Zimbabwe Experience

2026

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USD $  6,418

* pps = per person sharing

Min 2 pax 

10 Days / 9 Nights 

  • Hwange National Park
  • Matopos National Park 
  • Victoria Fall

WHY YOU’D LOVE IT!

Relish a two-night stay at splendid, 5,000 acre Hwange National Park, a dazzling elephant sanctuary, where the Big-Five and the largest selection of mammals to be found in any of Africa’s national parks will provide an outstanding photo safari to beat any other.

Located in southern Zimbabwe near the city of Bulawayo, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its striking granite rock formations, ancient cave paintings, and rich cultural history. Matobo National Park is home to diverse wildlife, including a high concentration of black and white rhinos, leopards, and numerous bird species, notably the world’s highest density of Verreaux’s eagles. The blend of natural beauty, history, and spirituality makes Matobo Hills a remarkable destination.

Marvel at the incredible sight of Victoria Falls and enjoy everything from white-water rafting to sunset cruises, helicopter rides, and bungee jumping. Enjoy an unforgettable opportunity to get up close with elephants in their natural environment and take a momentous 45- minute ride on an elephant as the climax of your visit.

Highlights include:

  • Victoria Falls – Zimbabwe
  • Hwange National Park – Zimbabwe
  • Matobo National Park- Zimbabwe
MAP

Your Journey At A Glance

Day 0 · Departure

Travel

Day 1 · Johannesburg

South Africa

Day 2-4 · Hwange National Park

Zimbabwe

Day 5-7 ·  Matopos National Park

Zimbabwe

Day 8-9 · Victoria Falls

Zimbabwe

Day 10 · Departure

Return

DAY 0 |  Departure

DEPARTURE

Travel

DEPARTURE

Your adventure starts now!

Embark on an African safari and anticipate breathtaking landscapes, encountering diverse and majestic wildlife in their natural habitats, and immersing yourself in the rich cultural experiences of the continent.

* See your safari itinerary for transfer logistics

DAY 1 | Johannesburg arrival

JOHANNESBURG

Overnight

📍 African Sky Boutique Hotel

AFRICAN SKY HOTEL

Guest House Overview

Dinner & Breakfast (drinks excl.) | Wifi available | No Laundy service

Welcome to South Africa! Johannesburg (JNB / OR Tambo) Airport arrival with meet & greet service.

Your arrival night overnight accommodation: AfricaSky Boutique Hotel is conveniently located only 10 minutes from  Johannesburg's  O.R. Tambo International airport. A short drive will have you arriving at an oasis, rooms beautifully appointed and nestled in a peaceful lush garden. Enjoy dinner, bed & breakfast all on-site. True African hospitality and service excellence.

Just look out towards the information desk located in the arrivals hall for your pick-up with your name on it. 10 Minute road transfer to your overnight accommodation.

DINNER, B&B

GUEST HOUSE

OVERNIGHT

DAY 2-4 |  Hwange National Park

HWANGE N/PARK

Safari Days

📍 Sable Valley

HWANGE NATIONAL PARK

Area Overview

Hwange National Park, One of Africa’s top national parks, Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe’s northwest should be on any safari lover’s bucket list. Roaming Hwange’s savanna grasslands and woodlands are the Big Five and 100 other species of mammals – the park has the biggest diversity of mammals out of the world’s national parks.

Situated in the south west of Zimbabwe between Bulawayo and Victoria Falls. There are two distinct geographic zones, neither are able to support viable agriculture. The flora of the well-drained northern area, part of the Zambezi watershed, is dominated by mopane and mixed Terminalia, which is distinctly different from the rest.

It is home to 107 animal species and  400 species of birds.

ACTIVITIES

Game, game & more game!

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Safari days!

A typical day on Safari in Africa! Each day on safari in Africa is a magical experience, whether you’re exploring the savanna on foot or in a 4x4 vehicle in search of the Big 5 or taking to the sky in a hot-air balloon to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration. Every single day is steeped in the promise of a unique adventure and cherished memories.

Although each day is unpredictable to a certain extent, based on the time of year or location, there is a general format or schedule that safaris tend to follow, but, as a rule, safaris do follow a familiar rhythm that combines thrilling game viewing with ample time to relax in between—a dream vacation in anyone’s book. One rule of thumb is that there are usually two game drives a day: one in the early morning and one in the late afternoon, when animals are at their most active.

READ MORE DETAILS!

