Why You Should Go on a Zimbabwe Safari
Reasons you should visit Zimbabwe for Safaris
With the previous social unrest that gripped Zimbabwe now a thing of the past, it is without question that this stunning nation is now one of Africa’s must-visit safari destinations. A Zimbabwe trip will allow you to come within proximity to hundreds of different mammals, including some of the most sought-after game, such as lions, elephants, and giraffes.
Zimbabwe, which is bordered to the north by the Zambezi River and to the south by the Limpopo River, is noted for having some of the healthiest elephant herd populations in Africa. The country’s landscapes are rich in unspoiled wildlife. You might travel from the vast Hwange National Park’s teak forests and sandveld to the secluded and immaculate Mana Pools in the Lower Zambezi Valley, or even to the private Malilangwe Reserve. Not to mention the serene shores of Lake Kariba and the breathtaking Victoria Falls.
One significant advantage Zimbabwe has over other parts of Africa for tourists seeking luxurious holidays is exclusivity. A safari holiday in Zimbabwe offers an unparalleled amount of tranquility due to the country’s enormous concessions. In addition, the walking safari originated in Zimbabwe. By tracking the great game under the knowledgeable supervision of the world’s top naturalists, this close-up approach allows the visitor to engage directly with the environment, reaching beyond the safari vehicle.
Where to Visit while on Safari in Zimbabwe
The Smoke That Thunders, also known as Victoria Falls Mosi-oa-Tunya, is a World Heritage Site and the gateway to Zimbabwe. With hotels right on the edge of the spray and luxury cruises on the Zambezi River, it’s an excellent place to start your Zimbabwe Safari, and onwards to the southern African Side.
The main destination for safaris in Zimbabwe is Hwange National Park, the country’s largest wildlife reserve, and a short distance from the landscape ranges from teak tree forests to desert sand on the outskirts of the Kalahari. The reserve is well known for its expert “hide” photography and the way predators and prey interact around man-made water holes. On the other hand, lies the magical Mana Pools National Park, home to the elegant giants of Africa, the elephants. Its the best place you can find high numbers of elephants, as well as big herds.
Wildlife to See on Safari in Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe is an important ecosystem for some of Africa’s most endangered species because of its varied geography, which provides habitat to an incredible array of plant and animal life. In Hwange, where super-herds of elephants congregate near vital water sources in the dry season, those undertaking luxury African safaris get to witness first-hand the enormity of the elephant world.
This region provides a unique chance of spotting the rarely seen painted wolf or the wild dog, as it is one of the only places on the face of the Earth where seeing these social hunters is a certainty. Matobo National Park provides unique and personalized tracking experiences for the conservation enthusiast, and the park is a haven for the endangered black and white rhino. Alongside these specialists, the major parks of the country are home to the renowned Big Five, namely the lion, leopard, and buffalo, together with a variety of plains game such as zebra, giraffe, and sable.
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Best Places to Go on a Zimbabwe Safari
Explore the Best National Parks and Reserves in Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe may be overlooked by holidaymakers as it is not as popular as other locations, such as other safari hotspots like Kenya, but don’t let this fool you, as Zimbabwe has a lot to offer and is a safe nation to explore and enjoy.
The Hwange National Park is perhaps the wildest that Zimbabwe has to offer, a large park that is home to groups of elephants, leopards, lions, hyenas, and wild dogs. However, Hwange is not the only wildlife-filled area in Zimbabwe, with a collection of other locations also available, with some packages including a visit to the world-famous Victoria Falls.
The Majestic Wildlife of Hwange National Park
Hwange National Park, which is the biggest park in Zimbabwe, is recognized worldwide for its huge herds of elephants and large populations of African wild dogs. A Zimbabwe Safari can not end without visiting this park. The park, which is a premier destination for big cats, is an exceptional spot for seeing lions and leopards in their natural environment. The park’s varied scenery, from teak woodlands to huge savannah, is home to many other wildlife species. The park gives visitors a classic, high-density wildlife experience that remains a cornerstone of any southern African safari.
Wilderness Zimbabwe Adventures in Mana Pools and Victoria Falls
Mana Pools National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its remoteness and offers outstanding walking and canoeing safaris along the banks of the mighty Zambezi River. And then there is the world-famous Victoria Falls, which presents a striking contrast to the above two locations. It offers a bird’s-eye view of one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It’s here that the adventurous spirit of Zimbabwe comes alive.
