Zimbabwe Victoria Falls & Hwange Multi-Adventure Safari Tour
From Thundering Falls to Thrilling Game Drives
Experience Zimbabwe's pristine wilderness on this thrilling safari adventure. Marvel at Victoria Falls, the world's largest sheet of cascading water, and board the Elephant Express for a unique game-viewing experience by train. Venture across the waterholes and grassy pans of Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe's largest game reserve. See spectacular wildlife, including magnificent elephant herds, on exciting bush walks and game drives. Top off your safari with a cruise on the Zambezi River! Visit local villages, spot beautiful bird species, and unwind at authentic lodges beneath starry African skies.
Experience Zimbabwe's pristine wilderness on this thrilling safari adventure. Marvel at Victoria Falls, the world's largest sheet of cascading water, and board the Elephant Express for a unique game-viewing experience by train. Venture across the waterholes and grassy pans of Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe's largest game reserve. See spectacular wildlife, including magnificent elephant herds, on exciting bush walks and game drives. Top off your safari with a cruise on the Zambezi River! Visit local villages, spot beautiful bird species, and unwind at authentic lodges beneath starry African skies.
Arrive at Victoria Falls Airport and transfer to the cozy and authentic Batonka Guest Lodge. In the late afternoon, soak up the splendor of the majestic Zambezi on a memorable sunset cruise. Carrying just 12 passengers Ra-Ikane's stylish period decor and historic memorabilia will evoke images of a bygone era of the great explorers. As you cruise slowly towards Kandahar island look out for hippos, crocodiles, and elephants. Return to your lodge for a welcome dinner.
See Victoria Falls & Ride the Elephant Express to Hwange
Day 2
Rise early for an awe-inspiring tour of Victoria Falls, one of the world's most spectacular natural wonders. With its monumental cascading sheet of water and immense soul-stirring roar, "The Smoke That Thunders" is a real treat for the senses. After this magnificent experience, depart for Dete Railroad station on the edge of Hwange National Park. Here you'll board Imvelo's one-of-a-kind game viewing train, the Elephant Express, for a scenic ride across the savannah. Look out for an array of plains wildlife including wildebeest, buffalo, kudu, waterbuck, and sable — and lions and cheetahs on the prowl! Settle into your camp at Bomani and enjoy a late-afternoon game drive and sundowner before dining under the stars.
Wake for a remote bush walk with your expert guide, who will provide fascinating insights into Hwange's circle of life. Then, enjoy a cultural experience as you explore community-based tourism in several villages bordering Hwange National Park. Meet with local leaders to learn more about typical Zimbabwean village life and take part in community activities such as painting classroom murals, collecting firewood, or playing soccer with school kids. Visit a village handicraft market. Return to Bomani Tented Camp in the afternoon.
Rhino Conservation, Cobra Headquarters, and Game Drive
Day 4
Today you'll become involved in one of the biggest conservation wins in all of Hwange; the re-introduction of rhino to the area. Start with a behind-the-scenes look at the Cobras Anti-Poaching Unit basecamp, where you'll learn more about their work along with many other community and conservation programs. Hear a short talk on the origins and ideas behind the formation of the Cobras unit and how they protect the rhino, as well as the future plans for our ground-breaking Community Rhino Conservation Initiative. Head off on foot or by vehicle with the Cobras to meet Thuza and Kusasa, the two white rhino who now call Hwange home! There will be lots of photo opportunities and quality time to watch and enjoy our rhinos in their natural environment on the Ngamo plains; how close you will be able to get to the rhino will be subject to conditions on the ground. Later in the day, set out on a game drive with your expert guide.
