Terrorized by Zambian policeman with an AK-47 machine gun pointed at me while on the Bushtracks Dinner Train.
Bushtracks Victoria Falls Dinner Steam Train, March 3rd 2020. Royal Livingstone is operated by the same people who operate Bushtracks, but on the other side of the border.
A Zambian police officer standing 10 feet away from me pointed an AK-47 machine gun at me while I was taking pictures while on the last open car of the Bushtracks Dinner Train car. He accused me of taking pictures of him and demanded to see my camera. I showed him there were no pictures of him in my camera but he kept shouting there were while grabbing the camera at gunpoint. My wife ran to get a man working on the train who came to my rescue and began shouting at the officer to defuse the situation. I was shaken and would not get off the train to enjoy the stop at Victoria Falls due to the hostile soldier outside. I would advise people to decide if they are willing to risk their life taking this train as management claims they have no responsibility for policemen threatening to kill the passengers.
Response from BushtracksAfrica, Bushtracks Africa at Bushtracks Express Responded yesterday Dear Ronnie and Judy,
Once again we would like to sincerely apologise for the unpleasant experience you had while you alighted from the train while it was parked on the bridge. Unfortunately we do not have any control over the behaviour of anyone who is not on the train, or of any law enforcement officials of the country. We understood that you were satisfied with how the situation was handled and diffused by our staff who service the train, and commended them on their efforts and manner at the time.
We have taken the matter up directly with the Regional Commander for the Southern Province of the Operations Division for the Zambian police, as well as the Livingstone Tourism Authority.They are dealing with the matter at the highest level. When the opportunity arises we will also take it up with the relevant Ministries.
Please rest assured that we are doing everything in our power to prevent a situation like this occurring in the future. We ask you to please understand that events like this are entirely beyond our control, and we as a company cannot be held responsible for the actions and behaviours of external parties who are not affiliated with our company in any way.
Kind regards, The...
Read moreWe had the most wonderful evening on the Bushtracks express. I wanted to propose to my partner on the Victoria Falls bridge and Bushtracks made that possible!
Prior to the event, the sales team were great in organising everything for us, asking what extra they could offer us to make the most of the special moment. Tulani and his team were exceptional. Tulani’s subtleness throughout the evening meant the special moment really was a surprise to my partner. The whole team went above and beyond and I am incredibly grateful for the service they provided. Not only are they fantastic at what they do, they are all kind, caring people who want you to have the best experience.
The 5 course meal was delicious and of high quality. There is no selection of food but the set menu has a variety of flavours. The drink selection on offer is vast and truly free flowing.
All guests get sparkling on arrival and get the chance to get into the engine room and speak with the train driver and find out about the history of the steam train. Then all-aboard with free following drinks until you arrive at the bridge for sunset. We stopped for about 30 mins to get lots of great photos, then back on board and take a seat at your table for the special 5 course meal.
I’ll be forever grateful to Bushtracks, Tulani and his team for...
Read moreThe Bushtrack Express was an unforgettable experience that transported us back in time. Our guides were incredibly knowledgeable about the history of the train and the railways, adding depth and context to our journey. As we chugged along the scenic route, we felt like we were stepping into a bygone era.
The food was truly exceptional, with each course expertly prepared and presented. From start to finish, every bite was a delight, leaving us wanting more. The culinary experience was seamlessly woven into the overall theme of the train ride, making it a truly immersive experience.
What struck us most was the attention to detail and the passion of the staff, who brought the history and charm of the train to life. The Bushtrack Express is more than just a train ride – it's an experience that combines history, culture, and fine dining in a unique and memorable way. We would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a special adventure. The memories of this experience will stay with us for...
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