Unique Water Safaris at Lake Kariba and Matusadona
Lake Kariba and Matusadona National Park are known for their unique water safaris, which are characterized by houseboating, fishing, and game viewing on the water. Lake Kariba is renowned for its drowned forests, in which trees are seen rising from the water like skeletal remains, providing a serene environment for game viewing of hippos and crocodiles. The area provides an important destination for travelers looking to enjoy the tranquility of the environment as they engage in both water and land-based game viewing activities.
Ancient Heritage – San Art Rock and Rhino Tracking in Matobo
Matobo National Park is famous for its breathtaking rock outcrops and ancient rock art from the San culture, which dates back thousands of years. The park is also a vital refuge for both black and white rhinos, offering some of the most exceptional rhino tracking experiences on the entire African continent. The park’s exceptional topography and spiritual value ensure a journey that is both culturally and conservation-minded, offering a chance to connect with the prehistoric heritage of the land.
Remote Landscapes and the Cliffs of Gonarezhou
For adventurous travelers seeking the real “wild Africa,” the Gonarezhou National Park boasts a remote and unforgiving environment, highlighted by the spectacular scenery of the Chilojo Cliffs. The park is part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park and is characterized by its extensive untouched landscapes and large herds of elephants. The spectacular cliffs, made of reddish-colored sandstone, give a panoramic view over the Runde River, making it an ideal spot for photographers and those looking for solitude.
Zimbabwe Map - Zimbabwe Safari Map
Zimbabwe National Parks Map
Zimbabwe covers an area of about 390,757 square kilometers (150,872 square miles) in south-central Africa, bordering Zambia, Botswana, Mozambique, South Africa, and Malawi. Zimbabwe has 11 official National Parks, managed by the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks), offering diverse ecosystems and wildlife experiences
Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe’s largest wildlife reserve, spans over 14,600 square kilometers, offering a diverse landscape...
Best Time To Visit Zimbabwe for safari
When to Visit Zimbabwe - Best Time for Zimbabwe Safaris
Zimbabwe is in the Southern region of Africa and experiences seasonal weather climates, such as short rains, long hot, and dry seasons. The country experiences amazing safari seasons, and almost easy to visit anytime of the year. So, when is the best time to visit Zimbabwe?
The best time to visit Zimbabwe generally is from June or July to October. The wildlife viewing is excellent at this time as animals gather around the rivers and waterholes. This is especially true in Hwange National Park where the artificially pumped waterholes attract big herds of elephant.
Zimbabwe Safaris Seasonal Guide
Zimbabwe is one of the best destinations for a year-round safari, with the best time for a high-density game experience during the dry season (June to October). The wet green season (December to April) is ideal for its beautiful landscapes, thunderstorms, and bird-watching opportunities. The shoulder season (May and November) is a good time for favorable weather, fewer tourists, and reasonable game viewing.
| Season | January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hwange National Park | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Best | Best | Best | Good | Good |
| Mana Pools National Park | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Best | Best | Best | Good | Good |
| Victoria Falls | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Best | Best | Best | Good | Good |
| Matobo National Park | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Best | Best | Best | Good | Good |
| Gonarezhou National Park | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Best | Best | Best | Good | Good |
| Matusadona National Park | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Best | Best | Best | Good | Good |
Low Season
High Season
Peak Season
Low Season
Green Season in Zimbabwe: November – April
The Green Season is also known as the Emerald Season and is characterized by dramatic thunderstorms during the afternoons and rejuvenating rainfall. This is the absolute highlight for bird enthusiasts, who get to witness the arrival of colorful migratory birds from the northern hemisphere.
The thick vegetation and presence of surface water mean that spotting wildlife is more difficult, but the scenery is undeniably spectacular, creating a beautiful contrast of color with the red earth of Africa. This is also the time of the year when many of the animals give birth, creating a wonderful spectacle of newborns following their mothers through the long grass.
Some of the camps may close during this time due to muddy road conditions, but the ones that are open offer a serene and peaceful experience at discounted rates.
High Season
Shoulder Seasons in Zimbabwe: May and November
May and November are shoulder seasons in Zimbabwe, and these periods are ideal for travelers who crave variety and do not mind a mix of weather. In May, the rains have already ended, and the air is dust-free. The vegetation is particularly green and fresh. Wildlife viewing is improving as the bush thins out, and the weather is mild and pleasant.
In November, this is the pre-rain season, and although it is hot and humid, there is something special about the first rains. It is as if nature is electric. This month is particularly known for early migrant birds and the beginning of lambing season. It is a rare opportunity to witness rebirth in nature. For the savvy traveler, these months offer the perfect combination of decent wildlife viewing, excellent light, and great value.
