safari destinations botswana and zimbabwe

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Local independent destination management company: botswana • zimbabwe, follow us: facebook, safari destinations.

At Safari Destinations

we live and breathe African safaris

We can change a wheel; drive a

boat; tow a stranded 4x4

from thick sand whilst

planning a romantic getaway

and making a butterfly costume

for the school play.

We can plan your safaris

in our sleep

because it’s what we know and

love. We live here, we play here

– this is our home .

Botswana Safaris

Africa’s ultimate safari destination.

Experience Botswana as few travelers do, on a mobile camping safari—a true immersion in the untamed beauty of Africa. Designed to bring you away from the crowds and close to wildlife, our journeys explore the game-rich savannas of Chobe and Moremi on exhilarating game drives and by private boat, and head out on exciting bush walks and mokoro canoe excursions in the Okavango Delta. At journey’s end, experience one of the natural wonders of the world—Victoria Falls!

All Trips to Botswana

Small Group Adventure

Botswana Wildlife Safari

Botswana, Zimbabwe

From $9,895

Botswana: Kalahari Explorer

From $11,395

Botswana: Okavango Explorer

Ultimate Namibia and Botswana

Namibia, Zimbabwe, Botswana

From $11,595

Great Elephant Migration Safari

From $9,295

Private Journey

Botswana and Victoria Falls Private Safari

From $8,495

South Africa, Victoria Falls, and Botswana Private Safari

Botswana, Zimbabwe, South Africa

From $8,595

What Makes Our Botswana Safaris Special?

• Explore Africa the way few travelers ever do with  private mobile camps and boutique lodges  that get you close to the wildlife and away from the crowds.
• Expert  naturalist guides lead your entire safari  (no handing you off from lodge to lodge); and a staff-to-guest ratio of 1:1 in camp.
• Epic game viewing and great variety:  4WD vehicle, bush walks, private riverboat, canoe, and scenic charter flights.
• Custom-built 4WD safari vehicles  with guaranteed window seats and roof hatches with 360-degree views.
• Experience  Botswana’s phenomenal landscapes:  the Okavango Delta, a World Heritage Site, exquisite Moremi Game Reserve, and Chobe National Park, with its massive herds of elephant.
• We offer  a Botswana safari for every season,  from our classic 11-day journey that includes Victoria Falls to our 14-day in-depth adventures in the Okavango Delta or the Kalahari Desert.

Everything You Need to Know

There is no wrong time to go on safari in Botswana, however, it is generally accepted that the best game viewing period is from late March to October. Because of the minimal rainfall during this season, the bush turns golden brown and in many areas is beaten flat, so game viewing is easier and animals concentrate around major water sources.

There is simply no experience that compares to a mobile safari. A world apart from lodge-based, our mobile camps immerse you deep in Botswana’s most magnificent and wildlife-rich terrain in absolute comfort.

• Spacious tents are equipped with comfortable beds (no cots!), and en suite private bathrooms with washbasins and hot showers.
• A private guide, chef, camp manager, tent steward, and camp team stay with you throughout your mobile safari. Our staff-to-guest ratio is 1:1 for the highest quality of service.
• Thrilling game viewing: our mobile camps have you out in the heart of the parks and close to the wildlife—no long drives back and forth on dusty lodge roads.

With its wide-open, sparsely populated countryside, Botswana has set aside more land for national parks and game reserves than any other country in Africa. It is a landlocked nation covering an area slightly smaller than the state of Texas. In essence, Botswana is a sandy plateau situated at an average elevation of 3,000-3,500 feet above sea level. Its most dominant geological feature is the Kalahari Desert, which covers roughly 80% of the country. At the northern edge of this arid area lies the Okavango Delta—the “Jewel of the Kalahari”—where the Okavango River is tamed by the semi-desert and spills over an area the size of Switzerland, and then disappears into the sand, never reaching the ocean to the south. It is the largest inland delta in the world. With its permanent supply of water, the Okavango Delta supports what is probably the most diverse profusion of plant and animal life in Southern Africa.

Setswana is the main language in Botswana, understood by about 90% of the people. Although you can manage well without knowing any of the language, it is always fun (and appreciated) when you try to use a few words.

Hello (to man/woman) —  Dumela mma/rra Hello (to a group) —  Dumelang Goodbye (person leaving) —  Tsamayo sentle Goodbye (person staying) —  Sala sentle Please —  Tsweetswee Thank you —  Kea itumela Yes/No —  Ee/Nnyaa Excuse me —  Intshwarele OK/No problem —  Go siame How are you? (morning) —  A o tsogile? How are you? (evening) —  O tlhotse jang? My name is… —  Leina la me ke… I’m from…. —  Ke tswa kwa… Come in! —  Tsena!

