Itinerary | 7 Day Best of Hwange Safari | African Ubuntu Safaris

7 Day Best of Hwange Safari

Countries: Zimbabwe

Destinations: Hwange National Park , Victoria Falls

Group Size: 2

Duration (days): 7

Number of Adults: 2

Number of Children: 0

Hwange National Park is one of Southern Africa’s best-kept secrets. This 7-day Best of Hwange safari whisks guests into the heart of Zimbabwe’s best-known National Park to experience the untamed wilds of Zimbabwe and the remote wilderness and grassy plains of the wildlife-rich area of northern Hwange National Park.

Itinerary Outline

Day Location Accommodation
1 Hwange National Park Nantwich Lodge
2 Hwange National Park Nantwich Lodge
3 Hwange National Park Nantwich Lodge
4 Hwange National Park Camp Hwange
5 Hwange National Park Camp Hwange
6 Victoria Falls Ilala Lodge
7 Day of Departure

Day 1 - 3 : Hwange National Park

On arrival at Victoria Falls Airport, you will be met and transferred to Nantwich Lodge, a game lodge in the north of Hwange National Park. The lodge overlooks a large dam boasting one of the best views in the park. Daily game drives and game walks in Hwange are included in your experience.

Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe - Making its way back into the tourist market, Zimbabwe is able to offer some incredible wilderness and exciting wildlife, along with the wonder that is Victoria Falls.

Zimbabwe's political climate and issues have been well documented through the world's media, and it is no secret that tourist numbers to the country have dropped substantially. 

However, everything which made Zimbabwe one of the most popular safari destinations is still available, with operators moving back into the world famous areas of Hwange, Mana Pools, the Lower Zambezi and Lake Kariba.

Victoria Falls thunders mightily on the Zambezi River, and the canoeing and rafting experiences are as exciting as ever.

The people of  Zimbabwe have always been one of the major highlights, and it is particularly pleasing that tourists are filtering through the borders again, rewarding the patience of the fantastic guides and conservation workers who have remained dedicated to Zimbabwe's wildlife areas.

Hwange National Park

Situated only 3 hours' drive south of Victoria Falls, and bordering Botswana to the west, Hwange National Park has become famous for its wildlife density and enormous elephant population.

Due to the arid region, the park is an incredible dry season safari destination, with animals converging on the many man-made water holes, and game viewing being especially rewarding.

With over 100 species of mammals, and 400 species of birds, Hwange National Park is sure to provide you with some excellent photo's and is a great inclusion on a Zimbabwe safari itinerary.

Recently added scheduled flights from Victoria Falls have made Hwange even more accessible.

Nantwich Lodge

A unique, small and intimate eco-lodge reclaimed from a bygone era for true safari lovers who want to get off the beaten track and discover the pristine wilderness and abundant wildlife of Northern Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe.

Perched up on a bluff overlooking a large dam with resident crocodile and hippo, the lodge boasts one of the best views in the park.

Built from the foundations of an old Zimparks outpost, and using as many eco principles as possible, the refurbished lodge embodies the very essence of conservation and responsible tourism by re-purposing, preserving and celebrating the natural heritage of the site.

A hidden gem within a hidden gem, Nantwich is a lodge to which you’ll want to return again and again. Receive front row seats to one of the best wildlife stages in Africa and play an active role in your own safari experience. The stage is set for interactive experiences with our passionate team, their intimate knowledge of the wilderness area and your dreams of a truly memorable safari holiday. Wonderfully remote, there are fewer people in this part of the park and excellent game viewing awaits. The lodge provides exceptional views and extensive walking safari opportunities – for a truly immersive African wildlife experience.

Become a Hwange expert through guided bush walks and game drives. When not busy exploring the surrounding bush or spying wildlife right from your chalet, the Main Lodge is where you will find the open lounge and dining area, as well as a well-equipped library. Here, you won’t just be a visitor but a budding conservationist or African wildlife enthusiast. Your first fun fact? This part of the park has the highest density of lions in the park and those in the know refer to it as Big Cat country.

For the first time visitor to Africa looking to experience the continent’s remarkable wildlife in an authentic setting or the seasoned safari traveller looking to get off the beaten track and away from crowds and other vehicles, Nantwich is the perfect one-stop African destination.

Day 4 - 5 : Hwange National Park

After breakfast, a game drive through the heart of Hwange National Park will take you to Camp Hwange. Situated right by a bustling waterhole, you'll be surrounded by wildlife. This cozy canvas lodge provides a comfortable haven after a day filled with explorations. Whether you're gathered around the campfire or gazing at the stars, Camp Hwange offers a simple, unforgettable way to experience Africa's beauty. It's about soaking in nature's sounds, witnessing stunning sunrises and sunsets, and feeling the pulse of the African wilderness.

Camp Hwange

A rustic, traditional camp of 8 canvas-walled units beneath cooling thatch, Camp Hwange overlooks one of the natural waterholes that make this part of Hwange National Park special.

Founded in 2010 by a well-known professional guide, Camp Hwange’s location is strategic. This private concession in the central part of Hwange lies between the rugged mopane woodlands to the north and the sandy soil teak forests to the south-west; it’s location here on this open savannah ecotone means that game viewing is as diverse as its habitat types.

Aside from fantastic game viewing, especially in the drier months from April through to November, Camp Hwange offers an excellent guided experience with a strong emphasis on walking and tracking.

Day 6 : Victoria Falls

Your Hwange wildlife safari comes to an end after breakfast when you will be transferred to Shumba Airstrip for your flight to Victoria Falls. Upon arrival, enjoy a serene afternoon on the Zambezi River aboard the Ra-Ikane for a mesmerizing sunset cruise.

Victoria Falls

"Mosi Oa Tunya", or "The Smoke That Thunders", Victoria Falls are as magnificent on the 10th visit as they are on the 1st, and their thundering roar makes everything else seem strangely quiet once you leave them behind.

As the mighty Zambezi flows over a chasm of 1 mile wide, and 110 metres high, to violently crash on the rocks below, the resultant spray is sent tens of metres up into the air, before it lands back down in a continuous rainfall.   The water then rushes through an opening of only 50 metres, as the Zambezi races further along, over churning rapids and through the deep Batoka Gorge.

While the Falls are the major drawcard, there is a thriving tourist industry developed around them, with adventure activities of all forms being available. 

Tourism has been evident here ever since David Livingstone was the first European guided by the local tribes to this remarkable natural wonder.

Ilala Lodge

Ilala Lodge Hotel is a family-run hotel that offers luxury and comfort in the heart of Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. Nestled in attractive gardens, the well-appointed hotel is a mere eight-minute walk from Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Ilala Lodge Hotel is ideally located and it is very easy for guests to access all the historical sites, restaurants and activities available in Victoria Falls. The friendly and attentive staff of this welcoming hotel makes sure that your visit is perfect in every way.

Day 7 - Day of Departure

Our exciting Zimbabwe wildlife safari ends after breakfast at your lodge in Vic Falls. You will be transferred to Victoria Falls Airport in time for your departure flight.