Peak Season
Dry Season in Zimbabwe: June to October
This period offers the optimum standard for wildlife enthusiasts to experience the best concentration of wildlife viewing in Zimbabwe’s best national parks. During this period, the weather is pleasantly cool, with bright blue skies and chilly nights, making it the best time for morning game viewing.
During this time, the vegetation is sparse, and the wildlife has to congregate around water sources such as the pumped water pans of Hwange or the life-giving waters of the Zambezi River in Mana Pools. In September and October, the temperatures are scorching, and there is a spectacular contrast between the wildlife and the environment.
Though the temperatures are unbearable, this period offers an unparalleled wildlife experience, with the availability of water making animal behavior highly predictable and creating a wildlife photographer’s paradise.
What to Do on Safari in Zimbabwe
Top Safari Accommodation to stay at in Zimbabwe
Exclusive Wildlife Viewing and Walking Safaris
Enjoy Africa’s best walking safaris at Mana Pools National Park. With experienced trackers, you can get up close and personal with elephants and lions on foot, for a thrilling wildlife experience.
Private Game Drives in Hwange National Park
Take a tour of Zimbabwe’s biggest game reserve in exclusive vehicles to see huge herds of elephants and buffalo. The dry season from May to October is unbeatable for density and spectacular big cat viewing every day.
Water-Based Safaris on the Zambezi
Take in the sights on a motorboat tour, experience the thrill of tiger fishing, or opt for a leisurely canoe ride. These water-based safaris offer a novel way of viewing hippos, crocodiles, and even elephants from the lush and vibrant riverbanks.
Victoria Falls Tour on a Helicopter Excursion
Get a bird’s-eye view of the Victoria Falls on a private helicopter tour. This experience should be followed by a luxury sunset cruise or a tour of the world’s biggest waterfall.
Exclusive Cultural and Conservation Experiences
Get involved with community projects or appreciate ancient San rock art in Matobo. Conservation-minded travelers can also assist with vital “pump runs,” maintaining waterholes for the animals on the vast Hwange grasslands.
Riverside Luxury Living and Fine Dining
Unwind at exclusive, secluded lodges located on the shores of Lake Kariba and the Zambezi River. These are the epitome of luxury, offering private plunge pools, gourmet meals, and exceptional services in the depths of the wilderness.
Horseback safaris offer a truly unique and exhilarating way to experience Africa’s wildlife and landscapes. Riding
Mountain biking offers a thrilling way to experience Africa’s diverse landscapes and wildlife, providing an active
Camel rides offer a distinctive and adventurous way to explore the African wilderness, providing a unique
Where to Stay in Zimbabwe
Top Safari Accommodation to stay at in Zimbabwe
In planning your luxury African safari holiday in Zimbabwe, accommodation options are always the most determining factor in your experience. From the “Grand Old Lady” of the falls to intimate luxury camps and lodges where you share a swimming pool with elephants, you are guaranteed some of the most soulful and private accommodations in the world.
Luxury Safari Lodges and Private Concessions in Zimbabwe
Luxury safari lodges are permanent, high-end buildings that reinvent the concept of living in the bush. These luxurious lodges are equipped with high-end facilities, such as en-suite bathrooms, private decks, and personal plunge pools overlooking active watering holes. These lodges are located in private concessions, like Singita Pamushana in the Gonarezhou National Park, and offer guests an intimate experience with nature. The combination of 5-star service and the African bush is unbeatable, offering an unparalleled ambiance of opulence and peace.
Immersive Safari Tented Camps in Zimbabwe
Tented safari camps vary from rustic luxury to ultra-luxury, featuring large tents made of canvas with hard floors and full en-suite facilities. Tented camps like Chikwenya Camp in Mana Pools National Park allow visitors to experience the pulse of nature, with the night sounds passing through the canvas walls. These camps are ideal for travelers seeking an authentic safari experience with luxurious facilities.
Authentic Mobile Tented Camps in Zimbabwe
Mobile tented camps are nomadic camps that are specially built for small guided parties of travelers who are looking for an authentic, back-to-basics experience in the wilds of Zimbabwe. These camps are set up in areas that are closest to the action, following the migratory patterns of the wildlife. Though not as luxurious as other lodges, they are well-equipped to ensure that the visitor has a comfortable stay. This is the traditional safari experience that is suited only for the true adventurer.