The earliest recorded inhabitants of Botswana were the Basarwa, sometimes called Bushmen, although their proper name is San, meaning “people.”” Only about 3,000 full-blooded Basarwa still follow their traditional way of life, hunting and gathering in the harsh northern Kalahari. There are nearly 50,000 other Basarwas in Botswana and neighboring countries who have adapted more modern-day lifestyles. The migration of Bantu-speaking peoples from the north came later, and they brought their cattle herds with them.

In 1817, the English missionary Robert Moffat arrived and established a mission station at Kuruman. He set the Setswana language into written form and translated the bible into Setswana. The Boers swept through the land in 1835 and acquired vast tracts of land regardless of prior claims or inhabitants. In 1841, Dr. Livingstone befriended Robert Moffat and married his daughter Mary at Kuruman. Livingstone’s earlier explorations had brought him through Kolobeng to Lake Ngami in the Maun area (he was the first European to see the lake) and on to the Chobe River, the Zambezi, and Victoria Falls. After 1860, the Boers, Germans, and British carved up large tracts of land among themselves.

The British Government made Bechuanaland (Botswana) a British Protectorate in 1885. Cecil Rhodes tried to take over with his British South Africa Company in 1894, but failed. British Rule lasted 70 years. The 1960s saw the formation of the first political parties in Bechuanaland. In 1963, constitutional talks began and the machinery for self-rule and the establishment of the new capital city, Gaborone, was started. The first general elections were held in 1965 and independence was declared on September 30, 1966. Today, Botswana has one of the fastest growing economies in the African continent. The long tradition of kgotla (tribal assembly where there is freedom of speech and debate) has translated easily into a multi-party parliamentary democracy.

Experience Botswana

Extend Your Trip

Okavango Delta Safari Extension

From $4,795

REVIEWS FROM OUR CLIENTS

An extraordinary trip. The tent camping experience and the lodges were outstanding. The assurance that we were truly experiencing the world as the animals (and birds) do made it an intensely rewarding experience.

The small number of participants with Wilderness Travel makes a much more intimate interaction with the areas visited. It was wonderful being in a small group of ten. Our guide’s ability to spot things in the bush was pretty incredible—he found leopards for us (with their kills), lions we would never have seen, and every bird everywhere. Great personality, too!

We were very excited to be going on safari and all of our expectations were met and exceeded. This was the adventure of a lifetime! Top quality in every way.

The entire trip was first class. The service from the trip team was outstanding. I felt like I was at a five-star hotel rather than out in the African Bush.

The itinerary and pace of the trip was perfect. I saw more wildlife than I have seen on previous trips to Africa. Camp was charming and very comfortable with attentive and helpful staff. Kay, the cook, was amazing!

Great schedule with a focus on seeing every inch of the territory, animals, birds, learning about the terrain and the history of Botswana. A wonderful, well-run operation and very well planned and executed.

This was one of our best trips ever. We are still on a high a month after the trip, having had wonderful guides, camp crew, and co-travelers. It was the right mix of comfort and authentic experience and we saw so much more than anticipated.

This trip truly exceeded our expectations and made it the trip of a lifetime. We saw far more wildlife, up front and personal, beyond our imagination.

Talk to an Expert

Our Africa Specialists know every detail about our Botswana safaris. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

Intimate Botswana & Zimbabwe Encounter • 15 Days

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$  5,750.00

Our group tours are also offered on a private basis, and can be customized: Our experienced travel consultants will design bespoke, private itineraries according to your needs and budget. 

• Description

Availability

Accommodation, pre-tour information.

With some of the world’s greatest wildlife, Botswana and Zimbabwe are perfect partners for a safari. Enjoy our guides’ expertise and knowledge of both countries and get to explore two of Southern Africa’s most enigmatic countries with its endangered wild dogs, rhino tracking, iconic Victoria Falls and among others, a traditional canoe trip. A small guided group safari (4 – 12 travellers), from Victoria Falls through Botswana and Zimbabwe ending in Maun. 15 Days taking in the spectacular falls, Chobe, Matobo and Hwange National Parks, a Lake Kariba houseboat safari, Moremi and the Okavango Delta safaris and much more.

Highlights of the Tour

Victoria Falls : Superb viewing from both sides of the river as the almost two kilometers of falls cascade into the gorge below. Columns of spray can be seen from miles. Its a must-see destination on this leg of your Zimbabwe safari.

