Zambia & Zimbabwe’s Hidden Gems
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Home to vast national parks with abundant animal life but relatively few visitors, Zambia and Zimbabwe shelter some of the best-kept secrets in the safari world, offering guests the rare experience of a true escape into the wilderness. Stunning waterways and verdant grasslands characterise the beautiful landscapes that will surround you on your exploration of Africa’s incredible natural beauty, starting with an incredible visit to the largest sheet of falling water in the world – the dramatic Victoria Falls. Here you will be able to stay in a beautiful lodge, surrounded by extraordinary wildlife and stunning nature.
- Victoria Falls
- Boat trips on the Zambezi
- Hwange National Park
- Bumi Hills
- Fishing on Lake Kariba
- Canoe trails and walking safaris at Mana Pools National Park
Your adventure kicks off in Zambia, home to some of the planet’s most unspoiled wilderness. This undiscovered trove of natural treasures includes none other than Victoria Falls, a spectacular thundering phenomenon unlike any other. Spend two nights here at Africa’s adrenaline capital and enjoy the Zambezi by boat. The surrounding national parks are home to a great diversity of wildlife that thrives on the river’s banks and among the lush foliage. Besides stunning nature and adventure activities, there are also myriad opportunities for cultural exploration in nearby Livingstone and local villages.
Next, you will arrive at the pride of Zimbabwe, Hwange National Park. This incredible expanse is home to over 100 mammal species as well as countless other animals that can be found within its immense borders. Nothing creates the true sense of escaping to the wilderness like a safari in a park the size of a small country. Explore the rolling grasslands and picturesque sunsets of the savannah here as you hunt for the Big Five and rarer species like wild dogs, roan and sable antelope. Feel the might of huge herds of elephants and enjoy the relative seclusion of this wildlife treasure trove.
After three nights of soaking up the expanse of Hwange, touch down in the Bumi Hills for a slice of African life by the lake. Lake Kariba is home to a riot of aquatic life and the perfect destination for game viewing by boat as well as the thrill of fishing for the ferocious tigerfish – or bream for the less adventurous. The banks of the lake see herds of thirsty visitors making up a vast ecosystem that includes various large game and predators, birds and fish. Enjoy splendid views from your camp at the top of the hills.
Your journey culminates at the remote but exquisite Mana Pools National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to splendid wilderness. During the rainy season, the park floods, and as the dry season begins animals flock from all around to enjoy its waterways and floodplains. This is a secluded and special park that has excellent canoe trails and fishing spots as well as boasting delightful walking safaris.
Arrive at Harry Mwanga Nkumbula Airport to be greeted by an andBeyond team member and driven to Thorntree River Lodge to begin your stay in the beautiful African outdoors with a bang.
Witness the colossal might of Victoria Falls and feel stirred – nothing comes close to the sensation of earth’s largest natural falling sheet of water before you. Take in the beautiful rainforest below and peer over the precipitous drop at its head. This dramatic spectacle provides the backdrop for countless adrenaline adventures such as bungee jumping and white water rafting.
Enjoy the waters of the Zambezi at a slightly more placid pace after your falls visit, with a sunset cruise on this wide, meandering river. Let the sounds of the birdlife wash over you as you sip a cocktail to an orange sunset.
The Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is yours to explore, sustaining a rich array of wildlife that drink from the Zambezi’s banks. Game drives and bush walks lead you through a host of animal life, while a black rhino tracking experience allows you to glimpse these rare creatures.
Guests can also partake in various cultural activities to gain a better insight into the history and people of this magical part of the world. These include visits to local villages, Livingstone Museum and the Maramba & Makuni markets.
Your accommodation at Thorntree River Lodge promises a luxurious retreat at the heart of the Zambezi’s beauty. This environmentally conscious haven overlooks the shifting river and the animals that throng its banks. In addition to its large, comfortable suites with private pools and decks, the camp boasts a charming sunken boma, a spa and a glittering infinity pool. Dining is inspired locally, accompanied by wines from the temperature-controlled cellar and served in the theatre of the African bush. Unwind here and reconnect with yourself.
After a delicious breakfast, you will be driven to Victoria Falls Airport in time for your scheduled flight to Hwange National Park Airport. You will then be transferred to Somalisa Camp.
Step into the beating heart of Zimbabwe’s nature. Hwange National Park is the size of Belgium and has more distinct mammal species than any other national park – in the world. It is also home to Africa’s largest elephant population. These gentle giants can be found wandering to watering holes or tramping through the sparse woodland that dots the rolling grassy plains of Hwange. Delight in watching these species – and countless others – on game drives and interpretive walking safaris, where experienced guides demonstrate what every broken twig and fallen leaf means. Village visits give guests an insight into the communities that African Bush Camps operate within, supporting sustainable development.
