Rise early for a morning safari activity as the African bush awakens. The cooler hours offer prime wildlife viewing opportunities, when animals are most active and the golden light creates perfect conditions for photography.
After a leisurely breakfast overlooking the Zambezi, the day is yours to explore at your own pace. Consider visiting the magnificent Victoria Falls – one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World – where the Zambezi River plunges into a dramatic gorge, creating a thundering spectacle visible from over 20 kilometres away. Optional activities include a helicopter flight over the Falls for a bird’s-eye perspective of this two-kilometre-wide curtain of water, cultural visits to local villages, canoeing expeditions, or tiger fishing on the Zambezi.
As afternoon approaches, set out on your second game drive of the day. You may also opt for a rhino tracking walk on foot – an extraordinary opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures up close in their natural habitat. Return to Thorntree River Lodge as dusk falls, where sundowners by the infinity pool and dinner under the stars await.
Another full day of twice-daily safari activities awaits. Your expert guides will tailor each experience to maximise wildlife encounters, whether tracking elephants along ancient migration routes, searching for hippos and crocodiles along the Zambezi’s edge, or spotting over 400 species of birds that call this region home.
Between safaris, take advantage of the lodge’s exceptional facilities. Relax by the infinity pool overlooking the river, indulge in a treatment at the wellness spa, or enjoy a workout in the fully equipped gym. The communal deck features the Acacia firepit – a perfect spot for afternoon relaxation with a good book from the library.
For those seeking cultural immersion, consider visiting African Bush Camps Foundation projects, including the Maunga clinic and primary school, where you can witness the positive impact of community-based conservation initiatives. You may also choose to volunteer at the nutrition program, supporting local communities while gaining insight into daily life in rural Zambia.
After a final morning safari and breakfast at Thorntree River Lodge, you’ll be transferred to Victoria Falls Airport for your flight to Manga Airstrip in Zimbabwe’s legendary Hwange National Park.
Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed and transferred to Somalisa Camp, one of African Bush Camps’ award-winning Signature Experiences. Nestled under the dappled shade of an acacia grove, this intimate camp combines contemporary design with authentic African style, featuring local Kudhinda fabrics.
After settling into your luxury tented suite, set out on an afternoon game drive through Hwange – Zimbabwe’s premier game reserve and one of Southern Africa’s most biodiverse regions. At almost three million acres, this vast wilderness is renowned for its enormous elephant and buffalo herds, along with healthy populations of lion, leopard, cheetah and the endangered African wild dog. As evening falls, enjoy sundowners in the bush before returning to camp for dinner around the firepit beneath a blanket of stars.
Travel time: Driving – approx. one hour (10km); Flight – approx. 45 minutes
Somalisa Camp stay
Wake to the sounds of the African bush and embark on an early morning game drive when wildlife is most active. Your expert guides possess intimate knowledge of Hwange’s ecosystem and will track animals based on fresh spoor and movement patterns.
Return to camp for a sumptuous breakfast before spending the middle of the day at leisure. Visit the famous Elephant Pool – a unique feature where elephants gather to drink in a safe setting that forms a natural extension of the property. Watch from the comfort of the camp as these gentle giants interact just metres away for unparalleled photographic opportunities and unforgettable moments.
As the heat of the day subsides, venture out on your afternoon safari activity. Options include traditional game drives, walking safaris for a more intimate bush experience, or birding excursions to spot some of the 400-plus species recorded in Hwange. As the sun sets, painting the sky in brilliant hues of orange and pink, raise a glass to another extraordinary day in the African wilderness.
Embrace another full day of twice-daily safari activities in this wildlife-rich paradise. Morning drives often yield sightings of predators returning from nocturnal hunts.
Between activities, take time to appreciate Somalisa Camp’s commitment to sustainability – the camp runs entirely on solar power and features a water purification system that recycles 80% of its water, proudly holding Zimbabwe’s first GOLD Green Tourism Certification. Relax by the swimming pool overlooking the Elephant Pool, enjoy a refreshing drink at the bar, or retreat to your private deck to absorb the serenity of your surroundings.
For the adventurous, consider booking the Somalisa Sleep-Out experience – a romantic treehouse retreat just 25 minutes from camp where you’ll spend an enthralling night under the starry sky, overlooking a watering hole frequented by nocturnal wildlife. Alternatively, visit African Bush Camps Foundation projects in Mambanje and Dete, witnessing community initiatives that support conservation and local development.
Following your final morning safari at Somalisa Camp and a leisurely breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Manga Airstrip for your one-hour flight to Bumi Hills, situated on the shores of magnificent Lake Kariba.
Touch down and transfer to Bumi Hills Safari Lodge, perched within the secluded hills of northern Zimbabwe with breathtaking views across the vast, shimmering expanse of Lake Kariba – the world’s largest man-made reservoir.