Lake Kariba : Enjoy spectacular sunsets and lake-based game viewing  from the comfort of your Kariba houseboat, on this leg of your Zimbabwe safari.

Chobe National Park : Best known for its massive elephant herds – indeed some of the biggest in Africa. There’s also an abundance of other wildlife for you to see in large numbers. Chobe National Park boasts some world class safari lodges that are the perfect places from which to explore and discover Chobe with game drives or boat safaris.

Hwange National Park : The reserve also has a great reputation for frequent sightings of the critically endangered African wild dog and other large predators like lion and leopard.

Matobo National Park : The park’s main attraction is its population of both Black and White Rhino. One of the highlights on this leg of your Zimbabwe holiday is that they can be reliably tracked on foot whilst on safari.

Makgadikgadi Pans : As the rain arrives, herds of zebra, wildebeest and other antelope make their way northwards to the Nxai Pan and are followed closely by the migration of predators, such as lion, cheetah and hyena.

Okavango Delta : The world’s largest inland delta, the Okavango Delta is a network of channels and rivers with thousands of islands lined with massive beds of papyrus. The floodplains stretch for miles and are the perfect environment to support abundant African game and hundreds of bird species.

Moremi Game Reserve : Described as one of the most beautiful safari areas in Africa and protects over 3000 square kilometers of Botswana wilderness in the central and eastern Okavango Delta. Expect excellent game viewing year-round in Moremi and the area’s wide range of different habitats supports an incredible array of game and birds.

Departure guaranteed Departure not guaranteed Limited seats Full

2024 Tour Departure Dates

Intimate botswana zimbabwe encounter 2024, 2025 tour departure dates, intimate botswana zimbabwe encounter 2025.

We make use of mid-range typical African standard lodge accommodation. Accommodation is situated either in national parks, on the banks of a river, or in other places of interest. The accommodation will be a mix of lodges, chalets and tented camps with en-suite bathrooms. All of them have a private bathroom with a shower or bath and a toilet. Some properties are equipped with swimming pools and/or bar areas.

Shearwater Explorers Village (or similar) Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Day 2 & 3

Sovereign Houseboat (or similar) Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe

Day 4 & 5

Chobe Safari Lodge  (or similar) Kasane, Botswana

Day 6 & 7

Hideaways Nantwich Lodge (or similar) Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

Day 8 & 9

Shashani Matobo Hills Lodge  (or similar) Matobo Hills, Zimbabwe

Nata Lodge (or similar) Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, Botswana

Planet Baobab  (or similar) Gweta or similar.

Thamalakane River Lodge (or similar) Maun, Botswana

Day 13 & 14

Mankwe Tented Retreat (or similar) Botswana

• All transport in a JENMAN safari vehicle
• Game drives and activities
• Park entrance fees
• Experienced local guide
• Pre and post tour accommodation
• Optional activities
• Personal expenses such as telephone calls, curios and tips
• Travel insurance and visas
• Park Fees & Activities (quoted separately): This fee will be payable prior to travel together with the main tour fee. The fee is used to pay for some of the day-to-day operational costs that are incurred while groups are on the road. Examples include fees at most of the national parks, entrance fees to some attractions, local guides and any food markets we visit to stock up on fresh produce during the tour. Park Fees: US$ 285 / € 265 Per person (Last updated January 2023)

The onus is on the client to organize all visas required to visit the countries stated on the Botswana Wildlife Breakaway itinerary. Please note that travellers entering Botswana will be required to present a valid international health certificate of vaccination for yellow fever should they originate from or have travelled through countries which have been declared yellow fever infected areas within the preceding 6 months.

Travel Insurance

Please note that travel and cancellation insurance is mandatory for every guest travelling with JENMAN African Safaris. All insurance is solely the responsibility of our guests. Please ensure you arrange your own insurance with protection for the full duration of your journey to cover personal injury, damage and loss of personal items including but not limited to camera equipment and other electronic items, medical expenses, repatriation expenses and loss of luggage, etc. Please speak to your travel agent if you require assistance.

