Located between the Zambezi and Limpopo rivers, this landlocked country is one of Africa’s most stunning. Immerse yourself in the intense wildlife experience of both Hwange National Park and Mana Pools, two wildlife rich gems, home to high numbers of elephants, lions and the elusive African painted dog. Lead by expert guides throughout, firstly Chris Warden who traversed over 32,000 miles of uncharted territory in a career spanning 30 years.
At Verney's you will be hosted by Themba Sibanda, a Zimbabwean Professional Guide who is an expert in walking safaris and has a passion for birding. At Ingwe Pan you’ll be with Richard Yohane who has spent over 11 years guiding in Mana Pools and loves heading out on walking safaris and onto the river. Finally, at Mana River Camp you will be guided by Shaun Malan who focusses on photography and conservation showing you all the best angles so you can keep the memories of your unforgettable trip forever.
Day 1: Victoria Falls - Hwange National Park
Upon arrival into Victoria Falls, you will be met and assisted to your light aircraft flight to Robins Camp Airstrip in Hwange Nationals Park. After brunch, join Chris Warden as his stories transport you back in time, from Chris’ rendition of Livingstone’s story to the history of the park. (L, D)
The spectacular Victoria Falls are the most visited attraction in Zimbabwe and understandably so. The Falls are almost one mile wide and offer some of the most impossibly scenic viewpoints in the continent, with a mist spray that can reach almost 400 metres high after the water has plummeted 110 metres into the Batoka Gorge before continuing its journey.
Read moreDay 2: Hwange National Park
Enjoy morning and afternoon game drives inside this amazing, world famous reserve, known for its huge herds of elephants which congregate along the waterholes. Deteema Springs Camp is located in a sought-after walking safari location. (B, L, D)
In the northern reaches of Hwange National Park, Deteema Springs Camp enjoys an idyllic setting on the verge of Deteema Springs’ scenic waters and landscapes. Game is especially abundant during the dry season, when the natural springs are a vital water source. During this time a vast array of wildlife visit the springs directly in front of the camp.
Read moreDay 3: Intercamp Transfer
After your morning's game activity, you will be driven to the airstrip for your light aircraft flight to Manga Airstrip, and game driven to your next camp. Enjoy enlightening presentation by Themba Sibanda on the bird-life of Hwange National Park and head out on a game activity. (B, L, D)
Once the royal hunting ground of King Mzilikazi, Hwange National Park is now considered one of the greatest conservation areas in Africa. Proclaimed in 1929, here you will find a tremendous selection of wildlife and almost all of Zimbabwe’s specially protected animals. The 14,650 kilometre square area consists mainly of scrublands and stunted scattered woodlands with the well drained north dominated by mopane and mixed terminalia. Hwange has absolutely no shortage of wildlife, with over 100 mammal species, 400 birds and 100 trees and shrubs. It is world renowned for its huge elephant herds which roam the park, wallowing in the muddy watering holes. There is a fantastic population of wild dog and lion sightings are common, but leopard and rhino are seen only by the lucky. Other wildlife includes cheetah, giraffe, sable, eland, waterbuck, zebra, baboon and warthog, as well as over 400 bird species. Here you can find the impressive ground dwelling kori bustard and during mating season, crowned cranes perform comical dances for each other.
Read moreDay 4: Hwange National Park
Enjoy game drives in the central area of the park, with different landscape and wildlife opportunities to the Northern sector where you spend your previous nights. After brunch, enjoy an informative presentation by Painted Dog Conservation. (B, L, D)
Set in the heart of Hwange National Park on a private concession, Verney’s Camp invites you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and diverse wildlife of Hwange National Park. Whether you’re observing elephants, lions, or a myriad of bird species from your private veranda or joining thrilling game drives, you’ll be captivated by the park’s enchanting wilderness. Featuring ten well-appointed tents, strategically positioned to provide stunning views of a bustling waterhole while ensuring guest privacy. Each tent boasts an en-suite shower, flush toilet, and double vanity, seamlessly blending modern comfort with the authentic feel of being on safari.
Read moreDay 5: Hwange National Park - Mana Pools
This morning you will transfer to Manga Airstrip for your charter flight to Mana Pools. Head out on your first game activity and after brunch, enjoy engaging in an informative presentation by Richard Yohane, discussing the avian wonders of Mana Pools. (B, L, D)
Ingwe Pan Camp is a hidden gem nestled beside a large secluded pan within the pristine wilderness of Mana Pools National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mana Pools National Park is known for its abundant wildlife and stunning landscapes, making it a prime destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers. Eight eco-luxury tents amidst trees on the edge of the pan, linked along natural walkways.
