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Zimbabwe offers an unforgettable safari experience, brimming with diverse landscapes and rich wildlife. A standout feature of a Zimbabwean safari is the exceptional quality of guiding. Guides here undergo rigorous training and exams, ensuring you have an insightful and enriching experience. This expertise brings the bush to life, from understanding animal behaviors to identifying tracks and bird calls.
The country’s varied terrain includes everything from the lush riverbanks of Mana Pools and the expansive grasslands of Hwange National Park to the dramatic rock formations of Matobo Hills. This diversity supports a wide range of wildlife, making every game drive a new adventure. You might find yourself watching elephants play in the water one day and tracking lions through the savannah the next. The thrill of seeing these animals in their natural habitat is unparalleled.
Water-based activities add another dimension to safaris in Zimbabwe. Canoeing along the Zambezi River, you can quietly glide past hippos and crocodiles, or perhaps spot an elephant taking a drink. Houseboat safaris on Lake Kariba offer a relaxing way to view wildlife, as you drift along, enjoying the scenery and the animals that come to the shore.
Walking safaris in places like Mana Pools are a special highlight. There’s nothing quite like the thrill of being on foot in the bush, with an expert guide leading the way. It’s a chance to learn about the smaller details of the ecosystem that you might miss from a vehicle. Bird watching is also superb, with a stunning variety of species to spot in the diverse habitats of Victoria Falls and beyond.
Cultural experiences enrich your safari, too. Visiting local communities and historical sites such as Great Zimbabwe provides insight into the country’s heritage and adds depth to your adventure. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins or engaging with local traditions, these experiences complement the natural wonders of Zimbabwe, making your safari truly comprehensive and enriching.
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Please note:
*Logistics (internal flights and transfers) are not included yet unless specified on the itinerary. These rates fluctuate weekly and will only be added upon enquiry.
*All tailormade itineraries are prices from low season rates. Please contact our safari experts to provide an accurate costing for your travel dates.
*All itineraries are customizable.
*Contact our team to add logistics and get accurate costing.
Matobo National Park, Eastern Hwange National Park and Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)
Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe), Hwange National Park, Matusadona National Park and Mana Pools National Park
Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe), Southern Hwange National Park and Mana Pools National Park
Western Hwange National Park, Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe), Chobe River Front, Savuti – Chobe National Park and Moremi Game Reserve
Hwange National Park is in west Zimbabwe. Its grasslands and mopane woods are home to large elephant herds, lions, and African wild dogs.
In the northwest, animals gather at Mandavu and Masuma dams, where there are concealed lookouts.
Our Favorite Properties in Hwange National Park
Situated in the northern region of Zimbabwe, on the southern banks of the Zambezi River, Mana Pools National Park will leave you breathless with its beauty. A paradise for walking and canoeing safaris, Mana Pools is a wildlife-rich, biodiverse wonderland that will delight at every turn.
Our Favorite Properties in Mana Pools National Park
The Victoria Falls presents a spectacular sight of awe-inspiring beauty and grandeur on the Zambezi River, forming a natural border between Zambia and Zimbabwe.
It was described by the Kololo tribe living in the area as ‘Mosi-oa-Tunya’ – ‘The Smoke that Thunders’ for the immense spray and incredible noise caused by the rushing water.
Our Favorite Properties at the Victoria Falls
In January, Zimbabwe’s landscape is lush and vibrant, thanks to the summer rains. The bush is thick, making wildlife sightings more challenging, but the scenery is breathtaking, especially for photographers and birdwatchers. Migratory birds are in abundance, and the presence of newborn animals adds a special charm to the experience.
Afternoon thunderstorms are common, creating dramatic skies, and the parks are less crowded, offering a peaceful safari. Although the dense vegetation can make game viewing unpredictable, the rich greenery and flourishing wildlife make January a beautiful time to explore Zimbabwe’s national parks.
