Zimbabwe Circuit by Private Label Guide

Duration: 13 Nights

Highlights: Johannesburg, Victoria Falls, Mana Pools National Park, Lake Kariba, Hwange National Park

Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrive Johannesburg

Johannesburg, one of the world's youngest major cities, offers first world infrastructure a variety of hotels, world-class restaurants and a chance to experience the rich culture and history of South Africa. Commonly known as Jo’burg or Jozi, this rapidly changing city is the vibrant heart of South Africa and the gateway to Southern Africa.

On arrival at O.R. Tambo International Airport, a Menzies representative will meet you planeside and assist you through to the Arrivals Hall and onto The Intercontinental O.R Tambo Johannesburg.

South Africa's only luxury hotel at an airport, the InterContinental Johannesburg O.R Tambo Airport is perfectly and safely located just a short walk from the arrivals hall of Johannesburg's largest international airport.
The hotel's rooms are impeccably appointed and include added features such as spacious showers, blackout curtains, soundproofed rooms and king beds. Other amenities include the Camelot Spa, which provides a host of pampering and rejuvenating treatments, gym, indoor heated swimming pool, and a uniquely African dining experience at the hotel's Quills Restaurant.

Overnight: InterContinental Johannesburg O.R Tambo Airport - Classic Room

Meal Plan: B

Day 2 - Johannesburg to Victoria Falls

A UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site, Victoria Falls is situated on the western tip of Zimbabwe. The Falls, known by the local Kololo tribe as Mosi oa Tunya, the smoke that thunders, is one of the "Seven Wonders of the World" and one of the largest and most spectacular waterfalls on earth. The falls are 1.7 kilometres wide and nearly 550 million litres of water cascade 70 to 108 metres into the chasm below -every minute- during the Zambezi River's peak flow. Victoria Falls is made of five different "falls". Four of these are in Zimbabwe: The Devil's Cataract, Main Falls, Rainbow Falls and Horseshoe Falls -and one, The Eastern Cataract, is in the bordering country of Zambia.

Victoria Falls National Park cover an area of 56,000 hectares. The northern border of the Park is formed by the great Zambezi River which also forms the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia for much of its length. A wide variety of larger mammals may be found within the Zambezi National Park including The Big Five: elephant, lion, buffalo, leopard and white rhinoceros. In addition, herds of sable antelope, eland, zebra, giraffe, kudu, waterbuck and impala as well as many of the smaller species of game can be viewed. The Zambezi River is home to a large variety of fish and is famous for its bream and fighting tiger fish.

Meet your representative in the reception area of the Hotel for your short walk across to the Departure Hall to check in for your commercial flight to Victoria Falls.

Upon arrival at Victoria Falls International Airport, please clear customs and immigration and collect your luggage. Proceed to the Arrivals Hall where you are met by our representative and transferred to your hotel. The transfer time is approximately 25 minutes.

Overnight: Ilala Lodge - Deluxe Room

Meal Plan: B

Day 3 - Victoria Falls

Enjoy the activities on offer in Victoria Falls with your Private Label Guide.

Suggested touring – can be adjusted according to guests preferences

Tour of the falls: A tour of the Victoria Falls affords not only a view of one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World but information about their creation and geology, the unique eco-system of the rainforest, daring exploits of colonial explorers and magical tales of local legend under the constant spray from the 'The Smoke that Thunders'. The Tour Guides will ensure the best photographic opportunities of this World Heritage Site while providing fascinating facts and figures of this iconic waterfall

Helicopter flight of Angels: Experience the 'Flight of Angels' perspective first hand. Originally coined by David Livingstone when he first wrote about the area surrounding the Falls- 'a sight so wonderful that Angels must have gazed down on it in flight'. The flight will complete orbits to the left and right-hand side, over Victoria Falls, in both directions giving you the best viewing, photographic and filming opportunities. Follow the mighty gorges for a short distance before returning to the helipad.

Afternoon Elephant Encounter: The Elephant Encounter afford you the opportunity to unobtrusively interact with some of the biggest personalities in Africa, in a pristine wilderness environment overflowing with raw natural beauty. Spend time and connect with elephants in the most positive and natural way possible.

An open-design thatch Boma gives uninterrupted views of the beautiful Masuwe River, and against this breath-taking back drop, you will be given an insightful and educational presentation on the Wild Horizons Elephant Sanctuary and Orphanage. The sanctuary was founded on the principle of conservation, and one of the most effective ways to evoke a sense of environmental responsibility is to show what stands to be lost. You will have an opportunity to talk to guides that have journeyed -physically and metaphorically, incredible distances with these elephants, and learn more about the complexities of the individuals and the herd structures. Learn about the elephant as well as their history and how they came to be in The Sanctuary's care as well as the threats facing elephant populations today, in an interesting and informative talk.

Overnight: Ilala Lodge - Deluxe Room

Meal Plan: B

Day 4 - Victoria Falls

Another day of adventure!

