Zimbabwe – TRISTATEINTERNET

How Women Are Redefining a Zimbabwe Safari

Admin — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 04:09:58 +0000

Savannah St Claire returned from Zimbabwe with all the things you might expect a safari to leave behind: memories of the sightings, landscapes, and scale of a place that still feels genuinely wild. But what stayed with her most vividly was something else. Beyond the wildlife and the wide-open spaces, another story was unfolding – one shaped by the women who welcomed her, hosted her, guided her, and revealed a different side of safari altogether.

Savannah and the Rhino Africa Zimbabwe crew, joined by the team that touched their hearts, Image Credit: Savannah St Claire

Beyond the Sightings

Savannah, Rhino Africa’s Marketing Project Manager, travelled to Zimbabwe on one of the company’s educational tours, designed to give teams a first-hand understanding of the places they market and recommend. What she encountered wasn’t only a country that felt beautifully raw and wonderfully unscripted, but a safari experience gently shaped by women at every stage of the journey.

There was the camp host whose warmth was immediate, the all-women team whose welcome made her feel at home from the outset, the chef whose food carried both care and character, and the female guides who brought each game drive to life with depth, passion, and calm authority.

On safari, the sightings stop you in your tracks, literally and figuratively. But it’s often this kind of human connection that stays with you longest. Across Zimbabwe’s top national parks, Savannah felt the impact these women had on her experience, and what made those encounters feel so striking was that they didn’t seem incidental. They felt embedded in the experience itself – part of a wider way of thinking about safari, hospitality, and who gets to shape them.

Impact you can feel, Image Credit: African Bush Camps

Where This All Comes From

Savannah stayed in three lodges hosted by African Bush Camps, a safari company with camps across Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Zambia. In Zimbabwe, these include Somalisa Acacia, Bumi Hills, and Nyamatusi Mahogany – three distinct settings, all connected by the same underlying philosophy.

That philosophy begins with Beks Ndlovu, the Zimbabwean guide who founded African Bush Camps in 2006. His understanding of safari extended far beyond the drive route or the lodge itself. It was rooted in the knowledge that wilderness areas and neighbouring communities are inseparable, and that any lasting conservation model must work for both.

From that understanding, African Bush Camps Foundation grew alongside the camps. Its work spans education, community empowerment, and conservation, with each pillar strengthening the next. Together, they give the camps a deeper foundation, one that reaches beyond hospitality and into the social and ecological fabric of the places they operate.

And within that wider structure, one shift has become increasingly apparent: women are becoming a more visible force in the evolution of safari.

Strengthening households through steady local opportunity, Image Credit: African Bush Camps Foundation

The Foundation in Zimbabwe

In Zimbabwe, the connection between camp and community is not in the background, nor is the shift happening within it. Some of the clearest signs are found in women stepping into hospitality, leadership, guiding, and local enterprise – and in how that presence changes the feel of safari itself.

For Savannah, two of the camps brought this into especially clear focus.

Zimbabwe’s magic is in its landscapes and its people, Image Credit: Bumi Hills Safari Lodge

Somalisa Acacia, Hwange

Somalisa Acacia is set within Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe’s largest national park. The camp brings a softer, more intimate take on safari, with elephants often moving close through camp and the wider rhythm of Hwange never far away. Within that setting, women are present at almost every turn – welcoming, cooking, guiding, hosting, leading. No one announces it. You simply begin to feel it in the rhythm of the place.

“What stood out most was how comfortable I felt as a female guest. The whole team was incredibly warm and welcoming – not only the women, but the men too – but it was especially meaningful to see women in so many roles within camp life.” – Savannah.

That kind of visibility matters because it doesn’t happen by accident. It sits within a wider effort to create clearer pathways for women into the safari industry.

A space held by the gentle warmth of women in hospitality, Image Credit: Somalisa Acacia

Women in Tourism Programme

At the centre of this shift is the Women in Tourism Programme, which provides women from communities surrounding African Bush Camps a structured route into the safari industry.

The programme combines formal hospitality training with practical placements in camp, creating a clear path into roles such as hosting, operations, housekeeping, food service, and wider guest-facing work. It’s designed not only to build skills, but to turn those skills into employment. African Bush Camps Foundation says women now hold 50% of camp management roles across the countries where it operates, which gives a clear sense of where that change is heading.

“Seeing women in leadership and guest-facing positions felt eye-opening, especially in an industry that’s still largely male-dominated.” – Savannah.

At Somalisa, that presence carried through even in the smaller, more personal parts of camp life.

“I also loved chatting to Lily, the chef. A lot of the food was prepared in front of us, and she was cooking at the hotplate behind the serving area. It was lovely to see her so present and engaging as part of the guest experience.” – Savannah.

For Savannah, moments like that made the wider shift feel immediate, human, and impossible to miss.

At Somalisa Acacia, the visibility of women in key roles gave the experience added depth

Nyamatusi Mahogany, Mana Pools

At Nyamatusi Mahogany, the same philosophy plays out in a very different setting. Resting on the edge of the Zambezi in Mana Pools National Park, the camp is enrobed by riverine forest and open floodplains. It’s a place where the landscape does a lot of the talking, and where guiding naturally sits at the centre of the experience.

That is partly why what Savannah encountered here felt so significant. Before heading out on a morning drive, she met her guide’s daughter, who had started training to become a guide herself. In that conversation, the future of safari felt suddenly less abstract and far more immediate.

“It added an extra layer of meaning. Beyond the incredible wildlife and landscapes, there was something very hopeful about seeing women so visibly present in different parts of the experience.” – Savannah.

And that hope is not incidental. It points directly to the work being done to open up guiding opportunities to more women.

From river views to camp connections, Nyamatusi offered a safari shaped as much by people as by place

Female Guides Programme

That is where the Female Guides Programme carries real weight. Developed by African Bush Camps Foundation to address one of safari’s most entrenched imbalances, the programme is designed to train women for a role that has historically been dominated by men.

It combines theory, practical safari training, mentorship, job shadowing, and on-the-ground experience at African Bush Camps properties, building the kind of confidence and technical ability that guiding demands. The foundation says the goal is to develop a stronger pipeline of female safari guides in a sector where more than 90% of guides were previously male.

“It’s valuable to see a company like African Bush Camps creating space for that – not limiting women to the roles traditionally seen as more suitable or comfortable, but supporting them in building careers as guides, leaders, and specialists in their own right.” – Savannah.

Empowering women through guide training, Image Credit: African Bush Camps

Community Upliftment

Beyond the camp, some of the most tangible support sits within women-led enterprise. Groups like Thandanani and Vukani show how sewing, beadwork, and handicrafts can become a steady source of income, creating direct economic value within the communities surrounding Hwange. The point is not simply that these goods are beautifully made, though they are. It’s that they support livelihoods in a way that’s practical, local, and sustaining.

Guests staying at Somalisa can visit these projects during a community excursion to Mambanje and Dete Village, where there’s the opportunity to meet the women behind the work and buy directly from them. That exchange matters. It keeps support close to its source, and gives what might look like a small purchase a far wider reach within the local economy.

“Even in subtle ways, it changed the feeling of the experience. It made the safari feel more inclusive and balanced.” – Savannah.

Skill becomes income, and fabric becomes part of a much wider story of stability, Image Credit: African Bush Camp Foundation

What It Sets in Motion

This kind of impact rarely stays in one place. A role in camp may begin with one woman, but it seldom ends there. Income moves quickly through a household – school fees, groceries, transport, and the small pressures that begin to ease with steadier earnings.

It also changes what conservation can realistically ask of people.

In Zimbabwe, where communities and wildlife live in close proximity, conservation has to make practical sense. Tourism-linked livelihoods help make that connection real. Healthy ecosystems support safari. Safari supports jobs. Jobs support families.

That is the real force of these initiatives. Women earning, guiding, managing, sewing, and building careers within the safari industry not only shift their own prospects. They strengthen households, widen opportunity, and give conservation a stronger human foundation.

The impact of community upliftment programmes extends far beyond what the eye can see, Image Credit: African Bush Camps

What It Comes Back to

A Zimbabwe safari like this gives something back long after the stay itself. Guests come for the magnificence of the wild, and through that stay, they also have the opportunity to support the places and people that hold it all together.

Every stay at an African Bush Camps property contributes to the running of African Bush Camps Foundation, alongside conservation levies and donations. That support helps sustain the work happening around the camps, including the women increasingly shaping safari in Zimbabwe through hospitality, guiding, and local enterprise.

That’s what it comes back to. You arrive for the wilderness, and in doing so, help support the people making that wilderness viable.

“It made the safari feel not only memorable, but progressive too.” – Savannah.

Luxury travel you can feel good about, Image Credit: African Bush Camps Linyanti Expeditions

Step Into a Different Kind of Safari

What made this kind of safari so memorable for Savannah ran deeper than the setting.

It was there in the softness of camp hospitality, set against the toughness it takes to train as a guide. In the beadwork and sewing crafted in one village, and the anti-poaching and conservation work carried out in another. In a warm smile over breakfast, with an entire structure of effort, skill, and opportunity sitting just behind it.

On a trip like this, you’re not only moving through extraordinary landscapes. You’re seeing what it looks like when those landscapes are supported by people who are being given a real stake in their future.

And perhaps that’s the shift that lingers longest.

How You Can Do It

Learn more about Zimbabwe and explore the camps, regions, and experiences that shaped Savannah’s journey.
Chat to a Rhino Africa Travel Expert to start planning a safari that reflects your interests, pace, and travel style.
Discover our Zimbabwe itineraries for ideas on how to combine Victoria Falls, Mana Pools, Lake Kariba, and Hwange.
Peruse the camps if you’d like to experience the same properties and people for yourself.

Feature Image Credit: African Bush Camps Foundation

Zimbabwe Safari: Beyond the Obvious

Admin — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 04:30:37 +0000

It starts, perhaps, with something familiar: the name Victoria Falls, the mental picture of spray rising in great plumes, the idea of a dust-cloaked country with little more to offer. But when Rhino Africa Travel Expert Candice McCarthy travelled through the country to better understand the destination she sells, she found something far more layered: a country shaped by water, contrast, and safari experiences that shift meaningfully from one region to the next. It was a journey that made Zimbabwe harder to simplify, and far more rewarding to understand.

