Zimbabwe's Treasures for Connoisseurs

ABOUT THIS TRIP

Discover Zimbabwe’s treasures on an 11-day fly-in safari to the country’s finest lodges. Your journey begins at the most beautiful waterfalls in the world, Victoria Falls. From there, you’ll fly by light aircraft to Hwange National Park in the south, the country’s largest national park, home to a breathtaking number of elephants. But there are countless other animals to discover as well. The journey continues by light aircraft to Kariba Dam and the remote Mana Pools National Park, which also offer excellent wildlife viewing opportunities both on land and in the water. Your journey finally ends in Harare. Customized changes to the itinerary or alternative departure airports are available upon request; we would be happy to send you a personalized quote. Mana Pools is difficult to access during the rainy season from January to March. Upon request, we would be happy to create a customized itinerary for you during that time of year.

OVERNIGHT STATIONS

• 2x Victoria Falls
• 3x Hwange
• 2x Lake Kariba
• 3x Mana Pools

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• 10x overnight stay in the Deluxe category *****
• 10 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 8 dinners
• private transfers and regional flights according to program
• Sunset boat trip on the Zambezi
• Game drives Hwange National Park
• Activities at Lake Kariba
• Activities Mana Pools National Park
• 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
• Long-haul flights
• Entrance fees and conservation fees not mentioned
• other personal expenses, tips
• personal travel insurance
• Continuous tour guide

DAY 1: VICTORIA FALLS

PRIVATE TRANSFER HOTEL - VIC FALLS AIRPORT

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).

DAY 1 TO DAY 3:

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 thundering masses of water from 16 different vantage points. But the small town of Victoria Falls has a lot more to offer: relaxed boat and canoe trips on the upper part of the Zambezi River, adventurous rafting on the lower part in the gorge, helicopter flights over the falls and much more.

Built in 1904, the Victoria Falls Hotel is situated in the Victoria Falls National Park. With its view of the Victoria Falls Bridge and the Zambezi River Gorge, it is one of Africa's most famous hotels - world-renowned for its elegance and charm. Due to the spacious development, the size of the 161 rooms is hardly noticeable. All rooms have a bathroom/WC, a coffee/tea station, air conditioning, a hairdryer, a TV, a telephone and a minibar. The hotel offers three restaurants, a terrace, a bar, a pool, a spacious garden, a fitness room, a hairdresser, a spa area (for a fee) and a souvenir store.

THE VICTORIA FALLS HOTEL (DELUXE SUITE)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 1 TO DAY 3:

VICTORIA FALLS

OPTIONALLY UPGRADEABLE FROM 385 € 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.

Victoria Falls River Lodge is the first private lodge in Zambezi National Park, about a 30-minute drive from Victoria Falls town. The luxurious tented lodge is located on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River and offers great views of the river. Wild animals are a common sight around the camp. The 13 luxurious tented suites feature a bathroom/WC with separate bathtub, an outdoor shower, a hairdryer, a minibar, a coffee/tea station, a mosquito net, a fan, a safe, and a veranda with a private plunge pool. The lodge offers a restaurant, lounge, bar, spa area (for a fee), pool, free Wi-Fi, and three observation hides overlooking a waterhole.

The price includes local beverages, transfers to/from Victoria Falls, and two guided activities per night, with a choice of game drives, boat tours, or excursions to the town and waterfalls (English-speaking, conducted with other guests). Conservation fees are not included in the price and are payable on site.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

VICTORIA FALLS RIVER LODGE (LUXURY TENT)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND DRINKS AND 4 ACTIVITIES

DAY 1: 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 2: 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 3: VICTORIA FALLS

PRIVATE TRANSFER HOTEL - VIC FALLS AIRPORT

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).

DAY 3: VICTORIA FALLS

FLIGHT VICTORIA FALLS - HWANGE

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.

DAY 3 TO DAY 6:

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.

In the eastern part of Hwange National Park, the luxurious Somalisa Camp offers pure African flair! This nature-oriented camp is the perfect blend of African elegance, warm hospitality, and untamed wilderness. Directly in front of the lodge is a waterhole that is visited daily by large herds of elephants and other animals, and dinner is traditionally served under the clear starry sky around the campfire. The seven spacious tented suites have been built under old acacia trees and are equipped with every conceivable comfort: bathroom/WC, outdoor shower, mosquito net, fan, fireplace, veranda, safe, tea/coffee station. The camp offers a pool, a viewing deck, a lounge, a restaurant, a bar, and a boma (traditional dining area around a campfire).

The price includes local beverages as well as half-day or full-day game drives in Hwange National Park, walking safaris, and night drives. All activities are conducted in English and are shared with other guests. Conservation fees are not included in the price and are payable on site.

