safari i zimbabwe

THE 10 BEST Zimbabwe Safaris

Safaris in zimbabwe.

• Nature & Wildlife Tours
• Adrenaline & Extreme Tours
• 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Savannah Adventures Safaris
• Victoria Falls
• Mosi-oa-Tunya / Victoria Falls National Park
• Victoria Falls Bridge
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Helicopter Scenic Flight over Victoria Falls 12-13 minutes Flight

2. Helicopter Scenic Flight over Victoria Falls 25-27 Minutes Game

3. From Victoria Falls: Chobe National Park Small Group Tour

4. Night Game Drive and Bush Dinner from Victoria Falls

5. 5-Day Explore Zimbabwe, Zambia and Botswana

6. Chobe Full Day Safari Trip

7. Chobe Full Day Trip From Victoria Falls

8. 3 Days Ultimate Victoria Falls Safari in Zimbabwe

9. Half Day Savannah Safari with High Tea Experience, Snacks & Wine

10. Chobe Extended Day Trip from Victoria Falls - Zimbabwe

11. Chobe Full Day Trip

12. Hwange (Safari) Day Trip from Victoria Falls

13. Victoria Falls: Private Guided Tour of the Falls

14. Safari Game Drive in Zambezi National Park pick up

15. Hwange National Park Full Day Game Drive Safari

16. Chobe National Park from Victoria Falls

17. Walking Safari to the Falls, Bridge and beyond with Savannah

18. Victoria Falls Day Trip from Chobe - Silver Package

19. Hwange Day Trip

20. Safari Game Drive in Zambezi National Park with Hotel Pickup

21. From Victoria Falls: A Full Day Chobe Safari with Lunch

22. Guided Chobe Safari Adventure from Victoria Falls

23. Private Guided Tour of Victoria Falls Zimbabwe

24. Full Day Guided Tour to Victoria Falls and Zambezi National Park

25. 4-Day Discover Victoria Falls, Chobe and Hwange Park

26. Rhino Game Drive

27. Chobe Day Trip from Victoria Falls

28. Early Morning Half-Day Chobe Safari

29. 15 minutes scenic helicopter flight above Victoria Falls-Zimbabwe

30. Day Trip: Discover Victoria Falls Zimbabwe From Livingstone, Zambia

What travelers are saying.

• Travel Guides Plan your adventure
• Destinations Our favourite places
• Tours Book a trip
• Travel Companies Independent specialists
• Travel Guides
• Destinations
• Travel Companies

Zimbabwe safaris

An expert guide to the best safari camps in zimbabwe.

Anthony Ham

• In this guide
• Best safaris
• Need to know
• How it works

I first came on safari in Zimbabwe in 2003 and I’ve been coming back as often as I can, in my role as a travel journalist and guidebook author.

When it comes to Zimbabwe, the question people most often ask me is: why? In a region of safari big-hitters, what makes Zimbabwe stand out from neighbouring South Africa , Zambia , and Botswana ?

For me, safari in Zimbabwe has always felt like a double-concentrated version of the Southern African experience. The country is considerably smaller than its neighbours, with a small but elite portfolio of national parks. It’s easy to travel around, and has impeccably high levels of professionalism across the local safari industry.

And for historical reasons that have nothing to do with wildlife or tourism, Zimbabwe flies well under the radar, even compared to the relatively niche Botswana next door. It’s the kind of place where the joy of seeing wildlife is rarely tainted by having to enjoy those animals through crowds of vehicles.

The main drawback of going on safari here is the backdrop of historical political instability. What keeps visitor numbers low is also what has made a visit here unpredictable in the past. Those days seem to be behind a country that made headlines for all the wrong reasons, but which is now one of the best places to go on safari in Africa.

featured Zimbabwe safaris

Victoria Falls and Zimbabwe Safari

Into Botswana & Zimbabwe

15 day small group tour.

Hwange, Lake Kariba and Victoria Falls Discovery

Ultimate African Taster

15 days from victoria falls to cape town.

Hwange Experiential Safari and Victoria Falls

Take a hike in Mana Pools National Park

The best safaris in Zimbabwe

Lodges, camps and hidden gems, hwange national park, mana pools national park, gonarezhou national park, matusadona national park, victoria falls.

Elephant spotting in Hwange National Park

Hwange (pronounced wang-ee) is a fabulous park, and is one of my favourites anywhere in Africa.

At the eastern edge of the six-country Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area which is known for having the highest concentration of elephants in Africa, Hwange is very much a part of that heritage: elephants are everywhere.

It’s also known for its lions – it was just outside Hwange that Cecil the Lion was shot by a hunter in 2015, resulting in a firestorm of international publicity. And late in the dry season, especially around October when water is scarce, these two giants – lions and elephants – very often do battle. It’s one of the greatest spectacles I’ve ever witnessed.

It's a vast park with so many different areas to explore; the park’s east is busiest but there are waterholes and sweeping savannah plains all across the park. Wildlife also includes leopard, cheetah and African wild dog, with plenty of plains game, too, such as giraffe, zebra, buffalo and wildebeest. Watch also for greater kudu, gemsbok (oryx), sable and roan antelope.

Walking safari in Mana Pools National Park

Many travellers fall in love with UNESCO World Heritage-listed Mana Pools National Park, in northern Zimbabwe. That may have something to do with the scenery – a series of pools on the Zambezi River floodplain, an escarpment backdrop, semi-arid plains sprinkled with baobabs. Or the wildlife – all of the major predators (including African wild dog) are present and commonly seen here, with a full suite of prey animals for them to choose from.

But in my experience, what makes Mana Pools especially thrilling is that here you feel like you’re a part of the food chain. That’s because Mana Pools is one of few major parks in Africa where you are free to go walking wherever you want around the park, including without a guide. Canoe explorations are also popular.

Scenic Gonarezhou National Park

This is a true hidden gem, down south in Zimbabwe and sharing wildlife with parks just across the borders with Mozambique and South Africa. Gonarezhou sees far fewer visitors than it deserves, possibly because the park was once ravaged by conflict and poaching. Thankfully, those days are long gone. While you have to work a little harder to see animals here than in, say, Hwange or Mana Pools, they’re very much worth it when you do.

In addition to all three big cats and lots of elephants, highlights might include some fascinating antelope varieties – such as nyala, roan, sable and suni – and there are reported to be king cheetah roaming the plains.

But if you weren’t coming here on safari, you might well do so for the scenery alone. Stands of mahogany and acacias provide a special cast to the landscape, while the red cliffs above the Runde River may just be one of Zimbabwe’s most beautiful corners.

Canoe safaris in Matusadona National Park

I’ve never quite understood why Matusadona isn’t world-famous. For one thing, it rises beautifully from the shore of Lake Kariba in the country’s north. Because of its proximity to the water, numerous water-borne activities – canoe and boat trips among them – nicely complement the guided game or wildlife drives.

You can even go on walking safaris here, including one where you track black rhino with the experts. And Matusadona has nothing to envy other Zimbabwean parks when it comes to wildlife – there’s a good chance that you’ll see lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and other charismatic megafauna while you’re here.

If Matusadona has a drawback, it also lies in its proximity to Lake Kariba. The lake is one of Zimbabwe’s most popular resort areas. While that does not directly affect the park itself, you need to venture some distance inside the park (and even away from the lake) to feel like you’ve left the circus behind.

Dodging tourists at Victoria Falls

It may be a cliché, but there’s a very good reason why Victoria Falls is one of the most popular places to visit in Africa. Spanning the Zimbabwean and Zambian borders, Mosi-oa-Tunya (‘The Smoke that Thunders’) is indeed a miraculous sight.

By all means dive into the activities on offer here, from kayaking to bungee-jumping. But stay too long and I find the hype that surrounds the experience, especially in the Zimbabwean gateway town of Livingstone, quickly starts to overwhelm.

Once you’ve seen the Falls from every possible angle, I’d suggest you leave the crowds and head for Zambezi National Park. Much of the park is river frontage: stay in a lodge overlooking the mighty Zambezi River. You might see lion, leopard, elephant, giraffe, buffalo and hippo while you’re here. And if you can’t face returning to Victoria Falls, in Zambezi National Park you’re within an hour of the Botswana border and world-class Chobe National Park.

Great Zimbabwe

Welcome to one of Africa’s most celebrated archaeological sites, and the best-preserved medieval ruins south of the Sahara, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Great Zimbabwe. The site dates back to the 13th to 15th centuries and is a fascinating add-on to any safari visit. Combine it with a visit to Gonarezhou National Park and Zimbabwe’s Eastern Highlands.

Linkwasha Camp

Close to Ngamo Plains, one of the most wildlife-dense areas of Hwange National Park, this uber-luxurious camp faces out onto the surrounding savannah; I’ve seen lions walking along (and sleeping under) the camp’s boardwalks. Elephants often pass by really close, and it’s a good area for African wild dogs. It’s a wonderful place to immerse yourself in Hwange’s special surroundings.

Camping at Main Camp

The bungalows here are fine, but the campsites have shade and acceptable ablutions blocks. But the real treat of camping here alongside the park headquarters are the honey badgers that roam around the camping area after dark. Ask at the park office about reserving one of the mobile campsites out in the remote wilds of the park.

Nantwich Lodge

Bestselling thriller writer Tony Park owns this lodge out in the park’s west. It’s an excellent place to stay, the safari trails in this part of the park only see a fraction of those elsewhere but with much the same wildlife, and if Tony’s in residence, he’s a fine host and raconteur. He’s also a good friend – ask him about the first time he met and threatened to report me to the park’s authorities…

Ruckomechi Camp

On a remote private concession and right by the Zambezi River, Ruckomechi gives you the best of all possible worlds. Expect luxury safari tents, impeccable service, fine dining food and wildlife sightings even before you leave the camp.

Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

On stilts high above the Savé River, this superb safari lodge takes full advantage of the park’s scenic landscapes. I could sit on the terrace of my own private terrace for days and not grow tired of the view.

Rhino Safari Camp

Everything you could want in a tented camp while on safari, Rhino Safari Camp removes you from the Lake Kariba crowds. Staying here does what every safari lodge or tented camp should aspire to: you feel like you’re a part of the park’s wild environment while doing so in supreme comfort – if you’re lucky, you’ll hear lions roaring at night from the safety of your own bed.

Imire Rhino & Wildlife Conservancy

Not far from Harare, this impressive 10,000-hectare private conservancy is devoted to rhino and elephant conservation. A visit here, or even a spell volunteering, can really deepen your understanding of the conservation challenges Zimbabwe faces, thereby adding considerable depth to your safari.

Savé Valley Conservancy

Savé Valley Conservancy is one of the best-run private conservancies in Southern Africa. It’s a great place to visit, the wildlife is exceptional and you can do all the things – walking safaris, night drives, off-road excursions – that aren’t allowed in national parks. Although you won’t see it, part of the conservancy is also a hunting concession – Savé Valley is one of few places in Africa where this complicated conservation mix works. Whatever your view, ask them any questions you want, and visit with an open mind.

featured zimbabwe safaris

Elephants wading in the Zambezi River, Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe safaris: Need to know

Everything you wish you'd known before you booked, the best times for safari in zimbabwe.

As is the case throughout much of southern Africa, the best time to go on safari in Zimbabwe is during the dry season months from April to October.

Not only are these the best months when it comes to weather conditions (clear skies, mild temperatures), but it’s also when wildlife-viewing is at its best; during the dry season, animals congregate around the last remaining water sources, making them easier to find and see. There are downsides to visiting at this time: this is high season, which means higher prices and you’ll share safari trails with many more travellers and their vehicles.

If you visit during the November-to-March wet season, bring your binoculars: this is when migratory bird species from Europe and North Africa arrive in Zimbabwe to escape northern winters. The volume of water from the Zambezi River that cascades over Victoria Falls also increases exponentially at this time, although it’s not necessarily the best time to see the Falls: especially late in the wet season, the amount of water is so great that the Falls themselves may be obscured by clouds of spray.

Things have improved dramatically on this front in recent years, but it’s not that long ago that self-drive safari-goers in Zimbabwe were stopped at checkpoints every few kilometres and asked for money. If this happens, politely decline, but carry an open pack of cigarettes, a can or two of South African beer, or small denomination US dollars and you should soon be on your way.

How a safari in Zimbabwe works

Zimbabwe is popular both as a self-drive and as a guided tour destination.

If you’re self-driving, cars can usually be picked up in Harare or Victoria Falls, although some travellers choose to pick up their vehicle across the border in Kasane, in Botswana. From Kasane, it’s an easy and short cross-border drive to either Victoria Falls or Hwange National Park. You can book lodges or camps directly, and booking campsites in national parks is usually done through the Zimbabwe Parks & Wildlife Management Authority (www.zimparks.org.zw).

If you’re on a guided safari tour, which can be either a private or a group safari, you’ll most likely fly into Victoria Falls, from where you’ll later be transferred from one park to the next by road or by small plane flying into one of the parks’ airstrips.

About the author

Anthony is a renowned travel journalist and guidebook author and is one of the world's leading authorities on Africa safari, wildlife and conservation. He has been travelling to Africa for more than two decades to research Africa safari guidebooks for Lonely Planet. He is widely published in The Age, Sydney Morning Herald, The Monthly, Virginia Quarterly Review (VQR), National Geographic Traveler, BBC Wildlife, Lonely Planet Traveller, Africa Geographic, The Independent, Travel Africa, among many others.

Featured tours

Other guides you might like

Safari in kenya, kenya's best safari reserves and camps.

Stuart Butler

Gorilla safaris, an expert guide to seeing gorillas in the wild.

Philip Briggs

South africa safari, an expert guide to safaris in south africa, wildebeest migration safaris, an essential guide to planning a migration safari in tanzania and kenya.

Hans Cosmas Ngoteya

Safari in zambia, an expert guide to zambia's best safari parks, camps & lodges.

Sarah Kingdom

Safari in tanzania, an expert guide to tanzania's best safari parks & camps, safari in botswana, an expert guide to botswana's best safari reserves, camps and experiences, where and how to see the big 5 on safari in africa, safari in africa, our travel writers' top africa safari picks, chimpanzee trekking, an expert guide to seeing chimpanzees in the wild, namibia safari, an expert guide to the best safaris in namibia.

Melanie van Zyl

Featured tours view all.

Why Horizon Guides?

Impartial travel guides

Our guides are written by the leading experts in their destinations. We never take payment for positive coverage so you can count on us for impartial travel advice.

Expert itineraries

Suggested itineraries and routes to help you scratch beneath the surface, avoid the tourist traps, and plan an authentic, responsible and enjoyable journey.

Specialist advice

Get friendly, expert travel advice and custom itineraries from some of the world's best tour operators, with no spam, pressure or commitment to book.

Our guides are 100% impartial and are written by independent, professional travel journalists. We make money by charging carefully-screened travel companies to list their business on our website. Our advertisers have no influence on our editorial content and we never accept payment for positive coverage.

Read more about how we work and what we believe in here .

• Travel guides
• Work with us

Sitemap , Privacy Copyright © 2024 Horizon Guides

Best Zimbabwe Safari Tours

Find the perfect Safari adventure in Zimbabwe. There are 37 Zimbabwe safaris to choose from, that range in length from 1 days up to 14 days. The most popular month for these tours is April.

Filters applied

37 zimbabwe safari packages with 12 reviews.

• Christmas & New Year

Victoria Falls & Hwange, 6 Days Safari Experience

3 Days Hwange National Park Safari Experience

I had a wonderful time in Hwange! My tour guide Bothwell was fantastic and so kind. My accommodations at Gwango exceeded my expectations and my organizer Bronah was always available for any question I had. Finally, my driver Shakes was an expert navigator of the roads, in addition to being one the smartest people I’ve met. I was well looked after by Little Roz Tours and felt it was a great value. I appreciate their being able to accommodate me as a solo traveler!

7-Day Hwange Walking & Mobile Camping Safari (Guided)

HWANGE AND VICTORIA FALLS

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

7-Day Zimbabwe Ultimate Fly in Safari

3 Nights Hwange Wildlife Safari

• In-depth Cultural

Victoria Falls Hwange And Chobe

Fantastic! Afro Honeyguide Adventures headed by Fungay and aided by Innocent had a perfect itinerary setup to see Hwange and Chobe National Parks along with Victoria Falls. All the guides were very informative, personable and accommodating. The lodging at all places was unique and enjoyable, especially the B&B in Kasane which I absolutely loved. My tour in the off-season was an awesome, unforgettable bucket list experience.

Vic Falls Short Break

Actually this program interpid gave only accomodation with breakfast at the hotel airport transfer and half day tour at US$1100+. for 2 persons. At this cost if we book the same hotel through Expidia will not cost more than US$300 for 2 persons If all included expenses as they charged should not be more than US$700 for 2 persons. The most of all we had extended to stay one more night and told the guide on the 1st day for our extension and asked for hotel to airport pick up . He said no problem just told the Horizon office ( local tour agent) at the hotel. We did told the Horizon , he said no problem just remind his colleague the day before we would go to the airport. But when we told again on the day before we would leave to the airport they said we have to pay for hotel to airport pickup at US$34 that was not the same as the guide and 1st Horizon employee told us (which we known after that they have bus run regularly) and keep the receipt for claim to Interpid after we back to our home. We decided to let the hotel call taxi for US$30 so we feel to be over charged too much for the poor service. VICctoria Falls us great! We just met the poor services..

5 Days Chobe & Victoria Falls Experience** Sustainable Approach to Travel**

6 Days 5 Nights Best of Zimbabwe Adventure

It is a must see for anyone who has thought of visiting.

Best of Zimbabwe Experience 6 Days 5 Nights (Comfort Plus)

5-Day Mana Pools National Park Safari Experience

7 Days Breakaway Zimbabwe

7-Days Mana Pools & Hwange National Park

9 Days Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park & Kariba

Zimbabwe safari operator reviews.

Fantastic! Afro Honeyguide Adventures headed by Fungay and aided by Innocent had a perfect itinerary setup to see Hwange and Chobe National Parks along with Victoria Falls. All the guides were very informative, personable and accommodating. The lodging at all places was unique and enjoyable, especially the B&B in Kasane which I absolutely loved. My tour in the off-season was an awesome, unforgettable bucket list experience.

Safari Tours

• Wildlife (5)

National Park

• Hwange National Park (17)
• Victoria Falls (7)

Regions in Zimbabwe

• Victoria Falls (50)
• Hwange National Park (20)

Travel Styles

• 10 Best Safaris in December 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in August 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in January 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in November 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in October 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in September 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in July 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in June 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in May 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in April 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in March 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in February 2024/2025
• 10 Best Luxury African Safari Tours 2024/2025

International Versions

• Deutsch: Simbabwe Safari
• Français: Zimbabwe Safaris 2024/2025
• Español: Safaris en Zimbabue
• Nederlands: Safari Rondreizen in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe Safari Guide

Where & when to go, and what to see on safari in zimbabwe.

Interested in a Zimbabwe safari? Read on below for the full low down…

Located between the mighty Zambezi and Limpopo rivers, landlocked Zimbabwe is one of Africa’s most pristine countries. The country borders Botswana , Mozambique, South Africa , and Zambia, and is best known for the magnificent spectacle of the Victoria Falls – a wonder of the world.

Having gone through decades of social unrest during the Mugabe era, Zimbabwe now openly welcomes tourists to the country.  Zimbabweans, as a rule, are friendly and warm people, the country sees fewer tourists than its neighbours, the game reserves are virtually untouched by mankind, and the guides are excellent. All this makes Zimbabwe a top – if under-attended -safari destination.

Alongside some of Africa’s best game viewing the country boasts its fair share of epic African scenery. The name Zimbabwe is derived from the incredible stone structures of the Great Zimbabwe ruins , a World Heritage Site, and the country has a further four World Heritage Sites, including Victoria Falls, the conservation area of Mana Pools and the spectacular granite Matobo Hills.

The central and western parts of the country are made up of mostly savannah grassland, with tropical evergreen forests in the eastern highlands and wonderful rock formations in the north. Whether you’re visiting for a safari or simply to take in the scenery, Zimbabwe offers a fantastic variety.

Self-drive safaris are an option in most national parks in Zimbabwe, though to enjoy full access to the most remote (and tourist-free!) areas you’ll need a 4WD car or jeep. If you fancy taking a tour or arranging your own guide and/or driver have a look at our list of safari tour companies in Zimbabwe before arrival in the country.

Useful resources

Book a Zimbabwe safari 

Zimbabwe wildlife

Zimbabwe Tourist Board

Zimbabwe guidebooks

Zimbabwe safari highlights

Experience the victoria falls.

Forming the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, the 110 meter tall waterfall is one of the seven wonders of the world for good reason. Over 400,000 tourists visit Victoria Falls annually, to watch the Zambezi plummet over a cliff quite spectacularly.

Big five spotting

Go big five spotting at Hwange – Zimbabwe’s most famous national park. With raised viewing platforms of waterholes teeming with wildlife, Hwange is a park that almost always delivers for game. But seeing all the big five in one game drive? That will be a lot harder!

Take a Zambezi wildlife cruise

Downstream from the Victoria Falls, the Zambezi – one of Africa’s mightiest rivers – flows through Zimbabwe’s Matusadona and Mana Pools national parks, home to hippos, rhinos and birdlife. There’s plenty of opportunities to hop on to a boat of some type to enjoy the wildlife whilst floating down the river.

Relax lakeside at Kariba

Zimbabwe’s Lake Kariba is the world’s largest man-made lake, stretching 226 km, and forming part of the border between and Zambia and Zimbabwe. As with the all of Africa’s Great Lakes, Kariba offers spectacular views, stunning sunsets, great fishing, and is a wonderful spot to simply relax and reflect on your African adventure.

Best time to safari in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is a year-round safari destination, though depending on where you go and what you plan to see (and how much rain and heat you can take), you may want to plan on visiting at a specific time of year.

Peak season to visit Zimbabwe is from May to October. At this time of year, Victoria Falls is in full flow and at its most impressive, while the wildlife viewing is excellent as animals concentrate around waterholes and rivers. With peak season comes crowds of tourists, though as the temperature rises to the 30s from July to October there are fewer visitors to contend with away from Victoria Falls.

The rainy season – made up predominantly of afternoon showers – begins in November or December, and lasts into March. Although some camps around Hwange close for the rainy season fthe park and many lodges remain open. This is a great time for a crowd-free safari with the added bonus of migratory birds. At this time lots of wildlife is born and the dry Zimbabwean bush becomes green and lush. Water levels in the Zambezi are low through the rainy season, making for better whitewater rafting on the Zambezi.

Flights To Zimbabwe

Search, track and book flights to Zimbabwe, from anywhere in the world.

Zimbabwe Accommodation

Find safari accommodation in Zimbabwe – from budget campsites to luxury lodges.

Zimbabwe Car Hire

Considering a self-drive safari? Research and book car hire in Zimbabwe.

Activities in Zimbabwe

Search and book things to do in Zimbabwe – tours, excursions and activities.

National parks in Zimbabwe

Over 15% of Zimbabwe’s land area is protected, with most of the resulting national parks in Zimbabwe including some form of UNESCO World Heritage Site. Although Zimbabwe – and Zimbabwean wildlife – has seen some tough times in recent years, the tourism industry is open for business, and wildlife populations are slowly increasing to former levels. Zimbabwe is the premier destination in the world to see huge elephant herds and black rhinos .

Top Zimbabwe national park picks

Hwange national park.

The jewel in the crown of Zimbabwe’s national parks – covering the largest area (14,650 sq km) and holding the most wildlife, including over 30,000 elephants.

Matusadona National Park

A picturesque park on the southern shore of Lake Kariba, backdropped by the Matusadona mountain range. The park is a refuge for the black rhino – one of Africa’s most endangered species .

All national parks in Zimbabwe

Use the map to locate all national parks in Zimbabwe. Click the icons for more info.

Get Directions

Hwange National Park: The jewel in the crown of Zimbabwe’s national parks – covering the largest area (14,650 sq km) and holding the most wildlife, including over 30,000 elephants.

Matobo National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site of unique granite boulder scenery and over 3,000 ancient rock art sites… as well as an incredible 35% of the world’s species of eagles.

Matusadona National Park: A picturesque park on the southern shore of Lake Kariba, backdropped by the Matusadona mountain range. The park is a refuge for the extremely endangered black rhino.

Chimanimani National Park: A hikers paradise with some totally wild and unspoiled parts.  The park borders Mozambique and you can hike to peaks of 2,437 m for unsurpassed views back across the country.

Mana Pools National Park: A wild and natural park covering 2,200 sq km and home to plenty of lion, wild dog, elephant, hippo, and crocodile. The unique thing here is that nothing is fenced in.

Victoria Falls National Park: A small national park bordering Zambia and providing the most spectacular views of one of the wonders of the world – the mighty Victoria Falls.

Have you been to a national park in Zimbabwe, or got some useful information you’d like to share on the topic? Please feel free to get involved in the comments section below.

Zimbabwe safari resources

Search & book zimbabwe accommodation, read safari guides to all countries.

Botswana safaris , Namibia safaris , Rwanda safaris , South Africa safaris , Tanzania safaris , Uganda safaris , Zimbabwe safaris

Do you have any experience of planning or going on safari in Zimbabwe?

We’d love to hear any feedback or tips you may have – please get in touch , or add to the comments below.

Top countries for safaris

• Botswana safaris
• Kenya safaris
• Namibia safaris
• South Africa safaris
• Tanzania safaris
• Uganda safaris

Safari basics

• Safari animals
• How to find the right safari company
• When to go on safari
• What to take on safari
• Safari clothing – what to wear
• Safari rules & etiquette
• Wildlife spotting tips

Most read articles

• All about the ‘big five’ animals
• Collective nouns for animals
• Safari movies to watch before you go
• The world’s fastest land animals
• Apex predators
• 10 Fascinating African tribes
• The biggest animals in the world
• 17 Epic hybrid animals
• The world’s ugliest animals
• Why are flamingos pink?

Africa’s best game reserves

• Chobe National Park, Botswana
• Etosha National Park, Namibia
• Kruger National Park, South Africa
• Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
• Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana
• Okavango Delta, Botswana
• Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

• In the Media
• ABC Foundation
• Our Ultimate Guides
• Live in Camp

Safari Experiences

• Emerald Season Botswana
• Luxury Zimbabwe
• Luxury Okavango
• Icon Safari

Top Safaris

• Magic of Three Countries
• Authentic Mana Pools
• Luxury Zambezi

Impact Safaris

• 2025 Foundation Hosted Impact Safari
• Learner Development Safari
• Conservation Safari
• Women Empowerment Safari

Expedition Experiences

• Zambezi Expeditions
• Somalisa Expeditions
• Linyanti Expeditions

Signature Experiences

• Linyanti Bush Camp
• Somalisa Camp
• Nyamatusi Camp

Somalisa Acacia

• Khwai Leadwood
• Khwai Lediba

Nyamatusi Mahogany

• Linyanti Ebony

Bumi Hills Safari Lodge

• Khayelitshe House

Icon Experiences

• Thorntree River Lodge
• Atzaro Okavango

• Linyanti Wildlife Reserve
• Khwai Community Area
• Okavango Delta
• Lake Kariba & Matusadona
• Mana Pools National Park
• Hwange National Park
• Matobo National Park
• Victoria Falls
• Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park (Livingstone)
• Lower Zambezi
• Our Foundation

Get in Touch

Talk to a safari expert.

Zimbabwe Safari: Your Guide to Our Intimate Heartland

What you will learn about in this guide:.

• Why you should visit our intimate heartland in Zimbabwe

Wildlife in Zimbabwe

• Climate in Zimbabwe
• Languages and Cultures in Zimbabwe
• Our Camps in Zimbabwe
• What to Pack on your Zimbabwe safari

Why Zimbabwe?

Zimbabwe is a highly rewarding safari destination. It’s home to the mysterious ruined capital, Victoria Falls, and the rugged Eastern Highlands.

Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe’s most renowned safari attraction. It’s known for its huge herds of elephants (especially during the dry season) as well as its abundance of big cats and other wildlife.

Another gem that offers a unique adventure is Mana Pools National Park . Situated in the northern region of Zimbabwe, on the southern banks of the Zambezi River, Mana Pools National Park will leave you breathless with its beauty. This park allows for canoeing safaris and the chance to roam free among large game on guided walking safaris.

Matusadona National Park is another remarkable safari destination found in Zimbabwe. The park gets its name from the rolling Matusadona hills that form part of its water rich landscape. Matusadona Hills is located on the southern shore of Lake Kariba, in the middle of the Zambezi River.

Why You Should Visit Zimbabwe  

• The iconic Victoria Falls.  
• Home to some of equatorial Africa’s most majestic ruins.  
• Walking and canoe safaris in Mana Pools National Park.  
• Wander through the Eastern Highlands’ forests and boulder-strewn lunarscapes.  

Did You Know

In Zimbabwe, we have nine camp offerings in four locations that are tailored to a variety of different wildlife experiences from the wildly luxurious to the wildly adventurous.

