The Sunday News
Roberta Katunga
GET introduced to the rejuvenated luxury steam train, the Bushtracks Express for an unforgettable journey.
As you step onto the platform and walk through the refined carriages, order a drink and look out of the window as the train sounds its horn and steams ahead onto the highest bridge ever constructed, over the greatest body of falling water, the mighty Victoria Falls.
As you get near the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, one is treated to a theatrical rendition, bringing to light the architectural genius of the bridge before your arrival.
According to legend, Cecil John Rhodes wanted the bridge sited as close to the Falls as possible telling the architect that he wanted the carriages to be touched by the falling spray and this vision comes to life as you disembark on the bridge to the majesty of the Victoria Falls.
The luxury steam train leaves from the railway point next to the Victoria Falls hotel and the two-and-a-half hour excursion is one you are likely to remember. Your return journey offers added pleasures as you eat and drink the best that Victoria Falls Hotel has to offer in terms of canapés, cocktails and fine wines.
The luxury steam train goes back to the early 20th century and the journey to the Victoria Falls bridge aboard the stately carriages is a must do for any visitor or tourist.
The train departs from Victoria Falls Station, next to the Victoria Falls Hotel on Tuesdays and Fridays and makes its way onto the Victoria Falls bridge. Extra train runs can be arranged for group bookings to Jafuta Siding.
Adrain Tett from Bushtracks said of the activity, “steam trains are my passion, we want to bring back some of the grand history that marked this famous railway.”
If you are a train enthusiast, these facts will be of interest to you. It is a steam locomotive 14A class Garratt with a wheel configuration of 2-6-2:2-6-2 and weight fully loaded is 131,67 tons.
This locomotive was part of Order No 112 for 17 locos from No 508 to 525 and they were used to pull main line passengers mixed trains from Bulawayo-Gweru-Bulawayo and Bulawayo-Plumtree-Bulawayo. They were also used for shunting purposes. Renowned artist Larry Norton is doing a painting of the train on the bridge.
In addition to a memorable train excursion with Bushtracks Africa, one can then enjoy a ride on the jet-propelled boats that can operate within 30cm of the water and can therefore approach the Falls and explore the small islands that characterise the top section of the Falls.
Visit Zimbabwe for these unforgettable experiences and be sure to make this your destination of choice as we bring you more travel experiences.