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February continues with the green season, where the landscape remains lush and alive with activity. The dense bush still makes spotting wildlife a bit tricky, but the rewards are worth it, especially with many animals still caring for their young.
Birdwatching is excellent, and the parks are tranquil with fewer visitors. Predators can often be seen near water sources, and the dramatic landscapes, paired with vibrant birdlife, make February a great month for those who appreciate the natural beauty of Zimbabwe.
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March sees the tail end of the rainy season, with fewer showers and a landscape that remains green and vibrant. The bush begins to thin slightly, improving the chances of spotting wildlife, though the scenery remains stunning.
As water sources are still plentiful, animals are dispersed, but patient safari-goers will find plenty to enjoy, from excellent birdwatching to the lush surroundings. March is ideal for those seeking a blend of beautiful landscapes and quieter parks.
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April marks the transition into the dry season, with rains subsiding and the landscape starting to dry out. Wildlife becomes easier to spot as the bush thins, and animals begin to gather around waterholes.
The mild temperatures make it comfortable for game drives and walking safaris, and the high water levels at Victoria Falls offer a spectacular view. April provides a balance of lush scenery and increasing wildlife visibility, making it a great time to visit.
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In May, the dry season is in full swing, with clear skies and cooler temperatures. Wildlife sightings become more frequent as animals congregate around shrinking water sources, making this an excellent time for game viewing.
The cooler evenings and lower mosquito presence enhance the safari experience, making it ideal for walking safaris and night drives. May is the beginning of the peak safari season, offering some of the best opportunities to see Zimbabwe’s big game.
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June brings the start of winter, with cool days and chilly nights. The dry conditions make for exceptional game viewing as wildlife gathers around waterholes, and the thinning bush improves visibility.
This is a great time for exploring Zimbabwe’s diverse landscapes, from Hwange’s vast plains to the scenic Zambezi River. The comfortable weather allows for full-day excursions, making June a top choice for a Zimbabwe safari.
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July is one of the peak months for safari in Zimbabwe, with the dry season at its height. Wildlife is highly concentrated around water sources, and the cool temperatures make game drives comfortable.
The sparse vegetation enhances visibility, making it easier to spot predators and large herds of elephants and buffalo. July is also a perfect time for photography, with clear skies and bright days offering excellent lighting conditions.
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August continues with prime wildlife viewing as animals remain concentrated around limited water sources. The temperatures warm up during the day, but nights remain cool, providing a pleasant balance.
This month is ideal for visiting Mana Pools, where walking safaris offer close encounters with diverse wildlife. August’s dry, dusty conditions create an atmospheric backdrop for thrilling safari adventures in Zimbabwe’s most famous parks.
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September is hot and dry, with wildlife highly visible as animals gather around the few remaining waterholes. The heat can be intense, but the excellent game viewing opportunities make early morning and late afternoon drives particularly rewarding.
Victoria Falls, with lower water levels, reveals more of its geological wonders, offering dramatic views. September combines great wildlife sightings with breathtaking landscapes, making it a standout month for safari enthusiasts.
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October is the hottest month in Zimbabwe, with temperatures soaring. Despite the heat, wildlife viewing is at its peak as animals are desperate for water, leading to intense activity around waterholes.
This month offers thrilling opportunities to see predators in action and is also perfect for night drives, where cooler temperatures bring out nocturnal animals. The dramatic sunsets and active wildlife make October an exciting time for a Zimbabwe safari.
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November marks the beginning of the short rainy season, with occasional showers bringing a welcome relief from the heat. The first rains rejuvenate the landscape, turning it green and vibrant once again.
While wildlife is still concentrated around water sources, the scenery begins to change, and the impala birthing season attracts predators. November offers a mix of the dry season’s game viewing with the freshness of the early rains, creating a dynamic and rewarding safari experience.
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December is in the heart of the rainy season, with lush green landscapes and abundant water sources. Although wildlife viewing can be more challenging due to thick vegetation, it’s an excellent time for birdwatching as many species breed and display vibrant plumage.