Whether you prefer to be nestled in the Bumi Hills overlooking Lake Kariba or face to face with Africa’s giants at Somalisa, our team is ready to welcome you with a shared love of nature. Our camps are located in various locations across Zimbabwe’s diverse ecosystems, home to some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.

Experience the untamed wilderness of Mana Pools National Park in Zimbabwe, whether you are taking a well-deserved solo break from the noise of the city, a romantic hideaway or an unforgettable family vacation.

At Mana Pools, Kanga Camp awaits, nestled beneath the canopy of mighty acacias, overlooking a vibrant waterhole frequented by an abundance of wildlife. Zambezi Expeditions Camp allows you to wake up on the tranquil banks of Zambezi, while NyamatusiNyamautusi promises action-packed safaris with wildlife on your doorstep.

Take in the vast savannah plains of Hwange National Park at any of our Somalisa camps. Here, you can come face to face with Africa’s giants at Somalisa Expeditions Camp, connect with family and friends over the soul-stirring views from Somalisa Signature Camp, or let your children roam freely and comfortably at Somalisa Acacia.

On the sparkling shores of Lake Kariba, the beautiful Matusadona National Park awaits, where you can experience a restorative and inspiring stay at Bumia Hills Safari Lodge.

Whether you’re an avid photographer seeking the perfect shot, a family looking for an unforgettable adventure, or a couple seeking a romantic retreat, our camps in Zimbabwe cater to all.

A Few Of Our Most Popular Signature Camps in Zimbabwe

Matusadona National Park, Zimbabwe

Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe

The northern border of Zimbabwe is traced by the Zambezi River, which flows into Lake Kariba . It then passes through the hot, low-lying Zambezi Valley, and then the World Heritage Site, Mana Pools National Park. The Zambezi River provides water all-year-round for wildlife. On a Zimbabwe safari, you may often see predators like leopard, lion and crocodile. Kudu, impala, zebra, hippo, and waterbuck all live on the nearby plains.  

The sable antelope is the national animal of Zimbabwe and considered to be one of the country’s most populated species.  

The horns of this species have made them attractive with photographers, but they have also made them a favourite target for prize hunters. Conservation measures have been put in place to prevent the extinction of Sable Antelopes in the wild. It is estimated that numbers might be as low as 1,000.  

In Hwange National Park, you will find brown hyena, bat-eared fox, and springhare are all. You may even get to see the critically endangered wild dogs, while nocturnal honey badgers are often seen at night in and around campfires.  

Zimbabwe is also home to over 650 bird species and is a great place for a bird-watching safari. No endemic bird species can be found in Zimbabwe, although the Eastern Zimbabwe Mountains Endemic Bird Area (an area of worldwide importance), has numerous near endemics (EBA). For birdwatchers, Zimbabwe’s National Parks offer exceptional service and several options for walking safaris. From November through April, a massive influx of migratory birds may be found here, including the eastern black-headed oriole, greater painted-snipe, livingstone’s turaco, and the southern carmine bee-eater.  

The winter months are the ideal time to see animals because of the dry weather (May-October). Animals flock around water sources when it is limited, which is especially true at the conclusion of the Dry season.  

Zimbabwe has a tropical climate with distinct rainy and dry seasons. The climate varies considerably depending on the altitude and the region.

In the highlands, including cities like Harare and Mutare, the climate is temperate and the average temperature ranges from 10°C to 23°C. The rainy season in this area is from November to March, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in December and January.

In the lowveld region, including the cities of Victoria Falls and Kariba, the climate is hot and dry with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 40°C. The rainy season in this area is from November to March, with the highest rainfall occurring in January and February.

Overall, Zimbabwe’s climate is influenced by the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) and the shifting of the Zimbabwean Plateau. Climate change is having an increasing impact on Zimbabwe, including rising temperatures and changes in rainfall patterns.

Zimbabwe is a culturally diverse country with a rich history and a variety of traditional cultures. The two largest ethnic groups in Zimbabwe are the Shona and the Ndebele, each with their own distinct cultural practices, beliefs, and customs. Other ethnic groups, such as the Tonga, Kalanga, Venda, and Sotho, also have their unique cultural traditions.

Traditional Zimbabwean culture places a strong emphasis on family and community, with extended families often living together in homesteads. Music, dance, and storytelling are significant aspects of Zimbabwean culture, and many traditional ceremonies involve the performance of music and dance. Zimbabwean art, particularly stone sculptures, is also renowned for its unique style and beauty.

Christianity is the predominant religion in Zimbabwe, although traditional African beliefs and practices are still widely observed in some communities. The country has a rich history of liberation struggles, and many national holidays and events are celebrated to honor the country’s independence and freedom fighters.

Overall, Zimbabwean culture is diverse, vibrant, and deeply rooted in history and tradition, reflecting the country’s unique identity and heritage.

Zimbabwe is a multilingual country with 16 official languages recognized in its constitution. The most widely spoken language in Zimbabwe is Shona, which is spoken by around 70% of the population. Ndebele is the second most widely spoken language, used by around 20% of the population. Other minority languages spoken in Zimbabwe include English, which is the official language of government, education, and business, as well as Tonga, Chewa, Nambya, Venda, Kalanga, Sotho, Tswana, Xhosa, and several others. The diversity of languages in Zimbabwe reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage and history.

Where to Go  

Lake kariba national park   .

Lake Kariba, with its 2,000km of shoreline, is the 4th largest man-made lake in the world, and the 2nd in Africa. It’s an impressive destination to visit, especially if you would like to experience authentic wildlife and walking safaris. Lake Kariba National Park is also rich in cultural heritage, which transcends through our safari camps and the indigenous community of Tonga people.   

Buffalo, waterbuck, zebra and other impala thrived in areas with abundant water and regenerative grasses. Lions are also coming back to the area  This has allowed for incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. The lake is home to huge Nile crocodiles, and the shores offer incredible herds of elephants and other members of the big five. Birdlife is also flourishing in this area. Keep an eye out for fish-eagles and other birdlife.  

Our Camps in Matusadona National Park  

Situated on the sparkling shores of Lake Kariba  

Bumi-Hills Safari Lodge- A Secret Riviera in the Heart of Africa | Signature Camp

Bumi Hills safari lodge is located in Zimbabwe’s most remote wilderness area, it is truly captivating. This haven of tranquillity overlooks Lake Kariba’s shimmering waters, with the Zambezi Escarpment as its backdrop. Kariba’s shoreline is rich in wildlife. The lodge’s location near Matusadona also allows wildlife to freely roam between Matusadona’s national park and Bumi Hill’s private concession. This creates endless opportunities for game-viewing, guided by our passionate team .  

Each of the ten suites is thoughtfully furnished with all the amenities you would expect from our luxury Lake Kariba lodge. Each suite has air-conditioning, an en-suite bathroom with a hairdryer and battery charging points. There’s also a mini-bar and private viewing deck. Baobab Villa is a two-bedroom villa in Bumi Hills. It has a living room bar, outdoor and indoor dining decks, and is perfect for families. The villa offers a personalized experience with a private server, safari guide, and a dedicated safari car.  

Our tranquil spa offers a relaxing retreat from the stresses of modern life. The sparkling infinity pool provides cool relief and endless views of Lake Kariba below. Our well-equipped gym offers a great opportunity for active guests. The lodge is close to Matusadona, which allows the animals to roam free between the national park area and the private concession at Bumi Hills. You can spend your days on the water or wandering around the surrounding area on a walking safari. Discover the secrets hidden within the fossilized dinosaur footprints that are unique to this area. Our guides are equipped and knowledgeable of the area. They will make sure your safari experience is a memorable one. Guided walking safaris, boating and birding, day-and-night game as well as cultural visits to the local community are some of the activities you can expect to experience on your trip.  

Practical Advice   

• For wildlife viewing, June through October is the best month to visit Lake Kariba. However, September and October can be extremely hot.  
• Malaria is prevalent in Lake Kariba. The risk of contracting is greatest during the rainy season from November through April. Take the necessary precautions.  

Mana Pools National Park   

Mana Pools is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It offers a wilderness experience in the most remote areas. Visitors to the park will find a variety of wildlife  

Mana, which means “four” in Shona, refers to four large pools found within the park. These are remnants of old oxbow lakes that were created by the powerful Zambezi. The Mana Pools National Park is in the middle Zambezi Valley and offers an incredible opportunity to take part in expertly guided canoe trails, among other activities.  

The Mana Pools National Park is renowned for its large elephant herds and for being the best place in Africa to see endangered wild dogs. It’s not just the wildlife that makes the park so appealing, but also how it allows you to live in the bush and experience the wild without being disturbed by large crowds.   

Our Camps in Mana Pools National Park  

Kanga camp – home of the armchair safari  | expeditions camp.

Kanga Camp located in a private concession of Mana Pools National Park , is an unspoiled wilderness paradise. Our seasonal Kanga safari lodge is located inland adjacent to Kanga Pan. It offers an authentic Mana Pools safari experience. Kanga Pan, which is located many miles from the Zambezi River, is the only source of water during the dry season. This makes it an ideal haven for wildlife. The diverse area includes a variety of vlei lines, mixed woodland types, ranging from Mopane Forest to Jesse bush and riverine trees. Kanga Camp is well-suited for collaboration with Zambezi Expeditions, where you can experience the thrill of canoeing and catch and release fishing on the Zambezi River.  

The solar-powered Kanga camp consists of six tents, each raised on wooden platforms to provide an elevated view of the Kanga Pan. The Meru-style tents are simple but elegant. They have floor-to-ceiling mesh windows to let in natural light and a breeze. Each tent has fans, an en-suite bathroom, outdoor shower and hot running water. Kanga also offers a family tent with a wrap-around terrace that faces the pan and has private seating and dining areas. A rolltop bath is available on the adjacent secluded deck in the honeymoon tent, making it a perfect spot for starlit nights. The upper deck lounge, which is shaded by a mahogany tree, is a great place to relax and unwind. Our plunge pool offers a refreshing oasis for the warmer, summer days. This Kanga safari lodge offers every comfort of home, including a charging station for your cameras and devices.  

Guided walking safaris are one of the many activities on your Mana Pools safari. Our passionate guides take great joy inleading thrilling game drives. They will be happy to share their love and knowledge with you. You don’t need to worry about the kids while on safari, at Kanga camp children over seven years old are welcome African Bush Camps prides itself in its family-friendly safari camps. Walking safaris at Kanga are not permitted for children under 16. This is due to their adventurous nature. Kanga Camp is closed during the dry and shoulder seasons, which runs from April to November.  

Zambezi Expeditions- Exclusive Mobile Camp overlooking the majestic Zambezi River | Expeditions Camp

Zambezi Expeditions boasts one of the most stunning settings in Zimbabwe’s famous Mana Pools National Park. The camp is classic and comfortable, yet it offers a sense of intimacy with the natural world. You will fall asleep to the sounds of the river flowing with the chuckles of the hippo and wake-up to the spectacular African sunrise. Zambezi Expeditions will help you connect deeply with nature.  

Each tent is set under the shade of winter thorn and ebony trees. It has an en-suite bathroom with hot bucket showers. The main area also has charging points for your cameras. A game drive in an open 4 x4 along the floodplains and into the Mana Pools UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must on your trip.  

Nyamatusi Mahogany- Embracing Family on Safari | Signature Camp

Nyamatusi Mahogany is the latest addition to African Bush Camps’ family-focused safari camps. It offers a luxurious safari experience that families will love. The camp features two tented suites as well as two family suites, nestled under old mahogany trees along the banks of the Zambezi River.   

Nyamatusi Mahogany’s experience is solar-powered and made from all-natural, locally sourced materials. You can enjoy uninterrupted views of the river, floodplain, and escarpment from the lounge, dining area, fire circle, plunge pool as well as your private suite. Our Mana Pools camp features two tented suites as well as two family suites All situated beneath the ancient mahogany trees along the shores of the mighty Zambezi River. The camp’s thoughtful and bespoke design captures the beauty and serenity found in its natural surroundings. Mana Pools is a paradise for explorers. It’s one of the few pioneer parks in the great African Rift Valley. You can expect maximum flexibility when you stay in a private concession within Mana Pools National Park.   

Children are welcome at this camp with their special Ngwana club starter pack. Children of all ages can visit our Mana Pools camp. However, because of the nature of the activities, only children 16 years and older are allowed on walking or canoeing safaris.  

Nyamatusi Camp- Ideal for the Eco-conscious Traveller  

Nyamatusi Camp is our flagship in terms of its eco-conscious style. This camp is set in one of the wildest and most remote parts of Africa, on the banks of the Zambezi, one of the world’s oldest rivers. Embracing comfort, this property embodies sustainable design. Fully solar-powered and built from all-natural materials it encompasses its wilderness location in the most elegant way. Here, your Mana Pools safari plays out against a sweeping riverine landscape, where epic encounters of the giants that roam this land await.   

Consisting of six luxury tented suites, with uninterrupted views of the river and escarpment beyond, our Mana Pools safari lodge invites a blissful escape to nature. Each romantic guest tent is adorned with soft drapery and is replete with air-conditioning, indoor and outdoor shower and a private viewing deck, and a plunge pool. Thoughtfully located charging points are placed in your guest tent for those all-important cameras. Your Mana Pools safari follows the gentle ebb and flow of life on the river. Marvel at the incredible sights and sounds of one of Africa’s last remaining wilderness hinterlands from the cozy bar or, refreshing pool.   

Hwange National Park  

Hwange National Park, which covers an impressive 14,650 square kilometres of land, is the largest park in Zimbabwe. It’s located approximately two-hours drive from Victoria Falls and a 30-minute flight away. Named after a Nhanzwa chief, the park was once the royal hunting ground of the Ndebele warrior-king Mzilikazi before it was designated a protected National Park on the 29th of September 1929.  

The park’s diversity of wildlife species is impressive, as you would expect. Nearly 400 species of birds and mammals can be found here.   

Hwange’s dry season, which runs from July to October, is the best time to visit. Large numbers of wildlife, including elephant herds, descend on the area to drink at the waterholes. This allows them to survive in the harsh environment. The wildlife will disperse in the park due to the heavy rains that fall from December to March, making it harder for them to be seen. However, the summer showers bring out stunning vegetation. As the local population of birdlife is bolstered from the Northern Hemisphere, as yearly feathered visitors migrate. This which creates amazing bird-watching opportunities. Hwange National Park is truly a year-round paradise.  

Our Camps in Hwange National Park   

Somalisa acacia – ideal for a family safari | signature camp.

The most important symbol of Africa is the Acacia tree. Its silhouette is iconic to the African landscape, especially when watching a sunrise with vivid orange and pink hues.  

Somalisa Acacia offers a memorable family-friendly safari experience. This camp is suitable for younger children and smaller groups of safari-goers. The camp is located just to the west of its sister camp, Somalisa Camp and sits at the edge of Hwange National Park’s seasonal floodplain. Your chances of sighting elephants from you room is very high. Since your backyard is the largest natural reserve of Zimbabwe and is known for its diverse wildlife. Keep an eye out the swift cheetahs, graceful giraffes, honking hippos, and the dazzling zebra that might make an appearance.  

Somalisa Acacia can be accessed from Victoria Falls International Airport by a 45-minute light-plane-flight landing at Manga Airstrip. A 30-minute game drive transfer will take you to the camp. You can also access the lodge by road, which is only a 4-hour drive away from Victoria Falls. Somalisa Acacia is open to children of all ages. It’s a great place for authentic and meaningful memories under the African skies with your family. Our camp has eco-conscious, functional design. A lounge, dining area, boma, and an elephant drinking pool make up the main camp area. The space is surrounded by Acacia trees, which create a gentle stream of light that reflects off the deck. This creates a feeling of security and tranquillity. The Somalisa Acacia splash pool borders wild elephant waterholes, which are frequented by these magnificent gentle giants.  

Somalisa Acacia can accommodate a maximum of 12 guests. The camp is composed of two-family tents that have inter-leading walkways connecting the children and parents’ rooms. There are also two separate canvas guest tents. Every guest tent has gauze sliding doors that lead to a private deck with 180-degree views over the surrounding bush. This camp is a blend of different textures, from copper to natural wood and face brick. It has a truly organic feel. The modern amenities in your guest tent include a fan and a battery charging station. There is also a wood-burning fireplace, a bathroom with a roll-top bathtub, and a fan. Your Hwange safari activities include game drives, walking safaris and birding. These activities are all included in your stay, and lead by passionate and qualified guides. They are natural storytellers and eager to share their passion for the bush with you and your family.  

Somalisa Camp- Zimbabwe’s Leading Tented Safari Camp | Signature Camp

Somalisa Camp provides guests with breath-taking views of the golden savannah plains of Hwange. A place where, one moment you are sipping on your gin and tonic listening to the distant baritone roar of a lion coalition on the hunt, and the next, you’re gazing over at a congregation of elephants mere meters away, peacefully sharing a sundowner with you.   

Hwange National Park is a land of contrasts from dense teak and acacia forest to vast open savannah, offering guests an exhibition of raw and diverse Africa. Somalisa Camp enjoys pride of place as our first-ever Hwange safari lodge.  It was built by our owner, Beks Ndlovu and is home to the quintessential African Bush Camps experience. Tucked away under the dappled shade of an Acacia grove, along the edge of an ancient seasonal floodplain.  

Our intimate bush camp is perfect for a relaxing Hwange safari with friends and loved ones. The elegant style is infused by natural wood and organic features of the bush. Kudhinda, the Zimbabwean national material, is thoughtfully paired with modern decor influences, creating an authentic contemporary African style. A full solar power farm and water purity system allow the camp to recycle 80% water used.  

Somalisa Camp leads the way in eco-friendly safari accommodation. It has been awarded the first GOLD Green Tourism Certification in Zimbabwe. Our seven tastefully furnished sailcloth tents are set on a private concession in the heart of Hwange National Park. This is where you will find nature and luxury seamlessly entwined. Your guest tent is replete with modern amenities such as a fan, a battery charging station, wood-burning fireplace and private viewing deck. Your bathroom, worthy of a special mention, is inspired by the romance of yesteryear, boasts an indoor and outdoor bathroom and features a copper slipper-style bathtub and endless views across the vast plains beyond. Perfect for a romantic safari experience.  

Explore legendary Hwange National Park through a variety of pursuits while staying at Somalisa Camp. Activities include walking safaris, game drives, birding and cultural visits. All are included in your stay and led by our qualified and passionate guides. These natural storytellers enlighten our guests by sharing their wonder and wisdom of the African bush.  

Somalisa Expeditions- An Authentic, Original Safari Camp | Expeditions Camp

Experience the thrill of the wild and come face-to-face with Africa’s greats at Somalisa Expeditions . From the comfort of your armchair, nature will unfold before your eyes, making this camp a perfect spot for the ultimate “arm-chair safari.” Excitement and adventure await with game drives, bush walks, and bird watching included in your stay. Our experienced guides don’t just offer passive observation of sights; they ignite your passion for the beauty and wonder of the African wilderness, making each experience awe-inspiring. Whether you’re exploring on foot or by vehicle, your curiosity will be rewarded with unforgettable encounters.

Embrace the spirit of adventure with all the comforts of home at Somalisa Expeditions. These authentic expedition-style camps capture the essence of a mobile camp, providing a genuine connection to nature without sacrificing luxury. Honest and unpretentious in design, our camp invites you to discover the heart of Africa. Each Serengeti-style tent is modern and comfortable, ensuring that you have a peaceful and restful retreat after a day of exploring the wilderness. Relax in style, surrounded by the sounds and sights of the African bush, and discover a new level of immersion in nature.

Matobo National Park  

Matobo National Park can be found in southwest Zimbabwe. The park is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, including several endangered or threatened species such as black eagles, leopards, rhinos, and Cape vultures. Matobo National Park is also characterized by its distinctive granite rock formations, including the Matobo Hills, which are considered sacred by the local Ndebele people and contain numerous rock art sites that provide insight into the lives and beliefs of the San people who lived in the area thousands of years ago. In addition to its natural and cultural significance, Matobo National Park is a popular tourist destination, offering a range of activities such as game drives, guided walks, and rock climbing. Overall, Matobo National Park is a unique and important resource that has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding universal value.

Our Camps in Matobo National Park  

Khayelitshe house- for private and exclusive-use  | signature camp.

Nestled amidst the Matobo Hills just outside the national park’s boundary lies Khayelitshe House. The iconic balancing stones and natural amphitheatres of colossal boulders encircle this abode. The house’s name, derived from the Ndebele words “Ekhaya” and “Litshe,” meaning “Home in the Rocks,” aptly describes its location.

Khayelitshe House ‘s charm lies in its simple and organic design, drawing inspiration from Africa’s travels to evoke energy and tranquillity during your stay. This off-grid haven promotes peace and harmony with nature, seamlessly blending with the magnificent ancient landscape. With four fully-serviced bedrooms and en-suite bathrooms, the property offers breathtaking vistas from every window, creating an unrivaled sense of seclusion. Over 1200 acres of awe-inspiring wilderness surround Khayelitshe House, providing an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

What to Pack on Your Zimbabwe Safari

When packing for a safari in Zimbabwe, it’s important to keep in mind the country’s climate, the activities you’ll be doing, and any specific requirements of the lodges or camps you’ll be staying at. Here are some essential items to consider packing:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colors: Zimbabwe’s climate is generally hot and dry, so pack lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colors that will blend in with the environment. Long-sleeved shirts and pants can protect you from the sun and insect bites, especially during game drives and bush walks.
• Comfortable walking shoes: You’ll be spending a lot of time on your feet, so pack comfortable, sturdy walking shoes for bush walks and game drives. Closed-toe shoes are recommended to protect your feet from rocks, thorns, and insects.
• Sun protection: Zimbabwe can get very hot, so be sure to pack sun protection, including a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen.
• Insect repellent: Zimbabwe is home to mosquitoes and other biting insects, so pack insect repellent to protect yourself from bites and mosquito-borne illnesses like malaria.
• Camera and binoculars: Zimbabwe’s wildlife and landscapes are breathtaking, so be sure to pack a camera and binoculars to capture the experience.
• Medications and toiletries: Pack any necessary medications, as well as toiletries like toothbrush, toothpaste, and hand sanitizer.

FAQs- Frequently Asked Questions

What are the popular safari destinations in zimbabwe.

Popular safari destinations in Zimbabwe include Hwange National Park, Mana Pools National Park, Matobo National Park, and Victoria Falls. What is the best time of year to go on a safari in Zimbabwe?

The dry season, from April to October, is generally considered the best time for safaris in Zimbabwe. During this period, wildlife gathers around water sources, making it easier to spot animals.

What wildlife can I expect to see during a Zimbabwe safari?

Zimbabwe is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species. You may also spot crocodiles, hippos, and numerous bird species.Are there any safety considerations or precautions to keep in mind while on a safari in Zimbabwe?

It is important to follow the instructions of your experienced guides, maintain a safe distance from animals, and avoid any sudden movements or loud noises. Also, it is recommended to take malaria precautions and have travel insurance.

What types of accommodations are available for safari-goers in Zimbabwe?

Zimbabwe offers a range of accommodations for safari-goers, including luxury lodges, tented camps, and self-catering options. These accommodations vary in terms of amenities, comfort levels, and proximity to wildlife areas.

Do I need to book a safari in advance, or can I arrange it upon arrival?

It is generally advisable to book your safari in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak seasons. However, some operators may be able to arrange safaris upon arrival depending on availability.

Are there any specific safari activities or experiences unique to Zimbabwe?

Zimbabwe offers unique safari experiences such as walking safaris, where you can explore the wilderness on foot accompanied by experienced guides. Canoeing safaris along the Zambezi River and night game drives are also popular activities.

Are there any age restrictions for participating in a safari in Zimbabwe?

Age restrictions may vary depending on the safari operator and specific activities. Some operators may have minimum age requirements for certain activities like walking safaris or may recommend specific age limits for safety reasons.

What is the duration of a typical safari in Zimbabwe?

The duration of a safari can vary depending on individual preferences and itineraries. Safaris can range from a few days to a week or more, allowing visitors to explore different wildlife areas and enjoy a comprehensive experience.

Are there any cultural or etiquette considerations to be aware of during a safari in Zimbabwe?

Respecting local cultures and traditions is important. It is customary to greet locals and ask for permission before taking photographs of people. Additionally, following any specific guidelines provided by your guides or camp staff is recommended to ensure a respectful and enjoyable safari experience.

Enquire Now

Start Planning Your Safari

" * " indicates required fields

Agents Portal Login

Username or Email Address

Remember Me

Newsletter sign up

Discover Africa

Zimbabwe’s quintessential safari experience awaits with adventure, spectacular sights, and thrilling wildlife encounters.

A WEALTH OF WILDLIFE

Explore a classic Zimbabwe safari

The ultimate adventure awaits.

If the word adventure gets your pulse racing, you’re going to love a Zimbabwe safari. Be awed by the mesmerising Victoria Falls, the most expansive curtain of water in the world. Capture cherished family moments along the vast Zambezi, sighting pods of hippos, fish-eagles and bustling antelope herds. Marvel at a ponderous elephant coming to drink from a waterhole nearby – as a fiery sunset illuminates the horizon.

Mysterious and magically wild

Zimbabwe derives its name from the stone structures of the Great Zimbabwe ruins, a World Heritage Site with an enigmatic origin. The country is home to several other World Heritage sites, including the rugged Matobo Hills, Mana Pools and Victoria Falls. Also, the world’s largest man-made reservoir, Lake Kariba - home to the fierce tigerfish, renowned among avid anglers, while herds of wildlife wander its shores.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Zimbabwe at a glance

Going off the beaten track comes with questions. When is the best season to view wildlife in Zimbabwe? How cold does it get at night and what languages are spoken? To help you prepare for your journey, we have put together a few key facts to inspire your adventurous spirit.

Zimbabwe key facts

Zimbabwe is a fascinating country. Home to iconic wildlife, several UNESCO World Heritage Sites and two exceptionally different wilderness experiences. Explore Hwange, the country’s largest national park, where predators and game enthral. Or venture into the beautiful and wild Mana Pools National Park, along the Lower Zambezi River, renowned for its elephants and abundant game viewing.

POPULATION SIZE

15.2 Million

Zimbabwean Dollar (ZWD)

GEOGRAPHICAL SIZE

390,757 km²

BEST TIME TO GO

All year round

English, Shona, Ndebele

The mighty Zambezi, Africa's fourth-longest river.

Dry woodland

Hwange and Mana Pools. Riverine forests of mahogany, wild fig and baobabs.

Mainly found in the vast Hwange area.

Cheetahs prefer open savannah habitats, where they can more easily spot and pursue their prey.

You’ll find impressive numbers of elephants in both Hwange & Mana Pools national parks.

African wild dog

Elusive and rare, our efforts in conservation are making it possible to see them at our camps.

The eland is the largest but slowest antelope. It can run up to 4 km/h (25 mph), but can jump 3m (10 ft).

Zimbabwe has a wonderful climate. Days are sunny, and nights clear and cool. November to April are the summer months (also the summer season), which attract a wonderful array of birdlife. Winter runs from May to August (typically drier, cool weather). September and October are typically hot and dry. In the winter months, temperatures can dip to 0°C (32°F) in the early mornings and evenings.

SUMMER SEASON

December to March

June to November

Zimbabwe experiences

ZIMBABWE JOURNEYS

Plan your Zimbabwean safari now

Our curated journeys across Zimbabwe offer you a taste of once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Filled with intimate encounters, dramatic landscapes and award-winning luxury accommodation in pristine areas. Led by our industry leading guides. Passionate storytellers who look forward to sharing their love of Zimbabwe’s iconic wildlife with you.

Explore regions & camps in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is a landlocked country, with South Africa, Botswana, Zambia and Mozambique as neighbours. Two legendary African rivers form its northern and southern boundaries: the mighty Zambezi and the languid Limpopo. Hwange is Zimbabwe’s largest national park. Downriver, you’ll discover Mana Pools National Park, named a UNESCO World Heritage Site for the purity of its wilderness and beauty.

What currency is used in Zimbabwe?

The currency in Zimbabwe is the Zimbabwean Dollar. Cash transactions are accepted in foreign currency (i.e. use of Forex), with US Dollars being the most widely accepted and used – the South African Rand (ZAR) is also accepted.

What time zone is Zimbabwe in?

Zimbabwe shares the same time zone as the rest of Southern Africa, which is two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time – (GMT) + 2 hours, in the Central Africa Time Zone (CAT).

Can I use my credit cards in Zimbabwe?

Unfortunately not. Zimbabwe does not have credit card facilities. This includes our Wilderness camps. However, payment can be made in cash and debit card transactions are accepted in Zimbabwe.

What power sockets are used in Zimbabwe?

We tread lightly on the land. And our camps are always located in pristine wilderness areas. This means we often have to generate our own electricity. There are 220V power points in the camps. If you have an item that runs on 110V, please bring a converter. It is also advisable to bring additional universal travel adaptors and extra batteries.

What do I pack for a safari in Zimbabwe?

