13 Days Best Of Zimbabwe Tour

DAY 1 : N1 Hotel Victoria Falls, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Resting on the southern banks of the Zambezi River at the western end of the eponymous falls, this popular tourist town is compact enough to walk around and makes an ideal base for travellers exploring the seventh wonder of the world, the unfathomably vast Victoria Falls. About two-thirds of the falls can be viewed from the Zimbabwean side and, while the falls are undoubtedly the star attraction, the area provides both adventure seekers and sightseers with plenty of opportunities to warrant a longer stay. Popular activities include scenic flights over the falls in helicopters or microlights, bungee jumping off the Victoria Falls Bridge, white-water rafting (seasonal), and day trips to Chobe National Park. The town itself offers some excellent accommodation and restaurant options as well as an eclectic variety of African curios and authentic art sold by friendly Zimbabwean locals who are wonderfully welcoming and eager to help you enjoy your stay.

Overnight: N1 Hotel Victoria Falls

The N1 Hotel provides all the basic necessities for a good nights sleep, from en-suite showers to air conditioned rooms. The N1 Hotel is conveniently located with-in walking distance of Victoria Falls, curio shops and shopping malls in the town center. The hotel is open 24 hours a day making late check-ins hassle free.

Activities

• 1600hrs Zambezi River Cruise

Basis

• Bed and Breakfast

DAY 2 : Tuskers Campsite, Hwange National Park

Hwange National Park

Situated in western Zimbabwe, the Hwange National Park is the country's biggest reserve, home to a profusion of wildlife, including giraffe, lion, zebra and approximately 40 000 elephants. It provides a sanctuary for all the country’s endangered species, including a population of wild dogs thought to be among the most sizeable surviving groups on the continent. The park’s magnificent terrain ranges from desert dunes, savannah lands and mopane woodlands to rocky outcrops and sparse forests. Visitors can look forward to game drives, guided walks or horse riding safaris. Other highlights include: the Bumbusi National Monument and the Nyamandhlovu Pan..

Overnight: Tuskers Campsite

Tuskers Campsite is set on a private concession of 6000 acres adjacent to Hwange National Park. Situated next door to Ivory Safari Lodge, Tuskers is perfectly positioned to enjoy the spoils of the active Ivory waterhole - a popular key home range for the Presidential Elephant Herd and other prolific wildlife.

Located only 2.5km off the main Victoria Falls/Bulawayo road, Tuskers prides itself as being one of the most convenient and comfortable campsites in Hwange. In order to make their campers stay as pleasant as possible, the campsite offers the following facilities:

• Ablution block with ladies and gents toilets & showers
• Main eating gazebo with bar
• Camp fire pits
• Braai facilities
• Pot wash up sinks
• Firewood

Not supplied:

• Items of personal use for cleaning
• Tents & camping equipment

Terms & Conditions

• Kindly read and sign our Green Policy - keep the environment clean
• Children U5 stay free
• Tuskers campsite is on a private concession - this is a dangerous game area - please observe all caution and respect these wild animals. The company accepts no loss, damage or injury from wild animals (See liability contract upon check in)
• Please do not feed the baboons
• No walking out from camp is permitted without being accompanied by a Professional Guide

Activities

• 080hrs Guided tour of the Falls (Zimbabwe)
• 1500hrs Hwange Game Drives

Guided tour of the Falls (Zimbabwe)

A view of the Victoria Falls is something you will never forget and the best way to see them is on a guided tour. Discover how the Falls were formed and what local customs and traditions surround them. These tours are extremely informative and end with a visit to the local art and crafts centre.

Basis

• Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 3 : Tuskers Campsite, Hwange National Park

Activities

• Morning: Hwange Game Drives

Basis

• Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 4 : Burkes Paradise, Bulawayo

Bulawayo

Situated in the heart of Matabeleland in southwestern Zimbabwe, Bulawayo is the country’s second-largest city. It is named after the royal kraal of Mizilikazi - founder of the Matabele Nation. This historic city features wide tree-lined avenues bordered by colonial-style buildings. It serves as a gateway to the nearby Matobo National Park - a highlight of the area- home to abundant wildlife and plant life. Visitors can look forward to a variety of museums including the country's main museum, the natural history museum; as well as exploring the Chipangali Wildlife Orphanage and discover the ancient Kame Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site as it is one of southern Africa's magnificent Late Iron Age ruins..

