Classic Zimbabwe

ABOUT THIS TRIP

Zimbabwe is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful countries in Southern Africa. Discover an unspoiled Africa with breathtaking landscapes, national parks teeming with wildlife, and world-class tourist attractions, such as Victoria Falls and the Great Zimbabwe Ruins. This beautiful country, with its exceptionally friendly people, is definitely worth a visit. Customized changes to the itinerary or rental car category are available upon request; we would be happy to send you a personalized quote. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is not strictly necessary for this route. The roads on this tour are paved throughout and in acceptable condition. Only the access roads to some accommodations involve a short stretch of easily navigable gravel.
At this time, the road between Bulawayo and Victoria Falls is in very poor condition and may not be used with most rental cars. For this reason, you will return your rental car in Bulawayo and continue your journey from there via transfer.

OVERNIGHT STATIONS

• 1x Harare
• 2x Eastern Highlands
• 2x Mutare
• 2x Masvingo
• 2x Matobo
• 3x Hwange
• 2x Victoria Falls

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• 14x overnight stay in the Comfort ***/**** category
• 14 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 9 dinners
• 1 rental car (Class DA: Suzuki Vitara SUV, automatic transmission, or similar)
• Game drives Hwange National Park
• Sunset boat trip on the Zambezi
• Comprehensive travel documents according to the booked tour itinerary
• Local offices with 24-hour hotline (German/English)
• Travel insurance certificate

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• Meals not mentioned
• not mentioned or optional activities
• Flight performance
• Entrance fees and conservation fees not mentioned
• other personal expenses, tips
• personal travel insurance
• Additional costs for rental car (conditions see below)

DAY 1 TO DAY 2:

HARARE

On arrival at Harare airport or at the agreed station, you will receive your rental car. Harare is the green capital of the country and, despite its population of over one million, exudes a calm and relaxed atmosphere. The city is located in the highlands of Zimbabwe, around 1500 meters above sea level, so the temperatures are still moderate and pleasant even in midsummer. Harare is not only the political but also the cultural and economic center of Zimbabwe. The city offers good shopping opportunities, a varied nightlife and, with the Queen Victoria Museum and the National Gallery of Zimbabwe, two world-class institutions that are well worth seeing.

You stay at the comfortable Amanzi Lodge in a quiet, northern suburb of Harare. You can relax in the large garden or by the pool. With their thatched roofs, the rooms blend harmoniously into the garden and have all been designed in the style of different African countries. All of the city's sights are just a few minutes away by car. (16 rooms and suites: Bath/WC, air conditioning, heating, safe, TV, tea/coffee station, WLAN, balcony/terrace. Guest house: garden, pool, terrace, tennis court, spa, lounge, fitness area, restaurant, bar)

AMANZI LODGE (STANDARD ROOM)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 2 TO DAY 4 (APPROX. 250 KM):

EASTERN HIGHLANDS

The Eastern Highlands are something like the Garden of Eden of Zimbabwe. The fertile highlands stretch along the border with Mozambique from Nyanga National Park in the north via the provincial capital Mutare near the Bvumba Mountains to Chimanimani. Unique mountain landscapes, impressive waterfalls, centuries-old ruins and rural idylls await you here. Nature lovers will get their money's worth with hiking, fishing, horse riding and mountain biking.

Rupurara Valley Lodge is idyllically situated in the heart of the Rupurara Valley in Zimbabwe’s Eastern Highlands, surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills. The lodge offers a peaceful, nature-oriented atmosphere and is the perfect base for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the fascinating landscape of the Eastern Highlands. Nature lovers and those seeking peace and quiet will both find what they’re looking for here, while the lodge offers various on-site activities (some for a fee).
(12 rooms: bath/toilet, fan, tea/coffee station, veranda. Lodge: garden, pool, lounge, restaurant, spa, hiking trails)

RUPURARA VALLEY LODGE (STANDARD ROOM)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 4 TO DAY 6 (APPROX. 100 KM):

MUTARE

The region around Mutare in eastern Zimbabwe captivates visitors with its impressive mountain landscapes, lush forests, and rich culture. As the gateway to the picturesque Eastern Highlands, Mutare offers ideal conditions for nature experiences, hikes, and encounters with the local population. Visitors can expect spectacular views, a diverse array of flora and fauna, and authentic insights into life in one of Zimbabwe’s most beautiful regions. The combination of nature, hospitality, and cultural diversity makes Mutare an attractive destination for explorers and those seeking relaxation.

