Zimbabwe Itineraries
Zimbabwe is a nation of spectacular natural beauty, friendly people and rich culture. The country is rejuvenating itself as a leading safari destination once again and emerging as a highlight of the African continent after years of political instability. Located between the Zambezi and Limpopo rivers, this landlocked country is one of Africa’s most stunning, and borders with Botswana, Zambia, Mozambique and South Africa.
No holiday to Zimbabwe is complete without a visit to the iconic Victoria Falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Stretching across the Zimbabwe and Zambia border, it’s one of the largest waterfalls on earth. But Zimbabwe is not limited to just the falls as it is enormously varied from big fossilised forests, mountain highlands, savannah plains to some of the most dramatic waterways in the world: Hwange National Park, Matusadona National Park, Lake Kariba and Mana Pools being just a few of the highlights not to be missed.
Zimbabwe is very diverse offering high octane adventure such as white water rafting or bungee jumping over the Falls; to more sedate and refined experiences such as Art or Steam Train Safaris. However, the biggest draw is the rich and authentic wildlife opportunities. There are both land and water based experiences available benefitting from the large animal populations which roam the incredible wilderness Zimbabwe has to offer.
Photo © Wilderness Safaris
Wildlife in Zimbabwe
At Hwange National Park, you’ll experience incredible wildlife encounters on an open game drive or a walking safari. The national park has a wide variety of wildlife, with 400 species of birds and 107 types of animals, including lions, giraffes, leopards, cheetahs and hyenas. The star of the show here though has to be the elephant. Hwange has one of largest elephant populations with more than 50,000 elephants roaming the plains, often in herds as large as 400. Watching these gentle giants in their natural habitat on a Zimbabwe safari holiday is an unforgettable life experience.
Lake Kariba is one of the world’s largest man-made lakes and another haven for Zimbabwe’s rich wildlife. There is a wealth of game viewing opportunities including pods of hippos and Nile crocodiles that thrive in the lake. Elephants, buffalos, lions, cheetahs and antelopes are often seen coming to its shores for water. The lake attracts some stunning birds as many nest in the sunken trees dotted against the magnificent African sky in the blue expanse of water.
Early morning and late afternoon walks are led by a professional guide from the camp. The park is home to leopards, lions, hyenas, cheetahs, elephants, hippos, and a dizzying array of antelope species. What’s a good way to cool off after a long day on safari? You can swim and fish in Lake Kariba, where the elephants come to bathe.
The excitement continues at Mana Pools National Park. In the dry season, you’ll find herds of elephant and buffalo, as well as hippo, waterbuck, kudu, nyala, and eland coming to the banks of the Zambezi River to quench their thirst. Hot on their heels are the lions and leopards that frequent the floodplains.
The Mana Pools are also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 350 species, including the collared palm-thrush and African skimmer. Jump in a canoe for another unique take on an African safari expedition to take it all in.
Zimbabwe Safaris Holidays
We are aware that whilst some guests enjoy a more sociable experience when they travel, others prefer a more private experience. Therefore, there are several options available when planning a safari holiday in Botswana including small group tours, independent/private tailor-made safari, or fly-in safaris.
Zimbabwe Small escorted group safaris
Small group safaris offer a relaxed experience with insightful local driver/guides and quality accommodation. Your vehicle is exclusively for your group and usually has a maximum of six guests, all guaranteed a window seat. Mileages are quite long and road conditions can be poor on occasion, but you’ll get to see much more of the country and soak up the scenery.
If you like the look of one of our small group safaris but would prefer to have your own driver/guide, you can opt to follow the same itinerary on a private basis. You can also upgrade to a 4 x 4 vehicle which are more comfortable than a minibus and are able to cross rivers more easily, which is particularly beneficial in the green season.
Zimbabwe Independent/Private tailor-made safari.
On a tailor-made or independent safari, you can choose your own camps and lodges and we’ll create a bespoke itinerary on a private basis, just for you! We will be able to make recommendations based on your preferences and requirements and your budget. Please be aware that you may be travelling with like-minded guests on light aircraft flights as well as some game drives, unless you take the vehicle on a private basis.
Zimbabwe Fly-in Safari
A fly-in safari makes use of light aircraft to transfer you between locations within Zimbabwe, saving you time moving between parks and gives you more time to relax. You also gain an aerial overview of the landscapes that you will explore on the ground.
A fly-in option is sometimes available as part of a small group itinerary but is mainly arranged on a private basis. However, you may be travelling with other guest on these flights and possibly staying in some of the same camps or lodges.
Our Most Popular Zimbabwe Safari Holidays
We offer an exceptional choice of safari experiences from mobile camps, tented accommodation and luxury lodges visiting Namibia’s iconic parks as well as some of the lesser-known gems. Whether you are looking for a short fly-in safari, a full week’s circuit safari, a safari and beach combination, a balloon experience or you would like to extend your time to visit a neighbouring country we can help make this happen.
