9 Days Zimbabwe Safari: Victoria Falls, Hwange, Lake Kariba, and Mana Pools

From $4,460 per person (based on two travelers)
Explore the wild landscapes of Zimbabwe in 9 days, covering iconic safari parks, lakes, and riverfront wilderness

Zimbabwe Safaris | Hwange National Park Safaris | Victoria Falls Holidays | Mana Pools Canoe Safaris | Lake Kariba Boat Tours

Day 1: Arrival in Victoria Falls – Welcome to Zimbabwe

Upon arrival at Victoria Falls International Airport, you’ll be met and transferred to your lodge located a few minutes from the falls. After check-in, relax and prepare for your first activity , a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. This scenic boat ride offers chances to view hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and a range of bird species while enjoying light refreshments.

Dinner and overnight stay at Ilala Lodge or similar.

Day 2: Victoria Falls – Guided Tour and Optional Activities

After breakfast, take a guided walk through the rainforest trails around Victoria Falls, known locally as “Mosi-oa-Tunya.” Covering over 1,700 meters, the falls send up sprays of mist visible from miles away. Your guide will lead you to the best viewpoints and explain the geology and local legends.

In the afternoon, enjoy optional activities such as bungee jumping, helicopter rides, or a cultural village tour. You may also explore the open-air curio markets or dine at one of the local restaurants.

Overnight at Ilala Lodge or similar.

Day 3: Transfer to Hwange National Park – Afternoon Game Drive

After breakfast, transfer by road to Hwange National Park (approximately 4 hours), Zimbabwe’s largest and most diverse national park. Encompassing over 14,000 square kilometers, Hwange is famous for its elephant population, predator density, and large herds of buffalo, sable antelope, and more.

After lunch and check-in at your lodge, depart for an afternoon game drive through the park’s diverse habitats.

Overnight at Somalisa Camp, The Hide, or similar.

Day 4: Full Day Wildlife Safari in Hwange

Spend the entire day on safari in different sections of Hwange National Park. The day includes morning and afternoon game drives with time to rest at camp midday. The park is home to over 100 species of mammals and more than 400 bird species.

Your guide will help locate lions, leopards, and possibly even African wild dogs, depending on recent movements. Elephants are frequently spotted around waterholes, especially in the dry season.

Overnight at Somalisa Camp or similar.

Day 5: Bush Walk and Optional Night Safari in Hwange

Start your day with a guided bush walk, where you will track animals on foot and learn about plants, insects, and animal tracks from a qualified guide. Walking safaris in Hwange offer a different perspective from vehicle game drives, with more focus on the small details and animal behavior.

Return for brunch and relaxation at your lodge. In the afternoon, opt for another game drive or take a night drive in the private concession area to see nocturnal animals like aardvark, genet, and porcupine.

Overnight at Somalisa Camp or similar.

Day 6: Transfer to Lake Kariba – Scenic Boat Safari

Today you will be transferred to Lake Kariba, one of the largest man-made lakes in the world. The journey may include a road-and-air transfer combination depending on your package.

Arrive at your lakeside lodge and relax before boarding a sunset boat safari. Lake Kariba’s shores attract elephants, hippos, and crocodiles, while the waters reflect the golden hues of the setting sun.

Dinner and overnight at Bumi Hills Safari Lodge or similar.

Day 7: Lake Kariba – Walking Safari and Local Exploration

In the morning, head out for a walking safari around the lake’s fringe areas. Your guide will point out birds, tracks, plants, and signs of recent wildlife activity. Lake Kariba is known for bushbuck, waterbuck, and sometimes even lions near the shorelines.

After a late breakfast, visit a nearby fishing village or relax with panoramic views of the lake. Later, enjoy a boat excursion to explore the islands and birdlife.

Overnight at Bumi Hills Safari Lodge or similar.

Day 8: Flight to Mana Pools National Park – Canoe Safari

After breakfast, board a light aircraft to Mana Pools National Park, located along the Zambezi River. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is well known for walking and canoe safaris that bring visitors incredibly close to wildlife.

After check-in and lunch at your safari camp, take an afternoon canoe safari on the river. Paddle past hippos and crocodiles while observing elephants, buffalo, and antelope coming to drink on the riverbanks.

Overnight at Zambezi Expeditions Camp or similar.

Day 9: Final Walk and Departure

Enjoy a short early morning walking safari through the floodplains and riverine forests. After breakfast, transfer to the airstrip for your return flight to Harare or Victoria Falls, where you’ll connect with your international departure.

This 9-day Zimbabwe safari brings together diverse habitats and rich wildlife areas , from rainforest waterfalls to elephant corridors, remote lakes, and wild riverbanks , offering one of southern Africa’s most well-rounded wildlife holidays.

Included:

• All ground transfers and domestic flights
• Accommodation in lodges and tented safari camps
• Full board except for Victoria Falls (B&B)
• All game drives, boat safaris, canoe excursions, and walking safaris
• Park entrance and conservation fees
• Professional guides throughout

Not Included:

• International flights
• Visas and personal travel insurance
• Optional activities at Victoria Falls
• Drinks, tips, and items of personal nature

Let me know if you’d like a version designed for a family group, photographers, or birdwatching enthusiasts.