Please remember that there may be luggage weight or size restrictions on your Zimbabwe safari. Chat to your Travel Designer who can advise you best based on your personal itinerary. As a general rule of thumb, warm clothing is recommended for the cooler months, and light clothing for summer. Bright colours and white are not advisable.

What is Great Zimbabwe?

Great Zimbabwe was a medieval African city known for its large circular wall and tower. It was part of a wealthy African trading empire that controlled much of the East African coast from the 11th to the 15th centuries. Archaeologists have found pottery from China and Persia, as well as Arab coins in the ruins. A fascinating place to visit on your Zimbabwe journey.

Do I need a visa to travel to Zimbabwe?

Please check with your Travel Designer to find out if you require a visa to enter Zimbabwe. Some nationalities may have to apply in advance. However, some nationalities are able to obtain these on arrival at the port of entry.

Vaccinations

What is the covid protocol for travelling to zimbabwe.

Please speak to your Travel Designer for the latest travel advisory updates, to ensure that you are prepared for all COVID travel requirements in Zimbabwe before your departure.

Do I need a yellow fever vaccination for Zimbabwe?

If you are travelling to Zimbabwe from areas infected with yellow fever, you must have a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. We advise our guests to also have an updated TPD (tetanus, pollo, diphtheria) vaccine and a hepatitis A vaccine. 

Do I need to take malaria medication when visiting Zimbabwe?

Please consult with your Travel Designer or travel clinic a few weeks before your departure. Some courses of medication may need to be started in advance of your visit to Zimbabwe.

Zimbabwe featured stories

Wilderness Extends Free Flying Offer

Full-paying guests who book a minimum of six nights in Wilderness’ Botswana*, Livingstone and/or Hwa...

Wilderness Blogger

Experiencing the green season safari in Hwange

Be ready to discover the vibrant season of Safari – the green season, as the Tasimba is gearing up t...

Heather Weaver

Wilderness Little Makalolo newsletter – February 2024

Methuli Tshuma

Let’s plan your next journey

When we say we’re there every step of the way, we mean it, literally. From planning the perfect circuit, to private inter-camp transfers on Wilderness Air, and easing you through Customs. We’re with you on the ground, at your side, 24-7, from start to finish. Ready to take the road less travelled? Contact our Travel Designers to plan an unforgettable journey.

Need some inspiration?

Be inspired by the latest news from Wilderness. Subscribe to our newsletter.

TOP DESTINATIONS

• Kruger Park
• Okavango Delta
• Serengeti National Park
• Victoria Falls

TOP COUNTRIES

• South Africa

TRAVEL DEALS

View All Travel Deals

SOUTHERN AFRICA

East africa, indian ocean islands, top experiences.

• Beach Holidays
• Family Safaris
• Honeymoon Safaris
• Desert Safaris
• Luxury Rail Safaris
• Multi-Generational Safaris
• Positive Impact Safaris
• Photographic Safaris
• Walking Safaris

WILDLIFE SAFARI

• Big Five Safaris
• Birding Safaris
• Gorilla Trekking Safaris
• Migration Safaris
• Mobile Camping Safaris
• Horseback Safaris

FEATURED EXPERIENCES

Comfort levels, property types.

• Tented Camps
• Boutique Hotels

Featured Safari Collections

• African Anthology
• Red Carnation
• Ker & Downey Botswana

GET TO KNOW US

• Meet The Team
• Pricing Explained
• Traveller Reviews
• Traveller Stories
• Why Book With Us?
• HerdTracker
• Safari Cost Calculator
• South Africa In 360
• Trusted Safari Partners

What are you looking for?

• Safaris & Tours
• Destinations
• Experiences
• Accommodations
• Why book with us?

Hello traveller!

It's in Cape Town now.

We're sorry. Our safari planners aren't available now. Our office hours are 08:00 - 19:00 (GMT+2).

Call us to speak to an experienced safari planner.

Alternatively, we recommend...

Schedule a phone or Zoom call with one of our safari planners

Complete our travel enquiry form to connect with a safari planner

• Zimbabwe Safari

The ultimate guide to your next Zimbabwe Safari

Get to know zimbabwe.

By Antoinette Booyse

Safari Travel Planner

Zimbabwe is a rewarding safari destination, home to the mysterious ruined city after which it is named, the thundering Victoria Falls , and the green and rugged Eastern Highlands.

The country’s flagship safari attraction is the immense Hwange National Park , renowned for its large herds of elephants (especially in the dry season), plentiful big cats, and other wildlife.

Mana Pools National Park offers a more singular adventure, which lies on the southern bank of the Zambezi River below the Kariba Dam. It provides incredible canoeing safaris and the opportunity to walk freely among big game.

Also worthwhile is Matusadona National Park, which overlooks Lake Kariba and is famed for supporting several thousand-strong herds of buffalo, a dense lion population, and one of Zimbabwe’s last Black rhino populations.

Zimbabwe Video

How it Works

View our recommended safaris for inspiration and get ready to plan your dream safari

Contact us or fill out an enquiry form and one of our travel experts will help you tailor make your perfect safari

Enjoy an authentic African experience, with peace of mind

Why Zimbabwe?

• The majestic Victoria Falls
• Great Zimbabwe, sub-equatorial Africa’s most spectacular ruins
• Canoe and walking safaris in Mana Pools National Park
• Rambling through the forests and boulder-strewn moonscapes of the Eastern Highlands
• Overnighting in a hide at Hwange National Park
• White-water rafting on Grade Five rapids below Victoria Falls
• Spectacular birdlife along the Zambezi and in Chirinda Forest

Where to go in Zimbabwe

• Hwange National Park
• Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe
• Mana Pools National Park
• Northern Zimbabwe
• Southern Zimbabwe
• Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe
• Zimbabwe’s Eastern Highlands

Hwange is a large, sprawling expanse of semi-arid landscape that supports a vast diversity of wildlife, including massive herds of elephants.

During the dry-season months between June and October, elephants converge on Hwange’s pumped waterholes from far and wide, some coming from as great a distance as Chobe National Park in neighboring Botswana . The result is an impressive wildlife spectacle.

Waterholes see a continuous procession of these giant pachyderms, along with a wide variety of general game species and their ever-attentive predators.

Safari enthusiasts seldom need to travel further than these action-packed waterpoints to get their fill of exciting wildlife sightings.

Lake Kariba is landlocked Zimbabwe’s answer to the seaside: a massive manmade lake that provides a magical combination of water and wildlife.

Situated in the country’s north and sharing a border with Zambia , Lake Kariba is best explored by a slow cruise on a houseboat over a few days.

Whiling away hours watching birds, hippos, and crocodiles from the deck couldn’t be more relaxing.

Still, you can also spend your days on smaller tender boats or canoes fishing and spotting wildlife in Matusadona National Park on the lake’s shores.

Cruising Lake Kariba on a houseboat is one of Zimbabwe’s top experiences. Spending a few days on a houseboat safari is the perfect way to unwind and soak up the magic of this vast watery wilderness and its beautiful islands.

Matusadona National Park lies on the southern shores of Lake Kariba , and it’s the perfect place for a Big Five safari .

The park is also ideal for a birding safari as it is home to the rare roan and sable antelope and 240 species of birds (herons and Saddlebill storks are particular highlights).

A highlight of visiting Kariba is the water-based game-viewing safari you can do from the lake in small boats or canoes, which allows you to get thrillingly close to elephants and other animals.

Fishing for Tigerfish and Bream is another big lake attraction, and there’s an international tiger fishing tournament held here each October. Houseboat safaris offer fishing trips, or you can book a specific fishing safari.

Practical Advice

June to October is the best time to visit Lake Kariba for wildlife viewing, but be aware that September and October are scorching months.

Don’t be tempted to swim in the lake, and be careful when fishing on the shoreline because of the threat of crocodiles.

Malaria is present in Lake Kariba, and the risk of contraction is highest during the rainy months from November to April – take the necessary precautions.

Mana is the ultimate destination for active safari enthusiasts with its spectacular multi-day canoe safaris on the Zambezi and walking safaris on a wildlife-rich floodplain alongside the river .

Mana boasts a wide range of professionally-guided and fully catered canoe safari options.

Whether you’d prefer a day trip on the river with a picnic lunch or an epic ten-day expedition from Kariba to Kanyemba through the wild Mapata Gorge, the Zambezi canoe safari is one of the great African safari experiences.

It provides a different perspective of wildlife as you silently glide past hippos, crocs, and elephants.

For adventurous visitors who would prefer not to leave dry land, there is a good network of game viewing 4×4 tracks and excellent terrain for walking safaris.

For many visitors, Victoria Falls international airport is the gateway to Zimbabwe.

The town of Victoria Falls is a great place to start a Zimbabwe holiday. Not only can you see the famous waterfalls, but there are also loads of exciting adventures in the town and its surrounding area.

You can expect everything from horseback safaris in the nearby Zambezi National Park to thrilling whitewater rafting in the Zambezi River.

An hour’s drive away from Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park is easily accessible and suitable for self-drivers without a 4×4, and a great destination to combine with spending a few days in Victoria Falls on safari.

To the east of Hwange and straddling the Zambian border, Lake Kariba is a popular destination for a relaxing few days onboard one of the many houseboats that ply the lake’s calm waters.

There are game-viewing safaris to do from your houseboat itself, but you can also stay at a lodge on an island or the mainland in Matusadona National Park, where you can do a Big Five safari.

If you travel to Lake Kariba, it makes sense to head further east and add Mana Pools National Park to your holiday itinerary . Mana Pools may not be Zimbabwe’s most easily accessible reserve (you’ll need to have a 4×4 to explore on your own), but this unspoiled wilderness is undoubtedly one of Africa’s most incredible parks and an excellent place to do walking safaris and canoeing safaris.

Microflights over Victoria Falls

Besides waterfall-related activities, there are plenty of other adventures in the town next to the falls and the surrounding area. You can get your heart pumping on a whitewater rafting experience on the rapids of the Zambezi River , bungee jump off the bridge that connects Zimbabwe and Zambia , go gorge swinging and abseiling, or do a walking safari in the nearby Zambezi National Park.

Hwange National Park is one of Africa’s prime safari destinations , with abundant wildlife – more than 100 species of mammals, including massive herds of elephants, Black and White rhinos, lots of lions and buffalo, and rarer species such as sable and roan antelope. The dry season here is superb for wildlife watching, as both predators and prey congregate in huge concentrations around the park’s manmade waterholes.

The immense watery wilderness of Lake Kariba is a relaxing get-away -from-it-all destination where you can stay on a houseboat for a few days and explore the lake’s bird and animal life, go fishing, or just soak up the sun on deck.

Matusadona National Park, which lies on the shores of Lake Kariba, is a beautiful Big Five safari reserve where you can view wildlife from boats on the lake or from lodges in the north of the park or on islands.

The park is perfect for buffalo, leopards, hyenas, and lions. More than 240 species of birds, including an impressive array of water birds, make it an ideal destination for a birding safari .

For a wild safari adventure, there aren’t many better places on the continent than Mana Pools National Park, a haven for abundant animal life.

Expect to see massive elephant herds, lots of buffalo, high concentrations of wild dogs, lions, leopards, and cheetahs in a stunning riverine habitat.

You can explore the park by 4×4 or experience this magical wilderness by doing a canoe safari, paddling along the Zambezi River, and camping out under the stars on islands. It’s also a top destination for walking safaris, with some of the best guides in Africa.

While difficult to access and low on animal density, Chizarira National Park rewards intrepid safari travelers who come for a truly wild off-the-beaten-track experience in a breathtaking landscape of rugged gorges and ravines as well as for the chance to spot leopards.

• For the best wildlife viewing in northern Zimbabwe’s parks, you should visit during the dry winter months of June to October, when vegetation is thinner, and animals gather around water sources, making them very easy to spot. During this popular travel period, camps in Mana Pools get booked up far in advance, so be sure to plan your lodging several months before. Most roads in Mana Pools National Park are closed from November to April, so the best way to explore the park in these rainy months is by canoe. Hwange National Park is the easiest reserve for accessibility and self-driving, while the other parks are a bit more challenging and require hiring a 4×4 and a bit of planning. Matusadona National Park is only accessible by boat, small plane, or by a difficult 4×4 road, while Chizarira is the least accessible, with challenging tracks even for 4×4 drivers (and most roads inaccessible during the rainy summer months).

Credit: Be My Travel Muse

Southern Zimbabwe stretches along the border with South Africa, and Beitbridge – the busiest border post in southern Africa – is the main entrance point for self-driver safari goers to enter Zimbabwe.

Most southern destinations are easily accessible for self-drivers on a Southern Zimbabwe safari. In the west, the pleasant town of Bulawayo and the scenic rock-art-filled Matobo National Park draw visitors, and the nearby Khami Ruins make for an interesting historical holiday.

Meanwhile, to the center of the country, Great Zimbabwe is a must-see on your Zimbabwe holiday. Ancient archaeological ruins tell a fascinating story about Zimbabwe’s past.

Less easy to reach on a Zimbabwe Holiday (and therefore visited by few tourists), Gonarezhou National Park in the southeast is a truly rugged wilderness with incredible wildlife diversity and perfect birding-safari opportunities .

Highlights of Southern Zimbabwe

With 3000 rock art sites (some dating back as far as 13 000 years) scattered amongst its towering boulders, Matobo National Park is one of the best places in Africa to see rock art.

Added to its archaeological importance, the park of forested valleys and granite kopjes is also stunning and is a haven for White and Black rhinos. Matobo National Park also boasts Zimbabwe’s largest concentration of leopards.

While Matobo is suitable for self-driving in a 2×4 vehicle, it’s also a fantastic place to do a walking safari and experience the landscapes and wildlife on foot.

Another archaeological treasure in the country’s south is the thousand-year-old ruins of Great Zimbabwe, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The rambling stone ruins are scattered across a 2000-acre area: the millennia-old remains of palaces of the ancient Kingdom of Zimbabwe.

It’s worth spending at least a day here on your southern Zimbabwe holiday. It’s a good idea to hire a guide to take you through the site’s history so that you know what you’re looking at as you explore the stone walls and passageways.

To the west of Great Zimbabwe is another UNESCO World Heritage-awarded archaeological site, the Khami Ruins. The Khami Ruins have been partially reconstructed to create a fascinating historical site worth a stop if you’re in the area on your southern Zimbabwe holiday.

Close by, Bulawayo is used by some travelers merely as a stop-off point. Still, Zimbabwe’s second city has a lot of charm to tempt a stay of a few days, from graceful colonial architecture to interesting museums.

In a remote corner of south-eastern Zimbabwe, Gonarezhou National Park, Zimbabwe’s second largest reserve, is an untamed natural wilderness with no tarred roads, only unfenced campsites, and few visitors.

Amongst magnificent landscapes of 200m (656ft) tall red sandstone cliffs, huge floodplains, and vast mopane woodland roams a massive diversity of animals. Gonarezhou National Park houses wild dogs and lions, nyala antelope, and some 11 000 elephants.

Gonarezhou forms part of the vast Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park , an ambitious conservation project still under development.

• Bordering on South Africa, southern Zimbabwe is easily reached if you’re driving from Johannesburg: the drive takes around six hours. The Beitbridge border post is extremely busy, and if you travel at peak times, particularly in December and January, you may have to wait for hours.
• Try to get to the border early in the morning, avoid travel on weekends and avoid using the touts to get you across. Bulawayo is a good starting point for your Zimbabwe holiday, especially if you want to explore the south. There are several flights a day to the city from Johannesburg in South Africa.
• It’s best to visit Gonarezhou National Park during the dry months of June to October when wildlife viewing is at its best. During the rainy season, from November to April, parts of the park are closed, and from January to March, some lodges are shut. Matobo National Park is also best during the dry season, while some lodges may be shut in late summer (January to March).

Tumbling down 100m (328ft) high cliffs surrounded by lush forest, Victoria Falls is undoubtedly one of Africa’s most astounding sights and one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World: the biggest sheet of falling water on the planet.

Zimbabwe’s most popular tourist attraction is Mosi-oa-Tunya (which translates to ‘the smoke that thunders’), and the spray it sends up is visible from 50km (31mi) away.

Stretching 1.7 kilometers wide, the falls span both Zimbabwe and Zambia, and on each side of the border, some pathways take you to the edge of cliffs where you can get dramatic views (and get soaking wet from the spray).

On the Zimbabwean side, the town of Victoria Falls sits right by the falls themselves. It offers a huge array of adrenaline sports and safari activities, including bungee jumping, abseiling, whitewater rafting, and horseback safaris .

Seeing Victoria Falls for the first time from the cliffside paths is one of Africa’s bucket list experiences, but there are many other exciting ways to experience the falls.

For an aerial perspective, you can do a helicopter flip which will get you some spectacular photos, or for a more adventurous flight, hop on the back of a microlight – a tiny light aircraft – to fly like a bird above the mist and spray.

There’s more to visiting Victoria Falls than just the falls – the town adjacent to the falls is a center for activities that range from the sedate to the extreme.

On the relaxing end of the spectrum, there are boat cruises and canoe trips along the Zambezi river, dinner or high tea onboard an old-fashioned steam train, game drives, horseback rides and walks in the nearby Zambezi National Park , which is an ideal opportunity for a Big Five safari in Zimbabwe.

To get your adrenaline pumping, you can go bungee jumping off the 111m (364ft) bridge between Zimbabwe and Zambia (said to be one of the best bungee jumps in the world).

There’s also cage diving with crocodiles, swinging across the gorge, whizzing along a zip line, abseiling, or getting drenched tackling the rapids of the Zambezi River on a whitewater rafting adventure.

• You can visit Victoria Falls year-round, but depending on which time of year you go, you’ll get a very different experience. From February to May, the Zambezi River is at its fullest after the summer rains, and the view of the falls at their most intense is dramatic.
• However, the tremendous amount of mist and spray obscures the view of the falls, so if visibility is what you’re after, then visit between June and September when the river is lower – though not at its lowest – and your view of the cascading falls is clear. If you visit during February and May, you’ll get soaking wet – be sure to wear a plastic poncho or raincoat and protect your camera with a waterproof bag. The paths can be extremely slippery, so wearing a good pair of walking shoes or hiking sandals is essential.
• As the falls span Zimbabwe and Zambia, there are benefits to seeing them from both sides of the border. Zimbabwe has wider views of the falls, with most of the viewing points, but on the Zambian side – a short walk across a bridge – the viewing path takes you closer to the falls. When the river runs low (from October to December), you can swim in Devil’s Pool, a natural rock pool right on Zambia’s edge of the falls.
• If you’d like to visit the Zambian side, you’ll need to get a KAZA visa when you enter Zimbabwe, which costs $50 for 30 days of travel and allows you to enter both Zimbabwe and Zambia.

Running alongside the Mozambican border for some 300 kilometres, the Eastern Highlands is a mountainous area of spectacular natural beauty: rolling hills, green forests, rugged peaks, misty valleys, deep gorges, cascading waterfalls, and sparkling rivers and lakes. This is a totally different side to the Zimbabwe that most visitors know: the cool damp climate and lush green landscapes of the Eastern Highlands are a contrast to the dry savanna in other parts of the country. While there is some game in the parks of the highlands, this is not a prime safari destination. Instead, people visit the Eastern Highlands for the outdoors activities of hiking, horse riding, fishing and golf, as well as the superb birdlife and the stunning scenery.

The Eastern Highlands is made up of three areas – the Nyanga Highlands in the north, the Bvumba Mountains in the centre and the Chimanimani Mountains in the south – each of which has its own attractions. In the rolling hills of the north, Nyanga National Park is where you’ll find Zimbabwe’s highest mountain, Mount Nyangani, and its highest waterfall, Mtazari Falls as well as wildlife, lots of birds, wonderful hiking trails and excellent trout fishing. The central highlands are home to the city of Mutare – the biggest settlement in the region – but the real draw is the Bvumba Mountains, where lush forests are home to rare bird species and the samango monkey. In the southern highlands, Chimanimani National Park is excellent for mountain hiking, while you can indulge in some forest threrapy at Chirinda Forest Reserve, Africa’s most southern tropical rainforest, and go horseback riding in the hills.

Zimbabwe’s oldest national park, Nyanga National Park is made up of beautiful landscapes of rolling hills, granite outcrops, expansive valleys and deep gorges. It’s home to the highest mountain in the country – Mount Nyangani – and the 762-metre Mtazari Falls, Zimbabwe’s highest waterfall, as well as kudu, klipspringer, reedbuck, blue duiker and samango monkeys, rich archaeological sites and an incredible wealth of birds – more than 300 species – making it a birding hotspot. Fishing for trout is a popular activity here, as is hiking. The standout hike is the five-night Turaco Trail, one of the country’s most scenic hikes, which traverses magnificent mountain and forest landscapes through Mutarazi Falls and Nyanga National Parks to the summit of Chikorokoto, passing waterfalls, rivers, valleys and grasslands on the way.

In the central highlands, the lush forested Vumba Mountains – “Mountains of the Mist” – is a top birding destination, with a number of special species that can be spotted (it’s a good idea to hire a birding guide to help you). One of the world’s best championship golf courses is here at the Leopard Rock Hotel, while the beautiful Vumba Botanical Gardens are worth exploring for wonderful exotic and indigenous plant life.

In the south of the highlands, the dramatic mountain scape of Chimanimani National Park is renowned as a serious hiking destination although horse riding is also popular. Multi-day hikes are the best way to explore the rugged park. You can camp anywhere in the reserve or, for something thrillingly different, sleep in one of the caves scattered throughout the park.

At the highlands’ very southern edge, Chirinda Forest Reserve protects a beautiful pocket of tropical rainforest with centuries-old hardwood trees. In the Valley of the Giants you’ll find Zimbabwe’s oldest tree, a mahogany estimated to be at least a thousand years old.

• The best time to visit the Eastern Highlands is April to July, although in these winter months there are plantation fires which can make the sky hazy. Note that some roads are inaccessible during the rainy summer months from November to March. The best months for birding are November to April.
• There are lots of dirt roads in the Eastern Highlands, which means that you’ll need a 4×4, especially in the rainy season, or a car with high clearance if you’re travelling in the dry season.
• If you are going hiking in the mountains, make sure you have a decent map and a compass and tell the park warden or someone at your hotel what your planned route is. There’s also the option of hiring a guide to go hiking.

Travel with Confidence

With over 20 years of experience, our team will help you choose the perfect african safari for your adventure., 24/7 support, personalized, popular zimbabwe safaris, these recommended tours for zimbabwe can be tailor-made to match your budget..

Victoria Falls and Chobe National Park Discovery

Zimbabwe Victoria Falls Botswana Chobe Chobe River Southern Africa

From $ 2130 /USD

Victoria Falls, Chobe and Moremi Affordable Safari

Southern Africa Zimbabwe Victoria Falls Botswana Chobe Okavango Delta

From $ 3200 /USD

Affordable Victoria Falls Stay

Zimbabwe Victoria Falls

From $ 960 /USD

Okavango Delta and Victoria Falls Adventure

Southern Africa Botswana Moremi Zimbabwe Victoria Falls

From $ 5150 /USD

Luxury Zambia and Victoria Falls Journey

Southern Africa Zambia South Luangwa Lower Zambezi Livingstone Zimbabwe

From $ 11600 /USD

Victoria Falls and Zimbabwe Safari

Southern Africa Zimbabwe Victoria Falls Hwange Kariba

From $ 7800 /USD

29 Zimbabwe Safaris to choose from

Stay for 5 - 18 days

Experience our Tailor-made Tours in Zimbabwe

When is the best month to travel to zimbabwe.

• Zimbabwe in January

January is a rainy month and some camps and lodges are closed. The landscape is green and lush and with abundant water around, making animals hard to spot as they are dispersed in the bush. Birding is excellent during January, as well as the other rainy months, with all of the migratory species present.

• Zimbabwe in February

February is low season in Zimbabwe – it’s rainy and wet, and it’s difficult to see wildlife because of the thick bush and abundance of natural water sources, but it is a perfect time for birdwatching. Some camps, lodges and park roads are closed. The water level in Zambezi is high, and so while Victoria Falls are in full dramatic flow, the amount of mist and spray can obscure the view.

• Zimbabwe in March

March is hot, humid and rainy in Zimbabwe, with frequent afternoon thundershowers. It’s not an ideal time to see wildlife because of the thick foliage and abundant water for animals to drink, but it is a good month for birdwatching, as many migratory species are present in the country. The Zambezi River is in full flow, so Victoria Falls is at its most dramatic, although there’s a lot of spray which can make visibility difficult.

• Zimbabwe in April

The rains are coming to an end and skies turn blue in April, a month when the lodges and camps that have been closed for the rainy season usually re-open. Mana Pools National Park also re-opens after closure since the end of November. This is the last month of summer for excellent birdwatching.

• Zimbabwe in May

Mild weathered May is the first of Zimbabwe’s dry winter months and by the middle of the month, the visibility in the bush starts to improve as the grass begins to thin. Natural pans have not yet dried up which means animals can still be hard to spot.

• Zimbabwe in June

Temperatures drop in June, so pack warm clothes for early mornings and night game drives as the evenings can be very chilly. As the landscape dries, animals start to move to waterholes to drink, which makes wildlife viewing easier.

• Zimbabwe in July

July is the first month of Zimbabwe’s peak season. Daytime temperatures are mild (although nights in some places can be freezing), wildlife viewing is excellent, and it’s a great time to do white-water rafting and canoe safaris.

• Zimbabwe in August

August is an excellent time to travel to Zimbabwe, as days are sunny, daytime temperatures are mild (dropping down to below 10C at night), and wildlife viewing is at its prime. It’s one of the busiest months of the year so be sure to book all your accommodation in advance.

• Zimbabwe in September

Temperatures start to warm up in September, another dry month and an excellent time to go on a wildlife safari. This month the annual game count in Hwange National Park takes place, and for a totally different wildlife experience you can volunteer to take part in the census, helping the park rangers to count animals in the reserve.

• Zimbabwe in October

Nicknamed “Suicide Month” for its brutally hot temperatures, October is the hottest month of the year, with day time temperatures sometimes peaking above 40C. It’s the last month of the dry season, so wildlife viewing is at its best, and it’s the ideal time to see huge herds of elephant in Hwange National Park.

• Zimbabwe in November

This month usually sees the start of the rains, which come as sudden thundershowers in the afternoons – a welcome relief from the intense heat. It’s a good month for birdwatching as the migratory species arrive with the rains.

• Zimbabwe in December

December means summer rain in Zimbabwe. It’s not an ideal time to visit for wildlife viewing, and Mana Pools National Park as well as roads in some other parks are closed. However, if you’re a birdwatcher, it’s a fantastic time to visit to see hundreds of migratory species.

Our Recommended Tours in Zimbabwe

South Africa Big 5 Safari and Victoria Falls Jo...

Southern Africa South Africa Timbavati Sabi Sands Zimbabwe Victoria Falls

From $ 4090 /USD

Vic Falls, Hwange and Matusadona Safari

Southern Africa Zimbabwe Hwange Victoria Falls

From $ 4820 /USD

Untamed Botswana and Zimbabwe Safari

Southern Africa Botswana Okavango Delta Zimbabwe Hwange

From $ 6820 /USD

Looking for Something Unique?

Big Five Safaris in Africa

Birding Safaris in Africa

Family and Kid-Friendly Safaris in Africa

Honeymoons in Africa

Walking Safaris in Africa

Photographic Safaris in Africa

Why travel with us?

Recent reviews from travellers who planned and booked their africa trips with discover africa safaris, trip of a lifetime.

10 Day Tanzania Safari Review

David, United States 07 Aug 2023

Best vacation ever.

19 Day Southern Africa Safari

Joan, United States 26 Jul 2023

Very good price/quality rate. every detail well organised. we will surely book....

Botswana & Vic Falls Safari Review

Berta, Portugal 06 Jan 2022

Megan is incredibly thorough in her attention to detail..

Victoria Falls Safari Club Review

Doug, United States 04 Oct 2021

Expert and provide excellent service..

Tanzanian Adventure Safari Review

Agnes, Hungary 23 Feb 2020

Amazing safari tour in africa.

Safari Tour in Africa Review

Enrico Liberati, Italy 09 Sep 2016

Ready to plan your tailor-made safari.

Devryn Panaino, Safari Travel Planner

Free safari planning advice from destination experts

Faqs about zimbabwe.

