BDM John Saporito says the journey will also visit areas of Mozambique seldom travelled by Rovos, including Beira on the Indian Ocean coast (famous for its shipwrecks). He notes that because train track in Lilongwe (Malawi’s capital and largest city) is a private one the train can not travel there, so the last section of the journey will be by charter aircraft.
The first departure will be 29 April 2027, departing from Pretoria, travelling through Eswatani, Zimbabwe and Mozambique. Highlights in Malawi include Liwonde National Park and Lake Malawi.
Saporito also emphasises the Copper Trail, starting at Victoria Falls and travelling through Zambia, Democratic Republic of Congo and Angola. Departures in 2027 are 5 July and 22 July, with more scheduled in 2028.
‘We’re definitely seeing more travellers from New Zealand and Australia and that our constant trade engagement in these markets is paying dividends. Agents are getting to know Rovos Rail and they trust the brand. They know that if problems happen while their clients are in Africa, if they on Rovos Rail they will be looked after.’