The Rhino Africa Zimbabwe group take to the skies, Image Credit: Savannah St Claire

A Familiar Name, An Unfamiliar Place

Being proudly South African, Candice thought she had Zimbabwe roughly mapped in her mind: dry, dusty, and defined above all by Victoria Falls. What she had not accounted for was how much of the country would be shaped by surprise – not in the sightings, but in the feelings. The sensations evoked by each unusual landscape, and the weird and wonderful creatures that called them home.

As Candice travelled through Victoria Falls, Mana Pools, Lake Kariba, and Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe revealed itself not as one experience, but many.

“I love that Zimbabwe is a multitude of different experiences in one.” – Candice McCarthy.

Experiencing Zimbabwe from a new perspective, Image Credit: Savannah St Claire

Following The Water

While Zimbabwe may be defined in many minds by the force of Victoria Falls, it was water elsewhere that completely altered the texture of Candice’s safari.

In Mana Pools, the Zambezi drew wildlife into close, river-led encounters; in Kariba, the lake opened out into a safari of shoreline movement, hippos, and swimming elephants. It was this water-shaped rhythm that made the journey feel so different – less about driving through the bush, and more about watching life gather at the edge of it.

Lake Kariba holds every shade of blue imaginable, Image Credit: Laura Paterson

Mana Pools: The River-Led Heart of Zimbabwe

Set along the Zambezi River, Mana Pools is still very much safari country – dry, dusty, and sun-bleached in places – but here, that familiar bush is softened by water. Floodplain and forest sit against the dust, while albida trees throw green across the landscape in a way that feels striking against the pale earth and blue of the river.

That contrast is part of what makes Mana Pools so distinctive. And it was here that Candice saw one of the most extraordinary things: an elephant standing on its hind legs to feed. This unusual sighting is part of the almost surreal Mana Pools magic. Certain bulls have learned to rise to reach the nutritious pods and leaves high in the trees, making the area famous for this behaviour.

“I’ve never seen that in my life. I’ve always wanted to see it, and it was pure goosebumps.” – Candice McCarthy.

As a guest, the whole safari experience feels slower and more intentional. And for Candice, Mana Pools showed her a softer side of Zimbabwe – one where the safari is shaped by the Zambezi itself.

Elephants stand on their hind legs in Mana Pools

Lake Kariba: The Surprise Few Travellers Expect

Lake Kariba brings with it another version of Zimbabwe entirely. Where Mana Pools feels intimate and riverbound, Kariba opens everything out. The shoreline stretches, the horizon loosens, and safari turns into a water-based dimension.

Here, you can drift across the lake by boat as elephants feed at the water’s edge, watch hippos surface and disappear in the shallows, or move quietly through channels where birdlife and shoreline movement heighten your attention. The pace is slower and more suspended than a classic game drive.

For Candice, that difference came into focus when she watched an elephant move deeper and deeper into the lake until only its trunk remained above the surface, lifted like a submarine, before it emerged again on the opposite bank. That moment did more than astonish her. It turned the shoreline into one of the most dynamic parts of the safari.

Zimbabwe is one of the few places where elephants swim

The Classic Pulse of Safari

If Mana Pools and Lake Kariba moved like water, Hwange National Park feels grounded, like the bush drawing itself back into sharper lines.

The landscape tightens. The lushness falls away. In its place comes teak woodland, mopane, grassland, dust, and the dry hush of a place where everything seems to be waiting for something. Here, safari feels more charged.

Zimbabwe’s largest national park is known for its vast elephant herds and large predator presence, all unfolding in a steady, classic game-viewing rhythm. It’s akin to a theatre, one that gathers around waterholes and spreads out between hardy foliage. Spoor thickens in the mud. Elephants arrive in numbers. Lions are never far from the logic of thirst.

That is what Candice enjoyed most – not as a repeat, but as a revelation – the next layer, the cycle completed.

Candice keeping it cool with the big cats of Hwange National Park, Image Credit: Savannah St Claire

The Places That Framed the Wild

Of course, the perfect safari is never complete without the right accommodation. These spaces become your anchor, the rooted sanctuary you return to that frames your experience. Two camps in particular stood out for Candice: Kariba’s stillness at Bumi Hills, and the close-up wildlife drama of Somalisa Acacia Camp.

The elephants visiting Somalisa Camp, Image Credit: Savannah St Claire

A View Worth Falling Silent For

At Bumi Hills Safari Lodge, above Lake Kariba, the lake’s magnitude stood out. Candice described the location of the lodge as a “pinch me moment”, and it’s easy to understand why.

Here, bliss came wrapped in stillness: the green canopy pressing close around camp, the pool reaching out towards the blue of Lake Kariba, the wide deck drawing the eye straight to the horizon, then seemingly spilling into it. Then there’s that palpable hush that settles from the sheer beauty of a space.

With the lake lying below like another world entirely, the lodge seemed built not to compete with it, but to complement it.

A breathtaking view from every angle, Image Credit: Bumi Hills Safari Lodge

When Elephants Came to Camp

And from the water into the grasslands, Hwange’s Somalisa Acacia Camp brought Zimbabwe back into a thrillingly close perspective.

This intimate tented camp is set behind a bustling watering hole, with the main deck providing an uninterrupted open view and the nearby hide an intimate one. Canvas, wood, and open space keep the experience rooted in the landscape, so that wildlife becomes part of the rhythm of camp itself.

Here, one of the defining features is the waterhole just in front of the camp. And yet again, Candice experienced another memorable image: elephants arriving at camp, drinking and playing right in front of her as she sipped her morning coffee.

“A highlight of the whole trip was the elephant sightings; they were just incredible.” – Candice McCarthy.

That’s something you can’t stage or emulate. It only occurs when the wild leads, and you’re in a position to witness it in all its glory. Now that is a true Zimbabwe safari.

A sighting that will stay in Candice’s memory forever, Image Credit: Savannah St Claire

The Kindness That Lingered

For all the wildlife and scenery, some of Candice’s strongest memories of Zimbabwe were shaped by people. At Somalisa, what stayed with her was the atmosphere the staff created around her. There was a lightness to it, an ease. People were genuinely happy to have guests there, and that feeling settled over everything. Nothing felt forced. Nothing felt rehearsed. It just felt warm.

Evenings seemed to open people up. Conversations flowed without much effort, and Candice found herself speaking to people she might never have met in any other setting, yet somehow it all felt natural. That sense of welcome became part of the destination itself. It made the camp feel comfortable and deeply human. And when the more nitty-gritty details of a journey begin to blur, that is often what remains most clearly: the feeling of having been received with real kindness.

For Candice, Zimbabwe left that behind not just sights and landscapes, but connection.

“The team’s genuine warmth and kindness was a true experience of care and connection that enhanced every wildlife encounter and made us feel completely at home.” – Candice McCarthy.

A kindness you carry with you long after you leave, Image Credit: Savannah St Claire

A Safari With a Different Pulse

There was one word Candice kept coming back to: raw.

“When it comes to safari experiences, Zimbabwe is a lot more RAW.” – Candice McCarthy.

Here, Candice is not talking about the usual kind of comparison of quality, quantity or ranking one experience against another. Instead, she was talking about sensations. Rhythm.

Zimbabwe felt different. Wilder in mood. More atmospheric. Less eager to explain itself and not especially interested in what you make of it. It’s doing what it does best, and you’re simply there to witness it.

The sightings still mattered, of course, but they were folded into something broader: the sensation of being in a landscape that was not performing for you. It morphs and materialises into something unknown, unusual, and utterly unforgettable, while remaining unmistakably Zimbabwean.

And it made Candice pay attention in a different way.

Candice snapping the Zimbabwe wilderness on a safari walk, Image Credit: Savannah St Claire

Experience the Many Shades of Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls will always draw attention. But beyond it lies something more layered: a safari destination shaped by water, wildlife, contrast, and atmosphere. One where the experience shifts meaningfully from region to region. One where the rawness Candice felt was not a lack of something, but instead a depth to everything.

How You Can Do It

If Zimbabwe has stirred something in you, the good news is that this journey is entirely possible to recreate – and tailor to your travel style. Whether you want to pair Victoria Falls with the river-led magic of Mana Pools, the wide-open stillness of Lake Kariba, or the classic game viewing of Hwange, our Travel Experts can curate the right version of Zimbabwe for you.

Learn more about Zimbabwe and explore our destination guides, lodges, and itineraries to see what this remarkable country could look like for you.

Or, if you’re ready to start planning your own Zimbabwe safari, speak to a Rhino Africa Travel Expert today.

Feature Image Credit: Savannah St Claire

Zimbabwe’s Top National Parks

Admin — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 04:13:31 +0000

Zimbabwe does the iconic safari exceptionally well. But what guests really fall in love with once they’ve been here is the variety. One moment you’re watching elephants shuffle between waterholes under a big, pale sky; the next, you’re walking among granite hills tracking rhino. And then, just when you think you’ve seen it all, you witness the world’s largest waterfall plummeting before your eyes. With so many distinct regions, the fun is in discovering which corner of Zimbabwe best fits your travel style. Here’s a clear run-through of the country’s top national parks and safari areas – and what each one is best known for.

Marvel at the colours of a Zimbabwean sunset

Quick Pick: Which National Park Suits You Best?

Zimbabwe is stitched together by distinct landscapes, wildlife, and experiences, and it’s wonderfully straightforward to explore once you’ve got the essentials covered. So before we dive into the details, here’s a quick snapshot of Zimbabwe’s national parks – each with its own mood, pace, and standout moments:

Best All-Round Safari: Hwange National Park (classic game drives, elephants, predators)
Best for Walking and Canoeing: Mana Pools National Park (river immersion, proximity, wild atmosphere)
Best for Rhino, Landscapes, and Culture: Matobo National Park (granite hills, rock art, tracking rhino on foot)
Best Bucket-List: Victoria Falls (spectacle, adventure, and river time)

You can dip into just one, build a trip around the national parks that suit you best, weave Zimbabwe into a wider itinerary, or link them all together in one seamless journey.

And with that, let’s take a closer look at each one.

Zimbabwe is renowned for its many natural attractions, vibrant culture, and abundant wildlife

Hwange National Park

Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe’s biggest, made up of a vast sweep of sandveld, grassland, and teak and mopane woodland that shifts as you move through it. It’s recognised as one of the best places in Africa to see elephants, with lions, leopards, buffalo, and African wild dogs in notably strong numbers, and more than 400 bird species flitting through the tree canopies.