• Safari/bucket showers are common in mobile or tented camps where there is no permanent plumbing. They are an effective yet environmentally friendly way to shower where water is at a premium and provide plenty of hot water to wash comfortably.
• Generally, there is an en-suite private shower stall within your tent with a “rainfall” style shower head at which you can control the water flow. Outside the tent, there is a large waterproof bag or bucket which is filled with about 10 to 15 litres (5 US gallons) of hot water before being raised with a pully/rope system to either connect to the shower pipe or fill a cistern.
• The water is delivered at the ideal temperature so it is best to use it as soon as it arrives. Staff typically fill the showers at a pre-arranged time of day, or you simply need to give them a few minutes notice so they can get it ready.
• Tipping is not compulsory on a safari in Zimbabwe and the amounts that you tip each person is also not set.
• Do remember, when tipping large amounts (eg. to the guide at the end of a 10-day safari), place the tip in a sealed envelope - and hand it directly to the person for which it is intended.
• Yes, because Zimbabwe is a malaria area and the use of malaria prophylactics is highly recommended.
• You will need to take prescription medicine before, during and after your trip to prevent malaria. Your doctor can help you decide which medicine is right for you, and also talk to you about other steps you can take to prevent malaria.
• Any person entering Zimbabwe from or via a yellow fever or cholera-infected area must be in possession of a valid International Certificate of Vaccination against yellow fever or cholera.
• Zimbabwe has 16 official languages namely: Chewa, Chibarwe, English, Kalanga, Koi-san, Nambya, Ndau, Ndebele, Shangani, Shona, Sign Language, Sotho, Tonga, Tswana, Venda, Xhosa.
• However, English, Shona and Ndebele are the most widely spoken languages in the country.
• Approximately 70% of the population is Shona speaking and speaks ChiShona as their first language. But the official language of Zimbabwe is English.
• The best time to visit Chizarira National Park is during the middle and end of the dry season (July to October). The wildlife is more easily seen at this time, because the vegetation is thinner and animals gather around the waterholes.

See Zimbabwe in Your Comfort

• An Affordable Safari in Zimbabwe
• Budget Travel in Zimbabwe
• Luxury Zimbabwe Safari

Zimbabwe is an excellent value for money destination, with accessible parks such as Hwange offering much lower park fees than neighbouring countries, as well as a range of affordable lodging options. Hiring a car and doing a self-driving trip will offer the best value for money, and national parks campsites offer the most budget-friendly lodging option, although self-catering cottages are also affordable.

Getting the best possible value for money in Zimbabwe, however, means exploring the beautiful corners of the country that don’t see many tourists. The destinations that are most popular with travellers, such as Victoria Falls, are the most expensive in terms of lodging, food, activities and park entrance fees. Some parks such as Victoria Falls, cost $30 entrance, but other more remote parks such as Chizarira only cost $10.

Less is more when it comes to travelling on a budget in Zimbabwe: to save money, stick to fewer destinations and spend longer in each one, rather than trying to fit lots of places into your itinerary. If you have your own tent and sleeping bag, staying at campsites is the most wallet-friendly way to explore Zimbabwe, and by choosing simple dishes at local restaurants rather eating the international fare at hotels and restaurants that cater for tourists you’ll also save money. In terms of transport, your best budget option for getting around Zimbabwe is to use public buses and trains.

If you’re willing to travelling to Zimbabwe during the off-peak months of November to April (which is known as the “green season” because of all the rain and the lush foliage) then you can pick up rooms at a cheaper rate than in the busier months. Some parks are inaccessible during the off-peak months (and some lodges close down) but other parks – such as Hwange – can be visited throughout the year (some lodges shut for a few months but others stay open the whole time).

If you’re travelling solo in Zimbabwe, it’s a good idea to team up with other travellers to share costs of accommodation and transport.

Zimbabwe has many excellent luxury safari lodges and high-end camps dotted around the country, with a concentration in Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park. If you only have a short time to visit the country, then focus your time on these two destinations, where you’ll have a choice of luxury lodging options, each of which will offer a host of activities to fill your days.

On a longer holiday, you’ll be able to see more of Zimbabwe’s parks and reserves: stay on a luxury houseboat on Lake Kariba to explore this beautiful water wilderness in style and then experience one of Africa’s best wilderness areas – Mana Pools National Park – in a high-end lodge on a private concession that offers walking and canoeing as thrilling ways of seeing wildlife in the park.

The easiest way to travel between luxury lodges in in Zimbabwe is by private charter plane, but there is also an air taxi service that flies between Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, Lake Kariba and Mana Pools National Park.

Holiday Styles and Options in Zimbabwe

• A Relaxing Safari Holiday in Zimbabwe
• Active Safaris in Zimbabwe
• An Adventure Safari in Zimbabwe
• Big Five Safari in Zimbabwe
• Foodie Holiday in Zimbabwe
• Photographic Safaris in Zimbabwe
• Romantic Getaways in Zimbabwe
• Walking Safaris in Zimbabwe

There are plenty of ways to take it easy and enjoy Zimbabwe’s natural beauty without breaking a sweat. Victoria Falls is a good place to start: stay at a luxury hotel and spend your days exploring the falls, having afternoon high teas and relaxing massages, and sipping drinks on a boat cruising languidly down the Zambezi as the sun sets. It’s easy to get a road transfer to nearby Hwange National Park, where you can stay at an intimate luxury camp, and going on guided game drives or just doing nothing much at all and just soaking up the peace of the bush.

A holiday on a houseboat on Lake Kariba couldn’t be more relaxing. Once you’re on the boat, there’s nothing to plan and very little to do, other than soak up the sun, cool down in the swimming pool, look for birds and animals on the shore with a pair of binoculars and sip cocktails while watching a glorious sunset.

If you’re wanting to explore other parts of Zimbabwe, the country is home to a host of excellent safari lodges and camps in remote wild places where you really can get away from it all and connect with nature. You can travel to by private charter plane, cutting out the hassle and time of driving.

Zimbabwe is a perfect destination for an exciting active holiday: the country is full of outdoors activities in the bush and the mountains.

If you had to choose one base for doing as many heart-pumping activities as possible, it would be Victoria Falls. The town is Zimbabwe’s adventure capital, offering just about every kind of adventure activity under the sun, including bungee jumping, white-water rafting, kayaking, gorge swinging, cage diving with crocodiles, abseiling, zip lining, canopy tours and hiking.

In terms of safari activities, Zimbabwe has far more to offer than just game drives. It’s one of the best African countries to go on walking safaris – a thrilling and immersive way to experience the bush and wildlife on foot. In Mana Pools National Park, you can walk on the floodplains without a guide – one of the only national parks in Africa where this is allowed – although unless you’re very experienced in the bush, it’s advisable to only do guided walking safaris.

Zimbabwe also offer fantastic multi-day canoeing safaris in wilderness areas. Paddling along the Zambezi River gets you up close to water animals such as hippos and crocs, while you also get to spot animals, such as elephants, drinking at the river and on the shore from a much closer vantage point than on a game drive. You’ll also get to explore wild islands and camp under the stars. Canoeing safaris on the Upper Zambezi River, near Victoria Falls, are fairly sedate and suitable for children of seven and up, while Lower Zambezi Canoe Safaris in Mana Pools and remoter safari areas are more strenuous – the minimum age limit is 14.

For another way to experience the bush, you can do a horseback safari – just a few hours or several days – in the Zambezi National Park near Victoria Falls, exploring the park’s beautiful landscapes and spotting game along the way.

Fishing is a popular activity in Zimbabwe, and there are several places where you can cast your line: catch tigerfishes, catfish and bream in the Upper and Lower Zambezi River as well as in Lake Kariba – the setting for an international tigerfish tournament in October – and fish for trout in the streams of the Eastern Highlands.

The forested mountains of the Eastern Highlands are the best place to go hiking in Zimbabwe. Whether you want a gentle walk of just a few hours or a strenuous multi-day hike, there are some fantastic trails that take you through incredible scenery of peaks, forests, valleys, gorges, rivers and waterfalls.

With its vast wildernesses, 4×4-only areas, wild campsites and even wilder animals, Zimbabwe is full of endless adventures.

If you like your Zimbabwe adventures to last just a day, base yourself in Victoria Falls and take advantage of the activities of Zimbabwe’s adrenaline capital : think bungee jumping off the Victoria Falls bridge, abseiling, gorge swinging, cage diving with crocodiles, and Big Five horseback safaris and going white-water rafting in the Grade 5 rapids of the Zambezi River.

For longer Zimbabwe adventure tours, you can launch off on a multi-day canoeing safari in the wilds of Mana Pools National Park , gliding past hippos, crocodiles and herds of elephants on the shores, and camping in the wilderness of remote islands each night. 

By car, Mana Pools National Park is a zimbabwe adventure in itself, offering the chance to sleep in totally wild campsites where animals brush past your tent at night, and the chance to walk unguided in parts of the reserve.

Walking safaris on a Zimbabwe adventure tour with a qualified guide is a thrilling way to experience the bush: you can choose to just walk for a few hours when you stay at a safari camp or embark on a Zimbabwe walking safari adventure for a few days – an amazing way to immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the bush and see big game on foot.

Zimbabwe is home to some remote and rugged national parks which are only accessible with 4x4s . If you’re up for a self-guided safari adventure in Zimbabwe and have some 4×4 experience, then head to Gonarezhou National Park in the south-east. This is where you’ll find rough roads, unfenced campsites and not many other tourists in a beautiful landscape.

Another 4×4-only Zimbabwe adventure tour can be had in one of Zimbabwe’s most remote wilderness areas, Chizarira National Park , where you’ll find dramatic scenery, fantastic birdlife and – when you need a break from the car – excellent walking safaris.

Zimbabwe is a special wildlife destination that holds much lore in terms of wildlife. More prominently, the Big Five as its affectionately become known as, is prolific throughout certain areas and national parks in the southern african country – making it a prime safari destination for Big Five holidays in Zimbabwe.

One of the most important hidden gems in regards to the largest (in size) of the Big Five, is Gonarezhou, which is translated as ‘Place of Many Elephants’. A 2014 aerial survey put the population at 11,000 in the park. This is one of the highest densities in Africa.

Spotting lion is also a much desired bucket-list item for safari-lovers and a visit to Mana Pools National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984. Its location can be found in the north of Zimbabwe along the lower Zambezi River section.

With the world’s densest population of leopard, Matobo Hills National Park is a good place as any to spot one of these magnificent predators. However, do be prepared to have your patience tested, as leopards are notoriously stealthy and often well camouflaged.

Hwange National Park is an incredible safari destination; boasting the country’s largest and most varied wildlife population. Along with an immense elephant population, the 14,000km2 park is also home to a vast number of buffalo, which travel in large herds, taking advantage of the lush open grasslands and dense woodlands.

In Zimbabwe, there are an estimated 430 black rhinos and 290 white rhinos remaining, so we believe that the best place to spot them is a destination where they are most protected. Situated in southeast Zimbabwe, the Save Valley Conservancy is one of the largest private game reserves on the continent. Forming part of the Greater Limpopo Transfrontier Park, the conservancy is partnered with the African Wildlife Foundation to provide intensive protection for a small population of black and white rhinos.

Zimbabwe is well adapted to the westernised way of dining and throughout most of Zim, one will find something familiar to satiate you. However, for the more adventurous foodies, there is a wide variety of top quality meats to sample. Vegans may have a harder time finding imaginative menus that cater for them specifically, so it would be best to specify any dietary requirements to your lodge or camp when booking. Given the often remote locations of these camps, don’t wait until you arrive before stating your dietary needs, as it will then be too late for them to cater accordingly.

The staple starch for Zimbabweans is maize (corn), although millet and sorghum are alternative grains grown mainly in the low-lying areas. Sadza, a heavy mash made from ground maize and water, forms the basis of every meal, supplemented with a relish – essentially anything that is available to impart a different flavour. Generally the sadza is rolled by hand into a small ball, moulded into a slight cup shape and dipped into the relish. Common relishes are vegetable-based, frequently green leaves like rape, either cultivated or collected wild, with tomato or onion if available.

For wildlife and landscape photography, Zimbabwe is a dream. Visit during the dry winter months of July to October for the best chances of photographing hordes of animals – especially elephants in Hwange National Park – gathering around waterholes. For bird photographers, November to April is the best time to visit to catch hundreds of migratory species. August to November are the best months to photograph Victoria Falls, when the river is low and skies are clear – you’ll have the best chance of capturing this natural wonder without the spray and mist of earlier in the year, when the river is higher.

Particular photographic highlights include the rock art sites and dramatic granite outcrops of Matobo National Park, the breathtaking riverine landscapes of Mana Pools National Park, the atmospheric stone ruins of Great Zimbabwe and Victoria Falls from the air.

Be sure to bring all of the equipment and accessories that you will need on your trip before coming to Zimbabwe, as you can’t count on being able to buy what you need once you’re travelling. If you’re going to be shooting wildlife and landscapes, bring along a variety of lenses. Having a tripod will really boost your landscape images and help you get the perfect shot at a waterhole or hide.

Your honeymoon is something that only happens once in a lifetime, so you want to make it a vacation that you’ll remember.

The only issue is that there are so many places to see in Zimbabwe that it might be overwhelming. That’s where we come in – keep reading for our picks for the best Zimbabwe honeymoons.

A romantic getaway in Zimbabwe can be a romantic dream whether you’re into luxury or intrepid adventure: think picture-perfect sunsets in huge expanses of wilderness, dinners for two by candlelight in the bush, sipping gin and tonics on a boat cruising the calm waters of Lake Kariba or the Zambezi River , sleeping under the stars on a remote river island and camping in the wild.

Many of Zimbabwe’s luxury lodges and camps are tucked away on private concessions all over the country and have been set up with exclusive intimacy in mind, which means secluded rooms with private decks, outdoor showers and plunge pools, the option of private guided game drives and private meals set out for just the two of you in your suite or out in the wild.

Most luxury lodgings also offer honeymoon packages and romantic touches such as relaxing spa treatments and sleep-out platforms, where you can spend a night in a comfortable bed on an elevated ledge with just the two of you, surrounded by the sounds of the bush.

If your idea of a romantic getaway in Zimbabwe is getting off-grid and back to basics, there’s plenty of that in Zimbabwe. Hire a 4×4 and head off for the remoter corners of the country such as Gonarezhou National Park, where you’ll feel like you have the wilderness all to yourself, or book one of the exclusive campsites on the banks of the Zambezi River in Mana Pools National Park to experience a pocket of this untamed wilderness all on your own.

Honeymoon places in Zimbabwe to stay at

Kaingo Camp – We recommend this Camp for your first stay in the South Luangwa, surrounded by tall ebony trees on the Luangwa River. This camp is definitely one of the best romantic places to visit in Zimbabwe. The wildlife is flourishing, and you may select from five photography hides .

Somalisa Camp –  is a great romantic getaway in Zimbabwe, Hwange. This nicely restored tent is nestled in a camelthorn acacia island on the brink of an old stream.

Nyamatusi Camp – Enjoy this honeymoon place in Zimbabwe at the Mana Pools. The lodge’s small location means you’ll be completely pampered – and you could even share your plunge pool with an elephant or two!

Victoria Falls Island Lodge –  is ideal for couples. The lodge’s Treehouse Suites are joined by an elevated winding path, with the murmur of the Falls in the background.

The Stanley and Livingstone Boutique Hotel –  in Victoria Falls provides bush hikes and unique black rhino conservation game drives, as well as a lovely colonial-modern fusion style.

Victoria Falls River Lodge – Book an Island Treehouse Suite for a romantic getaway near Victoria Falls. Imagine modern décor, butler service, and a river-view bathtub!

John’s Camp – Named after legendary safari guide John Stevens, offers a very unique trekking experience in Mana Pools. Enjoy staying in one of just five Meru-style tents along the riverbed and walking safaris with some of the best guides around. Best of wild romance!

Wedged between Botswana and Mozambique, Zimbabwe is one of the best safari destinations to experience the Big Five and other wildlife species, by foot.

Safari guides, especially those trained to lead walking safaris, are rigorously trained. Guiding is passed down as a tradition from one generation to the next. Zimbabwe still has large rural communities, and many people still live very connected to the land and its animals.

Zimbabwean guides rank as some of the best in Africa – this is measured by their knowledge about wildlife and the ecosystem. The apprenticeship that is required is not replicated anywhere else in Africa. The passion and knowledge of Zimbabwean guides, means that guests can expect clear, enthusiastic and concise communication, to give an overall experience that rivals others in the African bush.

The Most Recommended Walking Safari Destinations in Zimbabwe:

View White rhino up close in Matobo

Flanked by the undulating Zambezi escarpment and the undending glassy waters of the Zambezi river, Mana Pools NP clearly deserves its UNESCO World Heritage status. Its ecosystem is unique: open alluvial flood plains, jesse scrub, sweet grasslands and mixed woodlands of acacia and giant mahogany, all teeming with wildlife (including over 12,000 elephants, 8000 buffalo, numerous predators and prolific birdlife)

Experience a walking patrol with the Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit

In the south of Zimbabwe, Camp Amalinda offers historical walks in the impressive Matobo Hills with over 2000 San rock art site.

Elephant’s Eye in Hwange NP, offer walking safaris that showcase the best of the park and its surrounding, fenceless concession.

Who is Travelling to Zimbabwe with you?

• Family Safari in Zimbabwe
• Solo Travel in Zimbabwe
• Travelling as a Couple in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe’s astounding natural wonders, untamed wilderness areas, abundant wildlife and plethora of exciting outdoors activities and adventures make it a wonderful choice for a family holiday. In the country’s most popular destinations, you’ll find a host of family-friendly lodging options, from well-equipped campsites, rustic lodges and self-catering chalets to luxury camps. There’s lots to do in Zimbabwe for children of all ages, and many lodges offer kids’ activities such as guided walks or bushcraft lessons, while the many wilderness adventures you can do with older children – staying in unfenced campsites and going on walking safaris and canoeing trips – are especially unforgettable.

If you’re on a short family holiday in Zimbabwe, two of the best destinations to visit are Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park, which are nearby to one another in the north west corner of the country. You can fly into Victoria Falls from Johannesburg, and either get a road transfer or drive yourself to Hwange. Victoria Falls is an incredible sight to behold and walking along the pathways on the edge of the waterfall-facing cliffs and getting showered with mist and spray will delight of children of any age, while the town offers lots of family-friendly lodges and hotels and is a fantastic base for taking advantage of a huge range of activities and adventures, from bungee jumping to horseback safaris.

Hwange National Park offers excellent wildlife viewing, especially in the dry winter months of June to October, when waterholes are teeming with thirsty animals. Because spotting wildlife in the dry season is as easy as pulling up to a waterhole and parking your car, Hwange is a great option for self-guided family holidays as you won’t have to spend hours and hours in the car to see some exciting animals.

If your children are aged seven and older, then a multi-day canoeing trip along the Upper Zambezi River near Victoria Falls is a great idea. You’ll get to spend your days paddling along the river, spotting hippos, crocodiles, elephants and other game and camp under the stars at night on islands, and it’s a wonderful way for children to experience nature. For children aged above 12 years, you can also do walking safaris in some of the national parks and on private concessions. Seeing animals on foot is a whole different experience to car-based game viewing, and children will learn a lot about the bush, plants and animals big and small from the guide.

To the northeast, Lake Kariba is also a great option for a family holiday, as you can charter a private houseboat and explore the beautiful lake at a slow pace, getting onto smaller tender boats for wildlife viewing along the shore – a completely stress-free way to travel. For an experience in a true wilderness, travel to Mana Pools National Park for sublime wildlife and beautiful landscapes – and no crowds. If your children are above the age of 12, a stay at an exclusive campsite along the river where it’s just you and the wilderness, is thrilling.

In eastern Zimbabwe, the mountainous Eastern Highlands is a great region to explore if your family loves hiking and mountaineering, with easy walks of just a few hours or more challenging multi-day adventures.

Getting drenched by the spray of Victoria Falls, pumping some adrenaline on white-water rafting, gorge swinging, abseiling and bungee jumping activities, watching processions of huge herds of elephants and parking off at waterholes full of animals in Hwange National Park, cruising the languid waters of Lake Kariba on a private houseboat, camping in the wild surrounded by the sounds of roaring lions in Mana Pools National Park, getting a full nature immersion on a walking or canoeing safari, and hiking in the misty mountain ranges of the Eastern Highlands.

• Less is more when it comes to travel in Africa with children: driving distances can be deceptively long and it often takes more time than you would expect getting from one place to another. If you do have to do long road journeys, break up the trip with stop overs so that you’re not spending long days in the car. If you have young children, it may be best to base yourself in just two or three places on your trip and do activities from there, rather than trying to fit in too many different destinations into your itinerary.
• Zimbabwe is a malaria risk country, so consult your doctor before travelling about prophylactic medicine for kids and be very cautious with your children to prevent them from being bitten. Like elsewhere in southern Africa, the sun can be very harsh so bring lots of sunscreen for your kids, as well as protective clothing – long-sleeved shirts and wide brimmed hats – for outdoors activities.
• Before you book your lodge stays, make sure that they accept children. Some lodges won’t allow children under a certain age to go on game drives, and some won’t accept children under a certain age to stay at the lodge. At some lodges you will be required to book a private safari vehicle for game drives if you have young children, which can be expensive. Lots of the adventure activities on offer – such as white-water rafting – also have minimum age limits.
• If you’re travelling over the border to Botswana or South Africa after your trip to Zimbabwe you must have unabridged birth certificates for your children.

There are lots of options for solo travellers to Zimbabwe depending on your style of travel. You could start off your trip in the busy town of Victoria Falls and you’ll meet plenty of other travellers in bars and on activities who you could join up with to share the costs of travelling to other destinations, or you could join a guided group tour for a hassle-free holiday. If you prefer solo time, you can rent a car and explore parks and reserves on your own steam, or stay in lodges where you’ll be able to do guided game drives and walks in the bush.

Northern Zimbabwe is the best region for solo travellers. In this region, Victoria Falls is an obvious first choice for solo travellers, as you can meet fellow travellers at bars and hotels in town, and there are numerous activities on offer – everything from crocodile cage diving to bungee jumping – which are easy to book and organise once you’re there. Hwange National Park is also a good destination for solo travellers: stay at a lodge or safari camp and you’ll be on game drives with other guests, or if you want more solitude, then opt for self-driving and lodging in one of the park’s camps and explore the wilderness on your own. Also located in northern Zimbabwe, Lake Kariba makes a great choice for a single traveller if you’re looking to join up with other people, as you can book a spot on a houseboat and spend a few relaxing days cruising the lake and its islands. For adventurous travellers, Mana Pools National Park is a wilderness mecca – join a group walking or canoeing safari for an amazing immersion in the bush.

Getting an adrenaline kick (and meeting some new friends) on the adventure activities on offer in Victoria Falls, doing a self-guided trip around Hwange National Park and discovering waterholes teeming with animals on your own and going on a wilderness adventure in Mana Pools National Park on a walking safari or multi-day canoeing trip.

Travel Tips

Solo women travellers to Zimbabwe should use the same precautions and awareness that you would when you travel alone anywhere in the world. You might find that you get more attention as a single woman (locals will likely to be interested to know where your husband is and to find out why you’re travelling on your own).

If you are going to be driving long distances on your own, be sure to let your lodge or hotel know when they should expect you in case you have any car problems on the way. It’s a good idea to hike with someone else or in a group but if you do go on any day hikes, let someone know exactly where you will be going in case you have a problem. It’s not recommended to drive to any very remote wilderness areas on your own: if you’re wanting to do some remote 4×4 trips then rather join a guided tour or team up with some other travellers.

Intimate camps in beautiful wildernesses, astounding experiences and blockbuster wildlife and sights are just some of the reasons that Zimbabwe is great for couples. If you want to get off the beaten track and as far away from other people as possible, you’ll find your escape in Zimbabwe’s remote corners, where you can either pitch your own tent under the stars or sleep in a luxury lodge with all the romantic touches.

Northern Zimbabwe has the best concentration of attractions and destinations, from the astounding sight of Victoria Falls and the adjacent town’s wealth of adventurous activities, the wildlife-teeming Hwange National Park, where excellent lodges on private concessions are all about low-key intimacy, to Lake Kariba, where staying on a houseboat and exploring the lake’s animal and birdlife is one of the most relaxing ways to while away a few days in Zimbabwe. Mana Pools National Park is an excellent destination for adventurous couples looking for off-grid wilderness, where staying in one of the park’s unfenced exclusive campsites is one of the country’s most unforgettable wild experiences.

Exploring rugged wilderness areas with few other tourists around, sleeping in a tent under the stars in Mana Pools National Park, romantic sunset picnics in the bush at a luxury lodge in Hwange, sundowners onboard a Lake Kariba houseboat and spending a night in a comfortable bed on a sleep-out deck in the middle of the wilderness.

• Trying to do too much on your holiday is a romance killer. Instead of squeezing in too many destinations and experiences, adopt a less-is-more approach to your itinerary planning. It can take much longer to travel between places than you would expect, so factor that in when deciding where you will go, especially if you’re on a self-drive trip. In each park that you visit, plan to spend a few days there rather than just a night or two, so that you give yourself the chance to soak up the magic of time in the wilderness

What You Need To Know

• Welcome to Zimbabwe
• Why go to Zimbabwe?
• Highlights of Zimbabwe
• Zimbabwe vs Botswana
• Zimbabwe vs South Africa
• Wildlife in Zimbabwe
• The Regions of Zimbabwe
• Things to do in Zimbabwe
• Who Should Visit Zimbabwe?
• Visa Requirements for Zimbabwe
• Travelling to Zimbabwe
• Travel in Zimbabwe
• Changing Money in Zimbabwe
• Is Zimbabwe Safe?
• Lodges in Zimbabwe
• Tipping in Zimbabwe
• Cultures in Zimbabwe
• Shopping in Zimbabwe
• Languages of Zimbabwe
• Your Health in Zimbabwe
• What to Pack for Zimbabwe
• Vaccinations for Zimbabwe
• Emergencies in Zimbabwe
• Health Care in Zimbabwe
• Travel Insurance for Zimbabwe
• Zimbabwe Safari Costs
• Best Time to Visit Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is once again firmly on the southern African safari map, for all the reasons that once made it a prime destination. The landlocked country is home to some of the finest game viewing in exceptionally beautiful wilderness areas, the great natural spectacle of Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, as well historical cultural attractions such as the ruins of the ancient civilisation of Great Zimbabwe and 13 000-year-old rock art.

Zimbabwe is a Big Five safari destination, and the superb Hwange National Park is its flagship reserve, best known for its massive herds of elephants and excellent sightings during the dry winter months. But there’s more to safaris in Zimbabwe than just animal spotting on game drive: it’s one of the best countries for doing walking safaris –

Mana Pools National Park is one of few national parks in Africa that allows unguided walking – and its canoeing safaris along the Zambezi River are epic adventures that immerse you fully in the natural world. What’s so special about Zimbabwe is how uncrowded its parks are: wherever you go, you’ll be able to enjoy the peace and quiet of the bush without the traffic jams and crowds of other reserves in Africa.

And then there are more bucket list experiences, whether it’s wild camping in the magical wilderness of Mana Pools, 4x4ing in remote and under-visited reserves, hiking in the misty mountains of the Eastern Highlands or cruising Lake Kariba on a houseboat. Luxury lodges and intimate camps are spread out in Zimbabwe’s most magnificent wild places, which means that safaris – even in off-the-beaten-track places – can always be done in style.

Added to all that, Zimbabweans are among the friendliest and most welcoming people you’ll ever meet.

There’s far too much to see in Zimbabwe to cover the country in one trip – you’d need several holidays here to really explore its wilderness areas try out the wealth of remarkable experiences on offer. The range of safari activities on offer also draws people back: once you’ve done a safari by game drive, you’ll want to try walking and canoeing safaris.

As with all safari destinations in Africa, Zimbabwe has different seasonal attractions, and a great reason to return for repeated visits is to experience the country at different times of the year. During the dry winter months – the most popular time to travel – wildlife viewing is exceptional, but there are also attractions to travelling in the rainy season when the green, verdant landscapes are at their most beautiful and birdlife is at its most abundant, with hundreds of migratory species taking up resident in the parks in reserves. Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe’s most famous attraction, is very different various times throughout the year: after the summer rains from February to May, the Zambezi River is in its full flow and at its most dramatic (although views can be obscured by mist), while at drier times of the year – from August to October – when the river runs lower, the views are better, though the falls are less dramatic.

The wide range of habitats in Zimbabwe – from the forested valleys of Matobo Hills National Park, the watery wilderness of Lake Kariba and Matusadona National Park, to the floodplains of Mana Pools National Park, and the mopane woodlands and savannas of Hwange National Park support an incredible diversity of animal and plant life. The country is home to an astounding 500 species of birds, 199 mammal species, 130 species of fish and some rare species such as sable antelope.

What sets Zimbabwe apart from its southern African neighbours is the chance to experience superb game viewing without the crowds. Even in Hwange National Park, the most popular reserve in Zimbabwe, you’ll see few other tourists – a very different experience to famous parks in other countries, where traffic jams at a roadside sighting can dampen the feeling of being in the wilderness.

Zimbabwe’s walking safari opportunities are exceptional, so if you’re wanting to immerse yourself in the bush, this is where to do it. Zimbabwe is also one of the few places in Africa where you can do canoeing safaris: paddling yourself down the mighty Zambezi River, camping on remote islands and coming within a thrillingly close distance from animals such as elphants on the shore is one of the continent’s greatest wilderness experiences.

For many people on a short holiday to Zimbabwe, the town of Victoria Falls and the nearby easily accessible Hwange National Park in the country’s north-western corner make for a perfect combination of a blockbuster natural wonder, stellar landscapes, exciting adventure activities and superb wildlife viewing.

