, reflect on the memories made and the incredible experiences shared as we arrive at journey’s end. Bid farewell to the Rovos Rail with gratitude for the unforgettable adventure it has provided.







What’s Included

Accommodation
  • Included Copy 20 11 nights accommodation in your selected Suite
  • Included Copy 20 3 nights in off-train accommodation
  • Included Copy 31 Upgrades available
Food
  • Included Copy 20 All Meals and Beverages on board
  • Included Copy 20 All Meals and standard bar drinks at off-train accommodation
Fees & Services
  • Included Copy 20 Limited Laundry Service
  • Included Copy 20 Guided Excursions and entrance fees (where applicable)
  • Included Copy 20 Flights to/from South Luangwa
  • Included Copy 20 On board historian, hairstylist and doctor
  • Included Copy 20 Taxes
  • Included Copy 7 International sparkling wine, Gratuities, visas, insurance and anything not specified
Transportation

Rovos Rail

Activities

  • Included Enjoy luxurious train travel aboard Rovos Rail, with elegant dining and observation cars.
  • Included Encounter wildlife such as elephants, lions, and leopards on thrilling game drives.
  • Included Relax with a serene cruise, taking in the beautiful African sunset over the Kafue River.
  • Included Learn about elephant conservation efforts and interact with rescued elephants.
  • Included Explore a local copper mine, learning about its historical and economic significance.
  • Included Discover Lubumbashi’s vibrant culture and colonial heritage.
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Duration

15 days

Price from

$16,500 USD

Per person, sharing

based on a Pullman Suite

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