The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has launched a special Rail Leisure train service on the Harare–Mutare route, coinciding with the 18th edition of the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi World Tourism Expo.
The initiative, introduced in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism and the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, is designed to promote domestic tourism while reviving the country’s rail leisure tradition. The refurbished train, equipped with deluxe coaches, has a carrying capacity of 243 passengers and offers onboard dining, entertainment and scenic viewing opportunities along the eastern highlands route.
According to NRZ, the train will run on selected dates between 5 and 12 September, with trips scheduled from both Harare and Mutare. Fares have been set at US$60 per one-way trip. Some trips will include stopovers in Rusape and Nyazura for sightseeing, giving passengers a tourism experience beyond standard travel.
Officials said the service aligns with the expo’s theme of developing sustainable tourism, while also showcasing rail as a viable component of Zimbabwe’s tourism infrastructure. The Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi Expo is one of Africa’s leading travel and trade showcases, attracting exhibitors, buyers, and tourists from across the continent and beyond.
The Rail Leisure train service marks a renewed attempt by NRZ to re-establish luxury passenger travel as part of the broader strategy to modernize operations and contribute to the growth of the country’s tourism sector.
