A luxury passenger train operated by Rovos Rail Tours was involved in a fatal accident in southern Namibia in the early hours of Sunday, leaving two crew members dead while passengers escaped unharmed.
The incident occurred at about 04h45 on 1 March 2026 when the train, travelling southbound from Windhoek, encountered a washed away section of a bridge at Naute, roughly 285 kilometres from Ariamsvlei near the South African border. According to a statement released by the company on 2 March, the last span of the bridge had been swept away, leading to the loss of two locomotives and two utility coaches.
The automatic brake system activated immediately, bringing the train to a halt and preventing further destruction.
While no passengers or additional crew members were injured, the company confirmed the deaths of its locomotive driver and a locomotive pilot from TransNamib.
“It is with profound sadness that we confirm the loss of our Rovos Rail Locomotive Driver and the TransNamib Locomotive Pilot. We extend our deepest condolences to their families, friends and colleagues.”
Guests on board were disembarked and transported to Upington in South Africa where they spent the night. On Monday they were flown to Cape Town and received by the company’s Chief Operating Officer, Tiffany Vos Thane. An alternative travel programme was arranged for them until the scheduled end of the journey on 4 March, after which they were expected to continue with their onward travel plans.
The company noted that it has travelled on the TransNamib line for 28 years without any serious incidents and said it is cooperating fully with investigations led by TransNamib, Namibia’s national rail services operator.
“All our services remain fully operational as scheduled. Please rest assured that our safety protocols remain stringent and our team resolute in their principal.”
During its 37 years of operation, Rovos Rail stated that it has complied with all rail safety regulations and remains committed to maintaining safety standards for passengers and staff.
“If you or your clients require direct assurances, please be sure to reach out to us. Rohan, Tiffany and our communications department are on hand. Should you have any queries, please contact Liezl Maclean at communications@rovos.co.za.”
The company added that it is grateful for the messages of support received following the tragedy.
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