SOMALISA CAMP (LUXURY TENT)

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

DAY 6: HWANGE

FLIGHT HWANGE – BUMI HILLS

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.

DAY 6 TO DAY 8:

LAKE KARIBA

Lake Kariba, which lies exactly on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, is one of the largest man-made lakes that dams the Zambezi River. The walls of the Kariba Dam have a height of 128m and form a lake with a size of 5200 square kilometers at full capacity. The Kariba Dam is a very special place of incredible beauty: set amidst the mountains, with the white branches of dead trees rising from the water, Lake Kariba is a photographer's dream. On the southern side of the lake, with more than 1000 km of shoreline, sun-drenched African hills, tranquil backwaters and numerous islands, the lake covers an area of around 6000 sq km and is rich in flora and fauna.

The Bumi Hills Safari Lodge is situated on a hill in one of Zimbabwe's most beautiful wilderness areas. From the lodge you can enjoy a fascinating view of the lake and the beautiful landscape. The shoreline is rich in wildlife, creating endless game viewing opportunities. (10 rooms: bath/WC, outdoor shower, air conditioning, desk, hairdryer, balcony with view. Lodge: restaurant, lounge, pool, terrace, bar, library, gym, spa).

The lodge offers various activities such as day and night game drives, walking safaris, boat trips, fishing and visits to local villages. These activities are included in the price. All activities are conducted in English with additional persons.

BUMI HILLS SAFARI LODGE (Lake View Room)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND DRINKS AND 4 ACTIVITIES

DAY 8: LAKE KARIBA

FLIGHT FROM BUMI HILLS TO MANA POOLS

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.

DAY 8 TO DAY 11:

MANA POOLS

At 2196 square kilometers, Mana Pools is the third largest national park in the country. It lies between the Zambezi Escarpment and the Zambezi River. The Nama "Mana" means "four" and stands for the four oxbow pools Main Pool, Chine Pool, Long Pool and Chisambik Pool. The area is known for large groups of elephant, buffalo, hippo and eland, especially in winter when the animals are concentrated along the river. Predators such as lions, leopards and wild dogs are also found in the area. In addition, the birdlife in this region is magnificent.

The luxurious Nyamatusi Camp is located directly on the banks of the Zambezi in the middle of the African wilderness. The ecologically built lodge blends in beautifully with nature and offers a fantastic view of the river. Spend your days here on game drives, hikes or canoe tours, always on the trail of the diverse wildlife. The six high-quality tented suites all have a bathroom/WC with indoor and outdoor showers, air conditioning and a viewing terrace with a private plunge pool.

NYAMATUSI CAMP (SPECIAL) (STANDARD ROOM)

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

DAY 8 TO DAY 11:

MANA POOLS

OPTIONAL UPGRADE STARTING AT €1,720 PER PERSON

Mana Pools is the third largest national park in the country with an area of around 2,500 square kilometers and is located in north-eastern Zimbabwe. Mana Pools has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984. The Nama "Mana" means "four" and stands for the four oxbow pools Main Pool, Chine Pool, Long Pool and Chisambik Pool. The Mana Pools National Park is home to elephants, waterbuck, impala, buffalo, leopards, lions, hippos, crocodiles, warthogs, baboons and various antelope species such as kudu, waterbuck, eland and around 300 bird species. With a bit of luck, you may even spot a pack of wild dogs.

Ruckomechi Camp is situated on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, on the western edge of Mana Pools National Park. Nestled beneath shady acacia and mahogany trees, the camp offers a magnificent view of the river and the mountains of Africa’s Great Rift Valley. (10 tents: shower/toilet, tea and coffee station, mosquito net, safe, fan, veranda. Camp: dining area, lounge, bar, pool).

Daily activities such as game drives, boat tours, canoe trips, walking safaris, and fishing, as well as local beverages, laundry service, and park entrance fees, are included in the price.
All activities are conducted in English and are shared with other guests.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

RUCKOMECHI CAMP (TENTED SUITE)

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

DAY 11: MANA POOLS

FLIGHT MANA POOLS - HARARE

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.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THIS TRIP

All prices quoted are subject to availability prior to booking and are based on the stated number of participants. Errors and omissions excepted. Alternative availability, seasonal overlaps, or exchange rate fluctuations may lead to price changes. Please request your personalized tour offer with your desired travel dates. This tour offer excludes flights (except for regional flights in southern Africa explicitly stated in the offer).

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.

If partial routes are flown in a light aircraft, there is a baggage limit of 15 kg in a soft bag plus one small item of hand baggage per person. Travelers weighing over 100kg must book two seats in the aircraft for an additional charge.

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.

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.