5.30 am:Time for a Wake-Up Call
6 am– 9 amMorning Game Drive
9 am- 11 amReturn to Camp for Breakfast or Brunch
11 am –1 pmRelaxation: Read, Nap, Swim, Walk or Spa
1 pm – 2 pmLunchtime
2 pm – 3:30 pmRelaxation: Read, Nap, Swim, Walk or Spa
3.30 pm:High Tea
4 pm –7 pmAfternoon Game Drive
7: 30 pmDinner Time
9 pmTurn in for Bedtime
 

 

SABLE VALLEY

Full board, excl. premium drinks | No Wifi in camp, but available off site in case of emergency | Laundry included

This is truly the heart of the experience. Designed for optimal photography, the sunken hide offers sweeping 180-degree views of both sunrise and sunset, surrounded by a thousand termite mounds and regularly visited by resident herds of elephant, buffalo, and sable.

Enjoy wine, beers, or soft drinks throughout the day from the built-in fridge, and as the evenings grow chilly, settle beside the cozy indoor fireplace.

Situated close beyond Hwange National Park's borders, providing an unmatched and breathtaking wilderness experience. They offer individualized care and an unparalleled feeling of exclusivity by purposefully limiting the number of guests. You'll get the opportunity to be one of the very few cars to see the wonderful sights that our concession has to offer. From family groups of elephants, lone bulls, and a wide variety of predators like lions, cheetahs, leopards, painted dogs, hyenas, jackals, and more than 300 bird species to herds of more than 500 buffalo that bring in clouds of "Dust and Drama" on the Dete Vlei.

Sable Valley comprises 11 traditional thatched rondavels, with the main area offering panoramic views of the Dete Vlei. Sable Valley's feel is cozy, relaxing, and boho chic, with traditional African decor mixed in with vintage artifacts acquired by our proprietors over time. Lounge by the pool or enjoy the main area's panoramic views of the Dete Vlei, which is home to elephants, buffalo, endangered sable antelope, and other species. The newest property, which features our innovative underground hide and treehouse platform, is ideal for couples, groups, single travelers, and families alike.

Sable Valley has redefined the concept of “hiding out” — here, nature comes to you. For the true wildlife purist, our thoughtfully designed wooden blinds and viewing decks blend seamlessly into the landscape, allowingThe novel underground conceal offers a unique perspective and close-up game viewing experience. Located in front of the camp, this one-of-a-kind experience is available both day and night, with frequent visits from elephants, buffalo, rare sable antelope, and other species. The underground hideaway in Sable Valley includes wifi, charging stations for cameras and computers, a fireplace, a mini bar, and numerous seating places.

For those who prefer a higher vantage point, the elevated viewing deck above the Sidule Hide is shaded by leafy teak trees and furnished with comfortable bean bags — a favorite among photographers. From here, the panoramic view of the vast vlei is simply spectacular. To the east, watch the sun and moon rise; to the west, witness the sun set in all its fiery splendor.

Take advantage of "Purpose Driven Safaris" for families and groups to enhance your safari experience and gain a greater understanding of Africa's natural areas. This program is designed for professionals in any field, both skilled and unskilled, who want to give their time and expertise to have a real and long-lasting impact on Zimbabwe's natural environment and community.

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FULL BOARD

TENTED CAMP

GAME VIEW

DAY 5 – 7 |  Matopos National Park

MATOPOS N/PARK

Safari Days
📍 Amalinda Lodge

MATOPOS NATIONAL PARK

Area Overview

Matopos National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of Zimbabwe, is a testament to the country's profound natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. This captivating wilderness reserve showcases a unique landscape characterized by dramatic granite kopjes that appear to be shaped by the hand of celestial sculptors. These ancient rock formations provide an awe-inspiring backdrop to the Park's diverse flora and fauna, making Matobo.

The area is distinguished for its abundance of unusual mountainous granite rock formations. The hills were constructed about 2 billion years ago when granite was driven to the surface by volcanic activity, and this has eroded to produce smooth "whaleback dwalas" and shattered kopjes, strewn with rocks and intermingled with dense flora. The highest point in the hills is the promontory named Gulati (1549 m) just outside the north-eastern corner of the park.

The San people (Bushmen) lived in the hills about 2,000 years ago, leaving a rich heritage of rock art for visitors to enjoy and documenting the region's long history. There are over 3,000 registered rock art sites, with the majority of painting occurring between 320 and 500 C.E.

The Matobo Hills area has a high level of botanic diversity, with over 200 tree species, as well as numerous aloes, wild herbs, and over 100 grass species. The park also has 175 bird, 88 animal, 39 snake, and 16 fish species. Rhinoceros, Sable Antelope, Impala, Leopard, Giraffe, Zebra, Wildebeest, and Ostrich are among the game animals. Matobo National Park has the world's greatest concentration and number of breeding pairs of black eagles.

The Matopas area is a really special destination to visit and comes highly recommended. It is easily accessible from Bulawayo and has a good selection of accommodations.