Also located in the north of the country, Lake Kariba is a popular destination for a wildlife-by-water holiday. Stay on a houseboat for a few days to cruise the lake and spot the Big Five on the shores of Matusadona National Park, which lies on the edge of Kariba.

One of the best places in Africa to see rock art, the scenically stunning Matobo National Park in the southwest of Zimbabwe has 3000 sites which date back more than 13 000 years dotted throughout a magical landscape of towering granite boulders. The park is easy to explore in your own car, and it’s also known for its leopard and white rhino sightings and huge number of eagle species.

Zimbabwe’s second largest city of Bulawayo – close by to Matobo – is an attractive and charming place to spend a few days exploring museums, while the nearby reconstructed Khami Ruins are worth exploring to learn about the country’s ancient past. To the east, the sprawling stone ruins of Great Zimbabwe are a must-see for any history and culture buff: Zimbabwe’s greatest archaeological site is as atmospheric as it is fascinating.

If you’re up for a 4×4 adventure far off the beaten track in south-eastern Zimbabwe, the little-visited Gonarezhou National Park, which forms part of the Great Limpopo National Park with South Africa and Mozambique, is an untamed and underrated wild area. The second largest park in the country boasts a rich wildlife diversity, abundant birdlife and big herds of elephant and buffalo, as well as growing numbers wild dog, the rare nyala antelope and dramatic scenery of baobab-dotted plains, mopane woodland and towering red sandstone cliffs.

For a totally different climate and landscape, travel to the Eastern Highlands, which stretches along Zimbabwe’s border with Mozambique: a magical region of mountains and forests that is popular for hiking, birdwatching, horse riding, golfing and fishing. In the north of the highlands, Nyanga National Park is home to Zimbabwe’s highest mountain and tallest waterfall and a wonderful five-night hiking trail, while the central Bvumba Mountains is an excellent birding destination, and Chimanimani National Park in the south offers some serious mountain hiking.

Botswana is a high-end safari destination, with a lot of luxury camps and lodges and a policy of low-impact tourism, limiting the number of tourists staying in conservation areas, which means that safaris there can be a bit pricey.

On the other hand, Zimbabwe also has abundant game and beautiful wilderness areas (and a low density of visitors) – but with a lower price tag. Some of Zimbabwe’s parks, such as Hwange, are particularly easy to explore on your own (even in a two-wheel drive vehicle) and offer affordable lodging options, including campsites and self-catering cottages inside the park.

When comparing Zimbabwe VS South Africa, one can easily see that a South Africa Safari has it all.

South Africa consists of cultural cities with excellent attractions, restaurants, hotels, museums and shopping, Big Five game reserves and beautiful beaches, desert, mountain and forests, and all the outdoors activities you could dream of.

However, when looking at South Africa vs Zimbabwe, landlocked Zimbabwe might not be able to compete with South Africa in terms of diversity.

But what it does have are some truly wild and rugged national parks and far fewer tourists, so if getting away from it all is your priority, then a Zimbabwe Safari may be just what you’re looking for.

Most of South Africa’s national parks and reserves are fairly easily accessible, with easy roads and lots of accommodation options, while many of Zimbabwe’s parks are less developed and more difficult to reach, but the 4×4 adventures and wild camping in Zimbabwe are superb.

Difference between South Africa and Zimbabwe:

• South Africa has beaches, desert mountains and forests.
• Zimbabwe is a landlocked country with wild and rugged national parks and much fewer tourists.
• South Africa reserves are all easily accessible with easy roads and lots of accommodation.
• Zimbabwe’s parks are less developed and more challenging to reach.
• Zimbabwe has fantastic 4×4 adventures and wild camping.

Northern Zimbabwe is the country’s most popular region for wildlife safaris, as it’s home to a number of game-rich wilderness areas. In the northwest, Hwange National Park is the biggest reserve in the country, conserving one of Africa’s largest elephant populations (an estimated 40 000 animals), as well as the other four of the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino and buffalo), one of Africa’s biggest wild dog populations, and unusual antelope such as sable and roan. It’s also one of the only places in the country where you can see giraffe.

Next to Zimbabwe’s most visited attraction – Victoria Falls – the Zambezi National Park is a convenient safari destination for visitors to Zimbabwe who are short on time and aren’t able to visit some of the country’s other reserves. The park is home to the Big Four (there are no rhino), as well as a wide range of other animals, from giraffe and wild dog to sable antelope and eland.

Also in the north but further east of Hwange, Matusadona National Park lies on the shores of Lake Kariba National Park, and offers fantastic Big Five sightings – particularly buffalo, lion and leopard – as well as the rare roan and sable antelope and lots of hippos and crocodiles in the water.

Near to Matusadona, Mana Pools National Park is a rugged, untamed wilderness area where the game viewing is superb. The park is known for its big herds of elephant, large numbers of buffalo, high density of endangered wild dogs and regular sightings of cheetah, leopard and lion.

South of Lake Kariba, Chizarira National Park is an off-the-beaten-track wilderness of dramatic gorges and ravines where you can spot four of the Big Five (elephant, lion, leopard and buffalo) as well as some rare antelope, although the density of animals is low, and many people visit the park more for its scenic beauty and walking safaris than for wildlife viewing.

In southern Zimbabwe, Matobo National Park isn’t a prime wildlife destination (animal density is low, and the park doesn’t have elephant or lion), it does have some highlights: great sightings of white rhino – black rhino is present but harder to spot – the greatest concentration of leopard in the country and more eagle species than anywhere else in the world.

In remote south-eastern Zimbabwe, Gonarezhou National Park boasts an incredible diversity of animal life: 500 species of birds and 150 mammal species, including growing numbers of wild dogs and lions, rare species such as nyala antelope and 11 000 elephants. It’s also the only park in southern Africa which has all six of the smallest antelope species.

Northern Zimbabwe is the most visited region of the country. As it’s home to two of the country’s most popular attractions – the bucket list sight of Victoria Falls and wildlife-teeming Hwange National Park – as well as the water wildernesses of Lake Kariba and Matusadona National Park and the untamed landscapes of Mana Pools National Park, it’s easy to see why northern Zimbabwe attracts so many visitors.

For very different landscapes from the savanna of the north, the mountainous Eastern Highlands, which runs along Zimbabwe’s border with Mozambique, is a photogenic region characterised by lush verdant forests, rolling hills, misty valleys and dramatic peaks. The national parks and mountain ranges that make up the Eastern Highlands have plenty of opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, horse riding, fishing and playing golf.

While southern Zimbabwe is less visited than the north, the region has many attractions, beautiful scenery and magnificent parks. The ruins of Great Zimbabwe and Khami, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, offer a fascinating glimpse into Zimbabwe’s ancient past, while the millennia-old San rock art in the hills of beautiful Matobo National Park is unmissable. Laid back, attractive Bulawayo, the country’s second biggest city, is a great place to spend a few days exploring, while more intrepid safari travellers will find their mecca in the raw wilderness of Gonarezhou National Park.

Zimbabwe is home to an incredible wealth and diversity of experiences, with something to offer just about any kind of traveller.

Zimbabwe’s most popular experience – and a bucket list one for many travellers at that – is viewing Victoria Falls, the world’s largest sheet of falling water and one of Africa’s greatest natural spectacles. There are a few ways to see the breathtaking falls – on foot (which comes with a lot of spray), from a helicopter or on the back of a tiny microlight.

In terms of wildlife experiences, Zimbabwe’s excellent game parks offer self-drive (with some adventurous 4×4 routes) and guided game driving to see the Big Five, huge herds of elephant, rare and endangered species such as wild dog and sable antelope and hundreds of bird species. But game driving is not the only way to get close to Zimbabwe’s wildlife – you can also go on walking safaris and experience the wonders of the bush on foot in Mana Pools National Park, Matusadona National Park and on private concessions in Hwange National Park. Another way to explore Zimbabwe’s wilderness areas is by canoe. You can do multi-day canoeing safaris on the Upper Zambezi River near Victoria Falls, or on the Lower Zambezi through Mana Pools National Park and to more the remote safari areas beyond.

If you prefer a more sedate way to spot game, staying on a houseboat on Lake Kariba is the answer. These floating hotels cruise the lake’s calm waters and provide a relaxing way of seeing game on the lake shore – either from the comfort of the houseboat deck or from smaller tender boats. Fishing for tigerfish in Lake Kariba is also one of Zimbabwe’s most popular activities.

For adrenaline seekers, Zimbabwe has endless adventures to offer. In just the town of Victoria Falls alone there’s white-water rafting on the Grade 5 rapids of the mighty Zambezi River, bungee jumping, horseback safaris, gorge swinging, zip lining, abseiling and crocodile cage diving. Outside of safari-related activities there are plenty of other adventures to be had across the country, from hiking and mountaineering in the forested mountains of the Eastern Highlands to exploring the Chinhoyi Caves.

History buffs will love the ancient archaeological sites of Great Zimbabwe and the Khami Ruins, where you’ll be able to walk around atmospheric stone ruins that tell fascinating stories about the country’s past. Zimbabwe is also home one of Africa’s greatest concentrations of rock art in the hills of Matobo National Park, where some 3000 sites (some going back as far as 13 millennia) are scattered. Going on hikes to discover these ancient works in Matobo’s granite galleries is one of the best rock art experiences you can have in Africa.

Zimbabwe attracts wildlife enthusiasts, active holidaymakers and lovers of the outdoors with its game parks, beautiful wilderness areas and exciting outdoors activities such as canoeing and walking safaris, but there’s also more to the country for other travellers. History and culture buffs will love exploring the fascinating archaeological ruins of Great Zimbabwe, as well as discovering the ancient rock art of Matobo National Park, while walkers and hikers will find their mecca in the beautiful rainforests and mountains of the Eastern Highlands.

While Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park are easily accessible destinations for anyone, if you’re going to be exploring other areas of the country on a self-driving holiday, it helps if you’ve got a taste for adventure, as travelling around Zimbabwe does come with some challenges.

However, Zimbabwe does suit all travel styles, whether you like to stay in luxury camps and lodges and explore the country’s parks and reserves by chartered plane, or if you prefer to get off-grid, driving your own 4×4 on muddy tracks in remote wilderness areas where you can camp in the wild.

Travellers from Europe, the UK, Canada and the USA need a visa to visit Zimbabwe. You can obtain a visa from the Zimbabwean embassy in your country but it’s easier to just get one on arrival at the airport or at the border crossing. Your passport needs to be valid for at least six months and have enough blank pages. You also need to show your return ticket to your country and have sufficient funds to cover you while you’re in Zimbabwe. You will also need to have US dollars in cash (in small notes if possible) to pay for your visa (for Europeans and Americans the visa is US$30, for British and Irish nationals it’s US$55 and for Canadians it’s US$75). Tourist visas are granted for visits of 30 days (single entry visa) or 60 days (multi-entry).

From the US or Europe you can fly to Zimbabwe via Johannesburg in South Africa. Several airlines operate two-hour flights from Johannesburg to the capital of Harare, as well as Bulawayo and Victoria Falls. There are flights from other African cities such as Dar es Salaam, Nairobi and Gaborone to Harare.

Alternatively, you can easily drive from South Africa to Zimbabwe: it’s a six-hour journey from Johannesburg to the Zimbabwean border crossing at Beitbridge. If you’re in a hired car, tell your rental car company that you will be crossing a border so that they provide you with the appropriate paperwork.

There are domestic flights between Harare, Bulawayo and Victoria Falls, and private charter flights between luxury camps and other destinations within Zimbabwe, as well as an air taxi service that flies between Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, Lake Kariba and Mana Pools National Park. Most travellers choose not to use Zimbabwe’s unreliable public transport options, instead opting for private road transfers between destinations such as Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park, private bus companies or car rental.

Driving yourself is the best way to explore the country and get off the beaten track. The tarred roads are generally in good condition and after many years of fuel shortages, petrol and diesel are usually available (although it’s a good idea to fill up whenever you can and carry and extra jerry cans of fuel with you). One of the main challenges of a self-drive holiday in Zimbabwe is the number of police roadblocks all over the country. As long as everything in your car is in order and you have the right paperwork then you shouldn’t have a problem at the roadblocks. If you do have to pay a fine, you should ask for the receipt.

You don’t need to hire a 4×4 to drive around Zimbabwe, but you will need a car with high clearance if you’re planning on driving in the national parks.

It’s a good idea to have both a GPS as well as a paper map book for navigating.

The currency in Zimbabwe is the US dollar. Some places will accept South African rands, Botswana pula, pounds and euros but you may get a bad exchange rate. Since 2016, the country has been experiencing a shortage in cash. Bond notes – worth the same as US dollars – were introduced as legal tender and can be used for any purchases in Zimbabwe but have no value outside of the country so be sure to spend them before you leave.

Because of the cash shortage, there are few ATMs that dispense cash. Instead you will need to bring along enough US dollars in cash to pay for things like fuel and other sundry items. You can pay with debit and credit cards in hotels, restaurants and lodges. We’ll advise you on where you will be required to make payments in cash. Bring along plenty of small denominations for buying things like curios.

While most people who visit Zimbabwe have a trouble-free holiday, you do need to be aware of some risks so that you stay safe on your travels.

• When you’re in a city or town, take care when you’re driving at night and avoid walking at night if you can. Don’t ever display your valuables or expensive jewellery and never leave belongings in your car, and be aware when you leave ATMs or banks.
• If you’re going on a self-drive adventure, make sure your doors are always locked and your windows rolled up. Be cautious of where you stop.
• Make sure that you stock up on fuel whenever you can, as petrol stations don’t always have availability. Be aware that traffic lights are often not working and that there are potholes in the roads – always drive carefully and wear seatbelts. Unless you’re in a town or city, don’t drive at night as rural roads are unlit and often have vehicles with poor lighting, as well as livestock and animals on them.
• When you’re on safari, be aware that you’re in a park or reserve surrounded by wild animals which should always be treated with caution. Never try to feed animals and be careful when you’re around monkeys or baboons as they can try and steal food from you and get aggressive. When driving yourself around parks, keep a safe distance from animals and never leave your vehicle except in designated areas.
• If you go on a walking or canoeing safari, make sure that your guide is accredited and follow their instructions at all times – if you encounter an aggressive animal such as a hippo or buffalo, you need to follow your guide’s direction to stay safe.

It’s customary to tip lodge staff for their service, but you don’t need to tip them every day – you do it only at the end of your stay. Lodges usually offer a communal tip box for cleaning and restaurant staff, and the tip for your guide and tracker is usually put in an envelope or separate envelopes and handed to them directly or to the lodge manager.

If you’re travelling with children, note that many lodges will not accept children under a certain age and some don’t allow children at all. We’ll advise you on the age limitations for children upon your enquiry.

Most restaurants and hotels serve international food that tends to be heavy on meat. If you are a vegetarian or have any other dietary requirements, be sure to let your lodge know in advance so that they can prepare food for you. Many lodges are very remote and don’t get daily food deliveries, so they do need to know about food preferences beforehand.

In terms of local food, sadza is Zimbabwe’s most common dish: maize meal cooked to a thick porridge-like consistency, which is served with stewed meat or vegetables and sauces. Other popular dishes include dovi, a stew made from peanut butter, nhedzi, a wild mushroom soup, cornmeal cake known as mupotohayi, bota, a breakfast porridge made with peanut butter and jam, and mapopo, a candy made from papaya.

The most popular drink in Zimbabwe is beer (Zambezi lager is the national brew), though you’ll find South African wines and a range of spirits, both local and imported, in restaurants and hotel bars.

In Zimbabwe, it’s customary to tip waiters in restaurants (10 to 15% is standard), and to give car guards who watch over your car in supermarket or shopping mall car parks US$1, and give porters a small amount for carrying your bags.

Most people leave tips for their safari guide and lodge or camp staff. Some lodges will offer a suggestion of how much to tip (a range of about US$5 to US$20 per guest per day) and most lodges will let you know what the tipping practice is in terms of how the tips are handed to the staff – either in envelopes to the manager or to the guide or in a tip box at reception. It’s not necessary to give a tip every day as it’s mostly done at the end of your stay.

It’s usual for Zimbabweans to exchange greetings and ask “how are you?” to be responded with “fine thanks, and you?” before they proceed with their conversation. It’s considered impolite to launch straight into your conversation without first exchanging these greetings. Traditionally it’s also considered impolite for a younger person to address an older person first.

Zimbabwe has some truly beautiful and unique art, crafts and curios to buy in shops and markets and from the artisans themselves. Look out for carvings in wood and stone (although be aware of buying carvings made out of hardwood which are contributing to the country’s deforestation), semi-precious stone jewelry, paintings, woven baskets and all sorts of crafts made out of recycled and natural material. Many hotels have a small curio shop where you can buy arts and crafts, and there are art galleries, boutiques and curio shops in towns and more informal curio markets where you can bargain for crafts.

In Harare, you’ll find art galleries selling traditional as well as contemporary Zimbabwean art, and boutiques for jewelry, furniture, pottery, hand painted fabrics, leatherwork, clothes and sculptures, and the Newlands Art and Craft Market for Shona sculptures, while Bulawayo also has a good selection of art galleries, craft centers and curio shops.

There’s an excellent array of curio shops, galleries and boutiques in Victoria Falls, where you can find everything from small cheap souvenirs to authentic art. The Elephant’s Walk Shopping Centre has upmarket shops for art, jewelry and crafts, while there are two craft markets that sell a large variety of sculptures, jewelry, masks and small crafts that make for perfect gifts.

Zimbabwe has 16 official languages: English, Shona, Ndebele, Shangani, Sotho, Venda, Kalanga, Nambya, Chewa, sign language, Tonga, Chibarwe, Ndau, Tswana, Koisan, and Xhosa. Shone, Ndebele and English are the most widely spoken languages. While travelling in Zimbabwe in tourist areas you’ll find a lot of people who speak English.

There’s a high risk of malaria in most of Zimbabwe, and the highest risk months are during the rainy season from October to May. Consult your doctor or travel clinic about getting malaria prophylactics before your trip. Even if you do take prophylactics, you should take care not to be bitten. To prevent mosquito bites, always use repellent on your skin and clothes, wear long trousers and shirts in the early morning and evenings and if possible, sleep under a mosquito net.

Tap water in towns and cities generally isn’t safe to drink so stick to bottled water. Safari lodges often have their own safe water supply or provide treated water.

There have been recent outbreaks of typhoid and cholera in different areas of Zimbabwe. To prevent getting sick, wash your hands or use hand sanitizer, always drink mineral, boiled or treated water and eat food that has been thoroughly cooked.

Bring all the medication you need to take for your whole trip from home.

You should also bring along a comprehensive first aid kit that includes antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, antidiarrheal medication, antibacterial ointment, antimalarial tablets, rehydration electrolyte sachets, insect spray and repellent, water purification tablets and bandages.

There is no risk of yellow fever in Zimbabwe but you will need to show a yellow fever certificate if you have entered the country having visited another country with yellow fever risk.

It’s advised that travellers to Zimbabwe have updated vaccinations for tetanus, diphtheria, polio and hepatitis A, as well as vaccinations for typhoid, cholera, hepatitis B and tuberculosis. The rabies vaccination is recommended if you’re going to have contact with animals or if you’re going to be in a remote location far from medical assistance.

There are several private emergency medical service systems that provide both road and air ambulances to evacuate you from the remotest corners of Zimbabwe and get you to the closest private clinic for treatment. If you have an emergency and cannot get yourself to a private clinic in either Harare or Bulawayo, call EMRAS on +263 242 250011 or ACE on +263 24 2302 141.

There are private clinics in Harare and Bulawayo, and you should only use a private clinic if you have an emergency or health problem. Private clinics require patients to pay in cash before they are treated.

You should get comprehensive travel insurance that includes coverage for any activities that you plan to do, such as white-water rafting or hiking. Make sure that your medical insurance covers you for emergency medical evacuation.

If you rent a car, it’s advisable to get comprehensive car insurance to cover yourself for any damage to the vehicle.

• A meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costs around $40.
• Entrance fees for national parks range from US$10 to US$30 per person per day depending on the park.
• With so many activities on offer throughout Zimbabwe, there’s no average price. In Victoria Falls, activity rates range from $20 for a guided tour of the falls to US$190 for a full day of white-water rafting and river boarding. Canoeing safaris cost from US$170 per person per night, while hiring a guide in Mana Pools National Park costs US$25 per day.
• Most of your safari activities at camps and lodges will be included in the price of your safari. We create bespoke safari packages to meet your budget.

Like many other southern African countries, the best time The Victoria Falls are at their peak in March and April, but the best time to visit Zimbabwe for game viewing is during the dry winter months. to visit Zimbabwe is during the dry winter months of June to October for optimal wildlife viewing.

During this time when water is scarce and the vegetation is sparse, animals congregate around rivers and waterholes, making viewing particularly easy. Out of the winter months, July to September is the busiest period for tourists.

The rainy summer season of November to April is the least popular time to visit Zimbabwe, as spotting wildlife is hard, some roads are inaccessible and the weather is hot and humid.

Mana Pools National Park is closed from November to April, and some Zimbabwe camps and lodges also close between January to March. Many roads are also closed in Gonarezhou National Park between November and April. 

However, if you’re a birder, the best time to visit zimbabwe would be during the rainy months because it is easier to spot scores of migratory species. The wet season is also when the landscapes are at their most lush and beautiful, and if you’re lucky you’ll be able to see newborn animals in the parks. During this off-peak season, you can also get better room rates.

While you can view Victoria Falls year-round, you’ll get a different experience viewing the falls depending on when you visit.

From March to May, after the seasonal summer rains, the Zambezi River is at its highest, and you’ll be able to see the falls in full dramatic flow, although the huge amount of mist and spray can obscure views. 

From March to around June, white water rafting is closed because of the high water levels. From June, when water levels start decreasing, you’ll have excellent visibility viewing the falls. 

June to September is the best time to visit Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls when the river is low enough for good visibility.

The best time to visit the Zimbabwean Eastern Highlands is during the dry winter season from May to October when you’ll have warm sunny days.

• Why Zimbabwe

Registered Members of these Organizations

USEFUL LINKS

• African Safaris
• African Safari Tours
• African Safari Lodges
• Why Book with us?
• Content Collaborations
• Safari Cost Estimator Tool
• Wildebeest Migration
• Privacy Policy
• Website Terms of Use

POPULAR COUNTRIES

• View All Countries
• South Africa Safaris
• Botswana Safaris
• Kenya Safaris
• Tanzania Safaris
• Namibia Safaris
• Rwanda Safaris
• Uganda Safaris
• Zambia Safaris
• Zimbabwe Safaris

POPULAR DESTINATIONS

• View All Destinations
• Cape Town Holidays
• Kruger Safaris
• Victoria Falls Safaris
• Masai Mara Safaris
• Serengeti Safaris
• Etosha Safaris
• Chobe Safaris
• Okavango Delta Safaris

TRAVEL BLOGS

• Cape of Storms: What You Need to Know about Cape Town’s Weather
• Animal Attacks: How to Stay Safe on Safari
• Travel News Digest, 5 April: FlySafair’s Kruger-Cape Route, Destination Dupes, Increased Biodiversity Focus
• South Africa to Finally Ban Captive Lion Industry
• Cape Agulhas Development Enhances Africa’s Southernmost Experience

DISCOVER AFRICA SAFARIS

2nd floor, Tygervalley Chambers One, 27 Willie van Schoor Avenue, Bellville, Cape Town , 7530

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. Learn more

• Australian Dollars
• British Pounds
• Namibian Dollars
• New Zealand Dollars
• South African Rands
• U.S. Dollars

Talk to an expert +44 203 405 6666 Lines open now

Hwange has a large elephant population

Hwange offers a myriad of safari experiences

... including day and night game drives

You may spot a number of lions as well.

Hwange National Park

Zimbabwe's largest national park encompasses a variety of habitats from Kalahari sandveld to mopane woodlands.

Bordering Botswana, Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe's largest game park with an area of 14,600km². Its sheer size means that its scenery, vegetation and game vary hugely, ranging from the semi desert scrub on the edge of the Kalahari in the south, to forests, granite hills and valleys of mopane woodlands in the north. The national park is home to over 100 mammal species, including lion, leopard and rhino, and is known for its large population of elephant. This game park is very accessible and all the safari camps here offer day and night game drives and most also offer walking safaris. The highest numbers of animals are spotted in the dry season (August to October) when the wildlife congregates around the shrunken water holes.

Hwange National Park: in detail

Safaris visiting Hwange

Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you

Side-striped Jackal Safari

6 days • 2 locations • 1 country VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT

Get an in-depth experience of Zimbabwe’s colossal Hwange National Park, staying at two experience-focused camps with excellent guiding in contrasting areas. An adventurous safari for the real enthusiast.

Visiting Hwange

US$3,480 - US$5,460 per person

Read more about the Side-striped Jackal Safari

Ground Hornbill Safari

9 days • 3 locations • 1 country VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT TO BULAWAYO AIRPORT

This Zimbabwean odyssey explores Hwange National Park from two small camps, renowned for their great guiding, before ending with insights into cultural history, a little luxury and first-class rhino tracking in the Matobo Hills.

Visiting Matobo, Hwange

US$5,270 - US$8,560 per person

Read more about the Ground Hornbill Safari

Great Egret Safari

12 days • 4 locations • 3 country MAUN AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT

A wonderfully varied adventure to Botswana and Zimbabwe combining three fantastic safari areas, a luxury river cruise and the mighty Victoria Falls.

Visiting Caprivi Strip, Okavango Delta and 2 other areas

US$9,220 - US$17,120 per person

Read more about the Great Egret Safari

Lion Safari

7 days • 2 locations • 1 country VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT

The classic Expert Africa Zimbabwe safari. Combining two of our favourite independent camps, each run by celebrated guides, exciting game drives, world-class walks and canoeing in premier wildlife watching destinations.

Visiting Mana Pools, Hwange

US$6,950 - US$9,830 per person

Read more about the Lion Safari

Klipspringer Safari

8 days • 3 locations • 1 country VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT TO BULAWAYO AIRPORT

An outstanding-value Zimbabwe safari exploring Victoria Falls and two contrasting locations in western Zimbabwe – Hwange and the Matobo Hills – giving you a real feel for Zimbabwe, its people and wildlife.

Visiting Matobo, Hwange and 1 other area

US$2,890 - US$3,570 per person

Read more about the Klipspringer Safari

Grysbok Safari

9 days • 3 locations • 1 country VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT TO HARARE AIRPORT

Discover three of Zimbabwe’s iconic destinations in style, flying between Hwange, Mana Pools and Lake Kariba on this varied safari adventure staying at authentic yet luxurious camps.

Visiting Hwange, Matusadona and 1 other area

US$8,990 - US$14,380 per person

Read more about the Grysbok Safari

Buffalo Safari

9 days • 3 locations • 1 country HARARE AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT

Combining Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools and Hwange national parks with stays at intimate six-tent safari camps offering excellent walking, canoeing and game drives. Superb wildlife viewing and a real wilderness-focused experience.

US$8,040 - US$11,910 per person

Read more about the Buffalo Safari

Pied Kingfisher Safari

A luxury safari combining three of Zimbabwe's top highlights. The trip uses some of the finest safari camps in Zimbabwe and is perfect for a family or small group.

Visiting Victoria Falls, Hwange and 1 other area

US$7,000 - US$10,780 per person

Read more about the Pied Kingfisher Safari

Nyala Safari

10 days • 3 locations • 1 country VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT

A superb luxury safari in iconic Hwange and Mana Pools national parks, staying in a pair of the finest safari camps in Zimbabwe, with a grand finale at Victoria Falls

Visiting Mana Pools, Hwange and 1 other area

US$10,150 - US$15,050 per person

Read more about the Nyala Safari

View all holidays to Hwange National Park

Need inspiration?

Let our trip chooser narrow down the options for you

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings in Hwange

This is their success for sightings in Hwange National Park. Click on a species for more detail. How we work this out.

98% success

97% success

93% success

92% success

84% success

78% success

72% success

65% success

55% success

51% success

48% success

43% success

30% success

26% success

11% success

Map of Hwange National Park

Choices for where to stay in Hwange National Park

Most recent reviews of our safaris to Hwange

Click below to browse all 204 reviews from Hwange National Park. All from our travellers; all are in full & unedited.

Arrived 2 Jan 2024, 11 nights

"My Jan 2024 trip"

Overall rating: Excellent

Arrived 7 Nov 2023, 12 nights

"My Nov 2023 trip"

Arrived 5 Oct 2023, 28 nights

"Our Oct 2023 trip"

Arrived 2 Nov 2023, 9 nights

Arrived 5 Nov 2023, 11 nights

"Zimbabwe 5 - 15 Nov 2023"

Arrived 28 Oct 2023, 21 nights

"My Oct/Nov 2023 trip"

Arrived 22 Sep 2023, 14 nights

"My Sep 2023 trip"

Arrived 2 Oct 2023, 17 nights

"My Oct 2023 trip"

Arrived 23 Sep 2023, 9 nights

"Delta & Hwange"

Arrived 25 Aug 2023, 10 nights

"My Aug 2023 trip"

See all Hwange National Park reviews

When to go to Hwange National Park

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Hwange in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe in January

January falls in the middle of Zimbabwe’s rainy season and is the wettest month of the year. Heavy rainfall occurs most days, flooding seasonal rivers and waterholes, with the occasional sunny spell. With the high levels of precipitation the wildlife in the national parks becomes widely dispersed, taking advantage of the abundance of food and water, and is easily hidden by the thick, green bush. While sightings of larger animals are possible, and many species drop their young at this time, game viewing is often sparse. However, many migratory species of bird arrive in Zimbabwe making it a peak month for birding. The rains create incredibly sticky mud in Mana Pools National Park, preventing access and causing camps to close for the season. The majority of the camps in other parks remain open, with low rates attracting a smattering of visitors.

