Imvelo Safari Lodges recently launched The Stimela Star, Zimbabwe’s only private overnight sleeper train.
The Stimela Star operates from Victoria Falls to Hwange National Park, linking up to the regular Victoria Falls-Bulawayo passenger train, transporting guests on an overnight journey to Hwange.
Imvelo is offering ten scheduled departures for 2018 but additional departures can be arranged for 12 or more guests on request.
The train is powered by a diesel electric locomotive, and the train cars date back to the origins of the national railway in Zimbabwe. The former Premier Class coaches have been upgraded to fit the needs of the modern day traveller.
The train has two sleeper carriages; each can host 12 passengers, totalling 24 guests per trip, in twin or single compartments, with a shared toilet and shower facilities at either end of each carriage.
Compartments are fitted with electric lights and three round-pin power sockets, with enough room for luggage under the beds and in overhead racks.
Meals are served in the kitchen dining car and there is also a lounge car. Both of these cars have overhead fans and electric lighting. On request, Imvelo can hook up the teak-floored dancing coach for a special occasion.