Mashatu Lodge • Kalahari Desert

Hideaways Nantwich Private Villa • Hwange

Khayelitshe House • Zimbabwe

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Top 20 Best Botswana Safaris - Compare 334 Tours

5-Day Botswana Luxury Tour

$3,346 to $5,317 pp (USD)

Botswana: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Kasane (Start) , Chobe NP, Okavango Delta, Maun Airport (End)

4.9 /5  –  149 Reviews

11-Day Highlights of Botswana Safari

$7,541 to $11,090 pp (USD)

You Visit: Maun (Start) , Nxai Pan NP, Okavango Delta, Linyanti (Chobe NP) , Kasane (End)

Gondwana Tours & Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Botswana

5.0 /5  –  79 Reviews

3-Day Chobe Safari at Chobe Safari Lodge

$895 pp (USD)

Botswana: Private tour Mid-range Lodge

You Visit: Kasane (Start) , Chobe NP, Kasane (End)

Indigo Safaris

4.8 /5  –  129 Reviews

11-Day Northern Explorer Trip

$6,655 pp (USD)

Botswana: Private tour Mid-range Camping & Lodge

You Visit: Maun (Start) , Moremi GR (Okavango Delta) , Khwai Concession (Okavango Delta) , Savuti (Chobe NP) , Kasane (End)

Wild For Game Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Botswana

5.0 /5  –  17 Reviews

6-Day Your Unforgettable Botswana Tour

$2,618 pp (USD)

Botswana: Shared tour (max 10 people per vehicle) Budget Camping

You Visit: Kasane (Start) , Chobe NP, Savuti (Chobe NP) , Moremi GR (Okavango Delta) , Maun (End)

Tony Mobile Safari   Tour operator has an office in Botswana

5.0 /5  –  82 Reviews

16-Day Combined Chobe & Central Kalahari

$7,700 to $8,470 pp (USD)

Botswana: Shared tour (max 12 people per vehicle) Budget Camping & Guest House

You Visit: Maun (Start) , Passarge Valley, Deception Valley (Central Kalahari GR) , Central Kalahari GR, Moremi GR (Okavango Delta) , Moremi GR (Okavango Delta) , Chobe NP, Kasane (End)

Early Kingfisher Safari   Tour operator has an office in Botswana

5.0 /5  –  23 Reviews

6-Day The Perfect Botswana Family Safari

$2,156 to $2,398 pp (USD)

You Visit: Maun (Start) , Okavango Delta, Makgadikgadi Pans NP, Maun (End)

5.0 /5  –  42 Reviews

7-Day Best of Victoria Falls, Chobe and Okavango Delta

$2,550 pp (USD)

Botswana & Zimbabwe: Shared tour (max 8 people per vehicle) Budget Camping & Lodge

You Visit: Victoria Falls (Start) , Chobe Riverfront (Chobe NP) , Chobe NP, Savuti (Chobe NP) , Khwai Concession (Okavango Delta) , Maun Airport (End)

Skytheme Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Botswana

5.0 /5  –  4 Reviews

9-Day Incredible Journey

$4,846 to $8,081 pp (USD)

You Visit: Maun (Start) , Okavango Delta, Moremi GR (Okavango Delta) , Savuti (Chobe NP) , Maun (End)

Safari Online

5.0 /5  –  115 Reviews

9-Day Victoria Falls + Chobe + Okavango Delta

$3,256 pp (USD)

Botswana & Zimbabwe: Shared tour (max 30 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Victoria Falls (Start) , Chobe River, Elephant Sands GR, Makgadikgadi Pans NP, Okavango Delta, Maun Airport (End)

Escape to Adventure Safaris

5.0 /5  –  97 Reviews

3-Day Mokoro Overnight-Okavango Delta

$572 to $589 pp (USD)

Botswana: Shared tour (max 15 people per group) Budget Camping

You Visit: Maun (Start) , Okavango Delta, Maun (End)

Mosu Safari Tours   Tour operator has an office in Botswana

5.0 /5  –  32 Reviews

7-Day Last Minute Deal - Kalahari / Linyanti / Okavango

$4,752 to $4,884 pp (USD)

You Visit: Maun (Start) , Linyanti (Chobe NP) , Okavango Delta, Central Kalahari GR, Maun Airport (End)

Savanna Safaris and Tours   Tour operator has an office in Botswana

5.0 /5  –  16 Reviews

4-Day Okavango Delta & Boteti River Tented Safari

$1,155 to $1,276 pp (USD)

Botswana: Shared tour (max 10 people per group) Luxury Lodge

You Visit: Maun (Start) , Moremi GR (Okavango Delta) , Okavango Delta, Maun (End)

The Mzansi Experience

4.7 /5  –  64 Reviews

3-Day Fully Catered Mokoro (Canoe) Safari Okavango Delta

$660 pp (USD)

Botswana: Private tour Budget Camping

Shipungo Safari & Tours   Tour operator has an office in Botswana

5.0 /5  –  55 Reviews

7-Day Victoria Falls, Chobe Safari & Okavango Delta

$2,860 to $3,427 pp (USD)

