Highlights
- Search for the "Big Five" on safari in Hwange National Park
- Spot hippos & crocodiles on a Lake Kariba boat cruise
- Embark on a series of unforgettable game drives & nature walks
- Fall asleep to the sounds of the African wilderness in luxurious bush lodges
- Discover Zimbabwe's leafy capital of Harare
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Victoria Falls, Transfer to Hwange National Park | Hwange National Park |
| Day 2 | Explore Hwange National Park | Hwange National Park |
| Day 3 | Fly to Lake Kariba | Kariba |
| Day 4 | Explore Lake Kariba & Matusadona National Park | Kariba |
| Day 5 | Free day on Lake Kariba | Kariba |
| Day 6 | Transfer to Harare | Harare |
| Day 7 | Transfer to Harare Airport & Departure |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Victoria Falls, Transfer to Hwange National Park
Welcome to Zimbabwe! Upon arrival at Victoria Falls Airport, you'll be met by your driver and transferred 2.5 hours to your accommodations at Sable Sands Lodge. Located on the doorstep of the spectacular Hwange National Park, this eco-conscious lodge houses guests in spacious, open-plan thatched rondavels (traditional round huts) with sweeping views over the Dete Vlei—a vast, dried river that attracts countless animals to its many watering holes. Get settled in, then spend the remainder of the afternoon wildlife watching from the lounge and bar, hanging out in the quaint treehouse, or cooling off with a dip in the solar-powered pool.
Day 2: Explore Hwange National Park
Spend today discovering the wonders of Hwange National Park with your choice of guided game drives and nature walks. The area around the lodge is frequented by herds of sable antelope, elephant, and buffalo, and if you're lucky you might spot lions, cheetahs, painted dogs, jackals, and on the rare occasion, even leopards. The park is also home to an incredible selection of over 350 bird species, making it one of the most diverse wildlife havens on earth.
In the evening, you can savor a delicious three-course dinner inside the main dining area, or opt for a cozy meal around the campfire, under a blanket of the starry African night sky.
While the lodge operates on generator power for amenities like lights and charging facilities, later in the evening the power shuts off to allow you to experience the peaceful, natural sounds of the African wilderness.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 3: Fly to Lake Kariba
This morning you'll bid the lodge farewell and transfer to Hwange Airport to catch a flight northeast to Kariba. Here you'll be met by your driver and taken to the gorgeous Changa Safari Camp on the shores of Lake Kariba, the world's largest manmade lake that sits on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. Situated in a stunning setting where water, bush, and mountains meet, the lodge is the perfect base for exploring the surrounding Matusadona National Park.
Day 4: Explore Lake Kariba & Matusadona National Park
Head out into the bush today with an unforgettable game drive or a guided nature walk. Elephants, buffalo, hippos, and crocodiles frequent the lake's shore, while waterbucks, kudus, impalas, and zebras graze nearby. Matusadona boasts over 240 bird species, but some regulars at the lake's edge include the colorful malachite kingfisher, grey heron, and African fish eagle.
After an incredible day of wildlife watching, retire to the waterfront to enjoy a cocktail and a breathtaking sunset over the lake.
Day 5: Free Day at Lake Kariba
Today is free for you to enjoy Changa Safari Camp and Lake Kariba at your leisure. Go for a swim in the camp's beautiful pool, take another game drive into the park, try your hand at fishing, or board a relaxing boat cruise to spot hippos and crocodiles from the water.
Day 6: Transfer to Harare
Today starts with a scenic boat transfer across the lake, where a driver will be waiting to transfer you 4.5 hours east to Harare. In the leafy suburbs of this attractive African capital, you'll find Greystone Lodge, where you'll get settled in and enjoy the final night of your trip.
Day 7: Transfer to Harare Airport & Departure
It's time to say your goodbyes to Zimbabwe and transfer to the Harare Airport to catch your departing flight. Safe travels!
More Zimbabwe Itineraries
Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Zimbabwe? Check out these other Zimbabwe itineraries, with outdoor adventures, safari trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.
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