Read moreDay 6: Mana Pools National Park
Activities include day game drives in open Land Rovers, but and one of the best ways to experience this beautiful part of Africa is to head out on a walking safari. This area is all about big game - large elephant bulls, big herds of buffalo as well as lion, leopard and wild dog. (B, L, D)
Expansive wilderness plains with no road access, the delightfully remote Mana Pools national park was designated in 1963 and has developed as an untouched environment only explored on foot, with much of the game species you are likely to encounter completely at ease with human presence. Such is the protected beauty of the park, with no physical boundaries keeping wildlife in or out, that it was announced a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984. The park itself is a network of long and twisting ox-bow lakes and pools that are formed where the mighty Zambezi slows its pace after crashing through the Victoria Falls, meandering through the Lower Zambezi Valley. The river is spread across a flattened floodplain stretching as far as the distant hills of the escarpment and reflecting the many islands and sandbanks where copious animals and birds roam. This is especially so in the dry season, from June to October, when herds of thirsty elephants and buffalo make their way from the Lower Zambezi National Park to the pools, where pods of hippo, crocodiles, kudu, wild dog, leopard, lion and cheetah may be found, drawn in by the sweet water. Canoe safaris are popular in the lower Zambezi area, spending a few days floating down meandering waters, dodging hippo pods as you go.
Day 7: Mana Pools National Park - Intercamp Transfer
After your morning's game activity, you will be driven to your next camp, enjoying a game drive enroute. In the afternoon head out on a game activity and relish the opportunity to engage in an enlightening presentation by Shaun Malan, focusing on the art of photography. (B, L, D)
Located on the shore of the Zambezi River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will find Mana River Camp – one of the most friendly safari camps in the country. And if all this is not enough, Mana River Camp is also notorious for its delicious cuisine.Providing a warm family atmosphere of home away from home, the camp is owned and managed by Machaba Safaris - and their amazingly dedicated team. The camp offers a comfortable, homely and authentic safari experience.
Read moreDay 8: Mana Pools
Old river meanders, left in the mineral-rich volcanic soils, have formed into small ox-bow lakes surrounded by lush vegetation and tall old stands of mahogany and ebony. This abundance of water and luxuriant greenery accounts for the valley’s wealth of big game. (B, L, D)
The vast tracts of wilderness and magnificent parks of Zimbabwe are home to over 100 mammals, and an impressive array of wildlife. Traverse the plains by foot, tracking animals via their prints and trails
Read moreDay 9: Mana Pools National Park - Depart Harare
Today you will be transferred to Mana Main Airstrip for your light aircraft flight to Harare where you can connect with your departing flight.
In the northern reaches of Hwange National Park, Deteema Springs Camp enjoys an idyllic setting on the verge of Deteema Springs’ scenic waters and landscapes. In close proximity to the camp is Deteema Dam, which attracts wildlife ranging from Hwange’s famed large elephant herds through to predators, antelope, smaller game and plentiful birdlife. Activities include morning and evening game drives, walking safaris and game viewing from the comfort of your own tent.
Each of the eight canvas safari tents are positioned on raised wooden decks along the contour line of a hill to blend into the natural surroundings. Rooms are connected to the main areas by raised walkways, meandering between the natural rocks and indigenous trees.The communal main area consists of a dining area and lounge, as well as a swimming pool.
Set in the heart of Hwange National Park on a private concession, Verney’s Camp invites you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and diverse wildlife of Hwange National Park. Whether you’re observing elephants, lions, or a myriad of bird species from your private veranda or joining thrilling game drives, you’ll be captivated by the park’s enchanting wilderness. Featuring ten well-appointed tents, strategically positioned to provide stunning views of a bustling waterhole while ensuring guest privacy. Each tent boasts an en-suite shower, flush toilet, and double vanity, seamlessly blending modern comfort with the authentic feel of being on safari.
Ingwe Pan Camp is a hidden gem nestled beside a large secluded pan within the pristine wilderness of Mana Pools National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its abundant wildlife and stunning landscapes. This remote camp is approximately a 30-minute drive from the renowned Mana floodplain and the Zambezi River, offering guests an opportunity to experience the natural beauty of this exceptional region. One of the standout features of Ingwe Pan Camp is its excellent walking safaris, immerse yourself in the wilderness and explore the park on foot, getting up close to the incredible flora and fauna. Ingwe Pan Camp provides a tranquil and immersive safari experience in this remarkable corner of Zimbabwe.
Located on the shore of the Zambezi River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will find Mana River Camp – one of the most friendly safari camps in the country. And if all this is not enough, Mana River Camp is also notorious for its delicious cuisine.Providing a warm family atmosphere of home away from home, the camp is owned and managed by Machaba Safaris - and their amazingly dedicated team. The camp offers a comfortable, homely and authentic safari experience.
| Date | Guests | Trip Length | Trip Style | Prices from | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DATES TBA 2025 | 12 | 9 Days | Small Group Safari | 9000 |