Activity: COBRA visit & rhino conservation talk, game drive
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Discover Remote Hwange & Jozibanini Camp
Day 5
Journey from Bomani to the exclusive Jozibanini Camp, situated in the remote southwest Hwange. En route to Jozibanini, learn about the fantastic 'Pump Run' initiative which helps provide water to sustain Hwange's wildlife throughout the year. You will participate in providing fuel and oil for the pump motors as well as rations and supplies for the pump attendants. Wildlife viewing happens along the way and a picic lunch is enjoyed near one of the water holes. This afternoon, take a leisurely game drive back to your lodge and settle into your exclusive five-tent camp for a unique, untamed wilderness experience. Grab some binoculars and watch the wildlife as it comes to one of the waterholes to drink, then savor dinner under the stars before settling in your tent.
Accommodation: Jozibanini Camp-Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe
Activity: Pump Run and game drives
Transportation: 6-hour private vehicle transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mountain Bike in Hwange
Day 6
Get ready for a safari on two wheels. After breakfast, grab a mountain bike to cycle along elephant paths. (If you want to skip biking, head out for a bush walk or a game drive instead.) Fuel up for the ride back at a shaded picnic lunch, then enjoy game viewing and amazing photo opportunities of the wildlife at the camp's waterhole. Listen to elephants roaming as you fall asleep in your outdoor 'star bed.'
Accommodation: Jozibanini Camp-Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe
Activity: 3-4 hours biking, walking or game drives
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Spot Game on Foot near Jozi
Day 7
Set off from Jozibanini camp on a walking safari to a nearby watering hole. Follow your professional guide and tracker. Learn about the different vegetation on either side of the path and different ecosystems within these environments. Track wildlife, spot birds and quietly pass numerous watering holes in search of animals. Return to Jozi and hopefully sundowners at the look up blind amidst the elephants drinking at the watering hole.
Accommodation: Jozibanini Camp-Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe
Activity: 3-4 hours walking or game drives
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Experience the Elephant Pool at Nehimba
Day 8
Leave the remote wilderness of Jozibanini and set off for Nehimba Lodge, located in a private concession in the game-rich northern region of Hwange. Start the day with a flight from Libuti Airstrip to Giraffe Springs Airstrip, then board safari vehicles for a short drive to your comfortable camp. Nehimba is well-known for having the best pool in Hwange as the elephants that frequent it will testify! Embark on daytime game drives, night drives, and walking safaris led by professional guides.
Accommodation: Nehimba Lodge
Activity: 3-4 hours game drive
Transportation: 40-minute flight transfer; 20-minute vehicle transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Explore Hwange by Foot
Day 9
Get close to nature on a thrilling walking safari. Learn how to track Nehimba's diverse wildlife and learn about the surrounding vegetation, including beautiful mopane woodlands, with your expert guides. Break for a picnic lunch before heading back towards the lodge. Later this evening follow your guide to the Nehimba viewing platform. Situated close to camp, this lovely platform is the perfect spot to marvel at the splendor of an African sunset, providing the perfect backdrop to the abundance of wildlife that sip from the nearby waterhole.
Accommodation: Nehimba Lodge
Activity: 3-4 hours game drive
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Return to Victoria Falls
Day 10
Bid farewell to Hwange and head to Victoria Falls and the mighty Zambezi River! After breakfast, transfer by road to Batonka Lodge. In the afternoon, hop into a canoe to explore Zambezi National Park's islands and inland riverbeds. Keep an eye out for an array of animals mingling by the banks. Take in the sunset from a sand bar and end the day with a farewell dinner at the lodge.
Accommodation: Batonka Guest Lodge
Activity: Canoeing on the Zambezi
Transportation: 2.5-hour private vehicle transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Depart from Zimbabwe
Day 11
Take in the final sights and sounds of the African bush over a hearty goodbye breakfast. Pack up and hit the road to Victoria Falls Airport for your flight home.
Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.
When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.
*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.
The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.
Tyron H.
Tyron grew up outside Bulawayo city, Zimbabwe, in a rural area where he spent many days outdoors. After serving as an apprentice guide for several years in the Hwange area, he began guiding professionally at 22. Since then, he has worked in the lower Zambezi valley, Hwange, and Matopos regions. Tyron is based at Nehimba Lodge in northern Hwange National Park and is also dedicated to rhino conservation efforts.