The parks are quieter, providing a more tranquil safari experience, and the dramatic thunderstorms add an exciting element to the adventure. The lush scenery and the sight of newborn animals make December a unique and beautiful time to visit Zimbabwe.
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Leopards in Zimbabwe are the epitome of stealth and elegance, embodying the mystique of the African wilderness. These elusive big cats are found in various habitats, from the dense forests of Matobo National Park to the rugged terrain of Mana Pools. Known for their remarkable adaptability, leopards are solitary hunters, relying on their incredible agility and camouflage to stalk prey. They are often seen resting in trees, where they keep their kills safe from scavengers. Despite their elusive nature, leopards are a key attraction for safari enthusiasts, offering a rare and exciting opportunity to witness one of Africa’s most enigmatic predators in its natural environment.
Wild Dogs, also known as Painted Dogs, are among Zimbabwe’s most endangered and fascinating carnivores. Renowned for their incredible teamwork and high hunting success rates, they are found in places like Hwange and Mana Pools National Parks. These highly social animals live in tight-knit packs led by an alpha pair, and their striking coat patterns of black, white, and ochre make them easily distinguishable. Wild Dogs are essential to the ecosystem as they help control prey populations and maintain the balance of the food chain. Encountering a pack of Wild Dogs in the wild is a rare and thrilling experience, showcasing the intricate social structures of the animal kingdom.
Elephants in Zimbabwe are among the most cherished and iconic inhabitants of the country’s diverse landscapes. These gentle giants are most commonly found in large numbers within national parks such as Hwange and Gonarezhou, where they roam freely across vast terrains. Known for their intelligence, strong family bonds, and impressive size, Zimbabwe’s elephants are a key species, contributing significantly to the ecosystem by shaping the environment around them. However, they face threats from poaching and human-wildlife conflict, making conservation efforts essential. A safari in Zimbabwe offers a remarkable chance to observe these majestic animals in their natural environment.
Lions in Zimbabwe are iconic symbols of the country’s rich wildlife heritage. These majestic predators roam the vast savannahs and woodlands of national parks like Hwange and Mana Pools, where they play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem. Zimbabwe’s lions are known for their powerful presence and impressive prides, often observed in family groups led by dominant males. However, they face challenges from habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict, making conservation efforts vital to their survival. Safaris in Zimbabwe offer a unique opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Cheetahs in Zimbabwe are the epitome of speed and grace, capable of reaching incredible speeds to catch their prey in short bursts. These slender, spotted cats are often found in open plains and grasslands, such as those in Hwange and Matobo National Parks. Unlike other big cats, cheetahs rely on their exceptional speed rather than stealth to hunt, making them fascinating to observe. However, they are vulnerable to threats from habitat loss and competition with other predators. Cheetahs are solitary or live in small groups, and their presence in Zimbabwe adds a dynamic element to the country’s wildlife diversity.
Spotted Hyenas in Zimbabwe are often misunderstood but play a crucial role in the ecosystem as scavengers and skilled hunters. Found in areas like Hwange and Gonarezhou National Parks, these resilient animals are known for their powerful jaws and complex social structures. Living in clans led by dominant females, hyenas communicate through a range of vocalizations, including their infamous “laugh.” They are vital to the environment, cleaning up carrion and preventing the spread of disease. Observing spotted hyenas in the wild offers a deeper understanding of the intricate dynamics of Africa’s predators.
Zebras in Zimbabwe are a striking sight with their distinctive black-and-white stripes, roaming the open grasslands and woodlands of national parks like Hwange and Matobo. These social animals move in herds, relying on their numbers for protection from predators. The patterns of their stripes are unique to each individual, providing them with effective camouflage in the dappled light of their natural habitat. Zebras are essential to the ecosystem, as their grazing habits help maintain the balance of vegetation. Safaris in Zimbabwe offer ample opportunities to observe these beautiful animals in their natural environment, often mingling with other herbivores.