You’ll stay at the beautiful Musangano Lodge, nestled between forested hills and striking rock formations. The cozy chalets are detached and scattered across the spacious grounds, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The expansive grounds of Musangano Lodge feature a variety of activities, including cycling and hiking trails, sports and play areas, and a large pool. In addition, the lodge works very closely with local communities and can arrange farm tours or village visits upon request, offering a very authentic insight into the lives of Zimbabweans. (These visits should definitely be arranged a few weeks before arrival)
All 10 chalets feature a bathroom/toilet, a tea/coffee station, a refrigerator, a TV, a fireplace, a veranda, and Wi-Fi. The lodge offers a garden, a pool, a terrace, a restaurant, and a playground.

MUSANGANO LODGE (CHALET )

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH HALF BOARD

DAY 5: MUTARE

ZIMBABWE UP CLOSE

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FOR AN EXTRA CHARGE

Zimbabwe is considered the country with the friendliest people in Africa, who, despite all of the country’s economic and political challenges, exude boundless openness, creativity, and a zest for life. The “Zimbabwe Up Close” program offers authentic encounters with the people and culture of Zimbabwe. Visitors gain fascinating insights into social projects, educational and community initiatives, learn about local crafts, or visit rural families, schools, and nonprofit organizations.
The daily itinerary is tailored entirely to your interests.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 6 TO DAY 8 (APPROX. 310 KM):

MASVINGO

The historic ruins of Great Zimbabwe are located a few kilometers south of Masvingo and were once the capital of the defunct Monomotapa Empire. Zimbabwe translates as "Great Stone Houses" and parts of this once mighty city can still be seen today. Great Zimbabwe's heyday is dated to the 11th to 15th centuries and the remaining walls and towers still give an idea of its former wealth and power. The ruins have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986.

On the northern shore of Lake Mutirikwi (Lake Kyle) about 30 km outside Masvingo lies the highly recommended new owner-managed lodge Romeldas Lakeside Retreat. You stay in one of six tent chalets on the lakeshore, some of which are on stilts, all of which have their own bathroom/WC, a fan, a tea/coffee station and a private veranda with a view of the lake. The accommodation offers a cozy bar, a restaurant, a pool, a viewing deck, a fireplace, free Wi-Fi and a terraced camping area with sanitary facilities and electricity a little further away from the main building. The small, tranquil site has been lovingly landscaped and planted, and there are boat trips and other activities on offer (for a fee).

ROMELDA LAKESIDE RETREAT (TENTED ROOM)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH HALF BOARD

DAY 8 TO DAY 10:

MATOBO

The unique Matobo National Park south of Bulawayo is the oldest game reserve in the country. It is best known for its population of white and black rhino. It is also home to antelopes, big cats, giraffes and zebras. Matobo impresses with its striking granite rocks. Huge, round granite spheres can be found here and sometimes they balance on top of each other as if stacked by a giant. The grave of the British explorer Cecil Rhodes is located in the middle of huge boulders at the so-called World's View and numerous caves in the park are dotted with ancient rock paintings by the indigenous people.

Matobo Hills Lodge is located directly at Matobo National Park and access is exclusively via the park. A friendly and spacious lodge in a fantastic location awaits you here. The detached chalets are built of granite and thatched to match the landscape. (18 chalets: bath/WC, tea/coffee station. Lodge: pool, terrace, restaurant, lounge, bar)

MATOBO HILLS LODGE (LUXURY CHALET)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH HALF BOARD

DAY 8 TO DAY 10 (APPROX. 360 KM):

MATOBO

OPTIONAL UPGRADE FROM 155 € PER PERSON

The unique Matobo National Park south of Bulawayo is the oldest game reserve in the country. It is best known for its population of white and black rhino. It is also home to antelopes, big cats, giraffes and zebras. Matobo impresses with its striking granite rocks. Huge, round granite spheres can be found here and sometimes they balance on top of each other as if stacked by a giant. The grave of the British explorer Cecil Rhodes is located in the middle of huge boulders at the so-called World's View and numerous caves in the park are dotted with ancient rock paintings by the indigenous people.

The Big Cave Camp is situated on a large granite rock and offers a unique view over the Matobo National Park. The lodge is integrated into the Matobo Mountains and adapted to the rugged granite landscape. The main area, built under a thatched roof, resembles a light-flooded cave. Activities such as game drives or rhino tracking are offered for a fee (English-speaking and with additional persons). (8 chalets: bath/WC, tea/coffee station, veranda. Lodge: rock pool, fireplace, lounge, bar, restaurant)

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

Please return your rental car to Bulawayo Airport or the agreed-upon drop-off location at least two hours before your flight departure.