Harris M.
Harris started his career as a boat captain before becoming an assistant guide in Matusadona National Park. He has spent the past 11 years as lead guide in Mashonaland West province, Matusadona National Park, and much of northern Mozambique. Harris is also the assistant manager at two of the area's most popular lodges: Ibo Lodge and Cabo Delgado.
Arrive at Victoria Falls Airport and transfer to the cozy and authentic Batonka Guest Lodge. In the late afternoon, soak up the splendor of the majestic Zambezi on a memorable sunset cruise. Carrying just 12 passengers Ra-Ikane\'s stylish period decor and historic memorabilia will evoke images of a bygone era of the great explorers. As you cruise slowly towards Kandahar island look out for hippos, crocodiles, and elephants. Return to your lodge for a welcome dinner.
Rise early for an awe-inspiring tour of Victoria Falls, one of the world\'s most spectacular natural wonders. With its monumental cascading sheet of water and immense soul-stirring roar, "The Smoke That Thunders" is a real treat for the senses. After this magnificent experience, depart for Dete Railroad station on the edge of Hwange National Park. Here you\'ll board Imvelo\'s one-of-a-kind game viewing train, the Elephant Express, for a scenic ride across the savannah. Look out for an array of plains wildlife including wildebeest, buffalo, kudu, waterbuck, and sable — and lions and cheetahs on the prowl! Settle into your camp at Bomani and enjoy a late-afternoon game drive and sundowner before dining under the stars.
Wake for a remote bush walk with your expert guide, who will provide fascinating insights into Hwange\'s circle of life. Then, enjoy a cultural experience as you explore community-based tourism in several villages bordering Hwange National Park. Meet with local leaders to learn more about typical Zimbabwean village life and take part in community activities such as painting classroom murals, collecting firewood, or playing soccer with school kids. Visit a village handicraft market. Return to Bomani Tented Camp in the afternoon.
Today you\'ll become involved in one of the biggest conservation wins in all of Hwange; the re-introduction of rhino to the area. Start with a behind-the-scenes look at the Cobras Anti-Poaching Unit basecamp, where you\'ll learn more about their work along with many other community and conservation programs. Hear a short talk on the origins and ideas behind the formation of the Cobras unit and how they protect the rhino, as well as the future plans for our ground-breaking Community Rhino Conservation Initiative. Head off on foot or by vehicle with the Cobras to meet Thuza and Kusasa, the two white rhino who now call Hwange home! There will be lots of photo opportunities and quality time to watch and enjoy our rhinos in their natural environment on the Ngamo plains; how close you will be able to get to the rhino will be subject to conditions on the ground. Later in the day, set out on a game drive with your expert guide.
Journey from Bomani to the exclusive Jozibanini Camp, situated in the remote southwest Hwange. En route to Jozibanini, learn about the fantastic \'Pump Run\' initiative which helps provide water to sustain Hwange\'s wildlife throughout the year. You will participate in providing fuel and oil for the pump motors as well as rations and supplies for the pump attendants. Wildlife viewing happens along the way and a picic lunch is enjoyed near one of the water holes. This afternoon, take a leisurely game drive back to your lodge and settle into your exclusive five-tent camp for a unique, untamed wilderness experience. Grab some binoculars and watch the wildlife as it comes to one of the waterholes to drink, then savor dinner under the stars before settling in your tent.
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Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 2. This trip includes game viewing by 4x4 vehicles and an open-air train, guided bush walks, meeting locals, canoe rides, and optional bike rides. Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 3
Bush walk
Day 4
COBRA visit & rhino conservation talk, game drive
Day 5
Pump Run and game drives
Day 6
3-4 hours biking, walking or game drives
Day 7
3-4 hours walking or game drives
Day 8
3-4 hours game drive
Day 9
3-4 hours game drive
Day 10
Canoeing on the Zambezi
Accommodations
Comfortable and authentic lodges and camps, located in scenic private concessions and surrounded by majestic wildlife.
