12-Day Zimbabwe Safari | Wildlife, Hidden Gems & Scenery

A 12-day Zimbabwe safari typically offers an immersive, high-end experience covering the country’s top wildlife and scenic spots. Top itineraries often include the iconic Victoria Falls, vast elephant herds in Hwange National Park, and the pristine, water-based wilderness of Mana Pools or Lake Kariba/Matusadona.

On this tailor-made 12-Day Zimbabwe Safari, you will discover the hidden gems, breathtaking scenery, and amazing wildlife of Zimbabwe. At each stop, you’ll get a better sense of the country’s size and isolation, from the largest man-made body of water in the world to the greatest national park in the nation and the largest waterfall in Africa.

Bayete Lodge is a good place to stay as you start your adventure near Victoria Falls. Marvel at the breathtaking Falls and indulge in an array of activities that cater to all types of travellers. The next stop should be at Hwange National Park, where elephants are abundant. Join the knowledgeable rangers of Camp Hwange as they reveal the hidden wonders of the forest. After you reach Mana Pools National Park, keep going until you reach John’s Camp. Discover the intricate wonders of the wilderness on walking safaris in the park. Peaceful Fothergill Island in Lake Kariba is the perfect place to end your 12-Day Zimbabwe Safari. Islands, inlets, and gorges abound in this enormous lake, just waiting to be discovered. Just take a moment to appreciate the vastness and tranquillity of the lake.

Those looking for adventure, a love of environment, and a chance to observe wildlife will adore this 12-Day Zimbabwe Safari. Whether you’re on a safari with friends, family, a significant other, or just yourself, you’re sure to have an experience like no other and get a true feel for the wild grandeur of Africa. Victoria Falls is conveniently connected to South Africa, so if you aren’t quite ready to go home just yet, you may spend some time there seeing Cape Town and the surrounding Cape Winelands.

A Detailed 12-Day Zimbabwe Safari | Wildlife, Hidden Gems & Scenery

Day 1-2: A Natural Wonder | 2 Nights

Zimbabwe awaits you! An experienced driver will be waiting for you at Victoria Falls International Airport to take you to the lush tropical grounds of Bayete Lodge. Spending two nights here gives you plenty of time to discover Africa’s Adventure Capital during the afternoon and entire day. Before you go out to a local restaurant for lunch, relax in your cosy apartment. With its panoramic views of the Batoka Gorge and its raging rapids below, The Lookout Café is our top pick.

A visit to the Falls should be a part of your itinerary regardless of how you choose to spend your time there. Experience a new vantage point by boarding a picturesque microlight or helicopter flight. Adventurers can try their hand at white-water rafting, bungee jumping, or ziplining down grade five rapids (water levels permitting).

Sunset river cruises on the great Zambezi allow visitors to take it easy while taking in the beauty of Victoria Falls. Stop by the Victoria Falls Hotel for some traditional high tea and pick up a souvenir from a local craftsman at a nearby craft market. Everyone, from thrill seekers to those who would rather take it easy, may find their perfect experience at Victoria Falls.

Day 3-5: Big Herds in Hwange | 3 Nights

Before your road journey back to Victoria Falls Airport, fuel up with a fresh breakfast at Bayete. This will get you ready for the start of your safari. Hwange Camp in Hwange National Park is accessible via a brief aircraft ride across rural Zimbabwe. Home to an astonishing 30,000 elephants, this national park is the biggest and most well-known in Zimbabwe.

You may anticipate privacy and freedom during your safari activities at Camp Hwange because it is located in a private concession. Night drives are a great way to see the amazing wildlife that lives in Africa. You can go on guided hikes in the reserve and your guide can take you animal-watching off-road for better sights. Finally, among Africa’s safari guides, you’ll find some of the most enthusiastic and well-versed individuals working in Zimbabwe. You will enjoy an unforgettable experience thanks to that and the abundance of wildlife in Hwange.