BIG CAVE CAMP (STANDARD ROOM)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH HALF BOARD

DAY 9 (APPROX. 360 KM): MATOBO

RHINO TRACKING

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 90 € PER PERSON

You drive into Matobo National Park in an open off-road vehicle and set off with your professional guide in search of rhinos. With a bit of luck, you will spot the animals and then continue on foot. Depending on the state of the day and the mood of the animals, you can get very close to the impressive rhinos and observe them at close range.

Please note: The wilderness is not a zoo, so there is no guarantee that you will actually see the rhinos during this tour.

The tour is in English and takes place with other people. Children under the age of 16 are not allowed to take part in this activity.
This excursion lasts around 3-4 hours and should be booked in advance during the high season, as places are rarely available at short notice.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 10: BULAWAYO

ONE-WAY TRANSFER TO HWANGE

In the case of a transfer from your accommodation, you will be picked up at the entrance of your guesthouse, lodge or hotel at the agreed time. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation or at the airport.

For transfers from the airport, you will be met personally in the arrivals hall. Please look out for a person carrying a sign with your name on it. If an explicit pick-up point or meeting point is mentioned in your tour book, please go there. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation.

This private transfer is operated by a qualified English-speaking driver. The vehicle is air-conditioned and corresponds to your private group size, there are no other passengers. The transfer company has all the necessary licenses and insurance for its vehicles and drivers to guarantee legal passenger transportation (no Uber or similar). For long-distance transfers, toilet and catering stops are made as required (catering not included in the price).

Please return your rental car to Bulawayo Airport or the agreed-upon drop-off location at least two hours before your flight departure.

DAY 10 TO DAY 13 (APPROX. 310 KM):

HWANGE

The almost 15,000 km² Hwange National Park is located in the foothills of the Kalahari and is the most important nature reserve in Zimbabwe. The park's dense animal population includes over 40,000 elephants, 17,000 buffaloes, 6,000 impalas, 5,000 other antelopes and kudus, as well as 3,000 giraffes. Cheetahs, leopards, wild dogs, lions, waterbucks and many other animals of southern Africa are also at home here. The whole area is an almost flat savannah, with few natural waterholes and sparse vegetation, especially in the west. The best time for good game viewing is the dry season in winter from May to October.

The rustic Ivory Lodge is located in a private concession right next to Hwange National Park. There are no fences between the parks, so the animals can move freely. However, the camp is fenced, making it suitable for families with children. The chalets are all built on wooden platforms and have a beautiful view of the landscape and the waterhole in front of the camp. (9 chalets: bath/WC, fan, mosquito net, veranda. Lodge: restaurant and lounge, pool, observation stand with view of a waterhole, bar)

The price includes two activities per night (game drives, walking safaris), local drinks and laundry service. The transfers and activities are in English and are carried out with other people.

IVORY LODGE (STANDARD TREE HOUSE)

3X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND 6 ACTIVITIES

DAY 10 TO DAY 13 (APPROX. 310 KM):

HWANGE

OPTIONALLY UPGRADEABLE FROM 625 € PER PERSON

The almost 15,000 km² Hwange National Park is located in the foothills of the Kalahari and is the most important nature reserve in Zimbabwe. The park's dense animal population includes over 40,000 elephants, 17,000 buffaloes, 6,000 impalas, 5,000 other antelopes and kudus, as well as 3,000 giraffes. Cheetahs, leopards, wild dogs, lions, waterbucks and many other animals of southern Africa are also at home here. The whole area is an almost flat savannah, with few natural waterholes and sparse vegetation, especially in the west. The best time for good game viewing is the dry season in winter from May to October.

Khulu Bush Camp is situated on a 6,000-hectare private concession on the edge of Hwange National Park. The camp is situated on a dry riverbed that has left a lively waterhole directly in front of the lodge. The detached safari suites are built on raised platforms with canvas walls and thatched roofs and all enjoy magnificent views of the waterhole. (6 suites: Bath/WC, mosquito net, fan, minibar, safe, tea/coffee station, veranda. Lodge: plunge pool, terrace, lounge, restaurant, bar, fireplace, WLAN, waterhole)

The price includes local drinks as well as half or full day game drives in Hwange National Park, night drives on the concession area and visits to the Painted Dog Conservation Center. All activities are in English and are conducted with additional persons.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

KHULU BUSH CAMP (BUSH SUITE)

3X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND DRINKS AND 6 ACTIVITIES

DAY 13: HWANGE

SHUTTLE HWANGE - VIC FALLS

You will be met and picked up personally at Hwange Main Camp. The driver will take you to the airport in Victoria Falls, to a hotel or, by arrangement, to a different meeting point for another shuttle.