Botswana & Zimbabwe: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Victoria Falls (Start) , Chobe NP, Okavango Delta, Maun Airport (End)

Africa Incoming

4.7 /5  –  13 Reviews

5-Day Botswana Tour

$1,788 pp (USD)

You Visit: Maun (Start) , Okavango Delta, Moremi GR (Okavango Delta) , Maun (End)

Walking Stick Travel & Tours   Tour operator has an office in Botswana

4.8 /5  –  74 Reviews

3-Day Boteti Tented Safari Lodge

$615 pp (USD)

Botswana: Shared tour (max 10 people per vehicle) Luxury Lodge

You Visit: Maun (Start) , Boteti River, Moremi GR (Okavango Delta) , Maun Airport (End)

MoAfrika Tours

4.9 /5  –  1264 Reviews

4-Day Chobe National Park Mid Range Tour

$1,645 pp (USD)

Botswana: Shared tour (max 9 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge

You Visit: Kasane (Start) , Chobe NP, Kasane Airport (End)

5.0 /5  –  18 Reviews

4-Day Explore Moremi Game Reserve

$2,640 pp (USD)

Botswana: Shared tour (max 12 people per vehicle) Budget Camping

You Visit: Maun (Start) , Moremi GR (Okavango Delta) , Maun (End)

Enjanga Tours & Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Botswana

5.0 /5  –  10 Reviews

5-Day Savuti, Khwai, and Mababe Safari

$1,689 pp (USD)

Botswana: Private tour Mid-range Camping

You Visit: Maun (Start) , Mababe Concession, Savuti (Chobe NP) , Khwai Concession (Okavango Delta) , Maun (End)

Xaa Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Botswana

4.6 /5  –  19 Reviews

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Botswana & Zimbabwe Safari

10 days, victoria falls to maun.

• Full itinerary
• Tour details

Experience an unforgettable wildlife adventure through some of southern Africa’s most spectacular national parks. Keep your camera at the ready to capture lions and elephants in Hwange National Park; fly to the pristine Okavango Delta for bush walks with expert local guides; and cruise along the waters of the Chobe River to watch elephants drink and hippos bathe along the shore.

A selection of wildlife-focused tours endorsed by world renowned primatologist Dr. Jane Goodall. As a proud partner of the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada, G Adventures is thrilled to share that a portion of every adventure booked will help support their mission to protect wildlife and work with local communities to become their partners in conservation. Learn more

10 days - Victoria Falls to Maun

Is this tour for me, travel style: national geographic journeys.

Greater exploration, insider access, and the freedom to roam – all without sacrificing comfort.

Service Level: Upgraded

Quality accommodations and more inclusions than on other G Adventures tours, like meals, private transport, and activities.

Physical Rating: 2 - Light

Light walking and hiking suitable for most fitness levels. Nothing too challenging.

Trip Type: Small Group

Small group experience; Max 12, avg 10

Age requirement: 12+

All travellers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

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In a number of impactful ways, your adventure directly benefits the local people and places we visit.

Help us spread love around the world with Trees for Days. Together with Planeterra, we'll plant one tree in your name for every travel day.

Trees planted for this trip: 10

Ripple Score

Create ripples that change lives. The higher the Ripple Score percentage, the more money stays in the local communities you visit.

Ripple Score for this trip: 98

Highlights from Botswana & Zimbabwe Safari

More from botswana & zimbabwe safari.

Places visited

Itinerary notes.

There are new Health & Safety Protocols for National Geographic Journeys tours. Please see here for full details and up-to-date requirements as they may change.

Day 1 Victoria Falls

Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.

Day 2 Victoria Falls/Hwange National Park

Explore Victoria Falls at leisure this morning, and opt to take a guided tour of this thundering natural wonder and UNESCO World Heritage site. Later, transfer to the headquarters of Painted Dog Conservation. Learn about this non-profit organization’s work to protect and rehabilitate injured painted dogs (also known as African wild dogs), and hear from a conservationist about the threats to these endangered animals. Afterward, venture out on safari in Hwange National Park, one of Zimbabwe’s largest wildlife reserves and home to nearly half of the country's elephant population.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Meals included:, day 3 hwange national park.

Set out on morning and late afternoon safaris through the sweeping grasslands of Hwange National Park and Dete Vlei. Track resident elephant and buffalo herds, as well as giraffes, lions, zebras, and the rare African wild dog. This evening, relax on the deck of your lodge or visit the underground hiding area which is perfect for photography enthusiasts, keeping an eye out for the wild creatures that visit the lodge’s watering hole.