Luxury Zimbabwe Safari Packages
Zimbabwe safari itineraries and ideas To Custom Make
When planning your Zimbabwe Safari Holiday, our team understands that you want a trip that reflects your needs and those of your friends/family. This is why, at Cheetah Safaris, we offer an extensive range of Zimbabwe safari packages for you to choose from. Our Luxury safari trips vary in length and include all the main Zimbabwe national parks.
Furthermore, we also have different accommodation options available with optional extras also accessible, meaning there is sure to be a Zimbabwe safari package that suits everyone here at Cheetah Safaris!
Cost: 4182 PPS
No. of Nights 6
Destinations :-
Why book your Zimbabwe Safari With Us
Get Personalized and Tailor Made Luxury Safaris to Zimbabwe
If you are looking for a more personalised safari to Zimbabwe, Cheetah Safaris is the perfect fit for you. Our Experts are ready and always there to help you curate and plan one of the best safaris in Africa to Zimbabwe. Our safaris are well designed, and our safari experts are ready to guide you through from the start of your inquiry to the last day of the safari.
Financial Protection
You are guranteed of a safe, and peace of mind booking process, and as well safari payments. We ensure that your payments are secure and safe.
Sustainable Practices
Keeping in mind our efforts in wildlife, environment and natural resources protections, we are sustainable travel conscious and aware.
Ground Safari Expert
We Know Africa more than any one. We love taking our guests to the less explored destinations. Experiencing the magical touch of African Wild.
Positive Impact
Our Safaris are not only sustainable, but create very positive impacts to so many. We engage in school programmes, that inspires our future leaders.
15 Years of Experience
Cheetah Safaris has a combined of 69 years of safari expertise and practice in Africa. We will take care of your safari from arrival till departure.
Proffessional Guides
We have the best safari guides in East Africa. All our guides are Silver and Gold Guides. Hence you will learn so much with them while on safari.
Looking For a Safari in Africa?
Explore our collection of over 70 luxury African safaris. You can also contact us to design a bespoke, tailor-made adventure just for you.
Travel Tips for a Zimbabwe Safari Tour
Best Safari and Travel Guides to plan your Zimbabwe Safaris
As you plan your Luxury Zimbabwe Safari with us, there is some important information you need to know before visiting. Our travel guide will help you plan effectively, know what you need ahead of your trip to Africa, and gain a basic understanding of what a Zimbabwe safari entails.
What Does a Zimbabwe Safari Cost?
To determine the amount you will spend on your safari, a budget from our expert and cost guide is important. A Zimbabwe Safari can cost between USD 500 and up to more than USD 4,000 per person per day. Get the full guide of our African Safari Cost Guide to help you plan your safari well.
What to Pack For a Zimbabwe Safari in Africa
When packing for your Zimbabwe safari holiday, it’s recommended to pack lightly, especially bringing essential items if you’re traveling with young kids. Pack items that won’t make your safari tiresome and hectic. Light packaging helps you move easily from one safari destination to another. We have prepared a comprehensive African Safari Packing list to guide you through.
When to Visit Zimbabwe, the Best Time, and the climate or weather
It’s vital to know when it’s the best time to visit Zimbabwe, as well as understand if your preferred month of visiting is perfect for an amazing wildlife experience. Our safari destinations in Africa that we cover have varying weather conditions and climatic conditions. It’s important to get in touch with us, and we can advise you on the best place you can visit within your travel dates.
Documentation for travelling to Zimbabwe
Now that you have managed to plan and book your safari, it’s important to be legal and find out what documents are required to visit Botswana. You will need a valid eVisa, a passport that is more than 6 months old, and it is recommended to have a yellow fever vaccination.
Safety and Health While on Safari in Zimbabwe
This is most important, as you will need to know how safe Zimbabwe is, and also what you need to do when it gets uneasy. Safety is paramount to all of our guests, and we do our best to offer safety measures to all our guests when on game drives in parks, when driving on roads, and in our booked accommodations, or in case of any security threat.
In terms of health, we have made sure we have measures to manage our guests’ health conditions, but we advise our guests to share any of their health conditions so we can know how to handle incase anything happens.
All FAQs About Zimbabwe Safaris
FAQS and Questions and Answers about Zimbabwe
Frequently Asked Questions About our Zimbabwe Safaris. If you have any queries regarding our Zimbabwe safaris and tours, no need to worry, as we have gathered some of our customers’ most frequently asked questions below to help you make your decision on whether Zimbabwe is the place for your safari holiday.