Why Our Guests Love Hwange

Hwange is the safari classic – spacious and wildlife-rich. In the dry months, waterholes become the meeting point for the bush. Quiet at first, it then suddenly becomes alive with movement, dusted in soft light and punctuated by the low rumble of elephant herds arriving to drink.

Best For

First-time safari-goers who want strong game viewing
Elephant lovers and photographers (especially around waterholes and hides)
Those who enjoy the game-drive rhythm with fireside evenings

Hwange National Park is renowned for its abundant elephant herds

Where to Stay – Somalisa Camp

Tented living doesn’t get much better than this – glamorous, grounded, and beautifully in tune with the wild. Somalisa Camp offers both a family-friendly and an adults-only option (sleep-out experience), making it easy to match the mood of your trip.

Set beside a busy waterhole, wildlife viewing is woven into everyday moments, from coffee on your deck to G&T sundowners. Inside, the tents strike that rare balance of thoughtful design and creature comforts, with a level of luxury that still feels true to the authentic safari experience.

Step into an otherworldly wilderness setting, Image Credit: Somalisa Camp

Mana Pools National Park

Mana Pools National Park lies in Zimbabwe’s far north, stretched along the lower Zambezi River on the border with Zambia. It’s a place of riverine forest and open floodplains, where knotted ana trees (an acacia native to the area) cast dappled shade over sandy banks and wildlife paths. The signature Mana Pools sightings include elephants rising onto their hind legs to browse high branches, hippos and crocodiles holding the channels, and a steady cast of plains game and predators drawn to the river’s edge.

Why Our Guests Love Mana Pools

What makes Mana Pools different is the way you experience it. This is a national park that rewards you for slowing down: intentional exploration on foot, serene canoe drifts when conditions allow, and time to simply sit and watch the riverbank change throughout the day. It’s a more intimate, more participatory safari.

Best For

Those who want an immersive safari beyond vehicle-only game drives
Walking and canoeing enthusiasts (depending on conditions)
Anyone chasing atmosphere as much as sightings

Where gentle giants defy gravity

Where to Stay – Nyamatusi Mahogany Camp

Nyamatusi Mahogany is one of those Mana Pools camps that earns loyalty – we have guests who return year after year, and it’s easy to see why. The style is understated and beautifully on point: warm wooden finishes, clean lines, and wide sliding doors that open the camp to the bush.

Its riverbank setting is a major part of the magic. You’re perfectly placed for a mix of water and land activities, with the potential for African wild dog sightings in the area. It’s refined, immersive, and exactly the kind of camp that makes you feel like you’re truly in Mana Pools.

Submerge yourself in Mana Pool magic, Image Credit: Nyamatusi Mahogany Camp

Matobo National Park

Matobo National Park is Zimbabwe at its most unexpected: a landscape of sculpted granite hills, balancing boulders, and hidden valleys that feel ancient in the way they hold silence and take up space. It’s a national park for those who love a safari where stories are written into every experience, from the dramatic scenery and cultural heritage to some of the country’s most memorable tracking experiences.

Why Our Guests Love Matobo

Simply because it’s different. Matobo is all about feeling the place: warm rock under your hand, cool shade in narrow clefts, and wide views that make you pause. And then there’s the thrill of tracking, following signs on foot with expert guides who read the landscape like a page.

Best For

Rhino-focused travellers (tracking on foot is often the highlight)
Photographers who love landscapes and texture as much as wildlife
History- and culture-curious travellers (Matobo is rich in heritage and rock art)

Zimbabwe is best known for its many natural attractions, rich culture and abundant wildlife

Where to Stay – Khayelitshe House

Set on a granite-studded slope, Khayelitshe House is an exclusive-use villa that mirrors Matobo’s rugged beauty. Adorning the interior are rustic textures, leather sofas, stone and metal finishes, and beautiful local stonework throughout. Step outside and you’re in boulder country, with giant granite formations to explore on your doorstep.

With no other guests, the experience is entirely yours, complete with a private guide, chef, and butler. Days are shaped around what you love most: tracking white rhino on foot, hiking to Rhodes’ Grave for sweeping views, visiting ancient rock art sites, and exploring Khami Ruins – all as half-day outings tailored to your pace and interests.

Find comfort and style in between geological wonders, Image Credit: Khayelitshe House

Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls isn’t only a spectacle but a full-body reset: spray on your skin and thunder in your chest. From Zimbabwe’s side, you can see 75% of the Falls, with 16 viewpoints. For the adventure-prone, it also brings the fun stuff, including a white-water rafting expedition and thrilling helicopter flights over the falls for a life-changing perspective.

Why Our Guests Love Victoria Falls

It perfectly complements your safari – bright, dramatic, and celebratory. It also suits almost every travel style: keep it relaxed with viewpoints and river cruises, or make it the adrenaline chapter of your itinerary.

Best For

First-time African travellers who want a safari and iconic sightseeing
Couples and celebration trips (an unbeatable finale)
Families and multigenerational groups

Victoria Falls is all its cascading glory

Where to Stay – Victoria Falls River Lodge

Cradling the Zambezi River banks, Victoria Falls River Lodge is polished and perfectly in tune with its setting. The décor emulates the river’s natural ebb and flow, creating a space that’s crisp and contemporary, yet unmistakably safari.

Wooden walkways weave between the trees, connecting the suites to the main lodge. Private plunge pools are positioned for those pinch-me moments, like watching elephants wander down to drink right in front of you. Best of all, you’re close enough to dip in and out to see Victoria Falls with ease, while still returning to a private sanctuary far from the bustle.

Going with the Zambezi flow has never been easier, Image Credit: Victoria Falls River Lodge

From Wish List To Wilderness

Zimbabwe’s top national parks shine brightest when they’re combined thoughtfully – the right pacing at the right camps, with seamless logistics between them. Share your travel dates with us, and we’ll tailor a Zimbabwe itinerary that feels effortless from the first transfer to the final sundowner.

Feature Image Credit: The Hide Safari Camp

6 Reasons Why a Zimbabwe Safari Will Take You by Surprise

Admin — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 04:50:18 +0000

A Zimbabwean safari is the kind of well-known destination that still manages to be underestimated. The first time I visited Zimbabwe, I thought I knew what to expect. But I left with my expectations well and truly exceeded. So if you’re asking, “Is a Zimbabwe safari worth it?” or “Why travel to Zimbabwe?”, here’s my honest answer: it sets a new benchmark for what a safari can feel like. And you don’t have to take my word for it. I compared notes with a few of our Travel Experts who’ve been there too – and here’s why Zimbabwe has all of us completely hooked.

Zimbabwe’s setting makes for an unforgettable safari, Image Credit: Changa Safari Lodge

1. Victoria Falls Is Only One of Many Highlights

Let’s address the obvious: seeing Victoria Falls is, of course, an outrageously special experience – mist on your skin, thunder in your chest, and that weird little laugh you do when your brain can’t file what it’s seeing. But Zimbabwe isn’t merely “the waterfall destination” with a safari tacked on. It’s a full safari country with real range.

Zimbabwe plays like a film that refuses to stick to one genre, and that’s a beautiful thing. One chapter is wide skies, dust, and waterholes that turn the bush into a theatre. Another is river-light and close encounters where the line between “you” and “wild” feels pleasantly thin. Then it shifts again with granite hills and some of Africa’s most ancient rock art.

My advice? Do the bush first. Let the wild silence sink in, then arrive at the Falls for the grandest finale. But don’t take just my word for it. Rhino Africa Travel Expert Samantha Myburgh has many wonderful words on her experience and why she loves recommending it to clients, too.

“Every time I’ve been to Zimbabwe, regardless of the hotel, camp, or destination I stayed at, it has always delivered something amazing.” – Sam Myburgh.

Why It Surprises

People come to see the famous Victoria Falls and end up discovering one of Africa’s greatest safari experiences (with far more variety than they expected).

Enjoy a drink at The Lookout Café as you admire the views, Image Credit: Old Drift Lodge

2. Zimbabwe Is Elephant Country

If you’ve mentally assigned “elephant country” to somewhere else, Zimbabwe has a polite but firm correction for you. In places like Hwange National Park, elephants are the main cast. They move through camps, gather at waterholes, and turn even the most mundane moments into a mystical memory.

Case in point: one of the most memorable Hwange elephant sightings I’ve heard came from our Sam – and it didn’t happen on a game drive. It happened at Somalisa Camp, while Sam was in the pool.

“The elephants would come every day just to drink out of the swimming pool. Young, old, big, small, all the ellies would drink out of this pool. There were like six of us just sitting there watching, taking photos, hearing the slurping. It was insane, absolutely insane.” – Sam Myburgh.

And it wasn’t a once-off. Thirsty elephants became such regular visitors to Somalisa’s outdoor pool that a second pool had to be built – reserved solely for humans. That’s Zimbabwe in a nutshell: elephants just wander straight into the middle of your day and steal the scene.

Why It Surprises

Most guests associate “elephant country” with a couple of headline destinations, so Zimbabwe often gets underestimated until you’re there and see the abundance with your own eyes.

Watch herds of elephants pass by as you sit relaxing on the deck at Somalisa Camp, Image Credit: Janine Gous

3. The Bush Gets Weird (In The Best Way)

Zimbabwe is where you start seeing the unusual stuff. Elephants are majestic, yes. But in Mana Pools, they’re also unexpectedly acrobatic, rising onto their hind legs to reach high branches. They do it for a simple reason: food. In the dry months, when the lower browse is picked clean, they lift themselves up to reach fresh leaves and seed pods in the trees, steadying their weight with their trunks as they feed.

And then there are the elusive creatures – the ones safari-goers quietly dream about and rarely expect to see properly. Like African wild dogs. Sam had one of those once-in-a-lifetime encounters in Mana Pools, and it wasn’t from a vehicle surrounded by engines and camera shutters. It was on foot, in total silence.

“We were doing a safari walk, and we happened to see some African wild dogs. We crouched down, sat there, and watched them for almost an hour, just interacting. And because they were so close (they were literally on the other side of a dry riverbed), we didn’t bother them, and they didn’t bother us. There was no one around us. No vehicles, no noise, no anything, just us on foot and these animals, and it was the most incredible sighting.” – Sam Myburgh.