Rhino Tracking Experience!  Offering an extraordinary opportunity to walk in the footsteps of Africa’s most endangered giants. Accompanied by highly trained guides and the Matobo National Park’s specialist rhino trackers, guests embark on foot through the rugged granite hills in search of these magnificent creatures. Along the way, you’ll learn to interpret tracks, dung, and subtle signs of movement — gaining a profound appreciation for both the animals and the dedicated conservation efforts protecting them. It’s an exhilarating, humbling experience that connects you deeply to Zimbabwe’s wild heart and its ongoing fight to preserve the rhino for generations to come.

San Bushman Paintings Experience invites guests to journey back in time through the ancient rock art of the Matobo Hills — a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the richest rock art regions in Africa. Guided by expert storytellers, you’ll explore sacred caves and rock shelters adorned with delicate ochre paintings created thousands of years ago by the San people. Each image tells a story of spiritual connection, daily life, and the deep bond between humans and nature. Walking among these silent masterpieces is a moving and humbling experience — a rare glimpse into Africa’s earliest cultural heritage, preserved in stone.

A visit to the Ethandweni Orphanage village is a heartfelt and uplifting experience that adds a meaningful cultural connection to your safari journey. Spend time meeting the children and community members, learning about their daily lives, and seeing firsthand the positive impact of conservation and tourism on local communities. The highlight for many guests is a friendly soccer match with the children — filled with laughter, energy, and unforgettable moments of connection that transcend language and culture. It’s a joyful, inspiring experience that offers perspective, warmth, and memories just as powerful as any wildlife encounter.

Game drives in Hwange National Park offers an unforgettable journey through one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife sanctuaries. Led by passionate and knowledgeable guides, each drive explores Hwange’s vast landscapes — from open savannas and teak forests to hidden waterholes teeming with life. Guests can expect to encounter large herds of elephant, buffalo, and sable, as well as predators like lion and wild dog, all within a setting rich in natural drama. Every game drive is an adventure of discovery, showcasing the raw beauty, diversity, and timeless rhythm of the African

Night Game Drives reveal a completely different side of the African wilderness. As the sun sets and the bush comes alive with nocturnal sounds, guests venture out under starlit skies in open 4x4 vehicles, guided by experienced rangers with powerful spotlights. This is when elusive predators like leopard, hyena, and civet emerge to hunt, and the magic of the night unfolds — from glowing eyes in the dark to the haunting calls of nightjars and owls. It’s an intimate, thrilling experience that captures the mystery and beauty of Africa after dusk.

Zimbabwe is world-famous for its exceptional walking safaris, guided by some of the most highly trained and respected professional guides on the continent. Step into the wild on foot with our expert resident guides, whose deep knowledge and instinctive bushcraft bring the landscape to life in extraordinary ways. As you quietly track the movements of elephant and buffalo, you’ll experience the thrill of close encounters in complete safety, learning to read the subtle signs of the bush — from animal tracks and bird calls to the scent of wild herbs on the breeze. Every step immerses you deeper into Africa’s heartbeat, revealing a delicate balance of life that can only be truly appreciated when walking through it, one footprint at a time.

AMALINDA LODGE

Full board, excl. premium drinks | No Wifi in camp, but available off site in case of emergency | Laundry included

Amalinda Lodge offers a retreat from the ordinary. A luxurious hideaway that taps into the Matobo Hills' intriguing culture and profound spiritual energy.

Hidden amid the cliffs of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, Amalinda was created to deliver an extraordinary experience while respecting the rich heritage and natural beauties of this otherworldly region. Matopos National Park is Zimbabwe's oldest and smallest national park, including rock formations known as "kopjes" that date back more than 2 million years. Matobo, meaning "bald head" in the native Ndebele language, offers infinite landscapes and the opportunity to observe one of Africa's most iconic endangered species: rhinos.

Its confines are home to a robust rhinoceros population as well as a variety of other species such as leopards, zebras, and a plethora of birds. Matobo's attraction is enhanced by its historical and spiritual significance, with old San rock art adorning the caves and shelters, allowing a glimpse into the region's ancestral past.

This exceptional location provides a one-of-a-kind blend of natural beauties and cultural riches, prompting exploration, reflection, and a profound connection to both the past and the present. Explore San Bushman cave paintings, walk lichen-covered boulders to spectacular views, ride mountain bikes through traditional Ndebele villages with vibrantly painted dwellings and track rhinos on foot in this exceptional region.

Step into another universe, where the tranquilly and mystique of this extraordinary site will revive your soul, leaving you feeling connected to our planet's ageless beauty. Relax with a beverage while lounging in Amalinda's famous natural granite infinity rock pool. The lodge has nine distinct rooms inspired by Matopos' surrounding nature and carved inside granite boulders and rock formations. Amalinda Lodge features a major outdoor dining area, a library and our renowned granite pool with full bar and safari spa.

