Classic Zimbabwe

Overview

Discover the stunning scenery of Zimbabwe, exploring four national parks, Hwange, Lake Kariba, Mana Pools and Gonarezhou. Enjoying three nights in each location, this classic itinerary allows you to experience the very best of this magnificent country. Accommodation is based on 4 star lodges, all in excellent positions, and with excellent guides.

Itinerary

DAY 1: VICTORIA FALLS – HWANGE NATIONAL PARK
Today you will be transferred by road to Hwange National Park, for your three-night stay at THE HIDE. (D)

DAYS 2 – 3: HWANGE NATIONAL PARK
Hwange National Park is the largest reserve in Zimbabwe and is home to large herds of elephant, lion and wild dog. Enjoy birdwatching and explore the bush on guided walks and game drives. (B, L, D)

DAY 4: HWANGE NATIONAL PARK – LAKE KARIBA
This morning you will be transferred to the airstrip for your flight from Hwange to Lake Kariba. Upon arrival, you will be driven to CHANGA SAFARI CAMP where you will stay for three nights. (B, L, D)

DAYS 5 – 6: LAKE KARIBA
Spend your days fishing, on early morning game walks, game drives and boat cruises, exploring the world’s largest man-made lake and its surrounds. Along with hippo, crocodile and a variety of fish, the lake also attracts wildlife such as cheetah, antelope and elephant. (B, L, D)

DAY 7: LAKE KARIBA – MANA POOLS NATIONAL PARK
Today you will be transferred to the airstrip for your scheduled flight to Mana Pools National Park. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to MANA RIVER CAMP, where you will stay for three nights. (B, L, D)

DAYS 8 – 9: MANA POOLS NATIONAL PARK
Enjoy activities such as game drives, fishing, bush walks and visits to local villages. Famous for its floodplains and the wildlife that flock to its waterways, the national park is a haven for hippo and elephant and is often regarded as one of Zimbabwe’s most beautiful areas. (B, L, D)

DAYS 10 – 12: MANA POOLS – HARARE – GONAREZHOU NP
This morning you will be transferred to the airstrip for your scheduled flight to Harare, where you will board a connecting flight to Gonarezhou National Park. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to CHILO GORGE SAFARI LODGE where you will stay for three nights. (B, L, D)

DAYS 11 – 12: GONAREZHOU NATIONAL PARK
Spend your time birdwatching and on game drives, enjoying the chance to see wildlife such as lion, rhino, cheetah, wild dog, hippo and giraffe. Explore the spectacular sandstone cliffs, nearby Chivilila Falls and visit the local Shangaan village. (B, L, D)

DAY 13: JOHANNESBURG
This morning you will be transferred to the airstrip in time for your onward flight to Johannesburg, where your trip will end. (B)

Includes

• 12 nights accommodation on a twin share basis
• Meals as indicated (B, L, D)
• Locally branded drinks
• Transfers as per itinerary
• Scheduled flights as per itinerary (Harare departure tax payable locally)
• National park and conservation fees

NOTE: Based on a minimum of 2 passengers travelling together.

Subject to certain days of departure and flight schedules.

Airport tax out of Chilo Gorge (Buffalo Range Airstrip) is to be paid locally (USD $50).

Subject to change without notice.

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Mana River Camp

Mana River Camp is positioned on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River nestled between this enormous perennial river and a much visited water pan, particularly enjoyed by elephants for mud bathing. Shade in the camp is provided by riverine forest predominately Trichilia Emetica and the fabled Faidherbia Albida (apple ring or Anna Tree). 

 

The beauty of this camp is that it is a mobile tented camp known as a TEC – Temporary Extended Camp. The whole camp is taken down at the end of each season, before the wet season begins. This gives the feeling of the old, real bush, camping experience. The camp is unfenced and many different animals may be viewed from the camp, whilst enjoying the tranquil atmosphere. Common visitors into camp are elephants.

Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

Chilo Gorge is a luxury safari lodge on the edge of Gonarezhou, a national park preserved in pristine wilderness, home to over 8000 elephants. The lodge sleeps up to 6 people and each chalet showcases local influences and crafts. Guests who wish to be more independent can dine at the self-catering Camp Nhambo, which shares a kitchen and dining area with the lodge. At leisure, guests can also view local elephants, hippos and crocodiles cooling off in the river from the viewing deck.

John's Camp

Located in Mana Pools National Park and on the banks of the Zambezi River, John’s Camp is set amongst canopies of Trichelia and Mahogany trees. Situated on a stretching floodplain where elephants, buffalo and lions roam, the six twin or double Meru-style tents offer luxurious comfort. The camp is centred around a communal campfire, dining tent and kitchen. Game drives, guided walks and land-based fishing are also available.

Changa Safari Camp

Changa Safari Camp is situated on a private concession of Matusadona National Park on the shores of Lake Kariba. The camp consists of 8 East African style safari tents, each has its own private deck, an outside ‘under the stars’ shower, a bath and an indoor shower. In the main area relax in the lounge, dining room, bar, beautiful deck or swimming pool, which overlook the lake.  Activities include walks, game drives, bird watching, fishing, gorge trips and ‘sundowner’ boat cruises.

The Hide

The Hide Safari Camp is in Zimbabwe’s largest national park, Hwange National Park. Built around a large, very active waterhole, the camp allows guests to truly immerse themselves in and be amazed by the wildlife around them. The 10 tents are nestled amongst canopies of trees, and each look over the waterhole. In addition, a secluded three-bedroom cottage known as Tom’s Little Hide is also available to guests, as well as The Dove’s Nest; a private tree-house, suited for honeymooners. The lodge also offers a hide below the main lodge area, from which guests can view wildlife, a plunge pool and an extensive wine cellar.