Why It Surprises

Zimbabwe delivers the kind of sightings that feel, and really are, raw and unscripted: unusual behaviour, intimate moments, and wildlife most people assume they’ll only ever see on National Geographic.

Expect the unexpected when on a Zimbabwean safari, Image Credit: Wilderness Ruckomechi

4. The Guiding Is Ridiculously Good

I could tell within the first day in Zimbabwe that the guiding is properly professional. Part of the reason is structural, as many Zimbabwean guides go through a notoriously rigorous, multi-year qualification route, built around tough theory exams and long, hands-on apprenticeships.

What that looks like in the real world is that your guide builds the sighting. They’ll read a timeline in the sand and track with purpose – sometimes starting at a waterhole and following signs until you’ve uncovered the crux of the coded narrative. This is also why Zimbabwe shines for walking safaris. Guides are trained to interpret terrain, bird calls, and wildlife behaviour with a calm confidence that makes heading out on foot both thrilling and safe.

And because many wilderness areas still feel refreshingly uncrowded, you get plenty of time for the guide to explain the story behind the scene and let the moment unfold.

“You can get out of the vehicle, do some proper walking, and get up close to nature” – Sam Myburgh.

Why It Surprises

Many guests assume guiding is broadly similar across Africa. Zimbabwe is where you realise it’s a craft that makes all the difference to your safari experience.

A country renowned for its expert guiding and walking safaris, Image Credit: Wilderness Ruckomechi

5. The Rare Luxury of Space

I’ve done the safari traffic jam. Sitting behind a convoy of game drive vehicles, cameras snapping furiously, faces stacked, everyone craning for the same angle. It takes the natural out of nature, and you feel like you’re in a predetermined setting instead of a wild one.

Zimbabwe is where that script fell apart. I remember driving a rugged, empty road with no other vehicles in sight – just us and the feeling that anything could happen. When we stopped, it wasn’t because a line had formed. It was because the bush gave us a reason to.

“You don’t tend to fight for sightings with other guests. You can go a whole game drive without seeing another vehicle.” – Sam Myburgh.

That’s the luxury here: space. Sightings feel unfiltered and unhurried, so you can actually watch the scene breathe – animals settling, and the story revealing itself in real time.

Why It Surprises

People associate top safari countries with crowds and intensity. Zimbabwe counters this with a calm setting.

Soak in the wonderful luxury of space, Image Credit: Changa Safari Lodge

6. Culture And History Add Serious Depth

The biggest surprise for me was that, despite it being my first time in Zimbabwe, it somehow felt like a homecoming. And this was entirely because of the people. There’s an ease to the warmth here that doesn’t feel performative, but one that shows up naturally and stays with you.

Then there’s the history, running quietly beneath the safari. In Matobo, the granite hills feel ancient, and the rock art shifts your sense of time; a reminder that this landscape has been witnessed, lived in, and revered for far longer than any modern itinerary.

That’s what makes Zimbabwe more than a holiday. The safari lands differently because it’s held by something deeper – the feeling that you’ve stepped into a place with real meaning, leaving you with more than photographs.

“It’s not inauthentic, it’s not overhyped – it’s real. It’s calming, and it speaks to you.” – Sam Myburgh.

Why It Surprises

You might assume Zimbabwe is purely a nature destination. It’s not – it’s a country with a story, and you feel it everywhere.

Magic is palpable at every turn, Image Credit Wilderness Ruckomechi

A Simple Way To Choose Your Zimbabwe Safari

If you’re trying to shape the trip, here’s the easiest approach (and the one we use when we’re building itineraries):

Classic big-game feel and waterhole action: start with Hwange National Park
River immersion and iconic elephant behaviour: add Mana Pools National Park
Landscapes, heritage, and rhino tracking energy: weave in Matobo National Park
A show-stopping finale: finish at Victoria Falls

Once you’ve got a few Zimbabwe travel essentials under your belt, you can relax into the fun part, and the country really shines.

Experience Zimbabwe on wheels, on foot, or on water, Image Credit: Wilderness Ruckomechi

Let Zimbabwe Steal Your Heart

If Zimbabwe is competing with a more “popular” safari country in your mind, I get it – I had that same mental shortlist. Then I went. And now Zimbabwe is one of the first destinations I recommend when someone says “safari”.

Keen to experience it yourself? There’s no time like the present. Get in touch with us, and we’ll map out a Zimbabwe safari tailored to your timing, budget, and travel style.

5 Things to Know When Travelling to Zimbabwe

Admin — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 04:09:31 +0000

Zimbabwe holds a raw, riveting kind of wilderness magic. It delivers some of the continent’s most cinematic moments: elephants rearing onto their hind legs in Mana Pools, the thunderous curtain of Victoria Falls, and the skies echoing with indigenous bird song. And while it’s a safari classic for good reason, it still surprises with a sense of space and authenticity that’s getting harder to find. So if you want to behold the wonders yourself, consider this your clear starting point – travel tips for Zimbabwe that actually matter for a seamless, luxury safari experience.

Helicopter experience over Victoria Falls, Image Credit: Flight of the Angels

1. When is the Best Time To Visit Zimbabwe?

Zimbabwe’s seasons shape the experience, and depending on what kind of safari you’re after, both the dry and the green season have magic abound. Water flows differ between parks, but broadly: dry = drama and visibility; green = vibrancy and calm.

Dry Season (May–October)

The most popular window for safari:

Prime game viewing: wildlife congregates around shrinking water sources, so sightings feel concentrated.
Clearer light and fewer rains: ideal for photography.
Victoria Falls lower water levels: viewpoints are easier to access, and the gorge details are sharper.
Safer conditions for activities: conditions are safe enough for white-water rafting to resume.

Average winter temperatures: 7°C to 29°C

Green Season (November–April)

This is Zimbabwe’s softer side:

Lush, dramatic landscapes: rain brings colour and new life.
Increased rains: the falls are in full force, showcasing their most dramatic cascade.
Fewer visitors: more space around sightings and lodges.
Birding peak: migratory and resident species are at their most prolific.

Average summer temperatures: 17°C to 31°C

Victoria Falls, the world’s largest sheet of falling water

2. Do I Need a Visa?

In most cases, yes – but it’s straightforward and handled on arrival.

Here’s what to know before travelling to Zimbabwe:

Visa on arrival: Many nationalities (including UK, US, EU, Australian, and Canadian passport holders) can obtain a visa at major entry points like Victoria Falls Airport and Harare International Airport.
Payment: Visa fees are typically payable in USD cash, so carry small, clean notes.
Passport validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.
Blank pages: You’ll need a minimum of two blank pages in your passport.

To make your trip smoother than silk, it’s highly recommended that you snag an eVisa before you even touch down. This nifty trick helps cut down those pesky lines and shaves off some airport wait time. Your adventure awaits, so don’t let bureaucracy cramp your style.

(Pssst – We provide up-to-date entry guidance before departure, so you arrive prepared).

For a smooth journey without any “grunts” and gripes, apply for an e-Visa

3. How Do You Travel to Zimbabwe?

Zimbabwe feels remote in the best way, but that doesn’t mean it’s complicated to get to. With the right planning, it’s logistically seamless, and the journey itself becomes part of the pleasure.

Most travellers arrive via Johannesburg, which remains the most efficient gateway, or Nairobi if you’re linking East Africa with the south. There are also direct regional flights into Victoria Falls Airport (VFA), a compact, well-run arrival point that gets you from runway to river remarkably quickly.

For guests who value privacy and flexibility, private charter options can knit together a multi-stop itinerary without the usual airport shuffle.

Once you’re in Zimbabwe, travel is designed around comfort and access. Think:

Light aircraft transfers to places like Hwange and Mana Pools
Private road transfers with someone else doing the driving (and the timing)
Boat transfers for properties such as Victoria Falls River Lodge – a calm, river-first arrival
Helicopter flights over the Falls, when you want the scenic route taken seriously

The end result? Wilderness without the worry.

Victoria Falls is shared and situated between Zambia and Zimbabwe

4. What About Money, Connectivity, & Infrastructure?

Let’s clear up the practical side, because it’s much easier than it sounds.

Currency

The US dollar is widely used, particularly in tourism areas. Lodges, safari camps, and most high-end properties accept major credit cards, but it’s wise to travel with small USD denominations for visas, tips, and incidental expenses. Note that ATMs and cash withdrawals are not widely available in Zimbabwe.

Connectivity

Most luxury lodges offer Wi-Fi in main areas and often in rooms, though speeds can vary depending on location. You’ll be able to send messages and check emails, but just don’t expect back-to-back video calls (and truthfully, that’s part of the appeal).

Infrastructure

Zimbabwe’s safari regions are well-established and professionally run. Airports are small but efficient, transfers are coordinated, and camps operate smoothly behind the scenes. You’re off-grid by design, not by dysfunction.

In a canoe, on foot, or by wheel – there are so many ways to explore Zimbabwe, Image credit: Vundu Camp

5. Is It Safe To Travel to Zimbabwe?

Yes, and for most luxury travellers, it feels refreshingly straightforward.

Popular destinations, like Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, and Mana Pools, are well-established tourism regions, run by experienced teams who do this every day. Lodges and guides take safety seriously, and the rhythm of a safari here is calm and well-managed: planned transfers, clear communication, and people who know the ground.

Zimbabwe’s “wild” is exactly where you want it – in the landscapes and the wildlife, not in the logistics. And with everything arranged properly (which is what we do), you can focus on the good part: the Falls thundering in the distance, elephants on the move, and that deep exhale that comes when you realise you’re in capable hands.

Hwange is arguably one of Africa’s very best game-viewing destinations, Image Credit: Somalisa Camp

Why Travellers Love Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is loved for the way it feels: beautifully welcoming with wide-open wilderness, big wildlife moments, and that unmistakable sense of being somewhere truly wild. It’s a destination that delivers icons without losing its soul.

A big part of that comes down to the guiding. Zimbabwe has a strong guiding culture, and many guides are renowned for their ability to read the bush – interpreting tracks, behaviour, and the small details that turn a game drive into a story. It’s not just about what you see; it’s how deeply you experience it.

And because the country offers such a satisfying mix, from Hwange National Park’s big game to Mana Pool’s otherworldly sightings, it’s worth knowing which of Zimbabwe’s parks match your travel style.