Day 4 Hwange/Chobe NP

Depart Hwange and head north, crossing the border into Botswana and arriving in Kasane—the gateway to the stunning Chobe National Park. Settle into your lodge and embark on a boat safari on the Chobe River, the lifeline of the park. Look out for submerged hippos, basking crocodiles, bathing elephants, and an abundance of birdlife from the boat’s deck, and witness a spectacular fiery sunset over the river.

Day 5 Chobe NP

This morning, continue your exploration of Chobe National Park, home to one of Africa’s largest elephant populations. On a safari along the banks of the Chobe River, keep an eye out for elephants, buffalo, lions, zebra, and rare semi-aquatic antelope, as well as an incredible variety of birds. In the afternoon, opt to take a photography river safari on a specialized photography boat.

Day 6 Kasane/Okavango Delta

Take in the views on a scenic flight into the heart of the Okavango Delta. Climb into a mokoro (dugout canoe) and glide along the waterways around our remote camp to catch a first glimpse of the area’s abundant wildlife. Settle into comfortable tents, explore the camp, or opt to go for a swim. After lunch, embark on a wildlife cruise, watching for hippos and elephants as well as aquatic birds drawn by the region’s unique fish and insects. Enjoy a sundowner deck back at the camp before dinner under the stars.

Day 7 Okavango Delta

Get an early start today, hopping into mokoros to maneuver through narrow channels of the delta. Arrive at Chief’s Island, part of the Moremi Game Reserve , and set out on a thrilling bush walk. Follow a guide into the wilderness, in search of giraffe, zebra, lion, kudu, elephant, and hippo as well as all manner of birdlife. Identify tracks and other signs of wildlife and learn about the medicinal uses of native plants and trees. Return to camp for brunch, then enjoy free time to relax or observe wildlife from the deck. After high tea, head out for another boating activity or wildlife drive. This evening, take time to stargaze and listen to the enchanting sounds of the delta after dark.

Day 8 Okavango Delta

Embark on both morning and late afternoon wildlife excursions by boat, on foot, or by jeep, depending on current conditions and water levels. In between, enjoy the amenities at the camp, go for a swim, or relax with a book on the deck. Remember to keep your eyes open and binoculars close to observe passing wildlife.

Day 9 Okavango Delta/Maun

After an early-morning wildlife excursion, fly to the frontier town of Maun. Meet with an expedition member on National Geographic’s Okavango Wilderness Project, a multi-year collaboration between international and local experts to survey the Okavango watershed’s biodiversity and ensure its future protection. Watch the National Geographic documentary “Into the Okavango,” and learn about delta conservation projects in the area. In the evening, experience a night of storytelling and traditional foods with celebrated local author Bonty Botumile. Born in Maun, Bonty’s work is dedicated to preserving Botswana’s literary heritage and providing youth with employment opportunities in the arts. Listen as she shares her in-depth knowledge of the region’s cultural history, and cap off the night with a delicious meal and colourful stories around a warm fire.

Day 10 Maun

Depart at any time.

What's Included

• Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Painted Dog Conservation, Hwange National Park
• Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Okavango Wilderness Project Experience, Okavango Delta
• Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Botswana Storytelling and Traditional Dinner, Maun
• Arrival transfer
• Open-vehicle wildlife safari drives in Hwange and Chobe National Parks
• Chobe boat safari
• Wildlife excursions by boat and foot in the Okavango Delta
• All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Accommodations

Hotels (1 nts), safari lodges/camp (8 nts)

9 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 8 dinners Allow USD120-160 for meals not included.

Transportation

Private vehicle, 4x4, walking, boat, mokoro, plane.

Staff & experts

CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.

Available extras  (Add these to your tour when you book)

Evening photo safari on chobe river - from $188.00.

The Chobe River is home to incredible wildlife, and there is no better way to spot (and photograph) it. Climb aboard a custom designed boat equipped with mounted DSLR cameras. During this three-hour safari, instructors help you capture the perfect wildlife shots, with chances to spot elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and birds. This tour includes transfers, park fees, refreshments, camera usage (DSLR cameras with zoom lens), 8G photo memory card and an exclusive seat on the eight-seat photo boat.

My Own Room - From $2479.00

If you're travelling solo and would prefer to have your own private room throughout your trip, select this option during the online booking process.

Make it a private tour

Book this tour as a private departure, with your own CEO and all the benefits of a G Adventures group tour.