• Peak of the rainy season: hot & humid with heavy rain most days
• Bush exceptionally thick and green, with poor game viewing
• Species such as impala drop their young
• All camps in Mana Pools closed
• Very few visitors, and low rates at open camps

A time to avoid if possible

Weather in January

Zimbabwe in February

February remains well within Zimbabwe’s rainy season. Although total rainfall drops, relatively short thunderstorms can still be expected most afternoons. On the plus side, there is a greater chance of some sunshine in-between. Much of the country remains waterlogged, closing access to Mana Pools and severely restricting walking safaris in other parks. While game drives and canoeing remain an option, the abundance of water disperses animals, and thick grass can make it difficult to spot larger species, but birding remains excellent. Conversely, this is a great time of year to view the landscape, and is excellent for photographers. Sporadic cloud cover and clear air can make for some spectacular sunsets too, particularly over Lake Kariba and the Zambezi River where the reflections off the water add to the beauty.

• Generally wet with frequent thunderstorms & hot humid days
• Poor wildlife viewing due to dispersed animals & thick bush
• Clear air, green landscapes & exceptional sunsets
• Very few visitors & low rates at camps that are open

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in February

Zimbabwe in March

March is the final month of Zimbabwe’s rainy season, when the rains start to trail off and sunny days become the norm. However, some days the clouds can still build, breaking into thunderstorms in the afternoon. Mana Pools remains closed throughout the month but the majority of camps in Hwange, Matusadona and Gonarezhou remain open. Here, the landscape is green and alive, with migrant species of birds taking advantage of the abundant insect life. Larger animals remain elusive though, and walking safaris remain restricted. By this time of year, the rains have normally trickled down to the Zambezi River and the flow of water over the Victoria Falls starts to increase, but without kicking up too much spray to obscure the views.

• Last month of the rainy season: hot, humid days with occasional storms
• Lush vegetation means good birding, but poor game viewing
• Views of the Victoria Falls improve
• Open camps have few visitors & low rates

Weather in March

Zimbabwe in April

April marks the end of Zimbabwe’s rainy season and the end of summer. Clear skies are the norm, with just the occasional shower. Temperatures start to drop, failing to reach 30ºC most days and dropping down to around 10ºC at night. As the rain fades the landscape starts to dry out. While the vegetation remains thick and green, the soil in Mana Pools dries enough for camps to open, and the only camps to remain closed are the most remote bushcamps in Hwange. Although viewing of larger animals remains tricky, the improved weather starts to draw back visitors, as do prices significantly below those in the peak season. The Zambezi River and flow of water over the Victoria Falls is at its highest, although large amounts of spray diminish views of the waterfall itself.

• Transitional period, with much lower rainfall & falling temperatures
• Wildlife is still dispersed & hard to see, but sightings improving
• Views of the Victoria Falls often obscured by spray
• Camps in Mana Pools open
• Visitors start to return & camps increase their rates

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in April

Zimbabwe in May

The first month in the dry season, May is also Zimbabwe’s first month of winter. If the rains are particularly late in a given year, you may catch the odd shower, but you can expect clear and sunny days the majority of the time. While it’s warm in the daytime, temperatures drop to single digits at night, so bring a warm jumper and gloves for early morning drives. With the rain having cleared the air, the sky is bright blue, and it’s the best time of year for photography. Even the most remote camps in Zimbabwe are now open. With the lack of rainfall, vegetation dies back significantly, and seasonal rivers return to sand. Not only does this open up the possibility of walking safaris, but wildlife viewing becomes much more reliable.

• Start of the dry season, with milder days and cold nights
• Game viewing significantly improves as vegetation dies back
• Vegetation starts to turn from green to brown
• Best time for photography with crystal clear air
• Visitors start to return; all camps open & rates increasing

A very good time to visit

Weather in May

Zimbabwe in June

During June you can virtually be guaranteed of dry and sunny days, although temperatures continue to drop, and can get close to freezing at night in Hwange National Park. Jumpers, jackets and gloves are strongly recommended for early mornings and evenings. The opportunities for wildlife viewing improve throughout the month as the landscape rapidly dries, and the animals start to gather on the banks of the Zambezi River and around Hwange’s waterholes. Water levels in the Zambezi River start to drop, reducing the amount of spray kicked up at the Victoria Falls and greatly improving visibility, but still allowing a full curtain of water to cascade over the edge.

• Middle of winter, with night-time temperatures close to freezing
• Game viewing significantly improves throughout the month
• Views of the Victoria Falls are at their best
• Noticeable increase in visitor numbers
• Camps considerably more expensive

Weather in June

Zimbabwe in July

July sits in the middle of Zimbabwe’s dry season. Although it’s warm at midday, temperatures are generally cold and in Hwange it’s been known to drop below freezing at night, with the lower-altitude Mana Pools feeling a bit warmer. With wildlife clustering around the few remaining waterholes, sparse vegetation, and some of the best views of the Victoria Falls, this is one of the most popular times to travel, with camps charging peak season rates to reflect this. That said, visitor numbers to the country in general remain low, and outside of the Victoria Falls it’s rare for any areas to feel crowded.

• Middle of the dry season with almost no chance of rain
• Clear sunny days, but very cold nights
• Wildlife viewing good; game drives and walking safaris unrestricted
• Views of the Victoria Falls at their best
• Camps charging peak season rates

Weather in July

Zimbabwe in August

While August is the end of winter and temperatures are starting to creep up, mornings and nights are still cold, and game drives in open vehicles can feel particularly chilly. Well into the dry season, the landscapes will have mostly transformed from green to brown and wildlife viewing in Zimbabwe’s national parks is approaching its best. Due to dust kicked up into the atmosphere and smoke from bush fires you may start to notice a haze on the horizon, but this doesn’t significantly impact photography. August is one of the most expensive months, and the pleasant weather and decent game viewing attracts lots of visitors. While the national parks rarely feel crowded, Victoria Falls accommodation can sell out a year in advance.

• Warm, sunny days but cold mornings & nights; almost no chance of rain
• Wildlife viewing nearly at its best
• Landscape turns brown, & an atmospheric haze develops
• All camps charging peak season rates

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in August

Zimbabwe in September

Temperatures in September rarely drop below 15ºC, but are yet to reach the oppressive highs of summer. It will normally have been five months since the last drop of rain, so antelope and elephants cluster around whatever water remains, with predators never too far away. The landscape is very brown, and the haze building on the horizon takes some of the colour out of the sky, so while animal subjects are plentiful, the background is not ideal for photography. The combination of incredible wildlife viewing, hot and sunny weather, and cheaper flights outside of the school holidays make this the most popular time of year to travel, and availability at the camps can become limited up to a year in advance.

• The best month for weather, with a pleasantly warm temperature range
• One of the best months for game viewing
• Victoria Falls starting to dry but still impressive on Zimbabwean side
• All camps are charging peak season rates
• Most popular time to travel, & space can be limited

Weather in September

Zimbabwe in October

October is the last month of the dry season with little chance of rain but building humidity. While the higher elevation of Hwange National Park limits temperatures to the 30s Celsius, they can easily top 40ºC in Mana Pools. With little vegetation or water, wildlife is drawn to the few remaining water sources and viewing is at its best; visitors who brave the heat can be rewarded with some exceptional sightings, although haze in the air diminishes photos. Maximum visibility and dense wildlife concentrations can also make for very rewarding walking safaris, although the heat can make them uncomfortable. Water levels in the Zambezi at the Victoria Falls drop significantly, and large stretches of the waterfall are a dry cliff-face – although it never dries completely. Camp rates remain at their peak, but visitor numbers drop as people avoid the heat.

• Last month of the dry season; very hot with building humidity
• Wildlife viewing at its very best
• Dust & smoke in the air diminish photographic opportunities
• Victoria Falls starting to look very dry
• Camp rates remain at their peak

Weather in October

Zimbabwe in November

November is a transitionary period, with high temperatures and humidity. While they can’t be predicted with any precision, the first rains normally arrive halfway through the month, in the form of thunderstorms lasting a few hours each day. Early November is a popular time to travel as the camps drop their rates, so if you’re lucky you can get peak-season game viewing at low-season rates. This is a gamble though as if the rains do arrive, animals are no longer limited to a few dangerous waterholes and will disperse into the bush. While all the camps in Mana Pools intend to remain open, the rains can make the airstrips unusable so you may find yourself moved to a different park, a risk that increases through the month.

• Typically the start of the rains in Zimbabwe
• Temperatures & humidity levels remain high
• Wildlife viewing rapidly diminishes as the rains arrive
• Camps remain open, but risk early closure in Mana Pools
• Much cheaper time to travel as camps drop their rates

Weather in November

Zimbabwe in December

By December the rainy season has begun in earnest; this is one of the wettest months in Zimbabwe, with heavy thunderstorms most afternoons and occasionally continuous rain for a couple of days. While temperatures start to cool down the high levels of humidity can make the heat feel more oppressive. With the rains comes an explosion of green growth, and the dust and smoke are washed out of the air. The resulting scenery – with the occasional bright blue skies – can be fantastic for photographers. Thick vegetation and plentiful water makes viewing of larger animals tricky, but with migratory species arriving the birding is at its best. All camps in Mana Pools and the remote Hwange camps close, with those remaining open charging their lowest rates.

• One of the wettest months in Zimbabwe
• High temperatures & levels of humidity
• Wildlife viewing poor, but birding good
• Lush green landscapes & clear air; great for landscape photography

Weather in December

Zimbabwe fact file

Useful information and advice to help you prepare for a trip including Hwange National Park.

Flights to Zimbabwe

How to get there & on to local destinations

LGBT Zimbabwe

Attitudes, the law & our experiences

Tipping in Zimbabwe

Expectations & guidelines for tipping

Zimbabwe general info

Essential travel information

Zimbabwe safari guides

Exceptional quality and value

Zimbabwe: is it ethical?

Background & our purpose

Weather & climate

The best time to visit Zimbabwe

Other areas in Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls

Gonarezhou & Savé

Great Zimbabwe

Eastern Highlands

Login to Expert Africa

Sign in with password

Sign in with email link

New to Expert Africa? Create an account

Forgotten your details?

It's free & quick to set up

• Save your wish-list
• Send us an enquiry
• Pay online for your trip
• Subscribe to our newsletter
• Give us feedback on your trip
• Full site benefits of the site

Need some help? Talk to our team

The Best Luxury Safari Lodges & Camps in Zimbabwe

Game drives, the Big Five, vast wilderness, sundowners, and canvas camps—they’re the stock ingredients baked into a luxury safari in Africa. What makes Zimbabwe an irresistible setting to write your next big safari adventure is the ability to park the game vehicle and travel through its national parks on foot or pick up a paddle and navigate the currents of the Zambezi River.

Inhabited for millennia, Zimbabwe is a fascinating destination. Albeit one grappling with the echoes of a tangled colonial history. Joyfully, many organizations are working to recover biodiversity and combat poaching, throwing open the door for the tourism needed to buoy conservation efforts. Each of our top selections for best Zimbabwe safari camps and lodges is downright luxurious, but more importantly, they’re committed to the wellbeing of wildlife, uplifting Zimbabweans, and supporting local communities. In other words, travel as a force for good.

Best Safari Camps in Hwange National Park

Lions, elephants, and wild dogs—oh my! Established in 1930 and roughly the size of Connecticut, Hwange National Park is the oldest and largest in Zimbabwe. You’ll find a mix of open grassland savannas and woodlands creating a varied landscape; on the Ngamo Plains, safari-goers are treated to superb big cat sightings. Lacking permanent water sources, wildlife congregates around borehole-pumped water holes and pans, often in dizzying volumes—especially during the dry season.

Somalisa Expeditions

At the intimate, six-tent Somalisa Expeditions , elephants gather at the small pool. Shoulder-to-shoulder, they take long measured drinks of water as unblinking guests etch the magical moment into memory. Located in Hwange National Park—a destination known for plentiful pachyderms—this vintage-style camp has earned a reputation for up-close elephant encounters. Enveloped by bush, set beneath the dappled shade of an acacia grove and next to a seasonal flood plain, the camp setting is nothing short of sublime. The property offers just six Meru-style tents and has been designed and decorated to harken back to a bygone era of early safari camps. In the evening, gather at the bonfire to recount your day beneath a star-painted night sky.

Linkwasha Camp

Seated on the hem of Ngamo Plains—one of Hwange’s most wildlife-rich viewing areas—elephant, buffalo, and antelope quench their thirst in Linkwasha Camp’s first-come, first-serve pool. Dressed in earthy neutrals, mixed textures, and Ndebele accents, the stylish camp reflects a contemporary African aesthetic. Linkwasha’s nine oversize tented suites take refuge in the shade offered by leadwood trees and boast patio views of the busy waterhole. By day, spy on wildlife from the sunken blind, luxuriate in a poolside cabana, explore the 34,000-acre Linkwasha-Makololo Private Wilderness Area during twice-daily game drives, or venture out on foot for a guided bush walk. Tucking into the star bed means dozing off to a chorus of hooting owls and whooping hyenas.

Little Makalolo Camp

Small indeed—counting just six tents—checking into Little Makalolo Camp means arriving as a stranger but departing as friends. At this intimate property, a high-quality of service is delivered with the warmth of a first-name basis. A classic bush camp at heart, the property trades in the currency of unfettered, soul-stirring wildlife encounters. At camp, elephants may join you for a drink at sundown. Otherwise, crisscross the remote Linkwasha-Makololo concession while seated in a 4×4 to sight wildlife in relative exclusivity. When you’ve earned a rest, rinse away the dusty day in an outdoor shower, dip into the pool to watch the wildlife parade, or take a seat at the open fire—a shared area that invites you to exchange stories with other guests.

Best Safari Lodge in Gonarezhou National Park

Though it’s the country’s second-largest national park, Gonarezhou ‘s off-the-beaten-path location in southeastern Zimbabwe preserves its hidden gem status. Translating to ‘the place of elephants’ and home to some 11,500 of them, it’s one of the highest densities of pachyderms on the continent.

Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

The EJ Zimbabwe luxury lodge of choice for the area is Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge , founded by Clive Stockil, a pioneer in community conservation. The property isn’t ornamental in its brand of luxury, but you will feel as if you’ve stepped into the early days of African safari, an ‘old Africa’ experience if you will. Guests explore the park from different perspectives, some thrilling, others contemplative. Expect big cats, buffalo, hippo, painted impala, birdlife, and the presence of elephants, everywhere. Unmissable highlights include hiking to Chivalila Falls and a full-day excursion to admire the red sandstone Chilojo Cliffs. Mobile fly camping is a tantalizing offer for adventurous travelers.

Best Safari Lodge in Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve

If you’re visiting the private Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve , you’re exclusively a guest of Singita Pamushana safari lodge. Thanks to extensive conservation efforts and anti-poaching measures (which guest stays contribute to funding), the rhino population is thriving here—a huge draw for visitors.

Singita Pamushana

Seated atop a sandstone ridge and presiding over the glimmering Malilangwe Dam, Singita Pamushana is a crown gem among Zimbabwe luxury safari lodges. Snug in the 130,000-acre private Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve adjacent to Gonarezhou National Park, it’s an exclusive journey into untouched wilderness with few others to share it with—save for the Big Five and more than 500 bird species. In this wonderous ecosystem, ‘upside-down’ baobab trees, flat-topped acacia woodlands, and ironwood thickets punctuate the landscape, lending cover to the stars of a celebrated comeback story: black rhino. Activities are plentiful (think: game drives, rhino tracking, boating, and tennis) and scheduled at your own ambition. The rock-hewn property features just eight suites (each complete with a private plunge pool), with design drawing on Shangaan culture and stonework inspired by ancient Zimbabwe ruins.

Best Safari Lodge in Lake Kariba

Counter to Hwange’s pumped water holes, the wildlife that grace the shores of Lake Kariba sip in abundance. The lake came into existence in the 1950s when a dam flooded the valley, corralling wildlife in concentrated numbers onto islands and the southern shore. Exceptional birdlife and the Big Five can be spotted in the area, with the lake offering activities that are a welcome departure from 4×4 game drives. In 2019, the NGO African Parks (in partnership with Zimparks) signed a 20-year agreement to restore and manage nearby Matusadona National Park; it’s an exciting development that expects to see elephant and rhino populations stabilize and grow. 

Bumi Hills Safari Lodge

Backdropped by a dramatic Zambezi escarpment and overlooking the radiant shores of Lake Kariba, it’s hard to turn away from the wide-open vistas afforded by Bumi Hills Safari Lodge . Drink in the views from the lip of the infinity pool while seated on wrap-round timber terraces, from the private deck that features in each of the 10 suites, or up-close from the bow of a boat. Snug in a private concession near Matusadona National Park, wildlife roams in plentiful numbers, enjoying the lakeshore as much as guests do. (Imagine: elephants bathing in thigh-deep water.) Twice-daily game drives are complemented by sunrise and sunset cruising, boat safaris, catch-and-release fishing, and cultural visits. Don’t miss a trip to view the fossilized dinosaur footprints. Fun fact: Bumi Hills Safari Lodge is considered one of the 10 most romantic honeymoon destinations in the world , as curated by Extraordinary Journeys travel experts.

Best Safari Lodge in Mana Pools National Park

Most famously depicted by photos of elephants standing on hind legs and twisting their trunks into the fruit-laden branches of albida trees, Mana Pools National Park is a remote natural wonder. Big game congregates here, frequenting the four oxbow lakes (‘pools’) and hanging out along the shores of the life-giving Zambezi River.

Chikwenya Camp

Where the lazy serpentine Sapi River meets the wide Zambezi River, Chikwenya Camp ’s seven tented suites sit tucked amid the shade offered by a grove of albida trees. Located on a private concession on Mana Pools National Park’s wild eastern boundary, wildlife wanders freely through the unfenced property. The swoon-worthy camp is swathed in tranquility and handsomely appointed—but don’t mistake creamy beiges for boring. Game drives bristle with iconic African wildlife, and untamed adventure awaits you on the Zambezi. Pick up a paddle for a canoe safari to spot elephants lumbering down the riverbank, sleeping crocs, and bobbing hippos off in the distance. This sublime Zimbabwe safari lodge is open seasonally, from April to November.

Tembo Plains Camp

Hugged by a tight-knit riverine forest, Tembo Plains Camp is situated within Sapi Private Reserve and honors the animal it is named for: elephants. Unthinkable to those checking in, it was only designated as a private reserve in 2016 after a decades-long tenure as a hunting area. Today, guests enjoying private safaris spot painted dogs, lions, leopards, and elephants wading in the Zambezi. Uniquely, the camp’s design marries stone with canvas, a nod to the country’s ancient ruins and founders Derek and Beverly Joubert’s zeal for low-impact backcountry adventure. (The Jouberts are renowned conservationists, filmmakers, and National Geographic Explorers at Large.) Tembo Plains is the only Relais & Châteaux-associated property in Zimbabwe. So yes, you can have your sustainable safari and bush manicure, too.

Ruckomechi and Little Ruckomechi

Situated on the Zambezi riverbank and ensconced within a private concession, Ruckomechi ’s most frequent visitors are perhaps the elephants that sniff out the fruit of its shady albida trees. Ruckomechi’s canvas-cloaked camp has 10 spacious suites (two of which are family suites), complete with ensuite washrooms. Its river-facing pool invites midday respite, and the outdoor fire pit is an inviting space to swap stories while stargazing—that is, if you’re not overnighting in the dreamy star bed. A few miles downstream, Little Ruckomechi offers a boutique, private paradise. Umbrellaed by towering ana trees, its four breezy ensuite tents appeal to exclusive-use groups, families, and reclusive travelers. It boasts a modest plunge pool and a firepit encircled by chairs where you’ll dig toes into the sand. Game drives, night game drives, walking safaris, and fishing are available to guests at both properties, but canoe safaris and boat cruises depart from Ruckomechi. Guests who want to enjoy water-based adventure may prefer the larger camp.

Best Safari Lodge in Matobo National Park

A beguiling landscape carpeted by granite boulders, a plentiful population of leopards, a successful rhino breeding program, and a staggering collection of rock art make the UNESCO-inscribed Matobo Hills a worthy stop-over.

Khayelitshe House

Hugged by an amphitheater of boulders, the four-bedroom Khayelitshe House is an exclusive-use home enveloped by 1,200 acres of private land in the heart of Matobo Hills. A combination of the Ndebele words Ekhaya and Litshe (translation: ‘home in the rocks’), its name is a nod to the granite kopjes that dot this scenic landscape. If the property feels inviting, it’s thanks to owner Beks Ndlovu, experienced guide and founder of African Bush Camps. Khayelitshe was originally intended as a private getaway before it was converted into a guest house. Off-grid and remote, its design is eco-friendly, and the stylings are charmingly eclectic. Fully staffed, guests can explore the nearby national park, enjoy game drives, guided walking safaris, hike to view ancient rock paintings, track white and black rhino on foot, and visit the burial site of controversial imperialist Cecil Rhodes. A pool, outdoor fire pit, and a handful of verandas and lounges are all welcoming hang spaces for families or groups to gather at the end of the day.

Best Safari Lodge in Victoria Falls National Park

Translating to the ‘smoke that thunders,’ Mosi-oa-Tunya, or Victoria Falls , needs no introduction. Measuring 5,603 feet wide, the cascade earns the superlative of the world’s ‘largest curtain of falling water.’ For many visitors, it’s the first stop in Zimbabwe or an easy add-on to a South Africa itinerary. In addition to sightseeing the falls, safaris into Zambezi National Park and thrilling pursuits like bungee jumping, river rafting, and canoeing easily round out a one- to three-night visit.

Palm River Hotel

If the day is clear and the air is still, you might just be able to hear the thunder of Victoria Falls and see spray that hangs above them from your room at Palm River Hotel . Situated two-and-a-half miles upstream of the natural wonder, the five-star hotel is close enough to the action while avoiding the hubbub. If you’re checking in after having spent time in Zimbabwe’s safari camps, the creature comforts of a luxury hotel, plus proximity to Victoria Falls town (hello artisans, village visits, and microbreweries), are a welcome change of pace. (A guest shuttle makes daily trips.) Palm River Hotel’s Queenslander architecture, distinctive archways, and palm-printed wallpaper give it a grand hotel-meets-White Lotus vibe (and we’re totally here for it.) Breakfast, lunch, sunset, and bird-watching river cruises depart from the jetty in front of the hotel. Palm River Hotel’s 73 rooms make it the largest property on our list, but a diversity of suites, from deluxe to honeymoon to presidential—and an exclusive-use villa—accommodate the needs of honeymooners and families alike. 

Visiting Victoria Falls doesn’t mean forsaking a Zimbabwe safari camp for a lodge in town. Tucked 10 miles into Zambezi National Park, Mpala Jena invites you to quite literally kick off your sandals and embrace barefoot luxury. You can make the easy 40-minute vehicle or boat transfer (spot crocs and hippo along the way) to Victoria Falls during a stay that also includes game drives in custom-built, open Land Cruisers, river cruises, and bush walks. Mpela Jena is situated in a tree-lined riverside setting and hosts just five breezy canvas tents. Swings, boho hammocks, plush bean bag seats, and fringed patio umbrellas are playful and stylish accents fit for the glossy pages of a magazine. The property is reputed for the warmth of its attentive staff and exceptional guides.

Matetsi River Lodge

Twenty-five miles upriver from where the Zambezi tumbles over Victoria Falls, family-owned and operated Matetsi River Lodge offers travelers an exclusive hideaway from which to explore the area. Set on a private 136,000-acre game reserve of the same name, you’ll spot herds of elephants sipping from the water hole or a pride of lions stalking a buffalo—but it wasn’t always this way. The rewilding and protection of Matetsi Private Game Reserve is a years-in-the-making story still being written. Guests visiting this 16-suite, design-forward luxury lodge and villa support ongoing conservation and in-house anti-poaching efforts, all while enjoying the region’s unique blended offering: river adventure, safari, relaxation, and of course, the iconic cascade. Attentive-but-not-obtrusive butlers and 100 per cent Zimbabwean staff are a welcoming embrace upon arrival.

Ultra-Luxury Safari to Zimbabwe and Botswana

Wildlife, local communities, and Victoria Falls

Zimbabwe’s Hidden Gems

Unique and diverse experiences across Zimbabwe

Zambia & Zimbabwe: Barefoot Luxury Adventure

Prime wildlife locations, activities, and adventure

Book Your Trip to Zimbabwe with Us

Ready to start planning your own incredible adventure? We make the process stress-free and enjoyable.

Experience one of Africa’s most spectacular countries – Zimbabwe

Despite the difficulties the country has experienced in recent years, you would be hard-pressed to find a more welcoming people. With some of the most highly-trained safari guides in Africa , guests can rest assured that Zimbabwe will provide you with one of the most raw and exciting safari experiences in Africa.

Zimbabwe’s national parks provide some of the best overall game viewing in Africa. At the top of the list are Hwange and Mana Pools national parks . Reached by road from Victoria Falls, Hwange is home to an abundance of wildlife as well as over 400 bird species. The park is renowned for its vast herds of elephant whilst predators including lion , rare African wild dog and cheetah can also be seen here. Mana Pools in the countries north is a mosaic of pools, islands and forests on the Zambezi River set opposite a magnificent escarpment. 

Zimbabwe is also renowned for walking and canoeing safaris and Mana Pools National Park on the Zambezi River offers some of the most exciting wildlife adventures in all of Africa. These types of safaris take guests out into the wilderness and offer an intimate, unrivalled safari experience. Guests are accompanied by expert guides who have undergone some of the most rigorous training on the continent. A canoe safari along the Zambezi River remains one of African Wildlife Safaris CEO Steve Cameron’s favourite safari experiences – and one he has enjoyed on 7 occasions!

Of course, no visit to Zimbabwe is complete without exploring the majestic Victoria Falls and there is far more to do here than just viewing the falls. Sunset cruises, white-water rafting, helicopter flights and sitting on top of the falls in Devil’s Pool are just a few of the many options to consider.

Matusadona National Park on the shores of Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe’s north is far from tourist hubs, and offers beautiful scenery, a peaceful

Lake Kariba & Matusadona

Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe offers exclusive and memorable safari experiences, with huge populations of elephant and other iconic African

Zimbabwe's Mana Pools National Park offers amazing scenery, abundant wildlife as well as unrivalled opportunities for walking and canoeing safaris.

The Upper Zambezi lies far from tourist hubs, offering beautiful scenery, peaceful atmospheres and fantastic wildlife viewing.

Upper Zambezi

Best safaris in zimbabwe.

Explore some of the experiences that we can custom-design for you. All of our safaris and tours are tailor-made to suit your interests, budget and timeframe.

Best of Zimbabwe

This safari explores three of Zimbabwe's greatest highlights: Hwange National Park, breathtaking Mana Pools National Park and Victoria Falls.

Jewels of Zimbabwe

Explore the jewels of Zimbabwe, including iconic Victoria Falls, spectacular Hwange National Park and Lake Kariba set against the Zambezi Escarpment.

Mana Pools Canoe and Walking Trail

This thrilling safari provides incredibly close encounters with wildlife either from your canoe or on foot in Zimbabwe's stunning Mana Pools National Park.

Zambezi Canoeing Safari

Experience the excitement of canoeing down Zimbabwe's mighty Zambezi River encountering magnificent wildlife set against a backdrop of stunning landscapes.

Zimbabwe & Botswana

This trip combines Zimbabwes's stunning Victoria Falls and iconic Hwange National Park with Botswana's magnificent Okavango and Linyanti regions.

Luxury accommodation in Zimbabwe

The lodges we use in Zimbabwe operate successfully in remote, wildlife-rich areas and the standard is as good as anywhere in Africa. Our portfolio includes some of the most coveted accommodation from opulent camps with private plunge pools to intimate, rustic safari chic. All are located in major game areas like Hwange or Mana Pools, or in private concessions close to the action. Victoria Falls, often the start or end point of many southern African safaris, is no exception – the Victoria Falls Hotel built in 1904 exudes colonial Edwardian charm.

Bumi Hills Safari Lodge

Bumi Hills Safari Lodge boasts one of Africa’s finest wilderness locations set on a series of hilltops overlooking Zimbabwe’s vast Lake Kariba.

Davison’s Camp

Tucked beneath shady trees in the game-rich Linkwasha Concession within Hwange National Park, Davison’s Camp comprises of 9 classic tented suites.