Cycling tour: Depart on your Half Day cycle tour through Victoria Falls. Victoria Falls is brimming with craft markets, enticing restaurants and an array of shops. Explore this exciting town, led by your guide, to your hearts content. You can also cycle along the Zambezi River, visit the famous Big Tree (a baobab tree estimated to 3500 years old), enjoy spectacular views of the Batoka Gorges below the Falls and cycle across the Victoria Falls Bridge. We recommend you have basic cycling experience when joining the trip.

Sundowner cruise: In the early evening, enjoy a sundowner cruise and dinner on the Zambezi river. Enjoy a chilled flute of sparkling wine before you settle down on the top floor of the vessel for a sunset cruise before dinner. Amuse bouche and snack platters are served while the sun sinks below the shimmering surface of the Zambezi. The upper deck provides the ideal space to watch one of Victoria Falls famous sunsets. Afterwards dinner is served on the lower deck of the vessel, an incredible seven-course meal and all-inclusive drinks prepared on board by two Chefs.

Overnight: Ilala Lodge - Deluxe Room

Meal Plan: B

Day 5 - Victoria Falls to Mana Pools

Mana Pools National Park, a World Heritage Site, is situated in the northern region of Zimbabwe, on the southern banks of the Zambezi River. The area is home to a wide range of large mammals and over 350 bird species. The name "Mana'' means "four" in the local Shona language referring to the four large pools inland from the Zambezi River.

Meet your guide in the reception area of the hotel for your transfer to Victoria Falls Airport. The transfer time is approximately 25 minutes. Depart Victoria Falls by Safari Logistics shared light aircraft flight to Mana Pools. The flying time is approximately two hours and 10 minutes. Kindly note, however, that all inter-camp flights are subject to multiple pick ups and drop-offs en route to your destination which, could affect the flying time.

Nyamatusi Camp is set in one of the wildest and most remote parts of Africa, on the banks of the Zambezi, one of the world's oldest rivers. Here, your Mana Pools safari plays out against a sweeping riverine landscape, where epic encounters of the giants that roam this land await. Each luxury tented suite offers uninterrupted views of the river and escarpment beyond, a blissful escape to nature with indoor and outdoor showers plus a private viewing deck and plunge pool. Your Mana Pools safari follows the gentle ebb and flow of life on the river. Marvel at the incredible sights and sounds of one of Africa's last remaining wilderness hinterlands from the cosy bar or, refreshing pool.

The remainder of your day is at leisure to enjoy an activity on offer.

Overnight: Nyamatusi Camp - Standard Tent

Meal Plan: B,L,D

Day 6 & 7 - Mana Pools

Enjoy the game viewing activities on offer at the camp with your Private Label Guide.

Walking Safaris: Away from the comfort of a safari vehicle, all your senses are suddenly awakened when you are on foot. Our walking guides will accompany you through the bush while teaching you about animal spoor, interesting insects, plants and the geology of the area.

Game Drives: Led by experienced guides, you’ll see magnificent wildlife indigenous to the area. Your guide will show you the hidden spots best for game viewing and give you an insider’s knowledge. 

Canoeing Safari: The Lower Zambezi River is the perfect setting for an adventurous canoeing safari. Paddle along the tranquil waters of the Zambezi River and take in the pristine scenery of Mana Pools National Park from a unique angle. On your canoeing safari you’ll get the chance to see wildlife such as hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and incredible birdlife.

Catch and Release Fishing: Try your hand at fishing from the banks of the Zambezi River. Fish for tiger, bream (tilapia), vundu, and many other species on a catch and release basis.

Bird Watching: Delight in the call of the African skimmer, photograph the Southern carmine bee-eater or the Narina trogon. Or simply sit back and enjoy their beautiful songs.

Overnight: Nyamatusi Camp - Standard Tent

Meal Plan: B,L,D

Day 8 - Mana Pools to Lake Kariba

With 2,000 km of shoreline, Lake Kariba is the fourth largest man-made lake in the world and the second largest in Africa – a truly impressive place to explore, especially by boat. The lake lies along the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia and the portion which falls within Zimbabwe has been designated a Recreational Park within the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Estate. Situated on the sparkling shores of Lake Kariba, the beautiful Matusadona National Park was proclaimed a non-hunting area in 1958 and as such is wonderfully rich in wildlife and vegetation. The Park boasts a unique combination of pristine and rugged wilderness with the “water frontage” of Lake Kariba.

Depart Mana Pools by Safari Logistics shared light aircraft flight to Kariba. The flying time is approximately 30 minutes. Kindly note, however, that all inter-camp flights are subject to multiple pick ups and drop-offs en route to your destination which, could affect the flying time.