Overnight: Burkes Paradise

Burkes' Paradise is a family run business. It is presently run by Adam Burke, who is assisted by his wife Vicki and entertained by his children Daniel, Johnny & Gracie-Joy. They all live on site at Burkes' Paradise As the popularity of Burkes' Paradise has grown it has been listed in many travellers' guide books including Lonely Planet and Rough Guide (read their reviews here). Although it was originally known as Backpackers Paradise it is now called Burkes' Paradise or Burkes' Backpackers Paradise to distinguish it from other establishments in Bulawayo who have mimicked the name..

Activities

• Afternoon at Leisure/Optional Activities

Basis

• Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 5 : Burkes Paradise, Bulawayo

Activities

• Grave of Cecil John Rhodes
• Matobos Rhino Tracking

Grave of Cecil John Rhodes

On the 26 March 1902 at the age of 49 Cecil John Rhodes died in Muizenberg, Cape Town. Despite the fact that the Boer War still raged, his body was sent on an epic railway journey through war torn South Africa to Rhodesia to be laid to rest at this spot.

Basis

• Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 6 : Norma Jeane's Lake View Resort, Great Zimbabwe Ruins

Great Zimbabwe Ruins

Once Zimbabwe’s capital, the ancient city of Great Zimbabwe is the biggest and most significant stone archaeological complex in sub-Saharan Africa. It is also one of its oldest – thought to date back to the 11th century and second only to South Africa’s Mapungwe. Composed entirely of rectangular granite blocks stacked on top of one another without the use of mortar, the walls and towers of the city measure up to 12 metres in places, and it is unsurprising that Great Zimbabwe was designated a World Heritage Site in 1986. Visitors can look forward to wandering through these ancient stone structures and immersing themselves in the history of this important heritage site.

Overnight: Norma Jeane's Lake View Resort

What we offer:

We cater for all. A first rate Campsite and budget accommodation, also well appointed hotel rooms for our more discerning Guests. Dining room (campers welcome) providing good, home cooked meals. Wifi.

Our Campsite has 2 covered boma’s, for meal preparation with hot and cold running water and electricity guaranteed. Spotless ablutions with flush toilets, of course, and a choice of showers and a bath. Plenty of space - even with other campers around, the Campsite is so big and naturally partitioned by granite boulders, you'll hardly notice anybody else.

What to see and do

The megalithic stone ruins of Great Zimbabwe are a bit like Stonehenge or Carnac, in that nobody’s really sure exactly who built it and why. A must to see.

For game viewing, the 17 000 hectare Kyle Recreational Park, not being widely known or visited, is well worth a trip if you like seeing animals rather than tourists. White rhinoceros, buffalo, giraffe, hippopotami and many more.

Activities

• Great Zimbabwe Ruins

Great Zimbabwe Ruins

Once Zimbabwe’s capital, the ancient city of Great Zimbabwe is the biggest and most significant stone archaeological complex in sub-Saharan Africa. It is also one of its oldest – thought to date back to the 11th century and second only to South Africa’s Mapungwe. Composed entirely of rectangular granite blocks stacked on top of one another without the use of mortar, the walls and towers of the city measure up to 12 metres in places, and it is unsurprising that Great Zimbabwe was designated a World Heritage Site in 1986. Visitors can look forward to wandering through these ancient stone structures and immersing themselves in the history of this important heritage site.

Basis

• Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 7 : Chipinda Pools Camp, Gonarezhou National Park

Gonarezhou National Park

Bordering Mozambique in the southeastern lowveld of Zimbabwe, Gonarezhou, meaning ‘place of elephants’, is Zimbabwe’s second-largest national park and home to over 10 000 elephants. The park extends across a vast area of floodplains, baobab-dotted scrubland, mopane woodland and pale orange sandstone cliffs. It is home to 4 of Africa’s ‘Big Five’ – elephant, leopard, lion and buffalo – as well as a multiplicity of other animal and bird species. Visitors can camp in an unfenced campsite for a truly close encounter with an array of spectacular wildlife including 140 species of mammal, at least 100 different reptile species and over 500 species of bird. Other highlights include: viewing the beautiful Chilojo Cliffs towering over the scenic Runde River valley, bird watching and game viewing.