Elephants defy gravity in Mana Pools

Are You Ready to Travel to Zimbabwe?

That’s the inside track on Zimbabwe – the parts that matter, minus the noise. If you’d like help shaping it properly (right season, right camps, smooth transfers), speak to our Travel Experts. We’ll take care of the logistics so you can arrive calm and travel well.

Which Is the Best Side of Victoria Falls? Zimbabwe vs. Zambia

Admin — Tue, 26 Aug 2025 04:28:00 +0000

So you’re asking which is the best side of Victoria Falls – Zimbabwe or Zambia? Well, before I answer that, I’ve got a question for you: what is it you’re looking for? Because if there’s one thing I’ve learned from years of obsessively chasing waterfalls (and ignoring TLC), it’s that Victoria Falls isn’t a one-side-fits-all experience. It’s two countries. Two perspectives. And two wildly different ways to soak up one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World.

Victoria Falls is where gravity gets gutsy and the mist wins

The Smoke That Thunders

Locals call it Mosi-oa-Tunya (“the Smoke that Thunders”), and when you’re standing near the edge with your clothes clinging to your skin and your hair doing strange things in the mist, the name makes perfect sense. The Falls hurl around 33,000 cubic feet of water over the edge every second, which is less “gentle cascade” and more “hydrological mic drop”.

Back in 1855, Scottish explorer David Livingstone laid eyes on Victoria Falls for the first time, and promptly ran out of adjectives. His take?

“No one can imagine the beauty of the view from anything witnessed in England. It had never been seen before by European eyes; but scenes so lovely must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight.”

Whether or not the angels are still regulars, the place hasn’t lost its touch. Now: Zim or Zam? Choose wisely. Or don’t. But I’ve done both. You should, too.

When the best view needs rotor blades and altitude, Image Credit: Flight of the Angels

So, Where Is Victoria Falls, Exactly?

Right on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, fed by the mighty Zambezi River, and falling hard enough to make your eyeballs vibrate. At roughly 1.7 kilometres wide and over 100 metres high, Victoria Falls is one of the largest sheets of falling water on the planet. During peak flow, it hurls out up to 500 million litres per minute, which is about as subtle as it sounds.

A natural boundary line with no off switch, Image Credit: Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma

Which Side of Victoria Falls Is Best? Quick Answer

Zimbabwe gives you the widest views, with around 75% of the Falls, year-round visibility, and easy walking access from most hotels in the town. The vibe is lively, and it pairs beautifully with classic safaris in Hwange or Mana Pools.

On the other hand, Zambia trades width for wildness, with fewer crowds and bolder perspectives. It puts you on the waterfall, with seasonal access to Devil’s Pool and Livingstone Island. Livingstone town is quieter, more local, and ideal if you’re heading to South Luangwa or the Lower Zambezi for world-class walking safaris.

Want both? You should. It’s one of the few places where border-hopping makes the experience better. But let’s not pretend this is a one-paragraph decision. There’s nuance. So let’s unpack the juicy bits.

When travel advice comes with thunder in stereo, Image Credit: Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma

Victoria Falls on the Zimbabwe Side

This is the iconic, “thundering mist and rainbows” side of Victoria Falls. With more viewpoints, year-round water flow, and easy access from Victoria Falls Town. Zimbabwe is where you go for that postcard shot: clear views, reliable flow, no seasonal diva behaviour.

What to Expect

16 Viewpoints inside Victoria Falls National Park, with well-maintained footpaths through lush rainforest
Epic views of the Main Falls, Devil’s Cataract, Horseshoe Falls, and Rainbow Falls
Best side for photography – misty mornings, golden hours, and double rainbows
The lively town of Victoria Falls has markets, bars, and brilliant restaurants

Where rainbows form and camera rolls fill up fast

Adventure? Oh Yes…

White-water rafting on the Zambezi (not for the faint-hearted)
Bungee jumping from the Victoria Falls Bridge (111m of pure “why did I say yes to this?”)
Canopy tours, ziplining, gorge swinging, helicopter flips and microlight flights (the list goes on!)

When to Go

For the best views, May to November (dry season, low mist = clear panoramas)
Still good in the rainy season, December to April, but expect mist and slick footpaths

Safaris and Add-ons

Combine with Hwange National Park, Mana Pools, or a detour to Lake Kariba

When the Zambezi decides to test your commitment, Image Credit: Wild Horizons

Victoria Falls on the Zambia Side

If the Zimbabwe side is about scale and spectacle, the Zambia side is about proximity and perspective. You’re not just looking at the Falls, you’re on the edge of them.

What to Expect

That infamous Devil’s Pool on the very edge of the Falls, open seasonally (open August to December, dry season only), and not something you stumble into by accident
Go on a seasonal boat ride that takes you to the small Livingstone Island perched in the Falls themselves – one of the few ways to say you’ve quite literally stood inside a Natural Wonder
Fewer viewpoints, more immersion. Zambia’s angles are limited, but when the water’s low, this side of Victoria puts you in the splash zone, not just admiring it from across the gorge
Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park nearby (good for a sneaky half-day game drive)

Proof that “on the edge” can be literal, Image Credit: Livingstone Island

Vibe Check

Quieter, more romantic, a little wild around the edges
Lodges often feel more remote – expect Zambezi riverside retreats and that “away from it all” feeling

When to Go

Best time for Devil’s Pool and Livingstone Island: August to December (low water)
High-water months, February to May, can limit visibility and shut down access to the edge experiences

Safaris and Add-ons

Pair with South Luangwa or Lower Zambezi National Park for some of Africa’s best walking safaris

This is what flirting with gravity looks like

When to Visit: Month-by-Month Breakdown

Victoria Falls is a performer that changes with the seasons – roaring into life in high water, then revealing hidden rockfaces and private pools as it retreats. Here’s how each side shapes up across the year.

Month	Zimbabwe	Zambia
Jan – Feb	Full flood season; iconic mist, some viewpoints drenched but open	High water; Livingstone Island and Devil’s Pool closed; views often obscured
Mar – Apr	Falls at full volume; intense mist; best for sensation, not photos	Access still limited; edge experiences remain closed
May	Water begins to recede; clearer views return	Livingstone Island may reopen mid to late May, depending on flow
Jun – Jul	Excellent visibility; dry season begins; peak safari season is underway	Devil’s Pool still closed, but island tours may resume
Aug	Minimal spray, crisp vistas – prime photography window.	Devil’s Pool opens (depending on flow); best combo of visibility + access
Sep – Oct	Lowest flow exposes gorge and rock features; great birding and heli-flights	Best time for edge experiences; river is low, views are clearest
Nov	Water begins rising; a mix of visibility and spray	Last chance for Devil’s Pool and Island tours before they close late November
Dec	Rain returns; water levels rise quickly; greenery everywhere	Most seasonal activities closed; higher water limits access

A wide-angle look at full-throttle majesty

FAQ: You Asked, We Answered

I’ve heard it all. From “Will I get wet?” (yes) to “Can I swim on the edge of the waterfall?” (also yes, but with a guide, nerves of steel, and excellent timing). Below are the most FAQs travellers ask before heading to Victoria Falls.

Question	Answer
Is it better to stay in Zimbabwe or Zambia for Victoria Falls?	Zimbabwe offers wider views and year-round access. Zambia is better for Devil’s Pool and a quieter setting. If you can, do both.
Where is the best view of Victoria Falls – Zimbabwe or Zambia?	Zimbabwe. You’ll see more of the Falls, more of the time.
Is Devil’s Pool safe?	Yes, in season and with a licensed guide. It looks scarier than it is.
How many days should I spend at Victoria Falls?	Two to three nights is perfect. Add an extra day or two if you’re including a safari or both countries.
Can I cross the border easily?	Yes. With a KAZA UniVisa, it’s straightforward – ideal for staying on one side but exploring both.

Because even the journey to the Falls turns heads

Ready to Choose Your Side (Or Both)?

Our Travel Experts can help you plan the perfect itinerary, whether you want wide-angle views, edge-of-the-earth drama, or the bragging rights of doing both sides of the story. Let’s make it happen.

Interested in Combining the Best of Zimbabwe and Zambia?

Check out our 11-day Walk with the Elephants on Safari Adventure Tour.

Cascade into Pure Bliss with The 12 Best Lodges in Victoria Falls

Admin — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 04:26:00 +0000

We could gush (get it?) about the jaw-dropping Victoria Falls until the hippos come home, but let’s be real – you’ve got to see this African wonder for yourself. And why should you stay at any other place but the best lodges in Victoria Falls? Some of Africa’s most sought-after classic hotels and lodges can be found under the spray of the world’s largest sheet of falling water. Here are our 12 top picks, in no particular order – because, like the falls, they all bring their own thunder!

The Victoria Falls presents a spectacular sight of awe-inspiring beauty

1. Victoria Falls Hotel

Location: Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls National Park (10-minute walk from Victoria Falls)

Let’s start with a little bit of historic elegance. Established in 1904, The Victoria Falls Hotel was the first hotel built in these parts and is set in the Victoria Falls National Park. It even has a private path leading directly to the entrance gate of Victoria Falls. With epic views of the Victoria Falls Bridge, gorges below and spray from the waterfalls, the grand dame of Victoria Falls is steeped in history and plenty of colonial grandeur.

A hotel boasting a history dating back to 1904 with patrons including the British royal family, Image Credit: Victoria Falls Hotel

The rooms and suites are decorated in a style that cleverly mingles a bygone age with today’s modern conveniences. Meanwhile, the corridors reflect the past glories of the Empire, with exquisite lounges wrapping you in seclusion and serenity. For some elegant entertainment, the Livingstone Room specialises in silver service, elegant dinners and dancing. Then there’s the Stanley’s Terrace, showcasing a delectable à la carte menu, renowned High Tea and a sundowner venue that’s hard to beat.

Guests at Victoria Falls Hotel can choose from a delightful array of room options, Image Credit: Victoria Falls Hotel

2. Old Drift Lodge

Location: Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls National Park (7 kilometres from Victoria Falls)

Old Drift Lodge, on the banks of the Upper Zambezi – a setting you won’t forget. The main lodge is designed for those who appreciate the finer things, with a spacious dining area, a bar that begs you to linger, and a lounge with sofas that practically pull you in. Step outside, and you’ll find a fire pit perfect for storytelling and a riverside deck that launches unforgettable boating excursions.

