NRZ Resumes Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Passenger Train After Four-Year Hiatus: Timetable and Fares Revealed

NRZ Resumes Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Passenger Train After Four-Year Hiatus

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has announced the long-awaited return of its passenger train service between Bulawayo and Victoria Falls.

This marks the end of a four-year suspension that began at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, when all intercity passenger trains were halted to contain the spread of the virus.

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Affordable Fares for Local Travellers

The first trip is set to depart on Friday (today) evening at 19:00. The train is scheduled to arrive in Victoria Falls at 10:00 on Saturday, while the return journey from Victoria Falls to Bulawayo will depart Sunday at 19:00, arriving Monday at 10:00.

NRZ confirmed that the economy class fare for the Bulawayo–Victoria Falls route will be US$9 per adult, offering an affordable alternative for domestic tourists and long-distance travelers.

In addition to this route, the parastatal also operates the Harare–Mutare passenger service. The train departs Harare every Friday at 20:00, reaching Mutare at 06:00 on Saturday, and returns Sunday at 20:00, arriving in Harare at 06:00 on Monday. The economy fare for this journey is US$5 per adult.

Boost for Tourism and Connectivity

The resumption of the Bulawayo–Victoria Falls route is being hailed as a key step toward reviving domestic tourism and enhancing regional connectivity.

The route, which passes through scenic destinations in western Zimbabwe, is expected to benefit both local commuters and international visitors heading to the iconic Victoria Falls, one of the world’s top tourist attractions.

NRZ officials emphasized that restoring this service aligns with efforts to revitalize the national railway network, improve transport accessibility, and support Zimbabwe’s broader tourism recovery strategy.

Infrastructure Challenges and Recovery Efforts

The NRZ service had faced several setbacks, including aging infrastructure, limited funding, and the economic impacts of the pandemic. However, the company says the gradual return of intercity trains reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen its operations and modernize key routes.