Overnight: Chipinda Pools Camp

What we offer:

The Chipinda Pools Tented Camp, a fantastic and excellent value for money facility was completed in July 2012 through funding provided by the Frankfurt Zoological Society as part of the Gonarezhou Conservation Project and comprises four extremely spacious East African style tents. Two of the tents have a double bed and two stretcher beds and two of the tents have a double bed and two single beds allowing one plenty of flexibility for families. Each tent has an en suite bathroom (with solar geysers providing copious amounts of piping hot water) at the back of each tent and a large covered veranda at the front.

The camp is located high up on the banks of the Runde River offering views over extensive Phragmites reedbeds frequented by elephants. The riverine fringe provides excellent birding and with some luck one might get a sighting of one of the resident Pel’s Fishing Owls. Game in the vicinity of the camp is extremely relaxed with groups of nyala, kudu, impala and elephant happily passing through camp.

Activities

• Gonarezhou Afternoon Game drive

Basis

• Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 8 : Chipinda Pools Camp, Gonarezhou National Park

Activities

• Gonarezhou National Park

Gonarezhou National Park

Bordering Mozambique in the southeastern lowveld of Zimbabwe, Gonarezhou, meaning ‘place of elephants’, is Zimbabwe’s second-largest national park and home to over 10 000 elephants. The park extends across a vast area of floodplains, baobab-dotted scrubland, mopane woodland and pale orange sandstone cliffs. It is home to 4 of Africa’s ‘Big Five’ – elephant, leopard, lion and buffalo – as well as a multiplicity of other animal and bird species. Visitors can camp in an unfenced campsite for a truly close encounter with an array of spectacular wildlife including 140 species of mammal, at least 100 different reptile species and over 500 species of bird. Other highlights include: viewing the beautiful Chilojo Cliffs towering over the scenic Runde River valley, bird watching and game viewing.

Basis

• Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 9 : Musangano Lodge, Eastern Highlands

Eastern Highlands

Zimbabwe's eastern border with Mozambique is defined by the Eastern Highlands, comprised of three ranges of hills and mountains featuring the lush rolling hills and endless tea plantations of the Nyanga Range, the soaring granite peaks of the Chimanimani Mountains, and the fertile meadows and rich coffee plantations of the Bvumba Range. These breathtakingly scenic mountains serve as an ideal backdrop for the wide variety of outdoor pursuits on offer such as hiking, horse riding, golfing, and trout fishing. The northern reaches of this remarkable wilderness features predominantly rolling heathland which reminded European Settlers of Scotland leading them to create lakes, plant forests and fill the streams with trout. Once the private estate of Cecil John Rhodes, this northernmost area is now known as the Nyanga National Park. From the gorgeous pine forests and trout lakes of this extraordinary park to the yellowwood trees, protea shrubs and refreshing mountain pools of Chimanimani in the south, the Eastern Highlands is the perfect destination for travellers looking to unwind in the tranquillity of nature.

Overnight: Musangano Lodge

If you are looking for the ultimate getaway in the Eastern Highlands, with the promise of complete tranquillity and spectacular scenery, Musangano Lodge is the ideal location. Visitors soon fall under its spell because of its serene and peaceful atmosphere, charming accommodation, superb cuisine and stunning views, which invite to linger and unwind.

Spaced well apart for privacy, our tastefully furnished, very comfortable and spacious units are set on the lower slopes of a tree-covered hillside, blending well into the surrounding Miombo mountain woodland and offering magnificent views into valleys and towards mountains. Guests may choose between the larger, fully equipped self catering lodges for families and friends or smaller chalets for two with kitchenette and kettle. Our PaMuchakata Restaurant has acquired an enviable reputation for serving delicious food, a blend of Central European and Southern African cooking - the best of the culinary arts of two worlds.

Musangano Lodge is ideally located for exploring the attractions of the Eastern Highlands like the Vumba Mountains, Nyanga National Park and Honde Valley. When you feel like stretching your legs, there are a variety of activities at hand on site and nearby to suit all ages and interests. Our outreach community project ‘Nurturing Communities. Shaping Lives’ offers exciting insights into the lives of ordinary – and not so ordinary Zimbabweans with the rare opportunity of first hand experiences and lasting memories to take home.