Enjoy enchanting wildlife and five-star comforts, Image Credit: Old Drift Lodge

For those who like their luxury, the tented suites at Old Drift Lodge deliver. Positioned along the river, each suite features a private plunge pool, loungers for ultimate relaxation, and interiors that strike the perfect balance between comfort and style. Plus, the en suite bathroom comes with both indoor and outdoor showers and an outdoor roll-top bath that’s all about soaking in the river views.

Stay in a luxury tented suite in one of the best lodges in Victoria Falls, Image Credit: Old Drift Lodge

3. Palm River Hotel

Location: Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls National Park (4 kilometres from Victoria Falls)

Timeless elegance defines the Palm River Hotel, from the carefully curated décor to the grand dining hall, where meals are crafted with fresh produce straight from the hotel’s own greenhouses. As a dedicated custodian of nature, Palm River is committed to preserving the majestic indigenous trees that grace its lawns.

Admire architecture and design that is both modern and timeless, Image Credit: Palm River Hotel

Whether you opt for a Deluxe Room or the exclusive Palm River Villa, you’ll find that every detail has been considered. Natural tones, locally sourced materials, and regional artwork create a sophisticated yet grounded aesthetic. Each room offers sweeping views of the riverside garden that meets the Zambezi, making you feel intimately connected to the landscape just outside your door.

Private patios or balconies to savour scenic views, Image Credit: Palm River Hotel

4. The Elephant Camp

Location: Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls National Park (10 kilometres from Victoria Falls)

The Elephant Camp, a standout among the best lodges in Victoria Falls, offers a rare balance of seclusion and convenience – tucked away in Victoria Falls National Park while being just a stone’s throw from the Falls. The camp’s décor is stylishly simple, with bold African touches and a modest level of luxury that does not detract from the inspiring surroundings.

Easy access to the Falls, yet stands on its own private game reserve, Image Credit: The Elephant Camp

Relish delicious meals and sundowners in private seating areas, or on the main dining deck, and create your own delicious wood fire pizza in the pizza oven at lunch. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, friendly staff and expansive vistas of the surrounding bush, take a game drive in search of wildlife or head to the “Smoke that Thunders” for a day of adrenaline-filled activities.

Private viewing decks feature plunge pools, perfect for two, Image Credit: The Elephant Camp

5. Pioneers Victoria Falls

Location: Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls Town (2.5 kilometres from Victoria Falls)

Pioneers Victoria Falls brings a fresh take on comfort and style in the heart of Victoria Falls, just 2.5 km from the iconic natural wonder. Tucked away in a tranquil residential suburb, this lodge perfectly marries the charm of the pioneer era with the modern comforts that today’s traveller expects. With exclusive access for residents, privacy here is more than just a promise – it’s a guarantee.

Situated in a peaceful residential suburb, Image Credit: Pioneers Victoria Falls

Find yourself meandering the lush, manicured gardens, and enjoy the Pioneers’ rooms, designed with a classic touch and offering clear views of the garden and all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. Families are well-catered for in the four spacious family rooms, making this lodge a standout choice for those seeking a refined yet relaxed, Victoria Falls experience.

The layout and classic décor here make it extremely welcoming, Image Credit: Pioneers Victoria Falls

6. Mpala Jena

Location: Zimbabwe, Zambezi National Park (23 kilometres from Victoria Falls)

You’ll find Mpala Jena along (you guessed it!) the legendary Zambezi. The bar’s sandy floor practically begs you to kick off your shoes and embrace the laid-back vibe, while the pool lounge is the ideal hangout post-safari and for those midday hours when the African sun turns up the heat.

The lodge epitomises “barefoot luxury”, Image Credit: Mpala Jena

There’s no wonder Mpala Jena consistently ranks among the best lodges in Victoria Falls. This intimate camp, with its thatched roofs and flowing canvas tents, makes luxury feel delightfully unpretentious. Each tent is a cosy, high-end retreat, complete with an outdoor bathroom with everything – yes, including a bathtub where you can soak while soaking in the river views.

A cool, calming colour palette sets the scene, Image Credit: Mpala Jena

7. Insika Lodge

Location: Zimbabwe, Outskirts of Victoria Falls Town (5.5 kilometres from Victoria Falls)

Insika Lodge, meaning “Pillar of Strength” in isi-Ndebele, takes its name from the iconic mist of Victoria Falls. Located just three kilometres from town and surrounded by national parks, Insika offers the perfect blend of nature and convenience. With complimentary transfers, you’re never far from the heart of the action, making Insika one of the best lodges in Victoria Falls to experience both wilderness and the vibrant local scene.

Insika is surrounded by the astounding natural beauty of the area, Image Credit: Insika Lodge

At Insika, the main lodge is where you’ll want to kick back and soak up the good life. The sprawling decks and sparkling infinity pool overlook a Mopane woodland and waterhole, setting the scene for some serious relaxation. As the sun dips, the firepit and bar deli call for fireside feasting and swapping stories. And when it’s time to retreat, the luxurious rooms, as well as a spa and sauna, offer the perfect end to your day.

Decorated rooms offer a rare African elegance, Image Credit: Insika Lodge

8. Mbano Manor Hotel

Location: Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls Town (5 kilometres from Victoria Falls)

Mbano Manor Hotel, brought to life by a trailblazing African woman hotelier, is where luxury meets the wild with a sustainable twist. Tucked away in an ancient teak forest, this family-run lodge offers a truly bespoke African safari experience. Wander along the winding paths that connect the elegant accommodations to the hub of the hotel, all while surrounded by nature’s grandeur – a setting that feels both exclusive and authentically African.

A luxury boutique hotel in an ancient teak forest, Image Credit: Mbano Manor

The design is all about timeless sophistication. Think bungalow-style suites, each with sky-high timber-beamed ceilings and big, beautiful windows that flood the space with natural light. Inside, you’ll find everything you need including a spacious lounge, a plush king-size bed, a refreshment nook, and a bathroom complete with a walk-in dressing room. This is where style meets substance, with a distinctive African flair.

Secluded guest suites offer comfort and privacy, Image Credit: Mbano Manor

9. Matetsi River Lodge

Location: Zimbabwe, Matetsi Private Game Reserve (40 kilometres from Victoria Falls)

Combine the largest waterfall on earth with a classic African safari. Matetsi River Lodge overlooks an exclusive section of the Zambezi – ideal for spotting hippos, crocodiles, buffalos and elephants from the comfort of your luxury suite. All rooms ooze with space and modern, natural design. And don’t forget to make use of your outdoor rain shower and your private plunge pool with river views.

Indulge and discover the precious natural wonders of Zimbabwe, Image Credit: Matetsi Victoria Falls

Choose adventure or relaxing – it’s completely up to you! Matetsi offers activities such as game drives, walking safaris, canoeing and boat cruises. Or unwind during a massage on the banks of the river. The spa therapists will make sure that all your stress is melted away in minutes.

Cool and elegant interiors create a contrast to the rugged exterior, Image Credit: Matetsi River Lodge

10. Victoria Falls River Lodge

Location: Zimbabwe, Zambezi National Park (13 kilometres from Victoria Falls)

Close enough to see the mist of the waterfalls in the distance, yet far enough away from the crowds to reconnect with nature – Victoria Falls River Lodge is your new exclusive home away from home. Explore the natural wonder in true five-star style!

This pioneering retreat sits gracefully on the banks of the untamed Zambezi River, Image Credit: Victoria Falls River Lodge

The lodge’s luxury tented suites are perfect for families and come with private decks as well as plunge pools that boost uninterrupted Zambezi views. For absolute privacy, book one of the luxury treehouses that are located on a tiny, private island in the river. To sum up, Victoria Falls River Lodges is simply one of the very best lodges in Victoria Falls!

You’ll be swept away by the luxury tented suites, Image Credit: Victoria Falls River Lodge

11. 528 | Victoria Falls

Location: Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls Town (3 kilometres from Victoria Falls)

Adding a distinct flair to our collection of the best lodges in Victoria Falls, 528 Victoria Falls is a lively retreat bursting with personality. Here, neutral tones meet vibrant pops of colour across three beautifully designed floors. Thoughtfully curated artefacts and bespoke elements created by local artisans make every corner of this property a celebration of the area’s rich talent, creativity and heritage.

528 has personality written all over it, Image Credit: 528 | Victoria Falls

528 | Victoria Falls offers a boutique experience with twin, double and triple rooms. The en-suites, with their bronze washbasins and hand-carved shower screens, are a stylish touch. Additionally, peppered throughout the main area are many insta-worthy nooks, perfect for capturing that perfect shot. But the true highlight? The Treetop Bar on the third floor, where you can sip your favourite drink while taking in the distant views of the Zambezi and Zambia.

The beautiful boutique guest house is adorned in meaningful aesthetics, Image Credit: 528 | Victoria Falls

12. Batonka Guest Lodge

Location: Zimbabwe, Outskirts of Victoria Falls Town (2.2-kilometres from Victoria Falls)

Well, are there any affordable options among the best lodges in Victoria Falls, you may ask? And the answer is yes! Batonka is an eco-friendly, entry-level lodge that doesn’t skimp on charm or convenience. Just over two kilometres from the Falls, and a mere one kilometre from town, Batonka puts you close to all the action without breaking the bank.

Your poolside haven. Image Credit: Batonka Guest Lodge

So, why choose Batonka? For starters, the lodge’s dining area spills onto a spacious outdoor terrace with views of the garden and sparkling pool. You’ll also have your pick of well-appointed rooms, from garden and pool view options to the stunning Flame Lilly Wing, all decked out in elegant, contemporary décor that nods to Victoria Falls’ colonial past and African flair. Perfect for families, groups, and savvy travellers, Batonka is the budget-friendly choice that delivers!

Enjoy the beautiful verandah opening out onto the surrounding gardens, Image Credit: Batonka Guest Lodge

“Waterfall” You Waiting for?

Is visiting a majestic waterfall at the top of your bucket list? Simply contact our Rhino Africa Travel Experts to plan your stay at one of the best lodges in Victoria Falls. The great thing about Vic Falls is that you can easily combine the natural wonder with a Big 5 safari. We can’t wait to welcome you to Africa!