Holiday Schedules
These itineraries are ones we have arranged for many of our clients and will give you the very best wildlife holiday experiences. Where possible we have included other highlights of the country, to make the most of your precious holiday time, but ultimately everything revolves around the wildlife. However, nothing is cast in stone, as we can tailor-make the perfect wildlife holiday to suit your interests, the time you have, the standard/quality of the accommodation you prefer and of course, your budget. No two people are the same, so we will listen to your individual requirements, find out what your expectations and aspirations are and accordingly make suggestions and recommendations, to give you the most memorable wildlife holiday experience.
Our Favourite Safari
The Ultimate Luxury Zimbabwe Safari
Mana Pools,Hwange,Victoria Falls
Brief Itinerary:
| Destination | Accomodation | Duration | Basis |
| Harare | MAGNIFICENT MANA POOLS NATIONAL PARK | 3 Nights | AI |
| HWANGE NATIONAL PARK | HWANGE NATIONAL PARK | 2 Nights | AI |
| Victoria Falls | Victoria Falls River Lodge | 2 Nights | AI |
DAY 1: ZIP TO ZIMBABWE
Your ultimate luxury Zimbabwe safari itinerary begins with an overnight flight from London to Johannesburg in South Africa. The flight is 11-hours long, so despite your mounting excitement, try to get some sleep.
DAYS 2 TO 5: MAGNIFICENT MANA POOLS NATIONAL PARK
After arriving in Johannesburg this morning, transfer to your onward flight to Harare. The flight takes an hour-and-a-half and when you reach the Zimbabwean capital, you’ll transfer over to a light aircraft for the short flight to Mana Pools National Park. Enjoy the bird’s eye views of the incredible landscape as you fly, especially of the huge Zambezi River, which you’ll see as you come in to land. Make sure you keep your eyes peeled for elephants roaming beneath you. You’ll be seeing plenty of them over the next few days, but seeing them from the air is an amazing experience.
For the next three days, you will be staying in a luxury bush camp on the banks of one of the most famous rivers in the world and guided by expert guides. Spend your time exploring by canoe or on foot in search of rare wild dogs, lions, hippos and birds galore. Make sure to go on an evening game drive to see some of the nocturnal species in the area that emerge once the sun has gone down. After dark is also prime hunting time for the big cats.
DAYS 6 TO 8: ELEPHANT WATCHING IN HWANGE NATIONAL PARK
Departing after breakfast, the next stage of your ultimate luxury Zimbabwe safari itinerary is a flight into the heart of Hwange National Park, affectionately known as ‘land of the giants’ as it is home to the world’s largest herds of elephant. After settling into your deluxe camp, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy 4×4 safaris and spot elephants up close in their wonderful wild home. Here you’ll be able to benefit from the local expert guides ‘ invaluable insider knowledge and years of experience as they teach you about the diverse wildlife in the park. Zimbabwe’s guides are renowned as the best in the world. You’ll soon find out why.
Back at the camp, the wildlife watching continues and you may be able to experience the incredibly special opportunity of swimming in the pool while an elephant drinks only yards away.
DAYS 9 TO 11: MIGHTY VICTORIA FALLS
On the final leg of your luxury Zimbabwe safari, you will be flying to the mighty Victoria Falls. You will have the chance to enjoy a tour of the falls, float down the Zambezi River on a sunset cruise and try your hand at fishing for tiger fish. Take the time to unwind in this watery wonderland with plenty of swimming and relaxing by the pool of your luxury hotel. A truly magical location to end your time in Zimbabwe. Other activities on offer include a helicopter flight or microlight flight over the falls; swimming in Devil’s Pool overlooking the 300ft drop off the falls, or a more refined lunch or tea on Livingstone island.
DAY 12: FLY HOME
Today is the final day of your ultimate luxury Zimbabwe safari itinerary and you’ll be catching an afternoon flight home from Livingstone to Johannesburg. There, transfer across to your overnight flight back to London. After all the exploring, the chances are that the moment your head hits the headrest you’ll be out for the count (here’s hoping, anyway). But if not, make sure to treat yourself to a good movie and glass of wine to end your adventure with the same style enjoyed throughout your trip.
Other Safari:
Zambia & Zimbabwe Combo:
South Luangwa & Mana Pools safari
Enjoy morning, afternoon and evening game drives, join expert guides on informative walking safaris, see the riverside wildlife on canoe and boat trips in the Mana Pools, visit one of the greatest leopard spotting locations in Africa and stay on the powerful Zambezi River.