Somalisa Camp is renowned among safari-goers for its peaceful air and understated beauty owing to the natural materials used in its construction. It has a solar power farm and water purity system allowing 80% of the camp’s water to be recycled. Tents are lavishly equipped with wood-burning fireplaces, stunning furniture and modern appointments that allow you to embrace the wilderness in comfort. Both the pool and guest area overlook the peaceful pan and the broad horizon, which lends itself to divine sunsets. Enjoy inventive gourmet dining and a truly tranquil atmosphere.
After a delightful breakfast, you will be transferred to Hwange National Park Airport for your flight to Bumi Hills Airstrip before being driven to Bumi Hills Lodge.
Set at the top of the hills that give it its name, the lodge overlooks the gigantic Lake Kariba. This is the world’s largest man-made lake, with a surface area of over 5000 square kilometres. It’s home to a great number of aquatic animals, ranging from crocodiles and hippos to tigerfish and African fish eagles. Herds of buffalo and elephant, and other large herbivores drink at the water’s edge – as do their predators.
Set against the rugged Zambezi Escarpment, the camp’s private concession is rich both in wildlife and dramatic vistas. Aside from game drives, you’ll take part in walking safaris, boat cruises and a visit to a local village. Game drives can also be taken at night for exciting nocturnal action and predators waiting for the day’s heat to pass. Avid fishers can take to the water on the hunt for the ravenous tigerfish or bream – this is an excellent site for catch-and-release sport.
The camp is resplendent with stunning views of the lake. A rim-flow swimming pool offers the ideal refreshment in the midday warmth, while the cigar lounge and spa are perfect spots to unwind after an adventure. Dine al fresco or in the beautiful dining room, capping off a long day with drinks at the bar. Private verandas look out over the vista, and there is even a well-equipped gym for the fitness-inclined.
After a mouthwatering breakfast, you will be taken to Bumi Hills Airstrip for your flight to Mana West Airstrip. From there you will be driven by an andBeyond team member to Nyamatusi Camp, your home for the next three nights.
This stunning oasis on the southern banks of the Zambezi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognised for its remoteness and wild beauty. Its flood plains draw large numbers of animals as the rainy season recedes, with significant elephant, crocodile and hippo populations as well as a rainbow of birdlife. Among birding highlights are the bright carmine bee-eater, the African skimmer and the dazzling Narina trogon. Keep your eyes peeled for lionesses hunting too.
Mana Pools is one of Africa’s best locations for canoe safaris, with the Zambezi providing charming views of the acacias that line the horizon and incredible access to bathing elephants and thirsty herds. This is also an ideal place for walking safaris, due to the richness of plant and birdlife that thrive on the fertile land. Game drives take you deeper into the undisturbed beauty of the park and up close to the rarer animals like wild dogs, cheetahs and hyenas. During November and December, other forms of boating are also possible and included in your stay.
Nyamatusi Camp sits on the Zambezi’s banks with sublime tented suites offering river views from private decks and plunge pools. These elegant yet rustic suites allow al fresco bathing and are equipped with modern appointments like air conditioning and a minibar. Delicious meals are served up on the deck beneath the African sky, while there is also a bar area for unwinding with a nightcap around the fire after a long day of exploring.
After a final breakfast, we bid a fond farewell to you as you set off to Mana West Airstrip. From here, you will fly to Robert Gabriel Mugabe Airport in time for your onward travel arrangements.
Dates are flexible so please make an enquiry and tell us a range of dates you are considering so we can check availability.
African Bush Camps
African Bush Camps dedicate themselves to holistic experiences that centre visitors and their interests. They have a dedicated and highly experienced team of guides. The African Bush Foundation is a non-profit that is committed to empowering the communities with which African Bush Camps work and conserving the areas in which they operate. Community empowerment initiatives, such as the Mola Wildlife Coexistence Programme, conservation projects and investment in education make up just some of the work they do.
- Accommodation with all meals and local brands of drinks
- All scheduled flights:
– Victoria Falls International Airport / Hwange National Park Airport
– Hwange National Park Airport / Bumi Hills Airstrip
– Bumi Hills Airstrip / Mana West Airstrip
– Mana West Airstrip / Robert Mugabe International Airport - All road transfers:
– Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport / Thorntree River Lodge
– Thorntree River Lodge / Victoria Falls International Airport
– Hwange National Park Airport / Somalisa Camp / Hwange National Park Airport
– Bumi Hills Airstrip / Bumi Hills Safari Lodge / Bumi Hills Airstrip
– Mana West Airstrip / Nyamatusi Camp / Mana West Airstrip - Participation in two activities a day, as mentioned in the itinerary
- Conservation and Wildlife Fund
- Emergency Medical Evacuation Insurance
- Administration Fee
- Gratuities
- All flights
- Visa costs
- Vaccinations
- Health insurance
- Travel insurance
- Additional travel requirements outside of included transfers
- Carbon Offsetting through Climate Care
Particularly suited to:
- Wildlife adventurers
- Explorers off the beaten track
- Water landscape lovers
- Family and group travel
Suitable for ages 8 to 80
Some activities and accommodation may have age restrictions
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