Ilala Lodge

Set by the mighty Zambezi River, stylish Ilala Lodge is the closest hotel on the Zimbabwean side to the impressive Victoria Falls.

Imbabala Zambezi Safari Lodge

Established in 1988, Imbabala Zambezi Safari Lodge boasts 14 kilometres of exclusive Zambezi River frontage and borders Botswana’s elephant-rich Chobe Forest Reserve.

Ivory Lodge

Intimate Ivory Lodge is part of the home range of the Presidential herd of elephants, made famous by Alan Pincott and symbolic of Zimbabwe’s commitment to wildlife conservation.

Secluded Kanga Camp sits next to a pan that is the only source of water available all year round in a very untouched inland section of Mana Pools National Park.

Linkwasha Camp

Linkwasha Camp nestles in an exclusive private concession in Hwange National Park’s remote southwest, next to a pan that attracts prolific game all year round.

Little Makalolo Camp

Intimate Little Makalolo Camp lies in one of the most prolific gameviewing areas in Zimbabwe’s magnificent Hwange National Park, with wildlife in abundance all year round.

Little Ruckomechi Camp

Downstream from its big sister, Little Ruckomechi Camp features just three very handsome tented suites - ideal for a small group or family safari.

Ruckomechi Camp

Set on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, Ruckomechi Camp has been a favourite with visitors to the breathtaking Mana Pools National Park for many years.

Somalisa Camp

Tucked away on a secluded island surrounded by seasonally inundated floodplains, Somalisa Camp offers guests a stylish base from which to discover the richness of Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park.

Stanley and Livingstone Safari Lodge

The sumptuous Stanley and Livingstone Safari Lodge sits on a private game reserve around 15 kilometres outside Victoria Falls town, offering 'Big 5' encounters and plenty of old-world charm.

Find out more about our tailor made African safaris. Get in touch with one of our Destination Specialists.

Subscribe below to keep up to date, find out more about our tailor made african safaris, talk to one of our zimbabwe experts, michael fitzgerald.

Senior Destination Specialist

Georgia Cowling

Destination Specialist

When is the best time to visit Zimbabwe?

The dry season (June-October) is the best time for game viewing as the bush dries out and game congregates at the precious remaining waterholes. The best time to see the Victoria Falls is early in the dry season (June to August) when there is still an impressive amount of water flowing. Late in the dry season (September-October) there will be much less water going over the Victoria Falls. Hwange National Park is open year round while Mana Pools National Park is open seasonally during the drier months between mid-April to mid-November.   

April - May

June - october, december - march.

The seasonal rains are beginning to slow from April as the landscape starts to dry out. From mid-April Mana Pools National Park re-opens.

June is traditionally when visitor numbers start to increase, but not yet at their peak. Temperatures can get very chilly during the night and on the early morning game drive. From August the camps are completely full, but prime game viewing areas on private concessions offer exclusivity. Wildlife sightings are at their best during this time and October offers peak game-viewing when the parks are at their driest.

Can be a fabulous month to visit Zimbabwe. Early November may be as good as October if the rains hold off, whilst it is a much quieter time to travel and can also offer plenty of savings. There is the potential for thunderstorms in the afternoons but they can clear as quickly as they arrive. 

Zimbabwe’s quietest time of year due to the rains. The landscape is utterly transformed into lush grasslands and it is still a fantastic time for keen birdwatchers to visit. March is also a good time to visit Victoria Falls as high water-level create plumes of spray and multiple rainbows.

Zimbabwe FAQ

Can i see the big 5 in zimbabwe.

Yes – Zimbabwe is famous for its wildlife, in particular its huge herds of elephant in Hwange National Park. Buffalo, lion and leopard are also found across the country. Black and white rhino, once plentiful, are now restricted to select areas of Zimbabwe. 

Where can I see African Wild Dog?

African Wild Dogs can be seen in both Hwange and Mana Pools national parks. In 2019 a pack was translocated from Hwange to Mana Pools National Park and, after being held in a boma (enclosure), have since been released. 

Best canoeing safaris in Africa?

For those looking for a little more adventure, there might not be a better safari in Africa! A thrilling experience that provides close encounters to some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife, canoe safaris are led by an armed, professional guide. The best place for canoeing safaris is on the Zambezi River in renowned Mana Pools National Park.

Best walking safaris in Africa?

Zimbabwe also offers some of Africa’s best walking safaris and Mana Pools National Park is one of the best regions to do this. Each morning leave at sunrise and walk leisurely through the African wilderness to your next fully-serviced mobile camp. Stop en-route to look at animal tracks, interesting plants and of course, keep an eye out for the animals themselves. 

What can I combine Zimbabwe with?

Zimbabwe is easily combinable with neighbouring countries including Botswana , Zambia and South Africa – all of which provide a different safari experience. Another popular combination with a Zimbabwean safari is a visit to Uganda or Rwanda to see the mountain gorillas.

What is the best thing to do in Zimbabwe?

Zimbabwe offers plenty of fabulous safari experiences and the two major national parks – Hwange and Mana Pools – are top of the list when visiting the country. For the more adventurous, Zimbabwe is one of the best countries across Africa for walking and canoeing safaris, whilst the magnificent Victoria Falls is a must-visit.

How do I get to Zimbabwe?

The easiest way into the country is from the South African hub of Johannesburg. Multiple major airlines fly into the city including British Airways, Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways, Delta Airlines, Qantas, and of course South African Airways. From Johannesburg there are regular flights to Victoria Falls, the start and end point for many safaris. Alternatively, for an Edwardian-style, luxury rail experience, journey by Rovos Rail from Pretoria in South Africa to Victoria Falls.

E-Newsletter

Sign up to receive updates about exciting journeys, special offers and more

Sub regions inside

Broader region.

Zimbabwe is an incredible destination that offers gorgeous landscapes, diverse wildlife and a wide range of adventure activities. It is the one place where you can go white water rafting before exploring an untouched wilderness that teems with wildlife. The top attraction in Zimbabwe is the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls which is also recognized as one of the “Seven Wonders Of The World”. With never-ending rainbows and water plundering down a 108-meter drop, the Victoria Falls is a sight to behold.

Two pristine game reserves flank the Victoria Falls - Mana Pools in northern Zimbabwe is renowned for its large populations of elephants, hippos and Nile crocodiles, whilst Hwange in western Zimbabwe is home to large elephant herds, lions and African wild dogs. Visitors can look forward to exciting big five game drives, enlightening bush walks, gorgeous sunsets, fishing expeditions, and incredible bird watching.

With mild temperatures, virtually no rain and a low malaria risk, the dry May to October winter season is generally seen as the best time to visit Zimbabwe for a safari , although it is important to note that September and October are extremely hot and dry months.

The best time to travel to Victoria Falls, on the other hand, is at the end of the summer rainy season when the falls are in full flood with April and May offering the most dramatic views.

August to December is the low water season and is regarded as the best time to go white-water rafting in Victoria Falls - the volume and speed of the water is reduced and the rapids are more exposed.

Zimbabwe is a country known for its dramatic landscapes and diverse wildlife and is the perfect destination for travelers looking for a true adventure. The top attraction is the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls which is located within the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. Internationally recognised as one of the “Seven Wonders Of The World”, Victoria Falls is a spectacular sight with never-ending rainbows and the greatest falling curtain of water. The sheer force of the Falls sounds like thunder and the spray of water looks like smoke, ringing true to its name “The Smoke that Thunders”.  

Zimbabwe is home to two game reserves that offer phenomenal safari experiences.

Mana Pools is in the far north of Zimbabwe and is known for its large populations of elephants, hippos and Nile crocodiles that congregate around the pools which hold water all year round.   Hwange is in west Zimbabwe and its sprawling grasslands and mopane woods are home to large elephant herds, lions and African wild dogs.

Explore Lake Kariba , which is the world's largest man-made lake offering spectacular views, stunning sunsets, great fishing, boating opportunities, and various water sport

Apr 6, 2024

great service

This is to thank Leigh-Ann for her wonderful help with my safari booking. She always answers my questions quickly and provide solutions. Although I finally didn't book the trip because of a few constraints on my side, I'm sure that she is a nice person and it was enjoyable to receive her service.

Apr 4, 2024

Heleen feedback

Heleen was an absolute pleasure to deal with and is the person that has made me pass on Safari as a have to use when booking trips and putting a plan together. Heleen has been super responsive, informative and was more than happy to change things as needed throughout the process. We are a large group so nothing was simple but Heleen ensured we got accommodation together (as much as possible) and provided options for set ups too. It has been a pleasure to deal with Heleen and she is has given the company a fantastic reputation! Thank you so much again Heleen!

Apr 3, 2024

Planning was spot on

Planning was spot on. Driver/guides were always waiting as scheduled. Experience in South Africa was great. Anja helped with all the details. Ngala safari exceeded our expectations. Randal our driver/guide in Cape Town was excellent.

Quick to respond

Quick to respond, even when I changed my booking. Very helpful. Thank you

Apr 2, 2024

Leigh-Ann has been incredible…

Leigh-Ann has been incredible, I would highly recommend. First class service and response rates (even late at night with time difference). Very informative and recommended excellent hotel and tour options to make our trip unforgettable. All information was clear and easy payment links. A great way to help facilitate your trip, especially when there is SO much to choose from. Thank you again Leigh-Ann

I am very happy with the service I got…

I am very happy with the service I got from Safari.com. The booking agent was responsive and efficient, and managed to help us secure exactly the booking that we asked for.

Amazing tip from Jayson

A few years ago we had Jayson deal with a Safari tour we wanted arranged for our parents and so started our first contact with Safari.com and Jayson. Since our parents were so very pleased with their experience, we immediately thought of Jayson when my partner and myself stated planning a trip to Africa. Jayson remembered us from almost 4 years ago, which I think is rather outstanding. We booked a three night stay, on Jaysons recomendation, at the Wallow Lodge, which proved to be a wonerful experience. Apart from the lodge being everything you could possibly imagine, it was the staff that made our stay a wonderful experience. We would most certainly recommend the wallow Lodge should we hear of freinds wishing to visit the Victoria Falls. Thanks gos to safari.com, Jayson for organizing our trip and the wonderful staff of the Wallow Lodge at the Victoria Falls. Kindest Regards, Kristof

Mar 30, 2024

The on line rep I have been communicating with, Shann, is absolutely wonderful, in all respects. I threw many changes at her and she was always responsive, delivering requested information right away, and works long hours to suit clients in different time zones.

Mar 29, 2024

Thank you so much Keith

Thank you so much Keith! You’ve made booking our holiday and the Safari so easy. We look forward to meeting you.

• You are here:
• All Zimbabwe Tours
• Zimbabwe Budget Tours

Your Safari

Tour length, rates in usd $ – change currency, starting from.

• Victoria Falls Town (12)
• Johannesburg (1)
• Livingstone (2)
• Nairobi (0)
• Entebbe (0)
• Zanzibar (0)
• Dar es Salaam (0)
• Kampala (0)
• Windhoek (0)
• Addis Ababa (0)
• Cape Town (0)
• Mombasa (0)
• Hoedspruit (0)
• Port Elizabeth (0)
• Antananarivo (0)
• Nelspruit (0)
• Pretoria (0)
• Diani Beach (0)
• Bujumbura (0)
• Hazyview (0)
• Upington (0)
• Blantyre (0)

Comfort Level

• Luxury+ (0)
• Luxury (41)
• Mid-range (54)
• Budget (31)

Private or Shared Tour

• Private tour (6)
• Shared tour (25)

Safari Type

• Lodge, tented camp or hotel (9)
• Camping (22)

Operator Rating

• & up (30)

Specialized Tours

• Fly-in safaris (0)
• Beach time (0)
• Honeymoon (0)
• Gorilla trekking (0)
• Photographic safaris (0)
• Mountain climbing (0)
• Walking safaris (9)
• Self-drive (3)
• Guided self-drive (0)
• Chimp trekking (0)
• Overland tours (2)
• Cycling safaris (0)
• Canoe safaris (0)
• Horseback safaris (0)
• Birding tours (0)
• Accessible safaris (0)
• Golf & Wildlife (0)

Other Tour Features

• Airport transfer is included (30)
• Itinerary can be customized (14)

Filter by Operator

Filter by accommodation, operators from.

• South Africa (2)
• Tanzania (0)
• United Kingdom (0)
• United States (0)
• Australia (0)
• Belgium (0)
• Botswana (0)
• Comoros (0)
• Denmark (0)
• Ethiopia (0)
• Eswatini (0)
• Germany (0)
• Ireland (0)
• Lesotho (0)
• Madagascar (0)
• Mauritius (0)
• Mayotte (0)
• Mozambique (0)
• Namibia (0)
• Netherlands (0)
• New Zealand (0)
• Nigeria (0)
• Portugal (0)
• Reunion (0)
• Seychelles (0)
• Singapore (0)
• Switzerland (0)
• United Arab Emirates (0)
• Zimbabwe (27)

Zimbabwe Budget Safari Tours

Zimbabwe flies a little under the radar when it comes to the safari circuit. It has an extraordinary array of parks and other attractions, but they’re nowhere near as well-known nor as crowded as similar places in the region. Hwange, Mana Pools, Matusadona and Gonarezhou National Parks are just the start when it comes to Zimbabwe’s world-class wildlife destinations. And despite attracting fewer visitors than most other safari countries, Zimbabwe has an excellent tourist infrastructure and offers plenty of opportunities for a cheaper or budget safari. In particular, a lot of campsites are spread across the country and can be found inside many national parks.

5-Day The Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park

$1,595 pp (USD)

Zimbabwe: Shared tour (max 20 people per vehicle) Budget Lodge

You Visit: Victoria Falls (Start) , Hwange NP, Victoria Falls Airport (End)

Escape to Adventure Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Zimbabwe

5.0 /5  –  78 Reviews

6-Day Glamping Mana & Chitake Pop-Roof Cruiser + Chef

$2,708 pp (USD)

Zimbabwe: Private tour Budget Camping

You Visit: Harare (Start) , Mana Pools NP, Chitake Springs (Mana Pools NP) , Harare (End)

Mana Pools Tourism Services   Tour operator has an office in Zimbabwe

5.0 /5  –  29 Reviews

5-Day Victoria Falls and Hwange Budget Tour Safari

$1,265 pp (USD)

Africa Zim Travel & Tours   Tour operator has an office in Zimbabwe

5.0 /5  –  116 Reviews

5-Day Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park Safari

$1,375 to $1,485 pp (USD)

Zimbabwe: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Budget Lodge

Africa Uncovered Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Zimbabwe

4.9 /5  –  32 Reviews

5-Day Mana Pools National Park Safari Experience

$1,760 pp (USD)

Zimbabwe: Shared tour (max 6 people per group) Budget Camping

You Visit: Harare (Start) , Mana Pools NP, Harare (End)

Khangela Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Zimbabwe

4.9 /5  –  14 Reviews

3-Day 1 Day Chobe and 2 Days Victoria Falls

$992 to $1,014 pp (USD)

Botswana & Zimbabwe: Shared tour (max 20 people per vehicle) Budget Hotel

You Visit: Victoria Falls Town (Start) , Chobe NP, Zambezi NP, Victoria Falls Town (End)

Savannah Adventures   Tour operator has an office in Zimbabwe

5.0 /5  –  21 Reviews

7-Day Lower Zambezi & Mana Pools Parks Wildlife Safari

$2,563 pp (USD)

Zambia & Zimbabwe: Shared tour (max 10 people per vehicle) Budget Camping & Hotel

You Visit: Lusaka (Start) , Lower Zambezi NP, Mana Pools NP, Lusaka Airport (End)

Lochinvar Safaris

4.4 /5  –  5 Reviews

6-Day Mana Pools & Chitake 4x4 Self-Drive

$1,628 pp (USD)

Zimbabwe: Self-drive Budget Camping

6-Day Gonarezhou Safari

$2,475 pp (USD)

You Visit: Bulawayo (Start) , Gonarezhou NP, Bulawayo (End)

7-Day The Trio Tour to Zambia & Botswana & Zimbabwe

$2,728 pp (USD)

Botswana, Zambia & Zimbabwe: Shared tour (max 20 people per vehicle) Budget Lodge

You Visit: Livingstone (Start) , Victoria Falls, Chobe NP, Victoria Falls Town (End)

9-Day Majestic Victoria Falls and Botswana Wildlife

$3,323 pp (USD)

Botswana & Zimbabwe: Shared tour (max 10 people per vehicle) Budget Camping & Lodge

You Visit: Victoria Falls (Start) , Chobe River, Chobe NP, Makgadikgadi Pans NP, Okavango Delta, Elephant Sands GR, Victoria Falls Town (End)

2-Day Victoria Falls Arrival and Tour Combo

$550 to $583 pp (USD)

Zimbabwe: Shared tour (max 10 people per vehicle) Budget Hotel

You Visit: Victoria Falls (Start) , Victoria Falls Reserve (Zambezi NP) , Victoria Falls Town (End)

8-Day Best of Zambia, Chobe, Botswana / Hwange, Zimbabwe

$2,266 pp (USD)

Botswana, Zambia & Zimbabwe: Shared tour (max 10 people per vehicle) Budget Lodge & Guest House

You Visit: Lusaka (Start) , Choma (Town) , Livingstone (City) , Chobe NP, Hwange NP, Livingstone (End)

6-Day Mana & Chitake Glamping in Pop-Roof Cruiser + Chef

Zimbabwe: Shared tour (max 7 people per vehicle) Budget Camping

4-Day Chitake Springs Mana Pools National Park Zimbabwe

$1,650 pp (USD)

Zimbabwe & Zambia: Shared tour (max 6 people per group) Budget Camping

You Visit: Chirundu (Start) , Mana Pools NP, Chirundu (End)

7-Day Victoria Falls to Elephant Sands

Botswana, Zambia & Zimbabwe: Shared tour (max 20 people per vehicle) Budget Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Victoria Falls (Start) , Chobe NP, Elephant Sands GR, Victoria Falls town (Victoria Falls) , Victoria Falls Airport (End)

2-Day Chobe and Victoria Falls Combo

$585 to $620 pp (USD)

Zimbabwe & Botswana: Shared tour (max 12 people per vehicle) Budget Hotel

5-Day Glamping Mana Pools in Pop-Roof Cruiser with Chef

$1,568 pp (USD)

5-Day Hwange National Park Zimbabwe

$1,936 pp (USD)

You Visit: Victoria Falls Town (Start) , Hwange NP, Victoria Falls (End)

8-Day Mana Pools & Chitake - 4x4 Self-Drive

$1,768 pp (USD)

Zimbabwe: Self-drive Budget Camping & Guest House

Related Searches

• Budget Tours
• Best Zimbabwe Tours
• Zimbabwe Luxury Safaris
• Zimbabwe Honeymoons
• Hwange Budget Tours
• Kenya Budget Safaris
• Tanzania Budget Safaris
• Cheap Rwanda Gorilla Safaris
• Cheap Namibia Safari Tours
• Uganda Budget Safaris
• South Africa Budget Tours
• All Inclusive Kenya Safaris

5 Questions About Zimbabwe Budget Safaris

Answered by

Anthony ham.

Is Zimbabwe a good choice for a budget safari?

“Zimbabwe is one of the best places in southern Africa for your budget safari holiday. That’s partly because of the sheer magnificence of Zimbabwe’s national parks. Hwange National Park, in the country’s west, is one of the best places anywhere to see lions and elephants, and it has plenty of other wildlife as well. Scenic Matobo is brilliant for hiking. Gonarezhou has spectacular landscapes and dense populations of elephants, hippos and other animals. Then there’s Mana Pools, which has extraordinary wildlife, and you can also get out of your car and explore on foot, one of few such places on the continent where you can do so.”

Where should I go on a budget safari in Zimbabwe?

“It depends a little on how much time you have to spend in Zimbabwe on your safari holiday. The most normal point of entry for fly-in visitors (or those coming overland from the north) is Victoria Falls, and it is definitely worth spending a few days enjoying the magnificent views and other activities on offer here. Coming from Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe’s most accessible major safari destination (about three hours’ drive in either direction) and easily visited on a standalone group or self-drive safari. The country’s largest national park, Hwange is renowned for its high densities of elephants, which often congregate in their hundreds around waterholes toward the end of the Dry season. Hwange is also good for lion, cheetah, African wild dog, giraffe, zebra and so much more. For budget travelers, an added attraction of this park is that the official rest camps have affordable chalets and well-positioned campsites. Mana Pools National Park in the northeast is best known for offering the opportunity to go on a walking safari. As with Hwange, the wildlife viewing in Mana Pools is exceptional, and the camping facilities are varied. Matobo, Matusadona and Gonarezhou National Parks are also worth thinking about including on your itinerary, as is the unique ruined city of Great Zimbabwe, but these would need careful consideration as they would add to the overall cost of your trip due to additional time and transport costs.”

How much will this safari cost?

“The cost of going on a budget safari taking in Victoria Falls and Hwange starts at around US$200 per person per day but can rise as high as US$400 to US$500. These prices are often not a whole lot less than the quoted prices for mid-range safaris, so it’s always worth checking to see what’s included in terms of accommodation and transport. At the lower end of the price range, you can expect simple accommodation (either in a camping tent or simple room), and you’ll almost certainly be sharing your vehicles with a number of other travelers. Budget safaris also tend to involve fewer staff. But it can also mean that, with everyone pitching in, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to meet other travelers with whom you’ll share the journey and make friendships that may well last long after you’ve returned home.”

What are the accommodation options?

“Most of Zimbabwe’s parks have extensive camping areas. Where these exist, they’re sometimes close to the park’s headquarters, and have facilities that include shared ablution blocks (with showers, sometimes with hot water, and toilets) and even a small grocery store. At these sites there are often also other forms of accommodation, such as simple and/or more comfortable bungalows. When you’re camping, your accommodation will be in simple canvas tents. Other possibilities include budget hotels and lodges, which you can usually find inside (or just outside) many of Zimbabwe’s national parks. Some of these will have individual rooms with en suite bathroom facilities, while others will offer a communal bathroom. In a small number of places, you may also find shared dormitory-style accommodation, which is a good way of keeping down costs.”

What type of vehicle can I expect?

“Most operators of budget safari tours in Zimbabwe will take you around in 4WD vehicles. Sometimes these are large, high-off-the-ground buses with massive wheels. Apart from helping to keep costs down – the more travelers there are in a vehicle, the less each person pays for transport – these buses offer terrific views of the landscape and wildlife. Normal 4WD vehicles are also used. Another possibility is that your safari will include public game drives operated by the relevant park authorities. These will usually be in a large safari vehicle, usually a 4WD, with open sides, a roof and tiered seating. The advantage of doing it in this way is that you are only paying for your seat in the vehicle, rather than the whole vehicle, although if you do enough of these, it may work out to be a similar overall expense.”

Zimbabwe Reviews

Sue is an award-winning writer who specializes in African travel and conservation. She writes for national newspapers, magazines, Rough Guides and Lonely Planet.

Zimbabwe: A Country on the Cusp…

If I had only one chance to go back to Africa and could choose only one country, it would be Zimbabwe. I first visited, going to Victoria Falls, at the height of the country’s toughest times back in 2004, when a trillion-dollar note...

Full Review

It has a natural beauty, the local people are friendly, the wildlife good but the roads terrible.

We used Serious fun tours for our 4 days in Zim. we wanted to do Victoria falls and a game drive. We got so much more. What a pleasant experience! They communicated well from the start. They offered the biggest variation of things to do...

Zimbabwe is a beautiful country with amazing scenery, great animal sightings, & friendly people!

Our family (four adults) had an amazing time on our trip to Zimbabwe. We loved the scenery on our drive from the Vic Falls airport to our first accommodation stop (Robins Camp). We saw so many wild animals just on that drive alone including...

Fantastic place to visit and knowledgeable guides

Zimbabwe is a beautiful and peaceful country. We had an amazing time visiting Victoria falls and Chobe. All guides were very knowledgeable. I would recommend anyone wanting to visit Zimbabwe not to hesitate.

Wonderful wildlife, but poor conditions for its people

Victoria Falls was amazing - the sound and power of the water was incredible. Hwange National Park was a wonderful experience, numbers and variety of animals was fantastic. Elephants, giraffes, impalas, baboons, zebras, lions, spider...

June is perfect for Victoria Falls. For safari, Hwange was good but definitely try out Chobe

We did one full day in Hwange and 1 full day in Chobe safari (all within driving distance of Victoria Falls by 1-2 hrs). The Zambezi sunset cruise and Victoria Falls are clearly the highlights. If I were to choose safari again, I would...

• &BEYOND LODGES
• South Africa
• Flying solo
• With my partner
• With my family
• Adventurous
• Responsible Travel
• Private Travel
• Slow Travel
• TRAVEL TRADE PORTAL
• MANAGE YOUR TRAVEL BOARD
• Indian Ocean Islands
• South America
• Hwange National Park
• Mana Pools National Park
• Victoria Falls

Discover Zimbabwe’s iconic destinations

Tucked between the mighty Zambezi and the rolling Limpopo River, Zimbabwe is best known for the magnificent spectacle of the Victoria Falls.

Zimbabwe derives its name from the spectacular stone structures of the Great Zimbabwe ruins, a World Heritage Site with a mysterious origin. The country is home to another four World Heritage sites, including the rugged granite outcrops of the Matobo Hills, the spectacular conservation area of Mana Pools and the magnificent Victoria Falls.

The world’s largest man-made reservoir, the vast waters of Lake Kariba are home to the fierce tiger fish, renowned among avid anglers, while herds of wildlife wander its shores.

Our favourite reasons to travel

From exceptional offers to not-to-be missed tours and experiences, here are our favourite reasons to explore zimbabwe that matched your preferences, tailormake your stay.

Talk to one of our travel specialists to tailormake you stay to any of our destinations

Frequently asked questions

Stories to inspire, our selection of zimbabwe stories from the bateleur magazine, our travel specialists, we're on hand to make your tailor-made adventures come true, i dream of travel that leaves our world a better place.

You’re just 5 easy (and fun) steps away from creating your ideal Travel Dream Board.

Step 1: Start with where

Step 2: Clarify what kind of traveller you are

Step 3: Tick off those grand bucket list experiences that will fire your imagination

Step 4: Log in to create and add to your Dream Board

Step 5: Share & start dreaming

Leaving our world a better place for years

Discover the impact legacy that your travel with &beyond is driving. just as the un’s sustainable development goals have been a touchstone for our vision 2020 group-operation sustainability audits, so they continue to guide and underpin our ambitiously scaled vision 2030 goals., we're sorry but this site doesn't work properly without javascript enabled., please enable it to continue., privacy overview.

Zimbabwe safari – Connect with your wild side

A Zimbabwe safari is different. Less people, fewer rules, more wilderness and a country that confounds perceptions.

It’s wild and it’s wonderful. You just need to work a little harder than elsewhere in Africa, especially if you are an independent traveler. Yet the wildlife experiences defy the imagination.

This is where elephants drink from the camp swimming pool . It’s where you can walk (safely) with black and white rhinos.

Zimbabwe is not for everyone. There are easier experiences elsewhere. It’s so wild here that most overland travel companies have taken if off their itinerary (Victoria Falls aside). Yet Zimbabwe is safe!

Of all the countries in Africa, Zimbabwe is the one where you can most effortlessly connect with your wild side . Oh, and the people are probably the friendliest on the continent.

Sure, it has a bad reputation because of a crazy president. But Western countries have crazy presidents as well and that doesn’t stop people travelling.

So read on because one of the world’s most enchanting destinations awaits .

Zimbabwe Safari – Essential Information

Where is Zimbabwe and how do I get there?

Zimbabwe is a landlocked country in Southern Africa , bordered by South Africa , Botswana , Namibia, Zambia and Mozambique. That means loads of options to extend the safari.

Getting there has been made easier by the redevelopment of Victoria Falls Airport . There’s a growing network of international flights to Victoria Falls and you can also fly to Harare, the country’s capital.

The most common overland travel route comes from South Africa. Drive or take a bus north from Johannesburg then start exploring. Visitors also come from the west, usually through the Caprivi Strip or Chobe to Victoria Falls.

Is it safe to travel to Zimbabwe?

Yes. Despite what the media tell you it is safe to travel in Zimbabwe . If you are unsure then check the latest Zimbabwe travel advice from the UK foreign office . It is also advisable to avoid travel during elections.

Zimbabwean people are incredibly generous and welcoming . They do not reflect the political situation you may have heard about. There is no violence and there aren’t any no-go areas.

Around ten years ago there was a problem with road blocks and traffic officers demanding bribes from just about every vehicle that passed – especially those containing foreigners. This changed in 2015 when the Zimbabwean government tried to entice tourists back to the country.

The main challenge visitors face is dangerous wildlife . Hippos maraud around camps, elephants are seen along the highway, and there are no fences keeping people safe.

Watch out because on a Zimbabwe safari you can get closer than elsewhere. Nobody is going to stop you trying to pet a wild zebra or get a camera flash in an elephant’s face . If you’re stupid enough to do such things then yes, Zimbabwe can be dangerous.