If an explicit pick-up location is stated on your voucher, please go there in good time. The transfer will be carried out by an English-speaking driver and possibly with other people.

TAG 13:

HWANGE

OPTIONALLY UPGRADEABLE FROM 335 € PER PERSON

Charter light aircraft are a popular way to travel to inaccessible areas of southern Africa.

Please note that light aircraft only allow soft bags with a maximum of 20 kg of luggage per passenger (hand luggage included). Suitcases or trolleys cannot be taken on board. Passengers weighing over 110 kg must book a second seat.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

SCHEDULED FLIGHT SHUTTLE HWANGE NATIONAL PARK – VICTORIA FALLS

DAY 13 TO DAY 15 (APPROX. 200 KM):

VICTORIA FALLS

The mighty Victoria Falls are located directly on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia and are without doubt one of the main attractions of southern Africa - a natural wonder that is second to none! The locals call the mighty waterfall "Mosi-oa-Tunya", which translates as "thundering smoke" and describes the natural spectacle very aptly. The Zambezi River plunges abruptly into a 110-metre-deep gorge over a length of more than one kilometer, producing an enormous spray that can be seen for miles depending on the season and water level. On Zimbabwe's side of the falls, a paved circular path leads directly along the gorge and offers a constantly changing view of the water masses from 16 different vantage points.

You will stay at the cozy Bayete Guest Lodge, which is situated on the outskirts of Victoria Falls. This beautiful and stylish lodge is run as a family business. Many attractions in the area and the town center can be reached on foot in about 30 minutes. (25 rooms: bath/WC, coffee/tea station, air conditioning. Lodge: garden, pool with sun deck, bar, dinner on request)

BAYETE GUEST LODGE (CLASSIC ROOM)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 13 TO DAY 15 (APPROX. 200 KM):

VICTORIA FALLS

OPTIONALLY UPGRADEABLE FROM 195 € PER PERSON

The mighty Victoria Falls are located directly on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia and are without doubt one of the main attractions of southern Africa - a natural wonder that is second to none! The locals call the mighty waterfall "Mosi-oa-Tunya", which translates as "thundering smoke" and describes the natural spectacle very aptly. The Zambezi River plunges abruptly into a 110-metre-deep gorge over a length of more than one kilometer, producing an enormous spray that can be seen for miles depending on the season and water level. On Zimbabwe's side of the falls, a paved circular path leads directly along the gorge and offers a constantly changing view of the water masses from 16 different vantage points.

The luxurious Ilala Lodge is just a ten-minute walk from the spectacular Victoria Falls. The town center of Victoria Falls, with its restaurants and numerous souvenir stores, is also just a few minutes' walk away. From many points of the lodge you can admire the spray of the falls. The lush garden of the lodge is occasionally visited by antelopes for a snack. The 73 rooms are equipped with bath/WC, air conditioning, fan, TV, coffee/tea station, hairdryer, safe, balcony or terrace. The lodge also offers a restaurant, a bar, a terrace with a view of the park and a pool.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

ILALA LODGE (CLASSIC ROOM)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 13: VICTORIA FALLS

SUNSET CRUISE ON RA-IKANE

You take a sunset cruise on the upper part of the Zambezi River and have the opportunity to spot hippos, elephants and crocodiles as well as numerous bird species. As the sun slowly sinks, you can enjoy a cool drink and savor the wonderful moment.
The Ra-Ikane is a small, exclusive boat for a maximum of 16 people. It was named after Lazarus Ra-Ikane, the guide of Victoria Falls explorer David Livingstone, and is modeled on the boat of the mission at the time.

You will be picked up at your accommodation for the activity and brought back after the tour. The tour lasts approx. 2 hours, the national park fee is included in the price. The tour language is English and other people take part in this activity.

DAY 14: VICTORIA FALLS

TOUR OF THE FALLS

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 110 € PER PERSON

On this tour, you will get up close to the mighty Victoria Falls. Together with a local guide, you will visit the various viewpoints on the paved circular trail along the gorge. During these impressive views of the masses of water, you will learn a lot about the geological formation of the Victoria Falls and the history of their discovery by the British David Livingstone from your guide.