Brief Itinerary:
| Destination | Accomodation | Duration | Basis |
| South Luangwa National Park | Mfuwe Lodge | 3 Nights | AI |
| Mana Pools National Park | Ruckomechi Camp | 3 Nights | AI |
DAY 1: South Luangwa National Park
On arrival in Lusaka you’ll be met and shown to domestic departures for your light aircraft flight to Mfuwe, close to South Luangwa National Park. Here you’ll be met and driven to Mfuwe Lodge, which is located just within the park in an excellent area for game viewing. Enjoy an afternoon safari activity or relax at the lodge.
DAY 2: South Luangwa National Park
Spend today on safari in South Luangwa National Park. You’ll be taken out by your knowledgeable safari guides on morning and afternoon/evening game drives or walking safaris. The Luangwa has excellent populations of lion, buffalo, elephant, hippo and much more.
DAY 3: South Luangwa National Park
Another day spent on safari. This is one of the best places in Africa for spotting the elusive leopard. Sightings are never guaranteed, but you may be lucky.
DAY 4: Mana Pools National Park
This morning you will be transferred to Mfuwe airport in time for your flight to Lusaka in order to then connect onto your flight to Harare, Zimbabwe. From here it is a light aircraft transfer of about an hour to Mana Pools. At the airstrip, a guide will be waiting to take you to camp via a short game drive. Once settled in, you can venture out on an afternoon safari to explore this diverse region on the banks of the Zambezi.
DAY 5: Mana Pools National Park
Enjoy a whole day of safari activities. Game drives explore the woodland, open plains and riverbanks. Mana is well known for its elephant, which stand on their hind legs to reach the trees. It also has excellent populations of buffalo, lion, leopard, giraffe, eland and more.
DAY 6: Mana Pools National Park
Another full day of safari activities. You may wish to go on a walking safari or take a boat trip on the river to see crocodiles and hippo. Mana has some wonderful birdlife, with species including malachite kingfishers, saddle-billed storks, spoonbills and carmine bee-eaters (in September and October).
Zimbabwe National Parks And Places Of Interest
Zimbabwe is home to 10 national parks, all of which boast diverse attractions and extraordinary wildlife!
Here are four top choices:
Victoria Falls National Park
Located in North-Western Zimbabwe, the Victoria Falls National Park extends along the Zambezi River, offering various viewing spots that open up to the world-famous waterfalls. One of the best is the Cataract view – expect a stunning panoramic sight of the Victoria Falls, often accompanied by the infamous rainbow prism effect. In this park, you’ll come across informative boards and a souvenir shop to pick up some memorabilia on your way out. There is also a café named the Rainforest Café, being ideal for a snack stop. If you’re visiting the park in April, remember to hire a raincoat and umbrella before entering!
Gonarezhou National Park
This park is best known for the large elephant population, hence its name, which literally translates to ‘place of many elephants’. It is the second largest park in Zimbabwe, and arguably the most beautiful. From the iconic sandstone Chilojo Cliffs and rivers, to the baobab trees and palm trees… There is a lot to see here! Additionally, there are over 400 bird species and other diverse wildlife.
Matobo National Park
Matobo National Park is home to some of the most majestic granite scenery in the world. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for the balancing rocks that tower over each other. The park is split into two: The Recreational Park – which is known for its scenic viewpoint, named the World’s View – and the Game Park – which is one of the best places to see black and white rhinos, among other animals.
Hwange National Park
Hwange National Park is the largest national park in Zimbabwe, and among the largest in Africa. There are around 400 species of bird and 107 types of animal, but the park is mostly known for being home to one of the world’s largest population of elephants – around 40,000. The best time for wildlife viewing is from July to October.
Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls – known to locals as ‘The Smoke That Thunders’ – is one of the seven natural wonders of the world and the sheer power of this massive body of water plunging into the Zambezi Gorge is unforgettable. These impressive falls are set on the magnificent Zambezi River which creates the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. These spectacular falls are considered to be the world’s widest waterfalls, measuring 1708 metres in width and the small town of Victoria Falls, which lies adjacent serves as a great base from which to explore the attractions this area of Zimbabwe has to offer. The surrounding area provides a wide range of adrenalin-filled activities for adventure lovers. Visitors can look forward to an array of wonderful activities including: scenic flights, micro lighting, white water rafting, bungee jumping, kayaking and trips to the Chobe National Park.
Lake Kariba & Mana Pools
Downstream from the Victoria Falls, the Zambezi River flows into the massive inland sea of Lake Kariba which stretches for some 180 miles and was created in 1960 by the building of the Kariba Dam. The lake covers an area of 1,390 square miles and is a sea of blue, with game-rich shores and islands and is an idyllic safari spot featuring mind-blowing sunsets; on the southern lakeshore, accessible from Kariba town by speedboat, light aircraft or float plane, are a number of lodges, camps and houseboats.
Stretching from the Sanyati River Gorge to the Ume River is the Matusadona National Park and this wilderness is home to a great diversity of game including elephant, buffalo and lion.