This warm, friendly haven is ideal for disconnecting, unwinding, and reconnecting with both your family and the grandeur of nature. Enjoy full solitude and intimacy with your own personal chef while exploring stunning scenery or relaxing in our luxurious living rooms.

Explore the intriguing treks and hikes surrounding Amalinda Lodge. Their land provides a safe setting in which you may see warthogs, zebras, klipspringers, kudus, impalas, wildebeests, reedbucks, duikers, steenboks, hyraxes, and a variety of birds.
Keep a watch out for the elusive leopard, an expert in observation and camouflage.

Their experienced guides, armed with unparalleled knowledge and enthusiasm, will take you on an amazing tour to these beautiful giants. Immerse yourself in their world, observing their grace and power up close as you walk quietly in their presence. Please keep in mind that you will be accompanied by armed National Park scouts to ensure your safety while tracking rhinos on foot.

 

FULL BOARD

LODGE

GAME VIEW

DAY 8-9 |  Victoria Falls

VICTORIA FALLS

Experience

📍 528 Vic Falls Guest House

VICTORIA FALLS

Area Overview

Victoria Falls is the 7th wonder of the world! Located in Zimbabwe, situated in the heart of Southern Africa and entirely landlocked. 12% of its land is allocated to National Parks and Game Reserves.

Undoubtedly, the country's most iconic attraction is the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, the largest waterfall in the world, locally known as Mosi-oa-Tunya, or the "Smoke That Thunders" because of the spray made by the mass of water dropping 100 meters below in the gorges. Victoria Falls is twice the size of Niagara Falls and stretches across a significantly longer distance. Visitors can get up close to the falls, but be prepared to experience some splashing.

The Victoria Falls, now in it's 150 millionth fantastic year, - its zenith in about May each year. It’s a truly awe-inspiring experience—the sight, the sound, the smell—and the humbling feeling that this is indeed nature's supreme masterpiece. No photograph can begin to depict reality. And nothing prepares you for your first sight. .

The Victoria Falls present a spectacular sight of awe-inspiring beauty and grandeur on the Zambezi River, forming the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe—the largest sheet of falling water in the world and significant worldwide for its exceptional geological and geomorphological features and active land formation processes with outstanding beauty attributed to the falls, i.e., the spray, mist, and rainbows.

David Livingstone was the first European to see the Victoria Falls in 1855. The Scottish explorer is believed to have been the first European to view the falls, and he named them Victoria Falls in honor of Queen Victoria.

While in Victoria Falls, don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a delightful cruise on the Zambezi River for a different perspective of the falls, especially during sunset. You can also opt for a thrilling helicopter ride over the falls. For a unique experience, consider having afternoon tea at the classic Victoria Falls Hotel. Additionally, if you're interested in shopping, Victoria Falls is an excellent place to purchase local souvenirs, artwork, and handcrafted carvings.

528 VIC FALLS

Bed & Breakfast | Wifi available | Laundry available at adl.cost

The ideal destination from which our guests can explore the mighty Victoria Falls! and surrounds!Neutral and earthy-tones are blended with splashes of bright colors throughout the lodge. As you enter the house, after passing the lovely pond, a warm foyer greets you with a mixture of wall art and a curious wallpaper.

Each of the 7 rooms have their own view over the gardens. All rooms have en-suite, stylish bathrooms with bronze washbasins, and showers with hand-carved screens.

The main dining area, where breakfasts are served is bright and colorful thanks to more art and the large glass windows that stretch to the high double volume ceiling. From this room, the doors open onto the patio, the garden and the swimming pool.

Lounges and patios are the perfect spot for reading, relaxing and chatting. One of the highlights is the "Treetop Bar" on the third floor, which has wonderful views above the tree canopy and beyond to the Zambezi River and Zambia in the distance.It's an ideal place for sun-downers and as evening settles in, to gaze up at the endless African night sky.

ACTIVITIES
Explore everything the Victoria Falls Rain forest are has to offer!  Crafts, curios and more!

*A warm welcome awaits on arrival at the airport! Please be on the lookout for your driver with your name sign. Baggage assistance followed by a  20 mins. road transfer to your accommodation.

*See your safari itinerary for transfer logistics

Transfer to Victoria Falls  via commercial flight. Flight time from  Cape Town to Victoria Falls is 3 hrs, and 1.5 hr from Johannesburg. Flights are booked  and details provided by AfricaPhotoSafaris.

B&B

GUEST HOUSE

TOURS

DAY 10

RETURN

DEPARTURE

Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end! Goodbye to the safari life, feeling relaxed, mesmerizing scenery, great food, family time, and romantic memories.

Morning road transfer back to the airport for your outbound flight... dreaming of the trip of a lifetime!

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