You will be picked up at your accommodation for the activity and brought back after the tour. The tour lasts approx. 2 hours, the national park fee is included in the price. The tour language is English and other people take part in this activity.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 14: VICTORIA FALLS

CANOPY TOUR

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 105 € PER PERSON

Experience the Victoria Falls and the deep gorge of the Zambezi from a completely different perspective! A network of nine ziplines, hiking trails and a rope bridge leads you through the dense forest along the mighty gorge and to unique viewpoints of the Zambezi, the spray of the Victoria Falls and the imposing Victoria Falls Bridge.

You will be picked up at your accommodation for the activity and brought back after the tour. The tour lasts approx. 2.5 hours and the national park fee is included in the price. The tour language is English and other people take part in this activity.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 15: VICTORIA FALLS

SHUTTLE HOTEL - VIC FALLS AIRPORT

You will be met personally in the lobby of your accommodation in Victoria Falls and picked up to be taken to Victoria Falls Airport.

If an explicit pick-up location is stated on your voucher, please go there in good time. The transfer will be carried out by an English-speaking driver and possibly with other people.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THIS TRIP

All prices quoted are subject to availability before booking and are based on the number of participants stated. Errors excepted. Alternative availability, seasonal overlaps or exchange rate fluctuations may lead to price changes. Please request your personal tour offer with your desired travel dates. This tour offer does not include flights.

The child rate applies to one child under the age of 12 staying in their parents' room. One child under the age of two stays free of charge. For children aged 12 and over, the adult rate generally applies. Not all accommodation allows children of all ages.

We recommend that you take out travel cancellation insurance and travel health insurance to cover the costs of assistance, including repatriation in the event of accident, illness or death. We can provide a corresponding offer on request.

A passport is required to enter the country. A tourist visa must be obtained upon entry. Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a visa in advance. Minors under the age of 18 may need to carry additional documents. We will inform you of the exact requirements before you book. Travelers who have stayed in an area at risk of yellow fever must provide proof of a yellow fever vaccination.

This trip is not suitable for people with reduced mobility. Please ask for suitable offers.

Apart from a few regions above 1200m, Zimbabwe is an area at risk of malaria. Please ask your doctor whether prophylaxis is advisable for you.

The organizer of this trip is South Africa Travel GmbH & Co. KG, Buddestraße 9, 33602 Bielefeld, Germany, Tel +49 521 33676880.

Left-hand traffic prevails on the roads of southern Africa.

CAR RENTAL CONDITIONS FROM EUROPCAR

The following services are included in the price: unlimited mileage, accident/theft insurance with no deductible (including damage to tires, roof, glass, underbody, oil pan, and clutch), liability insurance up to 10 million euros, towing costs in the event of an accident or mechanical breakdown, and local taxes and fees.

The following services are not included in the price and must be paid for on site: gas, tolls, security deposit, and the one-way fee from Harare to Bulawayo (265 USD).

The following services are not included in the price and may be charged on site: additional driver—$18 per rental; child seat—$8 per day.

To rent a car, you will need a valid credit card in the primary driver’s name, an international driver’s license, and a passport. All drivers must be at least 22 years old and have held a driver’s license for at least two years. The security deposit is charged to your credit card but will not be charged if the vehicle is returned in good condition with a full tank of gas.

The local car rental company reserves the right to provide models of the same or higher class. The rental car listed is merely an example of the confirmed vehicle class. The costs to be paid on site in USD are set by the local car rental company and are subject to change without notice.

The A8 highway between Bulawayo and Hwange is in very poor condition and must not be driven on with this vehicle.

APPROXIMATE ADDITIONAL COSTS THAT ARE NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

Long-haul flights to Southern Africa in Economy Class cost from EUR 900, while prices can be well over EUR 1000 in the high season. Flights in Premium Economy Class are available from 1500 EUR, in Business Class flights cost from 2500 EUR (per person for outward and return flights). All prices are average values depending on the airline and season. The actual prices at a given time depend on the number of bookings and may vary. Early booking is recommended, especially in the high season.

A light lunch costs around EUR 7 (small salad, soup) to EUR 13 (pizza, pasta, burger) per person, a dinner around EUR 17 (pizza, pasta, burger, large salad) to EUR 24 (steak, fish) to EUR 29 (three-course meal) per person. Coffee, tea, beer or soft drinks cost around EUR 2.80 per cup or glass. Prices may vary upwards or downwards depending on the region or type of restaurant.

One liter of fuel (gasoline or diesel) costs about 1 EUR. You should budget about 140 EUR for fuel for this trip.

Entrance fees to national parks cost between EUR 5 and EUR 25 per person per day, depending on the size and popularity of the park. Entrance fees to museums or other attractions cost between EUR 3 and EUR 20 per person. Children under the age of 12 usually pay half price.