Avila Travel Zimbabwe Large African elephant Loxodonta africana covered in dust

Zimbabwe trip | Safari adventure in Zimbabwe

  • Boutique
  • 16-day trip
  • From €18,595 p.p.
route-map

Zimbabwe trip | Safari adventure in Zimbabwe

Your journey begins in Hwange, Zimbabwe's largest game park, where you will observe elephant herds and predators in their natural habitat. You will then travel to remote Gonarezhou, known for its majestic Chilojo cliffs and pristine wildlife. At Mana Pools, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will discover the beauty of the Zambezi River, on foot or by canoe, surrounded by wildlife. Your adventure ends on Fothergill Island in Lake Kariba, a serene oasis for relaxation and spectacular sunsets. During this trip, you will combine exciting safaris with moments of tranquillity, while enjoying Zimbabwe's breathtaking African scenery and rich biodiversity. An unforgettable experience!

Travel programme

Travel overview

  • Day 1 Flight to Zimbabwe
  • Day 2 – 3 On safari in Hwange National Park
  • Days 4–6 Safari highlights in the eastern part of Hwange National Park
  • Days 7–9 En route to Gonarezhou National Park
  • Days 10–12 Discover Mana Pools National Park
  • Days 13–15 Round off your trip on Fothergill Island
  • Day 16 Departure from Zimbabwe
Day 1
Air travel to Zimbabwe
Day 2 to 3
On safari in Hwange National Park
Days 4 to 6
Safari highlights in the east of Hwange National Park
Days 7 to 9
En route to Gonarezhou National Park
Days 10 to 12
Discover Mana Pools National Park
Days 13 to 15
Conclude your trip on Fothergill Island
Day 16
Departure from Zimbabwe

Accommodations

Destinations

Hwange National Park

Hwange National Park (formerly Wankie Game Reserve), located in western Zimbabwe, is the country's largest nature reserve and is known for its rich diversity of wildlife. The northern and western parts of the park are distinct - the northern part is surrounded by the Zambezi river basin, while the western part consists of grasslands, swamps and scattered forests. Of particular note are natural seeps such as Nehimba and Shakwanki, where animals dig for water. The park is home to one of the largest elephant populations in the world, as well as about 100 mammal species and several protected animals, including the endangered wild dog, the critically endangered black rhino and the rare roan and sable. About 500 bird species also live in the area. Visitors can look forward to bush walks, game drives and horseback safaris.

Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is a country in Africa and borders Zambia, Mozambique, South Africa and Botswana. Its area is 390,580 square kilometres, making it 9.4 times the size of the Netherlands. The country is known for its pristine nature and wildlife parks. The landscape is hilly and has some mountainous areas. Major attractions are therefore Lake Kariba, the Zambezi River and the Victoria Falls.

Eastern Hwange National Park

Located in western Zimbabwe, Hwange National Park (formerly Wankie Game Reserve) is the country's largest nature reserve and famous for its rich diversity of wildlife. Home to one of the largest elephant populations in the world and around 100 mammal species, the park is a wonderland for animal lovers. Several protected animals live in the awe-inspiring open landscapes, including the endangered wild dog, the critically endangered black rhinoceros and the rare roan and sable, along with lions, cheetahs and around 500 bird species. Adventurers can look forward to guided bush walks, game drives and horseback safaris, all of which offer excellent photographic opportunities. Hwange has some unique natural features, particularly the natural springs such as Nehimba and Shakwanki where animals dig for water.

Gonarezhou National Park

Gonarezhou, bordering Mozambique in the south-eastern lowveld of Zimbabwe, means 'place of elephants'. Gonarezhou is Zimbabwe's second-largest national park and home to more than 10,000 elephants. The park stretches over an area composed of scrubland, mopane forest and pale orange sandstone cliffs. The park is home to four of Africa's 'Big Five', namely the elephant, leopard, lion and buffalo - as well as a multitude of other animal and bird species. In total, about 140 species of mammals and more than 500 different species of birds live in the work. This makes a visit to the park more than worthwhile.