Another great area for game viewing in the north of Zimbabwe is the World Heritage Site of Mana Pools National Park which extends for 44 miles along the banks of the Zambezi.
Best Time To Visit Zimbabwe
December to March is generally the rainy season.
The further north you are, the earlier the precipitation arrives and the later it leaves and the higher eastern areas usually receive more rainfall than the lower-lying western ones. By April and May the rains have gone leaving a verdant setting. The more southerly and higher locations are starting to dry out and the night-time temperatures start to drop. June to August is the start of the ‘peak season’– days are often warm, cloudless and game sightings continually increase. September and October the temperatures rise and can get very hot in and around Mana Pools. During this time, you’ll see some fantastic game, as the Zimbabwe’s wildlife concentrates around the limited water sources. November is a little unpredictable; it can be hot and dry but you can also see the season’s first rainfalls.
Why We Love Zimbabwe
Some of Africa’s most spectacular natural landscapes, wildlife, and breath-taking vistas, can be found in Zimbabwe. It’s infamous Victoria Falls are a great place to start, but there’s so much more to this beautiful country. On your next African safari, make sure you leave time to see some of Zimbabwe’s spectacular national parks, its unique historical sites and spend time talking with the wonderful people.
Find The Big Five
Your Zimbabwe vacation wouldn’t be complete without embarking on an African safari to find the Big Five. Unspoiled Hwange National Park lies about an hour’s drive south of Victoria Falls, and is home to lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, and a thriving elephant population. Hop in an open-top vehicle and head out on a game drive. The best times to go are dawn and dusk, when animals are more active than during the heat of midday.
Nyanga National Park, one of Zimbabwe’s oldest national parks, spans 47,000 hectares of the Eastern Highlands of Zimbabwe. The best thing about this park is how secluded it is. It’s a great spot to come to for wildebeest and zebra sightings, and also supports a population of majestic waterbuck, kudu, impala, sables, and eland. A mix of mountains, rolling green hills, and glistening rivers makes Nyanga truly unforgettable.
Across Zimbabwe’s Lake Kariba (you can get there via a short speed boat ride) is a safari experience with a twist. You’ll get the opportunity to experience what life is like in a luxury tented camp in Matusadona National Park, and, instead of journeying in an open-top vehicle, you’ll get the chance to head out on foot.
Early morning and late afternoon walks are led by a professional guide from the camp. The park is home to leopards, lions, hyenas, cheetahs, elephants, hippos, and a dizzying array of antelope species. What’s a good way to cool off after a long day on safari? You can swim and fish in Lake Kariba, where the elephants come to bathe.
The excitement continues at Mana Pools National Park. In the dry season, you’ll find herds of elephant and buffalo, as well as hippo, waterbuck, kudu, nyala, and eland coming to the banks of the Zambezi River to quench their thirst. Hot on their heels are the lions and leopards that frequent the floodplains. The Mana Pools are also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 350 species, including the collared palm-thrush and African skimmer. Jump in a canoe for another unique take on an African safari expedition to take it all in.
Zimbabwe Top Tips
Zipline over the world’s largest waterfall at Victoria Falls
Enjoy a safari on Lake Kariba and marvel at the up-close wildlife encounters
Visit Hwange National Park, which has one of the largest elephant populations in Africa
Explore the Upper Zambezi River by canoe, walking safari or boat. Looking out for the pods of hippos, crocodiles and waterbird
Pair your Zimbabwe trip with a visit to Cape Town in South Africa or Chobe National Park in Botswana
If you have an adventurous spirit try ziplining and diving with crocodiles or take a helicopter ride over Victoria Falls
A sunset cruise along the Zambezi River is not to be missed
Don’t miss Zimbabwe’s two World Heritage sites – the majestic Victoria Falls and Mana Pools
Stray from the tourist route with a trip to Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve, basking in luxury at the new Singita Pumushana Lodge
Often overlooked, Zimbabwe has so much to offer wildlife enthusiasts, and is a very safe destination to explore
Aside from the wildlife, Victoria Falls is a hub for adrenaline action and a must-experience during your time in Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe has some wonderful, traditional and rather unique lodges and camps throughout the national parks
Zimbabwe has some of the most amazing wildlife experiences available
Suggested Itineraries
Classic Zimbabwe Explorer
14 Days
Enjoy a half day canoe trail and see hippo, crocodiles and beautiful water birds from an open kayak. Enjoy a glass of wine beside Lake Kariba, watching the sun set. Have tea on the terrace at the Victoria Falls Hotel.
Victoria Falls, Luangwa & Lower Zambezi Safari
11 Days
Enjoy game drives and walking safaris in the South Luangwa. Search for big game in some of Zambia's best national parks. See the dramatic Victoria Falls. Try your luck fishing for tigerfish in the Zambezi.