Botswana and Zimbabwe Safari

Unleashed botswana and zimbabwe safari + it’s hidden gems.

Unleashed Botswana And Zimbabwe Safari plus It’s Hidden Gems. A Luxury Botswana and Zimbabwe Safari Itinerary Guide You Should Steal takes you to traverse some of Africa’s most iconic landscapes with three of the world’s most impressive natural attractions. Botswana and Zimbabwe Safari Adventure Tour with Iconic Landscapes & Big 5 Safari .

Before moving on to the Chobe Region, which is home to the biggest concentration of wildlife in Africa, begin the tour by touring the Okavango Delta and Moremi Region of Botswana. Victoria Falls , the world’s greatest sheet of cascading water and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World , is the perfect place to end your African adventure journey.

Itinerary at the Glance: Botswana and Zimbabwe Safari

2 nights in okavango delta | botswana, 2 nights in moremi and okavango region | botswana, 2 nights in chobe region | botswana, 2 nights in victoria falls | zimbabwe, detailed itinerary.

Safari on the Largest Inland Delta in the World

The Okavango Delta ‘s watery tendrils spread out, creating a watery web that is bursting at the seams with thrilling opportunities to see the game in this wildlife-rich area of biodiversity. The Delta, which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to the Big 5, is made up of unending floodplains, pockets of higher ground, riverine woods, and forest, as well as quiet rivers that mirror the cloud-covered Botswana sky above. Many of the Okavango’s safari activities revolve around the water, and tourists can expect to explore marshy canals by boat or even traditional mokoro (a dugout canoe). However, visitors aren’t just limited to the ocean.

Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation : Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp

Safari in One of the Most Iconic Destinations

Botswana’s Moremi and Okavango Region , a varied and fascinating scenery, start with four rocky outcrops decorated with San artwork in the Tsodilo Hills, then on to the marshy panhandle, and then fragments into the Delta, which meanders through Chief’s Island.

Accommodation : Camp Xakanaxa

The Land of Gentle Giants

An African traveler will find the enormous wilderness of the Chobe Region to be enticing because there are so many lovely locations to stay, so much to see and do, and of course, so many elephants! Additionally, not just one, but four nations meet in this region of the continent: Zimbabwe , Zambia , Botswana, and Namibia . The entrance to this diverse and fascinating region of Africa is the inconspicuous village of Kasane. Its neighbors include the Victoria Falls and Zambia’s Kazungula settlement, where ferries can be taken to cross over to the Chobe National Park, which is home to a herd of Kalahari elephants. Chobe

Accommodation : Chobe Elephant Camp , Chobe Game Lodge , and Sanctuary Chobe Chilwero

Where there’s smoke, there’s thunder

Although words frequently fall short of expressing the magnificence of Victoria Falls , the Kololo moniker “Mosi-oa-Tunya,” which loosely translates to “the smoke that thunders,” is undoubtedly the most fitting one. The sheer amount of water falling over its crags every minute makes this UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site , which spans over two kilometers and drops roughly 108 meters, the greatest waterfall in the world.

End of the Botswana and Zimbabwe Safari Itinerary

• Accommodation and meals, as specified in the itinerary
• Activities and excursions, as specified in the itinerary
• Transportation services, as specified in the itinerary
• Your Trip Coordinator: a 24/7 point of contact supporting you during your trip
• Carbon emissions offsetting for your trip
• Entrance fees and meals, unless mentioned in the itinerary description
• Tips and personal expenses
• Visa and tourism fees
• Travel, health, and cancellation insurance
• International airfare

Essential Trip Information

Want an in-depth insight into this Botswana and Zimbabwe Safari Itinerary? Essential Trip Information provides, visa info, How to get to Botswana and Zimbabwe, the Best Time to visit – pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

Let’s Plan your Botswana and Zimbabwe Safari Itinerary One of our Safari Experts will get back to you within 2 – 4 hours.

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Botswana & Zimbabwe’s World Wonders

7  days, 2  countries, transfers included, all meals + drinks at certain lodges included (see itinerary), lodge game activities.

Visiting: Southern Africa > Botswana > Okavango Delta > Chobe National Park > Zimbabwe > Victoria Falls

International flights, visas, travel insurance, gratuities

Ready to plan a tailor-made safari in Southern Africa

Enquire now and a Travel Expert will get back to you within 24 hours.

Is This Trip for Me?

The value-for-money safari includes three highlights: the Okavango Delta, the Chobe area and Victoria Falls. You will be able to experience wonderful game viewing, while on game drives, as well as from a boat’s perspective and even a mokoro trip (weather and water level dependent). A quick hop to the Zimbabwe side of the Falls with a special package including some meals and activities.