Last but not least we are proud to announce that Cuckoo Nature Camp is finally open. The picturesque campsite is an ideal stopover en route to Mozambique, Masvingo, Gonarezhou, the Save Conservancy. Embedded in miombo woodlands and surrounded by lovely views towards hilly mountains, this rustic camp guarantees a true bush experience for all outdoor lovers. There are 4 sites available for individual campers as well as a larger site with space for more than 8 tents. Our solar powered thatched ablution blocks are spacious, light and airy. We furthermore offer a separate wash basin for dishes as well as braai facilities and a campfire setup for the cooler evenings.

Finally – referring to the meaning of Musangano Lodge and our vision of ‘the place where people meet’ – we would be very happy to welcome you at our little paradise.

Activities

• Afternoon at Leisure/Optional Activities

Basis

• Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 10 : Musangano Lodge, Eastern Highlands

Activities

• Vumba Botanical Reserve
• Scenic drive in Vumba

Vumba Botanical Reserve

The Vumba Botanical Gardens and Reserve, located 32 kilometres from Mutare, are established on a portion of the farm formerly known as Manchester. The well-wooded park includes 159 hectares of landscaped gardens built around perennial streams which form a small lake. A network of footpaths that enable visitors to explore the interior of the Botanical Reserve has been opened. The reserve is well endowed with indigenous orchids and ferns and strategically positioned flower beds are encountered as one leisurely takes stock of the Gardens. Birdlife is also abundant here. The self-catering lodges in the Gardens are very popular with visitors to the area. There is also a campsite with ablution blocks with hot and cold water systems and powered caravan sites. There is a swimming pool at the camping site. At the tearoom in the middle of the Gardens, visitors can enjoy refreshments; light meals, cakes, and vegetarian dishes can be provided on request.

Basis

• Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 11 : Nyanga National Park

Gonarezhou National Park

The rolling hills of the 47 000 hectare Park Nyanga National Park, on Zimbabwe's Eastern Highlands, are home to a multitude of scenic rivers, refreshing streams and breathtaking waterfalls. The park boasts both Zimbabwe’s highest mountain peak and its highest waterfall and the elevated altitude provides a cool and pleasant climate and fresh mountain air, perfect for rest, relaxation and plenty of outdoor adventures. The mountainous terrain and its sparkling fresh water sources offer excellent opportunities for fly fishing, sailing, canoeing, swimming, and hiking. Visitors are likely to encounter a variety of fascinating wildlife including, among others: kudu, zebra, impala, sables, and eland.

Overnight: Mare Caravan Park Campsites

Activities

• Trout Fisheries, Pit Structures and Museum

Basis

• Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 12 : Bronte Garden Hotel, Harare

Harare

Zimbabwe’s capital city is the country’s most cosmopolitan and contemporary destination, dotted with restaurants and bars, shops and markets. Its proud historical and cultural heritage is reflected in several well-preserved old buildings and informative museums, while its many parks and gardens provide a pleasant contrast to the bustling urban sectors. Located within easy reach of the city centre are the Mukuvisi Woodlands, comprising over 250 hectares of natural wilderness, while The Kopje – a rocky hill to the southwest of Harare – offers great views over the city. Other city highlights inlcude: the National Gallery of Zimbabwe, the Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences, the Chapungu Sculpture Park, and the National Botanic Garden.

Overnight: Bronte Garden Hotel

Zimbabwe’s capital city is the country’s most cosmopolitan and contemporary destination, dotted with restaurants and bars, shops and markets. Its proud The Bronte Hotel is an oasis of tranquillity, renowned for its beautiful gardens and collection of fine Shona Sculptures. Centrally located in the Avenues, within walking distance of downtown Harare, The Bronte offers well appointed rooms and executive suites in an idyllic garden setting. Designed for both the business and leisure traveler alike; our amenities include complimentary wifi, two swimming pools, a fitness centre, a complimentary breakfast buffet, secure on-site parking, and fine dining at Emmanuel’s Restaurant. It is the ideal Harare conference venue, with three function rooms and two boardrooms available.

Activities

• Afternoon at Leisure/Optional Activities

Basis

• Bed and Breakfast

DAY 13 :End of Itinerary

Basis

• Bed and Breakfast