Zimbabwe|Safaris in Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe Safari
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Fast Facts
Travelling to:
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, Hwange National Park, Lake Kariba and Mana Pools National Park
duration:
13 Days - 12 Nights
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A safari in Zimbabwe is rather varied with different parks to choose from or combine as we have done within this itinerary. Starting off at Victoria Falls, your journey then continues to Hwange National Park followed by Lake Kariba and finishing at Mana Pools National Park.
Hwange National Park borders Botswana and is located in the north west of Zimbabwe and has a huge amount of animals. Lake Kariba is close to the Matusadona National Park and the animals regularly roam freely on to the Bumi Hills private concession, giving you amazing opportunities to view game from the lodge. Mana Pools National Park, located in the far north of Zimbabwe, along with the Zambezi River borders Zambia.
Highlights
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Victoria Falls
Resting on the southern banks of the mighty Zambezi river at the western end of the eponymous falls of the same name, the popular tourist town of Victoria Falls is compact enough to walk around and makes and ideal base for travellers exploring the seventh wonder of the world.
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Hwange National Park
In the west of Zimbabwe lies its largest natural reserve - Hwange National Park. Founded in 1923, the park is now considered for inclusion in the 5 Nation Kavango - Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area.
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Mana Pools National Park
Mana Pools National Park is contained within the same UNESCO World Heritage Site as the Lower Zambezi National Park in Zambia. Both parks are renowned for excellent populations of mammals and birdlife.
Outline Itinerary
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Day 1 - Travelling
Check in for your flight to Johannesburg.
Days 2-3 - Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Staying at: Ilala Lodge Hotel
Connect in Johannesburg for your flight to Victoria Falls. After arranging your entry visa, you will be met and transferred to Ilala Lodge.
The Sunset Cruise is a very big highlight – often just a small number of people on the boat, fabulous seating and gin/whisky/wine galore plus so much wildlife. A trip to see the Vultures feeding at the Safari Hotel is worthwhile and definitely something we recommend. There are endless activities available at Victoria Falls, it just depends on how adventurous you'd like to be! We do also recommend a flight over the Victoria Falls, the scenery is spectacular.
Days 4-6 - Hwange National Park
Staying at: African Bush Camps Somalisa Camp
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Somalisa Camp. Hwange National Park is a great place to start your safari in Zimbabwe. From the moment you see the expansive savannah plains you will be in awe of your surroundings. Activities at Somalisa Camp are led by qualified guides who genuinely love what they do and they often share their tales of the bush with you. Whilst staying at the camp walking safaris, game drives, birding and cultural visits are all available for you to partake.
Whilst staying at Somalisa Camp, you may have a huge surprise as the elephants frequently come and drink from the elephant pool that is situated at the edge of the decking area of the main camp.
Days 7-8 - Lake Kariba
Staying at: African Bush Camps Bumi Hills Safari Lodge
Today you will be transferred to the airstrip where you will take a light aircraft transfer to Bumi Hills Safari Lodge. Nestled on the shoreline of Lake Kariba, Bumi Hills is a small intimate lodge with just 10 suites and a 2 bedroom private villa. Activities around Lake Kariba include boat safaris, fishing, game drives and sunset cruises. Finishing the day with a sun downer in hand, sat aboard a boat, looking out for elephants that come to quench their thirst at the waters edge as the sun sets is definitely a sight to behold.
The birdlife is prolific in this area, you can expect to see the giant kingfisher, fish eagles, herons, egrets, cormorants just to name a few.
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Days 9-11 - Mana Pools National Park
Staying at: African Bush Camps Kanga Camp
Continuing your journey today, take a light aircraft transfer to Mana Pool National Park airstrip. Kanga Camp is situated within a private concession in Mana Pools National Park, just next to the Kanga Pan. The Kanga Pan is the only source of water in the dry season and so as you can imagine, you may not need to move too far to enjoy a spot of game viewing! Activities at Kanga Camp include game drives, walking safaris and 'arm chair' safaris as they call it - great game viewing from your chair on the deck!
We love the hide at the camp because frequently you can see a wide variety of wildlife such as wild dog, leopard, antelope and brilliant bird species - it's a real treat for any wildlfe and photography enthusiasts.
Day 12 - Departure
All good things must come to an end and sadly you bid farewell to Zimbabwe today as you board your light aircraft and head for Harare Airport. Connect on to the flight to Johannesburg and finally on to London.