Set on a range of remote hills in one of Zimbabwe's finest wilderness locations, Bumi Hills Safari Lodge is utterly captivating. With the Zambezi escarpment as its backdrop, this haven of serenity overlooks the eternal shimmering waters of Lake Kariba below. The spacious suites are thoughtfully appointed with all the comforts you expect of a luxurious Lake Kariba lodge, while the Baobab Villa, a two-bedroomed private villa, complete with its own living room and indoor and outdoor dining decks is ideal for families. The stresses of modern life melt away at the blissful spa where the sparkling infinity pool offers cool respite and endless views of shimmering Lake Kariba below. For the active guest, the well-equipped gym is an invigorating prospect. Not only is Kariba's shoreline rich in wildlife but the lodge's proximity to Matusadona allows for the animals roam freely between the national park and Bumi Hills' private concession.

The remainder of your day is at leisure to enjoy an activity on offer.

Overnight: Bumi Hills Safari Lodge - Standard Room

Meal Plan: B,L,D

Day 9 & 10 - Lake Kariba

Lunch on Starvation Island: After a morning game drive, enjoy a delicious lunch on Starvation Island

Birding at Lake Kariba: Delight in the call of the Giant kingfisher; photograph the majestic Squacco heron or Collared pratincole. Or simply sit back and enjoy their beautiful songs.

Private Dinner over-looking Lake Kariba: Enjoy dinner from atop the hills overlooking Lake Kariba. This iconic view is the undoubtedly the best in Kariba.

Fishing: Chart a course across the watery wilderness of Lake Kariba and discover the aquatic wonders of this life-giving body of water. Boat-based adventures afford a unique glimpse into the mysteries of Lake Kariba. Experience the thrill of catch-and-release fishing, observe unique bird-life of the area and relish eye-level wildlife encounters.

Sunset Cruise: From your floating vantage, sundowner in hand, watch (and listen) as elephants, embossed against a shimmering copper sunset, slake their thirst in mighty Lake Kariba.

Walking Safaris: Awaken your senses and discover all that the bush has to offer on a walking safari. Accompanied by an experienced walking guide, explore the wild for one to two hours.

Star Gazing: After a day in the bush, relax next to the camp fire and allow yourself to get lost in the starry night above. At night the stars utterly dominate the land; their brilliance and immediacy are totally arresting.

Night Drives: Private concessions allow for game drives after the sun has set. Experience the bush when elusive nocturnal wildlife awakens to hunt, forage and live their lives under the cover of darkness.

Overnight: Bumi Hills Safari Lodge - Standard Room

Meal Plan: B,L,D

Day 11 - Lake Kariba to Hwange National Park

Hwange National Park is the largest Park in Zimbabwe occupying roughly 14 650 square kilometers. It is located in the northwest corner of the country, about one hour south of the mighty Victoria Falls. Hwange boasts a tremendous selection of wildlife with over 100 species of mammals and nearly 400 bird species recorded. The elephants of Hwange are world famous and the Park's elephant population is one of the largest in the world.

Depart Kariba by Safari Logistics shared light aircraft flight to Hwange. The flying time is approximately one hour and 30 minutes.

Kindly note, however, that all inter-camp flights are subject to multiple pick ups and drop-offs en route to your destination which, could affect the flying time.

Somalisa Camp provides guests with breathtaking views of the golden savannah plains of Hwange. A place where, one moment you are sipping on your gin and tonic listening to the distant baritone roar of a lion coalition on the hunt and the next, you are gazing over at a congregation of elephants mere meters away, peacefully sharing a sundowner with you. Hwange National Park is a land of contrasts from dense teak and acacia forest to vast open savannah, offering guests an exhibition of raw and diverse Africa. This camp is marvelously tucked away under the dappled shade of an Acacia grove, along the edge of an ancient seasonal floodplain.

The remainder of your day is at leisure to enjoy a game viewing activity.

Overnight: Somalisa Camp - Standard Tent

Meal Plan: B,L,D

Day 12 & 13 - Hwange National Park

Enjoy the game viewing activities on offer at the camp on a private basis.

Bird Watching: Hwange National Park offers some of Zimbabwe’s best birding. Delight in the call of the racket-tailed roller or the kori bustard, and photograph the majestic Martial eagle.

Cultural Visits: Working together with the communities located in the surrounding areas gives locals an opportunity to be self-sustainable. By sharing knowledge there has been a decrease in the human-wildlife conflict. Take the opportunity to visit the locals and become accustomed to their way of life.

Game Drives: Led by experienced guides, you’ll see magnificent wildlife indigenous to the area. Your guide will show you the hidden spots best for game viewing and give you an insider’s knowledge. With years of experience, African Bush Camps guides are known for being some of the best in the business.

Overnight: Somalisa Camp - Standard Tent

Meal Plan: B,L,D

Day 14 - Depart

Depart Somalisa by Safari Logistics shared light aircraft flight to Victoria Falls. The flying time is approximately 45 minutes. 

Arrive at the airport for your connecting flight to Johannesburg.

We wish you farewell as you embark on your oward flight home.

Meal Plan: B