10 Day Highlights of Zimbabwe Safari - Superior
Countries: Zimbabwe
Destinations: Victoria Falls , Mana Pools National Park , Lake Kariba (Zimbabwe) , Hwange National Park
Group Size: 0
Duration (days): 10
Number of Adults: 0
Number of Children: 0
The highlights of Zimbabwe Superior Package invites you to explore the country’s endless landscapes, iconic wildlife and natural wonders. You will have the opportunity to experience the best of Victoria Falls, Matusadona, Mana Pools National Park and Northern Hwange National Park on this 10-day, 9-night adventure. The difference between this itinerary and the Highlights of Zimbabwe is that this trip replaces The Crowned Eagle Boutique Hotel with the more remote Fothergill Island in Matusodona National Park.
Itinerary Outline
| Day | Location | Accommodation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Victoria Falls | Ilala Lodge |
| 2 | Mana Pools National Park | Camp Mana |
| 3 | Mana Pools National Park | Camp Mana |
| 4 | Mana Pools National Park | Camp Mana |
| 5 | Lake Kariba (Zimbabwe) | Fothergill Island |
| 6 | Lake Kariba (Zimbabwe) | Fothergill Island |
| 7 | Hwange National Park | Nantwich Lodge |
| 8 | Hwange National Park | Nantwich Lodge |
| 9 | Hwange National Park | Nantwich Lodge |
| 10 | Day of Departure |
Day 1 : Victoria Falls
Upon arrival at Victoria Falls Airport, you will be transferred to Ilala Lodge. The choices of what to do for the rest of the day, are endless with various optional activities. From a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River, a scenic helicopter flight over Vic Falls, bungee jumping, to gorge swinging, zip lining and canopy tours. A friendly reminder that pre-booking is recommended as activities are subject to availability. Get in touch if you would like more info.
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.
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 2 : Mana Pools National Park
You will have time for breakfast this morning and will then be transferred to Victoria Falls Airport for your charter flight to the Mana West Airstrip. Camp Mana, situated on the banks of the Zambezi River in the magnificent Mana Pools National Park, is your accommodation for the next three nights. During your stay, you have the option to participate in a variety of safari experiences. Should you choose to stay in camp, you will be enthralled by the constant stream of animals and birds that pass through.
Mana Pools National Park
On the southern banks of the Zambezi River, across the water from the Lower Zambezi National Park, lies the legendary Mana Pools National Park. With "mana" meaning "4", the park is named after the 4 main pools cut off from the Zambezi on its floodplains, which attract an enormous amount of wildlife.
Still largely undeveloped, the area is a true wilderness, and offers exciting activities allowing travellers to explore Africa as it was in days gone by.
Only accessible by vehicle during the dry season, in the rains the park has to be accessed by foot or boat only.
Recently added scheduled flights from Victoria Falls have made getting to Mana Pools a bit less costly, so it is a great time to be venturing into this wonderful wildlife haven.
Camp Mana
Camp Mana offers the quintessential Zimbabwe safari experience with its status as a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts, whether it be behind the lens of a camera, from the vantage point in a canoe or on foot. Between April and November, this solar-powered 12-bed seasonal safari tented camp on the bank of the Zambezi River in the Mana Pools National Park delivers spectacular sightings of elephants, wild dogs and lions, some from the comfort of the dining area. Here guests take a walk on the wild side in a UNESCO World Heritage Site, connected to the natural world, without missing out on creature comforts like a hot shower. Camp Mana has the perfect blend of old-world charm and understated elegance to ensure a most memorable African safari.
Day 3 - 4 : Mana Pools National Park
Camp Mana provides all the creature comforts in the wilderness without removing the wild from the experience. And the choices are endless when it comes to activities. A game drive in Mana Pools National Park is the ideal opportunity for close encounters with the inhabitants of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Experiencing Mana on foot during a walking safari, led by an experienced guide, is not to be missed. For a different vantage point, taking to the Zambezi River in a canoe must be one of the most beautiful wilderness experiences on offer.
Day 5 - 6 : Lake Kariba (Zimbabwe)
Embark on a breathtaking aerial transfer this morning and take to the skies, bound for the Fothergill Airstrip. Upon arrival, you will be warmly greeted and whisked away to the idyllic Fothergill Island, nestled on the shores of Lake Kariba, boasting panoramic vistas of the vast lake and its surrounding islands. At Fothergill Island, you'll revel in the lap of luxury with opulent accommodation options that allow you to curate your safari experience to your heart's content. Spend your time unwinding and rejuvenating by the pool, or choose to embark on a thrilling boat or fishing safari on the glistening waters of Lake Kariba. Indulge in unparalleled luxury as you partake in a serene sunset cruise, immersing yourself in the tranquil ambiance of the lake. There are plenty of activities to choose from, catering to your every whim and desire. Fothergill Island promises an unforgettable safari experience tailored to your preferences.
Lake Kariba (Zimbabwe)
Africa's largest dam, at 226 kilometres long and up to 40 kilometres wide, Lake Kariba is a brilliant location to wind down with some stunning scenery, idyllic cruises, beautiful sunsets, and relaxed fishing.
Water sports can be enjoyed, or just spend time drifting along in a houseboat, watching the world sail by.
Fothergill Island
With the exquisite backdrop of Lake Kariba and Matusadona National Park, Fothergill Island is a magnificent haven where travellers to this part of the Zimbabwe landscape will experience an African safari with a difference. The stunning vistas are an open invitation to embark on a journey of discovery of the continent’s second-largest lake and the amazing conservation success story of Matusadona. Take to the water on a boating safari for encounters with elephants, buffalos, hippos and ensuing predators, or dip a line in the water for exhilarating tiger fishing. Add the ultra-luxurious suites, that also make provision for families, and travel dreams do indeed come true on Fothergill Island.
Day 7 : Hwange National Park
An air transfer to Robins Airstrip awaits this morning. Upon arrival you will be met by a guide and transferred to Nantwich Lodge, situated on a private concession in Hwange National Park. After lunch and a siesta, you can go on an afternoon game drive in this breathtaking natural wonderland. You can also visit our safari hide where you can game view from a whole new perspective.
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 8 - 9 : Hwange National Park
The next two days are spent on game drives in the astonishing wilderness of Hwange. As the largest national park in Zimbabwe, it occupies approximately 14 650 square kilometres in the country’s northwest corner and is just one hour south of Victoria Falls. The park is home to one of the world's largest elephant populations; seeing these big grey beasts is undoubtedly high on the bucket list of many travellers. Twitchers will delight in the nearly 400 bird species roaming the skies.
Day 10 - Day of Departure
Your magnificent Highlights of Zimbabwe safari ends after breakfast. Our friendly team will make sure your transfer to Victoria Falls Airport is on time for your departure flight.