What is the political situation in Zimbabwe?

In Asia they say same same but different . That’s the general consensus in Zimbabwe right now. After almost 30 years in power, Robert Mugabe was ousted from the presidency in 2017. The new president is Emmerson Mnangagwa, Mugabe’s former vice president and long-time ally.

So there has been change without any major diversification of power. Mnangagwa has installed more liberal policies and tourism has been a major focus, as well as a reduction in corruption .

It’s important to remember that the political situation doesn’t always reflect the will of the people or the experience had by visitors. Many Western countries have publicised political problems, yet these rarely keep tourists away.

How long is a Zimbabwe safari?

In Zimbabwe you need to travel a little slower than in other countries in Africa. The transport infrastructure is in need of maintenance and the safari destinations can be hard to reach.

Trips to Victoria Falls and Hwange are different . These are the two most famous destinations and can be visited on a four to five-day safari. However, allow two weeks to really explore the country.

What does a Zimbabwe safari cost?

In Zimbabwe there isn’t much middle ground. High-end Zimbabwe safaris cost similar to those in South Africa. With safari flights and boutique safari camps expect to pay USD 500 per day as a very minimum.

Budget tours use public campsites within national parks and are significantly cheaper, going down below USD 120 per day for some routes. Some overland tour companies still visit Zimbabwe and these provide good value small-group tours.

If you’re fully self-sufficient and have a four-wheel drive vehicle then it’s possible to enjoy one of Africa’s best safaris for less than USD 50 per day (excluding any vehicle hire).

Independent travellers will find it even cheaper. For USD 50 per day it’s possible to use public transport and camp in many of the national parks. You should be self-sufficient and have some experience with independent travel in Africa.

How can I travel around Zimbabwe?

A guided small-group overland tour is the most common way to travel and these operate for a number of budgets. Private tours are more flexible and are well worth considering.

Luxury safari itineraries tend to use safari flights. These save time and help visitors quickly connect the country’s distant corners.

Since 2015 it’s much easier to do a self-drive safari in Zimbabwe. The public campsites need a little maintenance so you will need to rough it a little. However, park and camping fees are low in comparison to other African countries.

Public transport in Zimbabwe is similar to elsewhere in Africa. Large buses connect the major towns and cities, with smaller minibuses going everywhere in between. They are crowded and slow but it’s good fun and a nice way to meet people.

Also consider the trains . Vintage 1950s British carriages still carry people around and they are incredibly cheap. Bulawayo to Victoria Falls is a wonderful overnight journey.

Why is a Zimbabwe Safari Different From Everywhere Else?

Elephants walk past, swinging their trunks. A rhino gazes at you, its horn proud and defiant. A lion stands on a dusty savannah, black mane flowing in the breeze.

Sounds fun? Certainly. But it also sounds like a safari elsewhere in Africa. Zimbabwe has all the animals and plenty of wilderness . So does South Africa, Botswana, Kenya and Tanzania .

It’s difficult to choose Zimbabwe or any of these other countries on wildlife. Nor can you separate them on the diversity of ecosystems and habitats. Each country has its own specialisms and Zimbabwe is no different .

The reason to choose Zimbabwe isn’t just the wildlife or wilderness, it’s the opportunity to interact with the wild in a different way .

Less people

Close to 17 million tourists visited South Africa in 2018. For the last decade Botswana has received between 1.5 million and 2 million tourists each year.

Zimbabwe has never had more than 250,000 tourists in a single year, not even in its heyday as the darling of African safari.

Of these tourists the large majority are South Africans who travel during certain weeks of the year. Most international visitors don’t see anything other than Victoria Falls.

The country’s incredible national parks are so quiet you get a shock when encountering another person or vehicle. Here you don’t need to escape the crowds, you’re actually looking for other people!

Many people are looking to go off the beaten track. In Zimbabwe there are so few people that it feels like going off the beaten track , even in the best known destinations.

Less rules and getting closer

No fences prevent hippos from grazing through a camp. Nobody will tell you what to do when surrounded by elephants . This is the wild and anyone daft enough to disrespect animals will be in trouble.

The lack of rules makes it much easier to get closer in a good way. Most national parks allow off-road driving , essential when wanting to really encounter the predators. Game walks are part of the everyday experience, rather than an expensive add-on.

Canoe safaris take visitors past lions and hippos on the Zambezi River. In Matobo Hills it’s possible to walk amid the country’s largest rhino population. Many visitors experience the oh my God moment of finding themselves next to elephants and hippos, with very little for protection.

Some visitors even think that the lack of rules makes the activities a little dangerous. In this regard, it’s obviously important to do some research before choosing a safari operator or guide.

Ultimately there’s a freedom to safari in Zimbabwe . You can do just about anything you like and that helps you enjoy a greater intimacy with the animals. And if you go too far then the animals will be quick to tell you off in their own way!

Local Connections

Did we mention the Zimbabwean people yet? They are amazing . Warm, friendly, full of hospitality and eager to show visitors a real side to the country.

One Africa Freak contributor visited Zimbabwe as a backpacker in 2012 . He spent three days staying with a Zimbabwean family in Highfield, Harare. The following year he visited for a week.

That experience isn’t uncommon. While the political mess has created certain perceptions, Zimbabweans are well educated people and speak English well . It’s easy to meet them and strike up conversation.

Most safaris are complemented with these experiences with local people , whether on a bus, in a town, or visiting the home of a safari guide. Shona is the main tribe in Zimbabwe and while they may not be the most iconic (certainly not compared with Masai , Zulu or Himba ), they show visitors what Zimbabwe is truly about.

Unique safari experiences usually only found in Zimbabwe

• Canoeing along the Zambezi River , with deft paddle strokes keeping you away from hippos.
• Tracking black-maned Kalahari lions on the prowl in Hwange.
• Walking with rhinos in Matobo Hills National Park.
• Find yourself virtually surrounded by elephants , while on a walking safari.
• Coming face to face with Victoria Falls and staying clear of baboons wanting to steal your lunch.
• Exploring the unknown with a game drive in Gonarezhou.
• Connecting with local heritage with a day in Great Zimbabwe, the most important ruins south of Zanzibar’s Stone Town .

Safari experiences that are common in Zimbabwe

• Elephants – they always seem to be part of the scenery in the north and west of the country.
• Turning up at a national park campsite to find you’re the only person staying there.
• Going on game walks with local guides, something that’s possible in almost all of Zimbabwe’s destinations.
• Going off the beaten track and bumping along trails that haven’t seen vehicles for days.
• Safari on the water – most parks are dominated by a river or lake and you can usually go canoeing.
• Finding yourself alone with a magnificent safari scene and wondering why nobody else visits Zimbabwe.

The Best Time to Visit Zimbabwe for a Safari

With a Zimbabwe safari you can visit during the very best months of the year, and still not expect any crowds. The country has a similar climate to neighbouring Botswana and it’s best to go on safari during the dry season .

May to August – Best months to visit

• This is dry season with no rain or malaria risk.
• The temperatures are milder and most comfortable for game viewing.
• Animals are easiest to spot as there is little vegetation.
• Although it’s the best time of the year there still aren’t many other tourists .
• Victoria Falls is in dramatic full flood between April and June.
• This is also the best time to visit Botswana and Namibia .

September to November – Great safari but hot

• The end of the dry season brings excellent game viewing .
• Temperatures really soar and can reach 40 degrees during the day.
• Victoria Falls are dryer so not as impressive, however, these are great months for white water rafting.

December to January – Hot and busy with South African visitors

• Very hot , humid and mostly uncomfortable.
• This is holiday season for South Africans and the busiest time of year for Zimbabwe safaris.
• Game viewing is poor as the rains brings high grass and dispersed wildlife.

February to April – Hot but worth it

• It’s still hot and occasionally wet .
• Victoria Falls is spectacular .
• Game viewing is getting better yet it’s worth waiting another month or two.
• These months are complete low season in Zimbabwe.

Where to Safari in Zimbabwe

Check out this more complete guide to the best safari destinations in Zimbabwe .

Here is an overview of what to expect and where to go .

Victoria Falls

The natural wonder and Zimbabwe’s most famous destination . It’s unmissable and it’s wild, with baboons and hippos encountered close to the world’s largest sheet of falling water. Oh, and it’s Mosi-oa-Tunya, not Victoria Falls. That means The Smoke That Thunders .

Read the complete guide to Victoria Falls here .

Hwange National Park

Zimbabwe’s largest and most famous park offers a classic big game experience . Think lions chasing buffalo, too many elephants to count, and a myriad of different antelope.

Hwange needs at least two nights (ideally three). The landscape is mostly arid savannah, with speckles of woodland to keep other animals happy. Of all the country’s destinations this is the one that’s unmissable .

Lake Kariba (Matusadona National Park)

The Zimbabwean tourist board tried to nickname Lake Kariba the French Riviera , which doesn’t make sense because there are no big five animals in France. 🙂

It’s a relaxed waterside retreat, with just a handful of camps and a real sense of serenity . Except for the rowdy hippos and rumbustious elephants!

This is a good place to start a safari, especially after a long flight. Most of the wildlife lives around the lake-shore in Matusadona National Park . While there’s not as many as Hwange, there’s a brilliant diversity of animals to encounter.

Mana Pools National Park

Contiguous with the Lower Zambezi National Park in Zambia , Mana Pools is part of a World Heritage wetland ecosystem . Watching large animals swim across the Zambezi River is one highlight. Walking safaris are another.

The safari experience is similar to Botswana’s Okavango Delta, particularly the full-day canoeing trips. However, Mana Pools is a fraction of the price for all the exclusive activities . You get a concession-style safari experience for a very affordable price.

Three days would be okay but it’s worth tailoring your itinerary around Mana Pools – it really is that good.

Chizarira National Park

Visit Chizarira for wilderness . The walking safaris are beautiful and there’s hardly anyone else in the vast park. You need to be self-sufficient as there are no camps or lodges anywhere in the park.

However, with elephant, buffalo, impala, tsessebe, leopard and spotted hyena, this enchanting park offers a firm connection with your wild side .

Matobo Hills National Park

Colonialist Cecil Rhodes is buried in Matobo Hills. He proclaimed these hills to be the World’s View . Rock art indicates that local people were here for many centuries before.

Matobo Hills is a lovely little park, ideal for a day or two of hiking . Then it has one very special experience. More than half of Zimbabwe’s rhinos reside here and you can go on game drives and walks with them.

Malilangwe and Gonarezhou

These two destinations are part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Conservation Area that also includes Kruger in South Africa . They have animal populations similar to Kruger except the landscape remain uncharted.

Malilangwe is a private concession similar to the Sabi Sands , best for high-end fly-in safaris. Most people stay three days, which allows for a full day drive in Gonarezhou.

Gonarezhou is a large national park with very few trails and an enormous sense of adventure . You need a sense of adventure as even the guides don’t know where animals hide. It’s a destination for safari connoisseurs wanted to discover somewhere new.

Other Destinations to Visit in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is not only a safari destination. With its friendly people and beautiful scenery it’s a country that really deserves time .

Great Zimbabwe

The ruins on which the country is named, Great Zimbabwe was the capital of a large kingdom that thrived from the 11 th to 15 th centuries.

These are Africa’s most important set of ruins south of Zanzibar and help visitors understand how much was here before colonialists. Watch out for the baboons though – they are now the rulers of the ruins!

Chimanimani Mountains

Hidden waterfalls and rainforest hikes make Chimanimani a lovely destination along the Mozambique border. Back in the early 2000s this destination was integral to the Zimbabwean backpacker trail. Now it’s rare to see any other visitors, although there are a couple of small lodges and camping facilities.

Zimbabwe’s bustling capital is not the easiest first impression . Years of underdevelopment make it seem like you’ve landed in the 1990s, especially with all the concrete architecture.

Harare is mostly a transit point that’s needed for travel elsewhere. Most visitors don’t spend longer than is necessary.

The second city is cute and affable , although again, there’s not too much going on. Mostly Bulawayo is a transit point for heading out into the wilderness, notably towards Great Zimbabwe, Matobo Hills and Botswana.

Top Tips for a Zimbabwe Safari

Just go for it . So many people are dissuaded by the political situation and it’s a real shame, because Zimbabwe has so much to offer.

It’s a great choice if you’ve visited Africa before and one of the easier countries to travel in , such as South Africa or Kenya. Go to Zimbabwe and the adventure will kick up a notch.

If you’ve never visited Africa then Zimbabwe can seem daunting. Consider going on a multi-country safari , incorporating South Africa and Botswana as well.

Most importantly, just go. One thing that hasn’t been affected by politics is the conservation . This is a wilderness country home to a superb abundance of wildlife and wilderness. It just takes a leap of faith to connect with your wild side!

About The Author

Editorial Team

Related posts.

Great Zimbabwe – The greatest historical site in Sub-Saharan Africa

Hwange National Park safari guide

Lake Kariba – Visitor’s guide to the world’s largest man-made lake

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Hwange National Park Safari, Victoria Falls, and Spectacular Lodges

Wild zimbabwe.

From $7,795

Easy to Moderate

Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

Zimbabwe, one of the world's least-touristed safari destinations, just happens to be one of the best. About the same size as South Africa's vast Kruger National Park, Zimbabwe welcomes just a fraction of the visitors and offers an intimate safari rarely found in other parks. We're unlikely even to see other safari vehicles as we explore Hwange's famed Ngamo Plains, and in Zambezi National Park, we explore by canoe from our riverside camp. We'll safari among Hwange National Park's great elephant herds and big numbers of lion, leopard, and cheetah, all the while enjoying exquisite boutique lodges with superb access to wildlife. Your participation helps support innovative local community conservation projects.

Arrive: Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Depart: Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

• Magnificent Victoria Falls, one of the natural wonders of the world
• Authentic game walks, open vehicles, game drives, night drives
• Beautifully situated lodges with amazing access to wildlife
• Walk with rhinos in the rhino sanctuary
• Special “look-up” blind for incredible wildlife photography
• Support the best community conservation projects in the country

Dates & Pricing

Pricing below is per person and based on double occupancy. The earlier you book, the more choice you’ll have. WT also has the most generous cancellation and transfer policies in the industry, we make it easy if you change your mind. Have a small group of your own? Take over an existing date or choose your own. You’ll have your own private guide–and the adventure–all to yourselves!

Payment & Cancel Schedule

$600 due at time of reservation 90 days prior to departure: Balance

Cancellation & Transfer Schedule

Up to 91 days prior to departure: No Charge! 61-90 days prior to departure: 25% of trip cost 46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost 45 days or less: 100% of trip cost

• Expert leadership of a Wilderness Travel Trip Leader and local guides
• Accommodations in luxury tented camps, chalets, and villas
• Local beer, wine, and spirits
• All ground transportation and baggage handling from meeting until departure
• All activities as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
• Internal airfare

Not Included

• Travel to and from the arrival and departure location as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
• Additional hotel nights outside the trip's scheduled dates
• Optional gratuities to Trip Leaders or staff
• Optional travel insurance
• Other expenses of a personal nature (some alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.)

Accommodations

Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.

Ilala Lodge

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Day 1 (1 night)

Nehimba Lodge

Hwange, Zimbabwe

Days 2-3 (2 nights)

Camelthorn Lodge

Days 4-7 (4 nights)

Victoria Falls River Lodge

Days 8-9 (2 nights)

Trip Leaders

Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders have a passion and a joy for creating an unforgettable journey. We are extremely proud of them and the incredible travel experiences they make possible. For more information, including client comments about them and which specific trips they will be leading, please click on their profiles below.

Mark Butcher

Pete Ndlovu

What the Trip is Like

• Flat terrain

On safari, there are long driving days over rugged dirt tracks, we can be in and out of the vehicles all day long, usually only driving approximately 2 hours at a time. We will be in a 7-seat open sided 4WD vehicle with a roof for sun protection. We sit 6 people max per vehicle to optimize everyone's view and provide wool blankets for early morning and evening game drives.

This is a truly unique safari in that we will be traveling by many different forms of transportation—we will take a vintage train car on safari for 2 hours, a sunset boat cruise for 2 hours, and an optional canoe ride for 2 hours.

During drives and game walks, we can get quite close to wild animals at times. Being very quiet improves everybody's chances of observation. In the interest of safety, your Trip Leader explains limitations on movement while on game drives, on walks, and around camp. Incidents with wild animals are extremely rare on safaris, but no safari can guarantee immunity from such incidents. Wilderness Travel is not to be held responsible for incidents involving the behavior of wildlife.

Extend Your Trip

Cape Town Extension

From $1,695

Okavango Delta Safari Extension

From $4,795

Client Testimonials

"This trip delivered an experience beyond my expectations. The guide, the lodges, meals, community school and village visits, transportation, and the wildlife in the park. Loved the train experience. It was nice to take a charter flight at the end so we spent less time driving."

Catherine E.

Stamford, CT

"Stunningly good trip. Great guides, food, lodges, and total experience. We were very impressed by the organization—the way it works with the community and its commitment to conservation."

Palo Alto, CA

"This was my third trip to an African country and it exceeded all others. The game viewing, the fabulous lodges and the amazing knowledge, passion, and experience of our guide, Mark Butcher, made this one of the most unforgettable travel experiences I have had to date. All personnel on this trip get five stars!"

Hermosa Beach, CA

"Everyone in our travel group agreed that this was the BEST trip we've ever experienced! Sibs was an amazing guide—wonderful sense of humor, amazing depth of knowledge regarding all wildlife we encountered, uncanny ability to spot every type of wild creature well before we could even make them out! And a genuinely warm, welcoming host at meals, snacks, and sundowners! He became a friend, not just a guide. The lodges were gorgeous, the food, outstanding, and everyone was friendly and eager to meet our every need. I cannot praise our experience enough—I've become a WT ambassador!"

Apple Valley, MN

"Everything about this trip was fantastic—can't think of any way to improve it. In particular, our Trip Leader's tracking skills, knowledge, and friendliness were outstanding."

"The attention to detail, the quality of the accommodations and cuisine, the attentiveness of all staff, and the five-star quality of Mark Butcher himself combined to create a trip that exceeded all expectations."

Copiague, NY

"The hotels were superb! The best part of trip was the guides who were informed, interesting, organized, and kind; they were also great drivers."

Margaret F.

"The accommodations were all spectacular. The staff at each of the lodges was incredibly helpful and friendly. We felt extremely welcome at each location. This was our fourth Wilderness Trip and it stood out as definitely one of the best. We were very impressed with the local outfitter is supporting the local communities near their lodges."

Patricia E.

Pasadena, CA

"Attention to detail at every level, consideration of the location of each lodging in relationship to the total trip experience, anticipation of the client's needs as to meals—it was perfection in itself!"

"Absolutely loved traveling on the Elephant Train, absolutely in awe every day of what we saw literally in the first few hours of each day! Absolutely blown away by our sundowner locations, every night a different theme and entirely different location! Absolutely in love with the lifestyle of incredibly hard-working people in Zimbabwe!"

Other Trips You Might Like

Small Group Adventure

Botswana Wildlife Safari

Botswana, Zimbabwe

From $9,895

Great Elephant Migration Safari

From $9,295

Zambia Walking Safari

From $7,995

Zimbabwe: Green Season Safari

Call for Pricing

Book your trip today

Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

Submit the form below to download itinerary

Trip Download Itin

Trip Levels

With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.

Level 1 – Easiest

Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.

• Royal Rajasthan and Villages of India
• Small ship cruises

Level 2 – Easy to Moderate

Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.

• Our African safaris
• Costa Rica Wildlife

Level 3 – Moderate

Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.

• Tuscany & the Cinque Terre
• Argentina: Hikes and Estancias of Patagonia
• Palau Snorkeling & Sea Kayaking
• Some trips with minimal hiking but rugged travel conditions or long drives, such as  Tribal Ghana, Togo & Benin,  are Trip Level 3.

Level 4 – Moderate to Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.

• Ultimate Patagonia
• Hiking the Spanish Pyrenees

Level 5 – Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.

• Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
• Everest Lodge to Lodge

Level 6 – Very Strenuous

Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.

• Everest Base Camp
• Climb Kilimanjaro!

Zimbabwe Safaris & Tours

8 best zimbabwe safaris for 2024-2025, hidden zimbabwe, zimbabwe explorer, north zimbabwe adventure, castles of matobo hills, victoria falls & hwange, kaza undercover, chobe national park & kuzuma forest reserve, victoria falls & chobe national park, 10 best cruise + safari trips to zimbabwe for 2024-2025, 3 best luxury tours, safaris, and cruises to zimbabwe for 2024-2025, rivers & rails of africa, wildlife and the falls, golden trails of africa, 6 favorite zimbabwe safari lodges for 2024-2025, camelthorn lodge, nehimba lodge, somalisa camp, victoria falls hotel, victoria falls river lodge, zambezi sands, top zimbabwe cruises for 2024 and 2025, southern africa: travel to the ends of the earth with extended stay at the cape of good hope, stars of south africa, discover africa, top 3 zimbabwe cruise ships for 2024-2025, zambezi queen, african dream, zimbabwean dream, zimbabwe safari tips & travel guide, wildlife guide for zimbabwe and zambia.

• Victoria Falls - Considered one of the most impressive waterfalls in the world and also ranks as one of the natural wonders of the world; a magnificent sight.
• Hwange National Park - On a signature Zimbabwe safari here you will see much of the trademark African prairie wildlife, including lions, elephants, dogs, and other wildlife.
• Mana Pools National Park - A great place to get out on the water in canoes or pontoons to see the water-dwellers or try your hand at fishing.
• Matobo National Park  - Home to Nanke Cave, the Matabele village, and other fascinating cultural and natural highlights. 
• Mandavu Dam - An excellent point from which to view the surrounding landscapes and get a great spot for wildlife watching.
• Game Drive - Buckle up for adventure as you explore on the search for lions, elephants, and perhaps even the rare black or white rhino-  the highlight of any great Zimbabwe safari!

Cultural Snapshot of Zimbabwe

Geography of zimbabwe, the wilds of zimbabwe, best time to do a zimbabwe safari.

• Bomani Tented Lodge  (Hwange National Park)
• Gorges Lodge  (overlooking Batoka Gorge by Victoria Falls)
• Camelthorn Lodge  (Hwange National Park & Ngamo Plains)
• Nehimba Lodge  (private concession of Hwange National Park)
• Changa Safari Camp   (Matusadona National Park)
• Ruckomechi   (Mana Pools National Park)
• Victoria Falls Safari Lodge   (just 4km from Victoria Falls)
• Ilala Lodge   (close to Victoria Falls)
• The Hide   (Hwange National Park)
• Kanga Camp   (Mana Pools National Park)
• Somalisa Camp   (Hwange National Park)
• Zambezi Expeditions   (Mana Pools National Park)
• Camp Amalinda   (Matobo Hills)
• Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge   (Gonarezhou National Park)

Zimbabwe FAQs

Top zimbabwe travel destinations.

• Hwange National Park
• Victoria Falls
• Victoria Falls Town

Zimbabwe Trips by Departure Date

• 2024 Zimbabwe trips (16)
• 2025 Zimbabwe trips (15)
• 2026 Zimbabwe trips (7)
• April 2024 (14)
• May 2024 (14)
• June 2024 (15)
• July 2024 (15)
• August 2024 (16)
• September 2024 (16)
• October 2024 (16)
• July 2025 (14)
• August 2025 (15)

Top Experiences in Zimbabwe

• Zimbabwe Wildlife & Safari Exploration (16)
• Zimbabwe River Cruises (9)
• Zimbabwe Land Tours (8)
• Zimbabwe Cruises (8)
• Zimbabwe Cultural (6)
• Zimbabwe Luxury (3)

Zimbabwe Trips by Activity

• Zimbabwe wildlife viewing (16)
• Zimbabwe village visits (13)
• Zimbabwe wilderness lodge exploration (10)
• Zimbabwe land & sea exploration (4)
• Zimbabwe fishing (3)
• Zimbabwe helicopter tours (3)
• Zimbabwe wine tasting (3)

Why Travel With Adventure Life

Recognized by.

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

US tourist killed after bull elephant toppled safari vehicle in Zambia

Four others were wounded in the attack at Kafue national park, in which the animal barreled into the side of a truck

An elderly US tourist was killed and four others hurt when an aggressive bull elephant charged and toppled their safari vehicle during a game drive in Zambia .

The attack at Kafue national park, in which the large pachyderm ran from a wooded area and barreled into the side of the truck, was captured on video and posted to social media by ABC News. It identified the tourist as 79-year-old Gail Mattson of Minnesota.

Keith Vincent, executive director of the safari operator Wilderness, told the network in a statement that the elephant’s charge was unexpected, and the driver had no opportunity to escape.

“Our guides are all extremely well trained and experienced, but sadly in this instance the terrain and vegetation was such that the guide’s route became blocked and he could not move the vehicle out of harm’s way quickly enough,” he said .

“This is a tragic event and we extend our deepest condolences to the family of the guest who died. We are also, naturally, supporting those guests and the guide involved in this distressing incident.”

Wildlife officials and local police say they are investigating Saturday’s incident, which took place in the national park about 220 miles north-west of Zambia’s capital, Lusaka. Covering almost 8,700 square miles, Kafue is the country’s oldest and largest national park, and is popular with tourists for its abundance and variety of birds and animals.

Wilderness said four other guests in the vehicle were treated for minor injuries.

Family members of Mattson, who also had a home in Arizona, told Minnesota’s KSTP News that she was “living life” on the game-watching holiday. Photographs of her in a safari truck clutching a flower, taken on the day of her death, accompanied the network’s report.

John Longabauth, a friend from Arizona, told the outlet he would miss her adventurous spirit. “She had told us that this safari was going to be her last big adventure,” he said. “Because her birthday is in the summer, she was going to be 80, she felt like she would start slowing down.”

Zambia’s neighbor Zimbabwe has expressed recent concern at a growing conflict between humans and elephants from a rising elephant population, especially one that is migrating more as the climate crisis disrupts animals’ access to food, water and cover, in Africa and around the world.

Most viewed

Elderly American tourist killed after elephant attacks vehicle in Zambia, reports say

An American tourist was killed after an "aggressive" bull elephant attacked the vehicle on March 30 during a tour in Zambia, according to media reports.

The tourist, identified only as an 80-year-old American woman, was injured when an "aggressive" elephant charged a vehicle carrying six guests and a guide in Kafue National Park in Zambia, according to a statement provided to multiple outlets including NBC News and People . She was part of a group staying at the Lufupa Camp and had gone out for a photography tour.

Zambia is a landlocked country located in southern Africa, bordered by countries including Zimbabwe, Democratic Republic of Congo and Tanzania.

Another woman who was injured was taken to a private hospital in South Africa, conservation and safari company Wilderness told multiple outlets. Four other people also received treatment for minor injuries.

Video shared on social media by ABC News shows the moment the elephant charged, with images showing later that the vehicle had been flipped on its side.

"The six guests were on the game drive when the vehicle was unexpectedly charged by the bull elephant," Keith Vincent, Wilderness' chief executive officer, said in a statement to ABC News. He added that the safari guide's vehicle was "blocked" by the terrain at the time of the attack.

The woman's body will be returned to her family in the U.S., Wilderness said in the statement to media.

USA TODAY has contacted Zambia police and Wilderness for more information.

Harrowing video shows elephant charging truck during African safari, killing American tourist

S hocking video captured the moment a 5-ton bull elephant in Zambia charged at a safari vehicle — flipping it over several times and killing an 80-year-old American woman during an expedition.

The unidentified woman was among six tourists with the group Wilderness Zambia who were out on a photography tour Saturday when they came under attack by the crazed beast, the Telegraph reported.

“At around 9:30 a.m. on Saturday morning the six guests were on the game drive when the vehicle was unexpectedly charged by the bull elephant,” Wilderness Zambia CEO Keith Vincent said in a statement.

One international client killed by elephant in Kafue National Park from lufupa Lodge during Safari. Two injured and being evacuated to Lusaka. Full details being awaited from the operator through the Senior Warden Kafue Region. Very unfortunate indeed. pic.twitter.com/4ntbyhec1G

Distressing footage captured by a passenger shows the elephant barreling toward the vehicle as it cruises along a bush-lined road before suddenly stopping when its path was blocked.

The passenger continues to record as the animal lunges at the vehicle and flips it over.

The elderly woman later died of her injuries while another woman remains hospitalized.

The other four guests were treated for minor injuries after the violent attack.

“Our guides are all extremely well-trained and experienced, but sadly in this instance the terrain and vegetation was such that the guide’s route became blocked and he could not move the vehicle out of harm’s way quickly enough,” Vincent said.

Kafue National Park’s management sent a helicopter to the scene to evacuate the victims.

 “This is a tragic event and we extend our deepest condolences to the family of the guest who died. We are also, naturally, supporting those guests and the guide involved in this distressing incident,” Vincent added.

The group was reportedly staying at the luxurious Lufupa Camp in the Kafue National Park, the largest game reserve in Africa.

African Parks, which manages the park, also controls 22 other wildlife sanctuaries in Africa.

The tour group was making arrangements to return the woman’s body to the US, the Nigerian Bulletin reported.