This charming camp is located in a private concession bordering Hwange's southeastern corner, where wetlands and savannah support an abundance of wildlife. Experience the thrill of the wild in one of the camp's elegant tents with waterhole or grassland views. Admire the vistas with your group in the dining area, lounge, bar and viewing deck or take a dip in the splash pool. Enjoy pre-dinner drinks around the fire pit and delicious candlelit dinners.
Nestled in the remote southwestern region of Hwange National Park, Jozibanini is an exclusive wilderness camp where guests game-watch and dine out under the African sky. Beneath shepherd and camel thorn trees, tents are elevated on wooden decks with mosquito nets, en-suite toilets, and bucket showers. Open-topped verandas invite guests to sleep out under the stars.
Located in the southeastern corner of Hwange National Park, Camelthorn Lodge boasts as its centerpiece a huge ancient Camelthorn tree that spans a 35-metre outdoor dining area. The lodge's eight luxurious forest villas each include en-suite baths, feature window overlooking the woodlands, ground level deck and upstairs maisonette with hammock. Less than a kilometer away is an underground hide, perfectly located in view of a beautiful waterhole where Hwange's elephants frolic.
Batonka Guest lodge is a quiet oasis, just over a mile from the mighty Victoria Falls. Set in lush gardens, the main lodge offers indoor and outdoor dining, a cozy lounge, and beautiful verandah opening out onto the surrounding gardens. Its 27 pool- or garden-view rooms are well-appointed with modern amenities, and have both contemporary features and colonial touches. There are two pools at Batonka and an excellent onsite restaurant.
Feel at home in the heart of the wild at Nehimba Lodge, a charming camp on the edge of mopane woodland. Enjoy a deluxe stay in one of its nine chalet-style safari tents, built on teak decks with thatched roofs and complete with a private balcony, en-suite bathroom, outdoor shower, and hot running water (the camp is fully solar). See elephants drink at the waterhole from the traditional open-fronted main lodge and indulge in fresh, delicious fare in the dining area.
Weather
The weather is pleasant throughout the year with warm/hot days and cooler nights. May to August can be chilly at night and in the early morning.
Jun
Sep
Oct
Hwange National Park
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Hwange National Park
77
43
90
57
93
64
Victoria Falls
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Victoria Falls
77
45
90
57
93
64
Know Before You Book
If you are traveling during the month of September, peak season rates apply.
FAQs
What is a typical day like on a safari?
There are usually two game drives or walks each day with one in the morning lasting around three to five hours and one in the late afternoon lasting about three hours.
Is it safe to travel in Zimbabwe?
Yes. Petty theft does happen in the cities so take care to not display any valuables and it's important to be sensible in wilderness areas around wildlife. While on safari, your guide is an expert on wildlife and takes your safety very seriously so you must follow their directions.
Do I need to worry about malaria or other health concerns?
We always recommend you speak to your doctor or a health professional about vaccinations and malaria tablets well in advance of your safari. At present, certain areas of Zimbabwe are affected by malaria.
What are the biking and walking conditions like?
The biking and walking will be on flat trails along inter-dune troughs.
What game can I expect to see on this trip?
The areas that you will visit are famous for large populations of elephants, cheetahs, lions and wild dogs. You may also encounter sables, giraffes, buffalo, zebras, hippos and a variety of birdlife.
Does this trip contribute to any local conservation efforts?
Yes! Each group has an opportunity to participate in a pump-run to help borehole water pump attendants. To date, this initiative's 19 boreholes inside Hwange National Park pump 700,000 liters of water and help sustain 20-25% of its wildlife.
What is the minimum age for this trip?
The standard minimum age for this trip is 18, but check out our family friendly departures and private trip options for groups with younger guests.
"Great experience every time with some of the most knowledgeable guides in their fields. We always come home with wonderful memories of the people we meet and things we see."
Bob J. MT Sobek Guest
"We have traveled throughout the world, but never experienced a level of service and attention to detail as we did with MT Sobek."