Featured Image Credit: Old Drift Lodge

Feel Like an Explorer in Gonarezhou National Park

Admin — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 04:53:46 +0000

Imagine teleporting back into prehistoric times, when dinosaurs roamed Earth, and there was no artificial light source in sight or a rumbling engine in earshot. Enter a Gonarezhou National Park safari, an experience so utterly wild and remote that you’ll feel like you’re one of the last people on the planet. So, join me as we take a closer look at why a Gonarezhou National Park safari in Zimbabwe is one of our favourite African secrets…

How’s this for WOW, Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

Gonarezhou, The Place of Elephants

Yes, I know, the word “Gonarezhou” is quite a mouthful, seeming like just a bunch of letters scrambled together. So, to help you pronounce it, repeat after me: “Gonna-Re-Zhoo”.

It means “place of elephants”, and although we unfortunately can’t promise dinosaur sightings, you can enjoy prehistoric-looking elephants, rhinos, and crocodiles instead!

Place of elephants and rich ecological diversity, Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

Southern Africa’s Stripped Back Safari Star

Gonarezhou National Park is located in the southeast corner of Zimbabwe, bordering Mozambique, and is the country’s second-largest national park.

It’s massive and absolutely wild. In fact, it’s one of the most authentic safari experiences you get on our continent. If you want to really lose yourself in Mother Nature’s untamed beauty with no restraints, then this is a dream come true for you.

As it’s so remote and rugged, we recommend a fly-in safari with a charter flight from Harare International Airport to a private airstrip near the national park. We don’t recommend self-drives here, as you’re really heading into the belly of the wild.

Enjoy aerial views upon arrival, Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

A Glimpse of Gonarezhou’s Jurassic-Like Landscapes

When I said this national park is reminiscent of prehistoric times, I meant it. There are very few places in the world with such a variety of untouched ecological spaces.

Mother Nature has the best paintbrush, Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

Picture impresive reddish and white sandstone cliffs, overlooking sweeping Serengeti-like grasslands dotted with giraffes, nyalas, impalas and other wildlife roaming free. Next moment, you’re surrounded by woodlands, nyala berry trees, and winding rivers in between.

There are more than 493 plant species, of which 333 are woody species, and 160 are herbaceous species. However, I can’t help feeling there might be some species out there we are yet to discover… So, put on your best explorer hat for a Gonarezhou National Park safari!

From woodlands to water, grasslands, and towering cliffs, Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

What Wildlife Can I See on a Gonarezhou National Park Safari?

When on a Gonarezhou National Park safari, you’ll likely never encounter anyone else. It’s just so vast and such an off-the-beaten-track destination that you’ll feel like you have it all to yourself.

As the name suggests, you can see lots of elephants as it has a large population. And, yes, you can also see the rest of the Big 5, namely the lion, leopard, rhino, and African buffalo.

On land, there are 89 large mammal and 61 small mammal species roaming free here. There are also 116 reptiles, 34 amphibians, and more than 50 fish species.

Did someone say “spa day?”, Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

It also makes sense that you can see some endangered species since this is such a unique setting. For example, the black rhino, African wild dog, lappet-faced vulture, and the near-endemic turquoise killifish are all found here.

The Save River is a popular gathering place for wildlife, and we love that the water can look quite clear, so you can easily spot those species lurking beneath the surface!

Hippos wallowing in the Save River, Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

Where to Stay in Gonarezhou National Park

We recommend you stay at Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge when visiting Gonarezhou National Park. We love that it’s perched high on the cliff, overlooking prime views of the ever-busy Save River. The private balconies are the perfect spot to just sit and watch the wildlife go about their business undisturbed.

Best seat in Gonarezhou, overlooking the Save River, Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

The pool also overlooks this view, and let’s just say that sunset will be a highlight of your every day in Gonarezhou National Park. Get ready to take lots and lots of photos!

Sit and stare at the sunset, Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

Explore the Gonarezhou National Park

There are many different safari activities to enjoy on a Gonarezhou National Park safari. When going on game drives, you might have to take a slight detour… on a boat!

Yes, often the terrain is so wild that you have to jump off your game drive vehicle, onto a boat to cross a river, and then on a diffrent vehicle. We love how this just adds another layer of adventure to the experience.

You can also go on walking safaris for a more immersive, up-close exploration of the vegetation and smaller details.

The best kind of drive is a game drive, Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

Take the Adventure up a Notch

Let’s get even wilder by heading out on a fly-camping adventure! Yes, it’s camping in its most basic form (without you having to pitch any tents, of course. You just pitch up!). Think unfiltered nature all around, sitting around the crackling fire, and feeling that deep feeling of inner peace settle over you.

This activity is for the true adventurer who will enjoy bucket showers, hearty yet basic meals, and just meeting Mother Nature face-to-face.

Camp out in the wilderness, Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

Add a Dash of Culture to Your Gonarezhou Safari

As a lodge that focuses on community-led conservation, Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge works with and supports a wide range of initiatives that aim to bring community and conservation closer while also showing guests visiting Gonarezhou National Park how their travels have a positive effect on both.

When staying at Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge, you can learn more about the local Shangaan culture, including their farming methods, cooking methods, natural medicine, and crafts.

Step into the Shangaan locals’ world, Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

Let’s Take You on a Gonarezhou National Park Safari

If you’re an explorer at heart who wants more from their travels than the standard, expected tourist sights, then Gonarezhou National Park is for you. Our Travel Experts know this hidden gem inside out and can plan a safari to make your heart sing songs you never knew it could.

Plus, we’ll also recommend other destinations you can explore that pair beautifully with Gonarezhou National Park. For example, we highly recommend you visit Victoria Falls while in Zimbabwe, and adding a stop in beach destination Mozambique is a breeze.

Reach out today, and let’s start planning! See you in Africa.

Ready, set, Africa! Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

Featured Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

Why Your Next Holiday Should be a Lake Kariba Safari

Admin — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 04:46:44 +0000

Deciding where to go on your next African holiday can seem like an impossible choice, as there are so many wondrous destinations to choose from! Well, the good news is that we know what you should add to your itinerary next… a Lake Kariba safari! Whether it’s for a family holiday, a romantic getaway, or anything in between, Zimbabwe has it all. Here’s why we know you’ll love it.

Elevated Lake Kariba accommodation, Image Credit: Bumi Hills Safari Lodge

Leaving on a Jet Plane

There is a specific kind of silence just before a plane takes off. The aircraft is rumbling beneath you, almost quivering. Then suddenly, in a remarkable burst of speed for something so large, the plane is off, racing down the runway before finally being airborne, signalling your trip’s official start.

And suddenly, as the clouds part, you see it, crystal clear waters dotted with rolling hills and lush greenery. It has an almost Riviera-like look to it but better because this is Lake Kariba – the world’s largest man-made freshwater lake in the world!

Kariba has an immense biodiversity, Image Credit: Changa Safari Camp

Your Lake Kariba Safari

Whether you’re travelling with the fam, or deepening those romantic ties, you’ll love a Lake Kariba safari. Here’s where we recommend you go for every type of holiday.

Family-Friendly Fun

It’s that time of year again when the whole family gears up for the long-awaited holiday, whether it’s a road trip or a flight. There’s always that last-minute rush to ensure everyone has packed everything they need.

But all the chaos will melt away the moment you set foot in Bumi Hills Safari Lodge, greeted by the stunning infinity pool and the serene view of the lake from your balcony.

A game drive is the perfect start to the day, Image Credit: Bumi Hills Safari Lodge

1. Game Drive

Your first day in Kariba should definitely start with a game drive! The 5 AM wake-up call might sound early, but you’ll be so excited that you’ll jump right out of bed. Plus, there will be coffee!

You and your family will hop up onto the game vehicle, snuggle up, and enjoy the thrilling feeling of the wind rushing through your hair as you search for the Big 5.

It’s never too early to learn how to cook, Image Credit: Bumi Hills Safari Lodge

2. Kids Club

The kids will be well looked after at the lodge’s dedicated kids club – the Ngwana Club. From nature walks around camp and storytelling to cultural arts and crafts and cub club cooking classes, boredom won’t be an option!

Just relax and soak in the views, Image Credit: Bumi Hills Safari Lodge

3. Private Dining

While this may be a family holiday, everyone needs a little “me”, or perhaps “we” time. As the sun sets, slip into some date night finery and enjoy a private dinner overlooking Lake Kariba.

Start your day by the pool with a delicious cup of coffee, Image Credit: Changa Safari Camp

Romance

Could your journey to Lake Kariba have a more romantic purpose? Perhaps it marks the beginning of your honeymoon, a tranquil escape from the routine with no children in tow.

Or is it your maiden voyage as a couple, often dubbed as the ultimate relationship test? Regardless, Changa Safari Camp, in all its divine rustic glory, is the perfect setting for a little rom-com-worthy romance. Set on the shores of Lake Kariba with views of the Matusadona mountains, this camp is peaceful and secluded.

Imagine the two of you, side by side, mastering the art of campfire cooking under a sky dusted with stars. There’s something undeniably intimate about preparing a meal together in the wild—chopping fresh ingredients, listening to the distant call of a fish eagle, and feeling the warmth of the flames flickering between you.

With a rocket stove efficiently channeling heat, you can whip up anything from a hearty potjie to a simple yet flavorful grilled fish, caught fresh from the lake that very day. Every bite carries the essence of adventure, seasoned with laughter and a hint of smoky charm.

Whether it’s a celebratory toast to your new journey together or simply an appreciation of the quiet beauty around you, this is the kind of experience that lingers—one that turns an ordinary meal into an unforgettable chapter of your love story.

Soak in more than just the views, Image Credit: Changa Safari Camp

1. Bush Breakfast

Start your day off with a delicious and exclusive bush breakfast that has been lovingly set up on the private beach made just that much better with pancakes and mimosas! Or maybe just a bottle of bubbles – hold the OJ?

The view from the deck of your tented suite, Image Credit: Changa Safari Camp

2. Do Nothing Or Everything

The beauty of a Lake Kariba safari holiday is that you can do as much or as little as you like! You can start your day off snuggled up on the game vehicle tracking a pride of lions, go on a guided bush walk or take a short boat ride across the lake to the scenic Sanyati Gorge.

Or you can simply enjoy some quiet time by the pool, on the deck of your tent or even take a little afternoon nap.