After settling into your luxury lake-view suite, embark on an afternoon activity. Choose between a game drive through the surrounding bush or a sunset cruise on Lake Kariba while sipping sundowners. Upon return, indulge in a rejuvenating neck and shoulder massage at the on-site wellness spa before dinner with panoramic lake views.
Travel time: Flight – approx. one hour
Bumi Hills Safari Lodge stay
Begin your day with a morning safari activity, perhaps a walking safari to explore the bush on foot with your experienced guide, or a fishing expedition for the famous tiger fish that inhabit these waters. Lake Kariba is the epitome of Zimbabwean hospitality – gin and tonic in hand, world-class fishing and abundant wildlife create the unique experience for which this region is renowned.
The middle of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. Lounge by the stunning infinity pool or simply relax on the elegant viewing deck watching hippos and elephants along the shoreline. The lodge’s library offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking quiet contemplation.
As afternoon arrives, set out on another safari experience. Options include game drives through your private concession, boat cruises among the waterways, bird-watching expeditions (listen for the distinctive call of the African fish eagle), or even a unique Sleep-Out experience under the stars. Night drives offer opportunities to spot nocturnal species rarely seen during daylight hours.
Another full day of safari activities awaits at this tranquil lakeside sanctuary. Morning activities might include a game drive as the sun rises over the water, or a peaceful boat excursion to observe the incredible diversity of birdlife that thrives in this aquatic environment.
Between safaris, consider visiting African Bush Camps Foundation projects during your stay. The itinerary includes a visit to a primary school and the wildlife co-existence project, offering meaningful insight into how conservation and community development work hand-in-hand in this region.
Your afternoon activity offers another opportunity to experience Lake Kariba’s unique land and water-based safari experiences. Whether you choose stargazing as darkness falls, a sunset cruise or a thrilling night drive, each experience reveals different facets of this remarkable ecosystem.
After a final morning activity and breakfast overlooking Lake Kariba, you’ll transfer to the airstrip for your flight to the legendary Mana Pools National Park.
Welcome to one of Africa’s most iconic wilderness areas – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and photographer’s paradise. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to Nyamatusi Camp, nestled on the banks of the Zambezi River within this pristine 500,000-acre national park. The camp’s sophisticated design and elegant architecture merge beautifully with the rugged landscape.
After settling into your luxury air-conditioned tented suite, embark on an afternoon safari activity. Mana Pools (meaning “‘our pools’ in the local Shona language) is renowned as one of the best walking safari destinations in Africa. The beautiful setting of endless Ana forests along the Zambezi provides a scenic backdrop for the huge variety of animals that congregate here, especially during the dry season.
Travel time: Flight – approx. one hour
Nyamatusi Camp stay
Rise with the African dawn for a morning walking safari. Follow your expert guide as you track big elephant bulls through the Ana forests, their magnificent tusks almost touching the ground. The thrill of encountering these gentle giants on foot, without the barrier of a vehicle, creates an intimate connection with nature that few places on earth can rival.
You may even witness African wild dogs on the hunt – one of Africa’s most endangered predators. Between activities, cool off in a private plunge pool, watching the endless wildlife activity along the Zambezi from your private deck.
Your afternoon activity might include a canoeing safari along the Zambezi River, floating silently past enormous pods of hippos while African fish eagles call overhead. Alternatively, opt for a fishing excursion or bird-watching expedition. As the sun sets, witness the magnificent golden hour over the Zambezi, often cited as one of Africa’s most spectacular sunsets.
Your final full day here offers one last opportunity to embrace this extraordinary wilderness. Morning activities include another walking safari to explore different areas of the park, or a game drive along the river where you’ll encounter buffalo, zebra, impala and if fortunate, lions or leopards lounging in the shade.
The camp’s cosy wine cellar, stylish bar and ambient firepit create the perfect setting for midday relaxation. Share stories with fellow travellers around the fire or simply absorb the tranquility of this remote paradise. The handwoven lighting fixtures and furniture, crafted by local artisans, showcase the exceptional craftsmanship of the region.
As your safari journey nears its end, make the most of your final afternoon activity. Whether you choose another exhilarating canoe trip, a walking safari to bid farewell to the elephants, or a leisurely game drive through the Ana forests, each moment in Mana Pools National Park is one to treasure. Tonight, savour a farewell dinner beneath the stars, reflecting on the incredible wildlife encounters and landscapes you’ve experienced.
After a final early morning in the bush, you’ll be transferred to Mana Main Airstrip for your flight to Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (HRE), where your unforgettable 13-day safari adventure through Zimbabwe and Zambia comes to an end.
Travel time: Flight – approx. one hour