Lake Kariba

Lake Kariba is the most extensive man-made lake in the world. It is a popular destination created in the 1950s. The lake stretches for more than 200 kilometres along the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, forming a natural boundary between the two countries. The waters of the lake are home to an abundance of wildlife including: crocodiles, hippos, fish and water birds, while the shoreline and islands are rich in animals such as elephants and buffalo. It is definitely among one of the most beautiful areas in Zimbabwe!

Mana Pools National Park

The Zambezi River makes Mana Pools National Park one of Zimbabwe's greenest regions. The area is a World Heritage Site and is known as one of the continent's premier game-viewing regions. It is possible to canoe here, a unique experience to discover the area in a different way. You can also go on walking safaris in the beautiful forests along the river here.

Matusadona National Park

Located in northern Zimbabwe on the shores of Lake Kariba, Matusadona National Park comprises a vast expanse of untouched wilderness characterised by flat grass plains and dramatic rugged mountains. From the vast forested escarpment to the dense bush at the bottom of the Zambezi Valley, the park offers a diverse range of landscapes inhabited by an abundance of wildlife species. These include: elephants, Cape buffalo, black rhinos, hippos, crocodiles and an impressive variety of birds. The entire northern boundary of the park is formed by the grassy lakeshore, offering excellent opportunities for safaris by boat. Other popular activities include walking safaris, tiger fishing and camping in one of the park's many small rustic bush camps.

Western Hwange National Park

Located in western Zimbabwe, Hwange National Park (formerly Wankie Game Reserve) is the largest natural reserve in the country and is famous for its rich diversity of wildlife. The northern and western areas of the park are different - the northern area is encompassed by the Zambezi watershed, while the western part consists of grasslands, marshes, and scattered woodlands. The natural seeps such as Nehimba and Shakwanki, where animals dig for water, are particularly notable. The park is home to one of the biggest elephant populations in the world, as well as around 100 mammal species, and several protected animals including the endangered wild dog, critically endangered black rhino, and rare roan and sable. Around 500 bird species also inhabit the area. Visitors can look forward to bush hikes, game drives, and horse riding safaris.

Central Hwange National Park

Central Hwange National Park, which includes Sinamatella, is a sanctuary of Zimbabwean wilderness. Flowing rivers, natural springs and dams sustain the vibrant ecosystem and attract a rich diversity of wildlife. A network of waterholes, teeming with wildlife, criss-crosses the landscape and offers fascinating wildlife encounters. The elevated vantage point of Sinamatella offers breathtaking views, while the park's intricate water sources form a thriving oasis. This region is a haven for nature lovers looking for an authentic African safari experience amid the pristine beauty of Central Hwange's untamed landscapes.

Zimbabwe trip | Safari adventure in Zimbabwe

We offer the described trip from €18,595 per person.
The tour price is indicative and is subject to factors including availability and travel dates.

Included

• Private/shared charter flights between the lodges (including 15kg hold luggage and 5kg hand luggage in soft-sided travel bags without wheels)
• Accommodation in high-quality, atmospheric lodges, tented camps and hotels
• All meals, as specified in the ‘itinerary’
• All necessary transfers as specified
• All excursions as mentioned in the ‘itinerary’, including safaris in Hwange National Park
• National park entrance fees (camp fees, concession fees, park fees)
• Meet & Greet on arrival
• National Geographic or similar travel guide
• Administration fees (€50 per booking)
Positive impact of your trip:
• Contribution of €50 per person towards a positive impact via the Avila Foundation

Not included

• International flights
• Zimbabwe visa fees (at the border or in advance online via evisa.gov.zw)
• Seat reservations on flights
• Room category upgrade
• Travel and/or cancellation insurance
• Personal expenses/tips
• Other national park entrance fees, where applicable
• Meals and excursions not mentioned
• Contribution to the emergency fund (€2.50 per booking)
• SGR contribution (€5 per person)

View other sample Zimbabwe itineraries here

Discover Zimbabwe