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 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 - a treasure trove of breathtaking wilderness, vibrant wildlife, and awe-inspiring natural wonders. From the iconic Victoria Falls, where the mighty Zambezi River plunges into dramatic gorges, to the serene waters of Lake Kariba and the untamed beauty of Hwange and Mana Pools, Zimbabwe is a safari destination like no other.
This remarkable country offers an unparalleled diversity of experiences. Explore the vast savannahs of Hwange National Park, home to one of the largest elephant populations in Africa, or paddle along the tranquil channels of the Lower Zambezi, where hippos and crocodiles linger at every turn. Thrill-seekers will delight in world-class canoeing and white-water rafting, while nature enthusiasts will revel in walking safaris led by some of Africa's most experienced guides.
What truly sets Zimbabwe apart is its people. Warm, resilient, and welcoming, Zimbabweans add a unique vibrancy to every journey. Their deep connection to the land and dedication to conservation make every visit more meaningful.
Whether you're drawn by the roar of Victoria Falls, the call of the wild, or the chance to experience one of Africa's most storied landscapes, Zimbabwe promises an adventure filled with wonder and unforgettable moments.
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.
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.
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.
"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 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.