Sundowners for two on a private beach, Image Credit: Changa Safari Camp

3. Private Sundowners

Yes, we know it’s more eating, but truthfully, aren’t all relationships merely deciding, or arguing, about where you’re going to eat next? A private sundowner for two is the perfect start to the evening.

Watch the sunset on a private beach, have a few laughs, and a few more drinks before adjourning to your tent and enjoying an outdoor bush bubble bath.

Strip and take a dip in a romantic bush bubble bath, Image Credit: Changa Safari Camp

Multi-Generational Lake Kariba Safari

Could your plane be journeying to this destination for a multi-generational trip? Imagine parents, older kids, and grandparents embarking on an adventure reminiscent of a scene straight out of “The Lion King”.

Picture the pride gathering, with generations coming together on a private houseboat. It’s the perfect way for a little family bonding.

Boating safari guarantees a close and personal encounter with nature, Image Credit: Changa Safari Camp

1. Fishing and Water Sports

Battle it out with tigerfish, or take it slow in the petrified forest, where you can try your luck at catching some bream while sipping on a G&T.

If adventure is more your speed, there are plenty of watersports available on the lake! From parasailing to motor boating, there’s no shortage of options for adrenaline junkies to indulge in.

A walking safari is one of the best ways to connect with nature, Image Credit: Changa Safari Camp

2. Walking Safari

If you haven’t found your sea, or in this case, lake legs, go on a guided walking safari. This is a great way to learn more about the little details that make Lake Kariba such a sensational destination. However, please note that children have to be 16 years or older to partake in this activity.

A beautiful sunset in Africa is something everyone should experience, Image Credit: Bumi Hills Safari Lodge

3. Epic Sundowners

Arguably one of the best activities in Kariba is the sundowners. They are simply, for lack of a better word, epic. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky is painted in hues of lilac, pink, and orange, creating a stunning vista. Relaxing with a drink in hand while soaking in this natural beauty is an experience you and your family won’t soon forget.

Your Lake Kariba safari awaits, Image Credit: Changa Safari Camp

What Are You Waiting For?

Don’t let this opportunity slip away! Your next holiday should include a Lake Kariba Safari, where adventure, relaxation, and family or romantic bonding await.

From thrilling game drives to tranquil bush breakfasts and epic sundowners to private dinners overlooking the lake, every moment promises unforgettable memories. With so much to offer, there’s no time to waste – book your trip now and embark on an incredible journey that will leave you longing for more.

Our Travel Experts are ready to help you to start planning your luxury African safari today!

A Hidden Wilderness: Exploring Hwange National Park

Admin — Tue, 02 Apr 2024 04:46:08 +0000

As though led by an invisible conductor, the dawn chorus gains strength as the birds of Hwange National Park welcome the sunrise with a song. Spanning an impressive 14,600 km² of untamed wilderness, Hwange (pronounced “wh-ungee”) is Zimbabwe‘s largest (and oldest) national park and home to over 400 bird species. But it offers more than feathery creatures, with some unbelievable wildlife sightings, making this an underrated safari destination in Africa. Join me on a journey of all the reasons Hwange remains one of my favourite safari destinations…

Hwange National Park is a birder’s paradise, Image Credit: Somalisa Camp

How Hwange National Park Stuns

Hwange is a Big 5 safari destination and one of the largest elephant sanctuaries in the world, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to observe these magnificent creatures in the wild. But beyond the Big 5, the resident predators include cheetahs, hyenas, and a large African wild dog population.

However, from my personal experience, it’s not always the wildlife species you see on safari that stand out. Sometimes, it’s the dew glistening on the bush, the sip of Amarula liqueur coffee as the sun takes its first peek over the horizon, and the way you’re welcomed warmly back to the lodge after a game drive. Hwange National Park delivers this and then some. It’s a place you feel in your bones rather than just visiting.

It’s why our Travel Experts continually recommend it as a Zimbabwe safari destination for those guests who want to connect intimately with the wilderness.

Night game drives give you insight into nocturnal species, Image Credit: Wilderness

Hwange Highlights

As much as we love simply soaking in the natural surroundings, you want to ensure the safari destination you visit has enough to keep you entertained. And, boy, will Hwange bring its A-game.

With plenty of interesting and unique activities available in and around Hwange National Park, here are my top activities to get the most out of your African wildlife safari.

Game Drives

Each game drive offers a unique experience as your expert guide and tracker venture into the various landscapes that make up the national park, including the Kalahari desert, acacia woodlands, teak forests, and grasslands. It’s incredible to discover how the different habitats attract particular types of wildlife, which depend on them for food and shelter.

Plus, did you know that you can take the whole family along, even the little ones? Some game lodges offer child-friendly programs to ensure everyone has a blast.

Game drives are always a treat at Hwange National Park, Image Credit: African Bush Camps

Walking Safari and Horseback Safari

Beyond the standard twice-daily game drives, Hwange National Park offers intimate walking and horseback safaris. Once again, you’ll be led by experienced guides, but this time without the hum of the vehicle. Whether you choose your own two feet or the gentle gallop of a horse, you’ll get a different look into what makes Hwange special.

This is by far my favourite way to experience the African bush. Stop to watch the tiny ant lion catch its prey, learn about the meaning of the animal spoor before stepping over it and breathe in the natural perfumes of various plants.

Walk among wildlife for a life-changing safari

Bird-Watching

Hwange is a twitcher’s paradise, with numerous bird species to identify and observe. Even as a novice, I loved spending moments in the quiet, learning about the unique characteristics while trying to spot them through the binoculars. I enjoyed marvelling at the interplay between the birds as they worked together to build a nest or competed for the same prey.

Capture all the feathery action on camera, Image Credit: Dave Gale

Victoria Falls Day Trip

You simply cannot visit Zimbabwe without seeing Victoria Falls in person! With about an hour’s drive between Hwange and Victoria Falls, you can easily combine your safari with a visit to the famous “Smoke that Thunders”. Speak to our Travel Experts to arrange this outing with your lodge.

Visiting Victoria Falls is a must, seeing it from the sky is even better

Bumbusi National Monument

Take a step back into history by visiting the Bumbusi National Monument in Hwange National Park, where you can see the remains of colossal sandstone buildings from the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.

Learn more about the area’s history, Image Credit: Bumbusi Wilderness Camp

My Favourite Places to Stay in Hwange National Park

There are many accommodations in Hwange National Park; however, these are a few of my tried-and-tested favourites.

1. Somalisa Camp

Beyond the beautifully furnished tents, I fell in love with Somalisa Camp’s expansive deck, where I spent lazy afternoons reading, only to be interrupted by an inquisitive elephant or two.

Due to its prime position on the Kennedy Vlei floodplain, there’s plenty to sit and stare at and many other wildlife vistors greeting you. It really feels immersive, with the surroundings being the hero instead of the camp itself. Although it’s pretty spectacular in itself and eco-friendly too, with a fully solar power farm and water purity system that allows the camp to recycle 80% of its water used. These efforts have not gone unnoticed, as it has been awarded the first GOLD Green Tourism Certification in Zimbabwe.

Another favourite of mine is the copper bathtub and outdoor shower, as well as the star tent, where you can arrange for a sleepout under the stars.

Watch herds of elephant drink from a nearby waterhole while cooling off, Image Credit: Somalisa Camp

Highlights

Their Elephant Pool was named after its gentle giants frequent visitors
Intimate, accommodating a maximum of 14 guests at a time
Sleepout experience can be arranged for an additional cost

Who’s it for?

Eco-warriors and travellers are looking for a hideout to bond with their nearest family and friends. Please note that children over the age of 12 years old are welcome but walking safaris are only for those older than 16 years old.

Bath with a view, Image Credit: Somalisa Camp

2. The Hide Safari Camp

The Hide Safari Camp is located in a private concession in Hwange National Park. It has everything you could need or want on your African safari, including an underground tunnel leading to a hide overlooking a popular waterhole! Its reputation as the “Best Tented Safari Camp in Zimbabwe” means you can rest assured you’re in good (no, the best) hands.

From sunrise to sunset, the little moments stand out at The Hide Safari Camp, with a team magically making everything happen behind the scenes. This setting is especially great for wildlife photographers as you’ll get unique angles from its namesake hide.

But you don’t even have to leave your tent to admire the wildlife, as elephants and other species are known to gather at the water hole the camp overlooks.

Spend a night at the Dove’s Nest for a sleepout experience, Image Credit: The Hide

Highlights

Underground deck-to-waterhole tunnel for excellent close-up game viewing
Located on a private concession for a more exclusive experience
Consistently awarded for its high standard in luxury safari accommodation and experiences

Who’s it for?

It’s perfect for budding or pro wildlife photographers, safari enthusiasts, and romantic getaways like a honeymoon (in particular, their Dove’s Nest sleepout experience).

Get the best views of the wildlife from the camp’s famous hide

3. Verney’s Camp

I enjoyed the simplicity of this lodge, offering a very authentic safari experience without sacrificing quality and comfort. As it’s located in a private concession, I loved being able to go out on night game drives to witness the nocturnal species.

The area is incredibly rich in wildlife, with migratory elephant, buffalo and antelope herds frequenting Verney’s Pan, which in turn attracts predators, in particular a pack of African wild dogs and hers of lions. You can just imagine the action that ensues!

For families looking for an eco-friendly, immersive safari experience in a private concession, you can’t go wrong with Verney’s Camp.

Verney’s Camp welcomes children of all ages, Image Credit: Machaba Safaris

Highlights

Overlooks floodplains attracting several species for prime game viewing from the camp

Also located within a private concession for a more immersive experience

Ideal for those seeking a more authentic, stripped-down safari experience without sacrificing comfort

Who’s it for?

Welcoming children of all ages, Verney’s Camp is perfect for your next family holiday.

Soak up the sun and the views at Verney’s Camp, Image Credit: Machaba Safaris

Ready to Experience Hwange National Park Yourself?

I cannot recommend a safari in Hwange National Park enough! Are you ready to embark on an adventure of your own? Whether it’s a milestone celebration, family vacation, or you’re just looking for an excuse to escape, Hwange is an excellent choice. And why stop there? Our Travel Experts will recommend other destinations you can add on to your dream African safari!

Contact our Travel Experts, and let’s start planning your tailor-made African holiday!