On Friday, 18 April 2025 at 06:30, a Rovos Rail train en route to Victoria Falls was involved in a head-on collision with a cargo train near Gwanda in Zimbabwe. The incident occurred on the BBR line (Beitbridge Bulawayo Railway). The cause of the accident is currently under investigation.
The Rovos Rail train was carrying 47 guests and 34 staff members. According to a media statement issued by Rovos Rail, no injuries were sustained by guests. Four staff members are receiving medical attention and are expected to recover within the next two weeks.
By 12:30 on Friday, all guests had safely disembarked the train and were transferred to a hotel in Bulawayo. On Saturday, 19 April, they were flown from Bulawayo to Victoria Falls, where alternative accommodation was arranged.
The two Rovos Rail locomotives and four damaged coaches will be returned to the Rovos Rail headquarters in South Africa before the end of April.
Rovos Rail, now in its 36th year of operation, has consistently complied with all rail safety regulations. The company has operated on the BBR line for over 20 years without any major incidents. Rovos Rail takes immense pride in the experience it provides, with safety at the core of its operations.
