Zimbabwe Safari Experience
From dramatic landscapes and iconic landmarks to prolific wildlife this fully guided itinerary really gives you the chance to get under the skin of this beautiful lesser visited country.
Victoria Falls
From arrival at Victoria Falls airport your Zimbabwean safari experience begins. You will be met at the airport by your Imvelo representative and enjoy a short but scenic thirty-minute drive to your first destination, lying 200 metres above the mighty Zambezi river. Depending on your arrival time you will have the rest of the day to relax and take in the stunning scenery of the area.
We have chosen the charming little Gorges Lodge, right on the edge of Batoka Gorge for your first two nights accommodation. With its’ breathtaking views and warm welcoming staff, you will feel yourself unwind and relax from the moment you arrive. Your will marvel at the black eagles soaring overhead providing you with fantastic photo opportunities before enjoying a mouthwatering meal in the lodge accompanied by a team of talented, traditional dancers. After dinner you will return to your chalet and fall asleep to the sound of the rushing river below you. Bliss!
Awake in the morning and take some time to enjoy a coffee or tea on your veranda overlooking the gorge and after a sumptuous breakfast it is time to meet with some of the local people at nearby Chisuma Village. If you are lucky enough to be visiting during school term time, you can partake in a school tour before heading back to the lodge for lunch. The afternoon visit and guided tour of Victoria Falls will be a highlight for many people, us included. Otherwise known as 'The smoke that thunders' the ‘Falls’ remains one of the most spectacular natural wonders in the world. After a spot of curio shopping in the local craft village it is time to embark on your sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. From here you will have plenty of time to spot hippos splashing around in the river while crocodiles look on from their spot on the riverbank. Later back at the lodge you will be treated to a traditional Zimbabwean ‘braii’ under the spectacular African stars.
Hwange
After two nights it is time to move onto the next exciting part of your adventure. A three-hour road transfer and you will be at Dete Railway Station. We love this part of the trip as you will board the Elephant Express rail car. This unique railway was re-invented for safari transfers between Imvelo camps in Hwange National Park. Onboard you will enjoy lunch before a slow ride down the railway line with game viewing all the way into camp. With its’ fantastic location on the edge of Hwange National Park and Ngamo Plains considered to be one of the best in the park, we recommend you stay at the Camelthorn lodge for the next four nights. After you have settled into your extremely comfortable villa, you will enjoy a delectable meal before taking part in a night game drive with the chance to spot some of the lesser seen animals as they are just beginning their day. Cameras at the ready as over the next few days you will enjoy sightings of huge herds of elephant, wildebeest, buffalo, kudu, waterbuck and sable. Predators are also regularly spotted, especially lion, jackal and cheetah. Afternoon game drives here are usually concluded with canopes and sundowners by a waterhole while enjoying a magnificent African sunset. Other fantastic experiences will include a visit to a nearby village where you will interact with a local family and have the privilege of being shown around their humble home. You will also learn about a number of their daily routines. Again, if you are visiting in school term time you will be taken to a local school where you will be treated to song and dance performances by children with the biggest smiles you could wish to see. As night falls you can sit around the campfire and share stories of your memorable and rewarding days with your fellow travellers.
Zambezi National Park
Another chance to enjoy the Elephant Express rail car and then you will complete the rest of your transfer to Zambezi National Park by road. We absolutely love the Zambezi Sands River Camp and this is where you will spend your last three nights. After settling into your luxury tent you will have time to freshen up before heading out for a sunset boat cruise complete with sundowners and snacks. A fantastic opportunity to get the most stunning photos of the game coming down to the river for a drink as the sun sets behind them. Over the next couple of days you will have the chance to go out on the river in and inflatable canoe, enjoy bush brunches and picnics, take part in game drives and walks or just relax in your private splash pool whilst watching the game and birdlife on the river’s edge. A truly wonderful and relaxing way to finish this Zimbabwean adventure.
This safari can be tailored in any way to meet your personal needs including length of trip, accommodation and experiences included, with or without international flights. Contact one of our safari designers now to discuss your safari ideas.
What's Included
- International flights
- Transfers
- Driver/guide for safari experiences
- 9 nights accommodation as detailed above
- All National Park and entrance fees for activities detailed
Price Information
Prices start from £3995pp/€4595pp/$5495pp