Buffalo in Zimbabwe are formidable and resilient, often seen in large herds across the savannahs and floodplains of areas like Mana Pools and Hwange National Park. Known for their unpredictable nature and powerful build, these animals are one of the “Big Five,” making them a sought-after sighting on safaris. Buffalo are highly social and depend on their herd for protection, displaying strong bonds among members. They play a crucial role in the ecosystem by influencing the structure of vegetation and serving as prey for large predators like lions. Their presence adds a sense of wild authenticity to Zimbabwe’s landscapes.
White Rhinos in Zimbabwe are majestic and critically important to conservation efforts, particularly in protected areas like Matobo and Matusadona National Parks. These massive herbivores, characterized by their broad mouths adapted for grazing, are often seen in pairs or small groups. White Rhinos are vital to the ecosystem, helping shape the landscape by grazing on grasses. Despite their imposing size, they face significant threats from poaching, making conservation efforts crucial. Spotting a White Rhino in the wild is a profound experience, highlighting the importance of preserving Zimbabwe’s endangered species.
Wildebeest in Zimbabwe are iconic participants in one of nature’s most dramatic spectacles, the migration. While more famously associated with East Africa, smaller populations of wildebeest are found in Zimbabwe’s parks, such as Hwange and Gonarezhou. These hardy herbivores are known for their large herds and synchronized calving, which helps protect them from predators. Wildebeests play a crucial role in the ecosystem by grazing on grasses and providing prey for large predators. Observing wildebeest in Zimbabwe offers a glimpse into the ancient rhythms of the African savannah.
Giraffes in Zimbabwe are graceful creatures that add a unique charm to the country’s wildlife scene. Standing tall above the bush, these elegant animals are commonly spotted in areas like Hwange and Zambezi National Parks, where they browse on the treetops of acacia woodlands. Known for their long necks and striking patterns, giraffes in Zimbabwe move in small herds, peacefully grazing and contributing to the ecosystem by helping to control tree growth. Despite their serene appearance, they face threats from habitat loss and poaching. Observing giraffes in the wild during a Zimbabwean safari is a captivating experience, showcasing the beauty and diversity of African wildlife.
Hippos in Zimbabwe are fascinating and formidable creatures that thrive in the country’s rivers and lakes, particularly in places like the Zambezi River and Lake Kariba. Known for their massive size and powerful presence, these semi-aquatic mammals spend most of their days submerged in water to keep cool, emerging at dusk to graze on grass. Despite their seemingly calm demeanor, hippos are among Africa’s most dangerous animals due to their territorial nature. They play a crucial role in their ecosystem by maintaining aquatic vegetation and creating channels in the waterways. On a Zimbabwean safari, encountering hippos in their natural habitat offers a thrilling glimpse into the wild side of Africa.
Here’s a more comprehensive list of some of the animals that can be spotted during a Zimbabwe safari:
Big Cats
Other Large Mammals
Canids
Hyenas
Reptiles
Antelope Species
Primates
Other Herbivores
Birds
Smaller Carnivores and Others
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Roaming Tales
We share our safari experiences, tips and stories to inspire and guide you in your own wanderlust adventures. From hidden gems to popular safari destinations, we showcase the beauty and diversity of Southern Africa, and promote responsible and sustainable travel.
Situated in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, adjacent to the Kruger National Park, Elephant Plains Game Lodge offers comfortable, stylish and affordable luxury. The lodge accommodates a maximum of 24 guests, which ensures personal service in a warm, friendly atmosphere. The lodge caters for the discerning traveller, offering a variety of accommodation options, ranging from Rondavels and Luxury Suites to the Manyeleti Honeymoon Suite. Elephant Plains is world-renowned for excellent game viewing and guests can enjoy two game drives and a bush walk per day. Facilities include two swimming pools, as well as a gym.