Is Zimbabwe Safe to Visit For Safaris
It is very Safe to visit Zimbabwe for a luxury safari. According to the Global Index, Zimbabwe ranks top on being a safe safari destination in Africa.
Which Are the Best Destinations to visit in Zimbabwe?
The best places to visit in Zimbabwe for your safari holiday include Hwange National Park, Mana Pools National Park, and Victoria Falls.
What do I need to Visit Zimbabwe?
To visit Zimbabwe for a safari, you will need a passport that is more than 6 months valid and a valid travel E-visa. We recommend having travel insurance and malaria and yellow fever vaccinations.
What makes Zimbabwe safaris unique?
For a Kenya Safari, carry lightweight clothing such as khaki, beige, and green apparel and sleepwear, as well as long-sleeved shirts and pants for sun and insect protection, even though it will be cold in the early morning hours. It will be important to carry a fleece, jacket, and beanie to keep warm, but it will also be warm.
How many days do you need for a Zimbabwe safari?
For a well-rounded Zimbabwe safari experience, it is recommended that one spends between 7 and 12 days visiting the best sites such as Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, and Mana Pools without feeling rushed. The best duration for a safari would be 10 days, while 5-7 days would be suitable for a shorter safari.
When is the best time to go on safari in Zimbabwe?
The best time to go for a safari in Zimbabwe is during the dry season, which is between July and October, when the animals congregate around the drying water sources, resulting in spectacular and game viewing.
Is Victoria Falls part of a safari itinerary?
Yes, Victoria Falls is a very popular addition to Zimbabwe and Southern African safari itineraries, often combined with visits to Chobe National Park (Botswana), Hwange National Park (Zimbabwe), or the Okavango Delta (Botswana).
How far apart are the main safari parks in Zimbabwe?
The main national parks in Zimbabwe are several hundred kilometers apart. It takes domestic flights or car rides of five to ten hours to travel between distant national parks such as Hwange and Mana Pools.
Do Zimbabwe safaris include Safari guide services?
Yes, standard safari packages in Zimbabwe always include the services of professional guides for game drives, walking safaris, and boat safaris.
Are Zimbabwe safaris suitable for families?
Yes, Zimbabwe is a great, safe, and very suitable destination for family safaris that provide a combination of breathtaking wildlife (particularly in Hwange National Park), educational, and exciting activities for all ages. There are also family-friendly accommodations with rooms that connect, and activities such as boat cruises, guided walks, and visits to Victoria Falls.
Can safaris be combined with Victoria Falls activities?
Yes, safaris can be easily combined with Victoria Falls activities, making it a perfect start or end of a Southern African adventure. Some of the popular combinations include combining the falls with Botswana’s Chobe National Park or Okavango Delta, as well as Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park, offering a mix of water-based activities and game drives.
What should I pack for a safari in Zimbabwe?
Pack light-colored clothing (khaki, beige, green) for the warm days in Zimbabwe, and layers such as a fleece jacket or windbreaker for cooler mornings and evenings, from May to September. Essentials include long-sleeved shirts for sun/insect protection, sturdy walking shoes, a wide-brimmed hat, insect repellent, binoculars, and a camera.
How much does a typical Zimbabwe safari cost?
The average cost of a Zimbabwe safari per person per night ranges from $350 to $1,500+, with average mid-range safaris falling in the range of $1,500 to $2,700 per day. The prices are highly dependent on the type of accommodation, with mid-range options ranging from $550 to $1,200 and luxury fly-in safaris going above $2,000 to $4,000 per person per night.
Pack For a Purpose
Cheetah Safaris is a serious advocate of sustainable safari practices in Africa. As part of our efforts and initiative, we engage and support schools and children who need knowledge to better their lives. The best gift a child can be given is education, skills, and creativity.
In this case, we request our guests booking with us, to bring an extra back of supplies. This can be in terms of books, sports materials, and any other items that would change the lives of these kids.
- Education
- Sustainable Travel
- Wildlife Conservation
Let us help you customize your trip
Like all of our holidays on this site, this is just an idea. All of our trips are tailor-made, so we’ll always adapt them to suit you.
Talk to an Expert
Browse our Cheetah Safaris Website. We’ll match you with a Specialist in our team who is best suited to help you plan your next safari adventure. To start, submit your Safari Inquiries.
Prepare for your trip
Our Safari experts will be of help in planning your safari from start to end. They will advise you on all that you need to pack and travel documents, too. They will be ready to answer any queries you have.
When you return
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