13-Days Ultimate Zimbabwe Wildlife Explorer Safari

Welcome to Zimbabwe! Upon arrival at Victoria Falls International Airport, you'll be transferred to your luxury lodge overlooking the majestic Victoria Falls. After settling into your accommodation, enjoy an orientation briefing with your safari guide about the adventures ahead. The afternoon is free to relax or explore the falls area independently.

Depart early for Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe's largest wildlife reserve. The scenic drive showcases the country's varied landscapes. Upon arrival, settle into your luxury tented camp before embarking on an afternoon game drive. Hwange is renowned for its massive elephant populations and diverse predators. Your expert guide will search for lions, buffaloes, and the park's impressive array of bird species.

Dedicate a full day to exploring Hwange's vast wilderness. Start with an early morning game drive to catch predators during their most active period. Return to camp for breakfast and rest during the hottest hours. Resume afternoon game drives through different sections of the park, seeking out elephant herds, wild dogs, and various antelope species. The park's diverse habitats support an extraordinary range of wildlife.

Travel to Lake Kariba, the world's largest man-made lake by volume, stretching across the Zimbabwe-Zambia border. The journey takes you through scenic country with glimpses of local villages and traditional settlements. Arrive at your lakeside lodge and enjoy sunset views over the shimmering waters. An evening boat cruise provides opportunities to spot hippos, crocodiles, and water birds.

Spend the day exploring Lake Kariba's pristine waters and shorelines. Morning boat cruises search for hippos and crocodiles basking on the banks. Visit remote islands and fishing villages to experience local culture. Afternoon activities include guided walks along the shoreline, bird watching for African fish eagles and other water species, and relaxation at your luxury lodge. The lake's tranquility provides a perfect contrast to the intense game viewing of Hwange.

Journey to Matusadona National Park, a remote and pristine wilderness area accessible primarily by water. Boat transfer across Lake Kariba takes you to this hidden gem, home to significant elephant and buffalo populations. Arrive at your exclusive tented camp nestled on the lake shore. The park remains one of Zimbabwe's least visited reserves, offering genuine wilderness experiences and exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities.

Experience full days of game drives and walking safaris in Matusadona's remote wilderness. Early morning departures yield excellent wildlife sightings as animals move to water sources. The park's diverse habitats—from shoreline areas to inland plains—support healthy populations of elephants, buffalo, lions, and leopards. Your guide's tracking expertise may reveal elusive predators or rare sightings. Afternoon activities include guided walks through the bush, providing intimate encounters with the African landscape.

Boat transfer takes you to Mana Pools National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa's most spectacular wilderness areas. Located on the lower Zambezi River, Mana Pools offers unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities. The park is famous for its four oxbow lakes—the 'mana pools'—which concentrate wildlife during dry seasons. Arrive at your luxury tented camp positioned for optimal game viewing along the riverine landscape.

Mana Pools is renowned for walking safaris, offering intimate encounters with African wildlife. Guided walks along the Zambezi River provide opportunities to observe elephants bathing, lions drinking, and buffalo herds at water's edge. The park's unique ecosystem supports healthy predator populations. Walking safaris offer a different perspective from vehicle-based viewing, allowing you to experience the sounds, scents, and details of the African bush. Your guide's expertise ensures safe and rewarding encounters.

Combine game drives with walking safaris for comprehensive wildlife exploration. Early morning drives take advantage of peak animal activity periods. The park's diverse habitats—from riverine forests to floodplains—support varied wildlife. Afternoon walking safaris allow for detailed observation of tracks, signs, and animal behavior. Mana Pools' relatively small size compared to other African reserves means higher wildlife concentrations and more frequent Big Five encounters. Every drive and walk reveals new discoveries.

Dedicate the day to experiencing Mana Pools from the Zambezi River perspective. Canoe safaris drift along the river, providing unique vantage points for observing wildlife. Elephants often cross the river, providing spectacular sightings. Bird watching from the water reveals numerous species including African fish eagles and kingfishers. Walking safaris explore the riverine vegetation where predators hunt and prey species gather. The combination of water and land-based activities offers comprehensive wilderness immersion.

Maximize your final full day in Mana Pools with intensive wildlife exploration. Early morning walking safari takes advantage of prime viewing hours. Return to camp for breakfast and relaxation. Afternoon game drive explores different sections of the park, revisiting favorite areas or discovering new locations. As sunset approaches, enjoy a final river walk or game drive, reflecting on the remarkable wildlife encounters and wilderness experiences of your safari journey.

Your final morning allows time for a last wildlife observation or quiet reflection on your safari experiences. Boat transfer from Mana Pools begins your journey back to civilization. Travel to Victoria Falls with time for final shopping or visits to local attractions before your evening departure. Your Wild Acacia Safaris team will ensure a smooth transition to the airport, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Zimbabwe's pristine wilderness and extraordinary wildlife.