If you’re going on a safari, you should probably start your day with a snack and a hot cup of coffee. Indulge in a variety of breakfast goodies and a hot beverage during a delightful pit stop on your way out, which will fuel you till brunch at camp. Typically, your afternoon activity will begin after you have your afternoon tea, which is served at around 3 o’clock. You get to choose from sweet and savoury snacks, as well as a refreshing drink. Enjoy a refreshing drink by the campfire after a night on the town, then settle in for a hearty family meal.

Day 6-8: The Golden Child of the Zambezi Valley | 3 Nights

Return to the airstrip after breakfast in Hwange, where you will spend your last morning. Mana Pools National Park, often called the “golden child” of the Zambezi Valley, is reached north of the valley via another light aircraft flight. Staying at the charming yet simple John’s Camp in this water-rich reserve will be a great experience.

This classic tented camp is well located for an unforgettable safari, under a vast canopy of trees and with breathtaking views of the game-rich Zambezi floodplains. Get comfortable in your spacious tent, which features solar lighting and a private bathroom. You won’t have long to wait till you can go on a game drive in the reserve and hopefully see some of the numerous animals that call Mana Pools home.

Outside of game drives, Mana Pools is Africa’s sole national park that allows visitors to go on wild walking safaris. So, you can stroll around the whole park if you like. Walking safaris with your knowledgeable Zimbabwean guides are sure to be an adventure you won’t soon forget. You can learn about the therapeutic uses of local plants, get up close and personal with the little wonders of the bushveld, and monitor wildlife on foot. The helpful camp staff will make sure you have a comfortable place to rest with a drink in hand as you soak in the wilderness atmosphere while you’re not out exploring the park.

Day 9-11: Discover Sparkling Lake Kariba | 3 Nights

Let the beauty of Lake Kariba wash over you as you take it easy. Located on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, this magnificent body of water is the largest artificial lake in the world in terms of volume. You may reach Fothergill Island, your next campsite, by taking a flight from Mana Pools to the Fothergill airstrip, where your guide will meet you. This haven brings together fascinating history, vibrant culture, and unforgettable safari adventures. The perfect way to end your journey to Zimbabwe.

In this tastefully decorated suite, the interior is expertly blended with outdoor aspects of the nearby nature, while vibrant bursts of colour symbolise Zimbabwe’s vibrant culture. Relax and enjoy your stay. Gaze up at the picturesque floodplain and lake beyond, and see if you can spot a herd of buffalo, antelope, or elephant as it passes by. You can enjoy some wildlife viewing from the luxury of your large deck, private plunge pool, or cushioned loungers in your private sala—the ideal setting for an armchair safari.

Thanks to its picturesque setting on Lake Kariba, Fothergill Island is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to partake in not only rare and exciting activities, but also breathtaking wildlife viewing. Nature hikes, archery, fly fishing, boat safaris, and peaceful sunset cruises are all part of the safari experience. Upon returning to camp each evening from a day out, you will be greeted by the kind faces of the staff.

Day 12: Farewell Zimbabwe!

A sad truth is that everything nice has to end. Take in the scenery of the lake after your final delicious meal. The journey back home begins with a short drive to the runway, followed by a flight to Victoria Falls International Airport.

End of the 12-Day Zimbabwe Safari | Wildlife, Hidden Gems & Scenery

Inclusions

  • Meals:
    Bayete Guest Lodge : Bed & Breakfast
    Camp Hwange : Full Board Plus (All Meals, Select Extras)
    John’s Camp : Full Board Plus (All Meals, Select Extras)
    Fothergill Island : Full Board Plus (All Meals, Select Extras)
  • All necessary permits, conservancy and park fees
  • All activities specified, including morning and evening game drives each full day on safari
  • 24/7 assistance and support during your trip

Exclusions

  • Your international flights to and from Africa + any related taxes
  • Any travel visas you require (though we help you with this)
  • Tips
  • Personal items (eg. travel insurance, souvenirs)