The tour can be done in reversed order as well.

Best Time to Go on this Trip

Peak, low and mixed are an indication of season and price, learn how pricing works.

What you'll Experience on this Tour

Your itinerary.

Arrive at Maun airport and transit to the scheduled charter flight terminal on time for the flight into the Delta...

Staying at Kadizora Camp

Arrive at Maun airport and transit to the scheduled charter flight terminal on time for the flight into the Delta and Kadizora airstrip.

Road transfer to the lodge, check in and relax before the afternoon activity and back at the lodge for dinner and night.

Kadizora Camp is situated between the Vumbura River and Selinda Spillway. It lies in the remote northern part of the Okavango Delta overlooking a panoramic seasonal floodplain. Giant Marulas, Sycamore figs, Jackalberries and Rain trees provide a canopy of shade throughout the camp. Kadizora Camp truly offers the ultimate Okavango Delta experience, with a wide range of activities, a beautiful location, diverse wildlife and warm, local hospitality.

Kadizora Camp facilitates open vehicle safaris and boating. Mokoro excursions provide a fabulous and traditional way to explore the meandering water channels. Float quietly amongst the water-lilies and experience a spectacular bird lovers’ paradise. There is the option to arrange a day trip to a traditional village. Visit the church, the clinic, local Primary school and meet family members of the camp staff. Fishing is available in season.

Includes & Excludes

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner included

Drinks: Local brands included

Activities: Included

Transport: Included

Charter scheduled flight to Kasane and road transfer to Chobe Marina Lodge. Chobe Marina Lodge gives you an authentic African...

Staying at Chobe Marina Lodge

Charter scheduled flight to Kasane and road transfer to Chobe Marina Lodge.

Chobe Marina Lodge gives you an authentic African experience. Enjoy village walks and mesmerizing boma dinner dances that bring you closer to Botswana’s culture and traditions. This property is positioned to cater for the adventurous traveler.

You can enjoy a game drive or boat cruise into the Chobe National Park, a sunset cruise, or simply relaxing by the pool.

Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)

After breakfast, road transfer to Kasane where you meet with our representative for the transfer to Zimbabwe. Arrive at the...

Staying at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge

After breakfast, road transfer to Kasane where you meet with our representative for the transfer to Zimbabwe. Arrive at the hotel and spend some time at leisure. Chat to the travel desk to plan your days with the activities included in your package; and should you wish to book any extra excursions.

The sunset-facing 72-room Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, which boasts endless views of pristine wilderness stretching to the horizon, including a waterhole frequented by elephant, buffalo, and kudu.

Included in your package is a dinner at the main restaurant and a Boma dinner.

End Of Itinerary

After breakfast, check out and road transfer to the airport. Return home or extend your safari, chat to us for...

After breakfast, check out and road transfer to the airport.

Return home or extend your safari, chat to us for possible options.

Travel with Confidence

With over 20 years of experience, our team will help you tailor your itinerary to your perfect adventure., 24/7 support, personalized, looking for something different, here are some more itineraries to start your planning.

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FAQs about Botswana & Zimbabwe’s World Wonders

• Safari lodges have guest rooms similar to a hotel with en-suite bathrooms. They are comfortably furnished with facilities normally associated with a hotel rooms, except your rooms are normally set in beautiful wilderness settings, with nature and wildlife around.
• Tented lodges have rooms which are tents on a platform and with a roof and also have en-suite facilities with showers, flush toilets and hot water. Basically all the amenities of a hotel room, except canvas walls and roof.
• The boutique lodges and camps can be very stylish and smart in terms of design and decor, often with very spacious rooms and even going so far in some cases as having plunge pools for each room.
• Eco-camps and smaller tented camps have insect-proof tents with en-suite facilities including a safari shower and flush toilet.  They give a more authentic safari experience but the tents are comfortably furnished with proper beds and you don’t need to bring your own sleeping bag! The emphasis is usually on having excellent guides and great wildlife viewing away from the crowds. Guests often eat together and people travelling alone usually say that they found the atmosphere friendly and enjoyed meeting other like-minded travellers around the campfire in the evening or at dinner.
• The Adventure Camps are a budget option with guests bringing their own sleeping bags and towels. Accommodation is in small dome tented with a mattress on the floor. Each tent has its own nearby cubicle with a flush toilet, safari shower, and wash basin. The Adventure Camps are suitable only for those who don’t mind “real camping” and can put with some degree of “roughing it”. Apart from the accommodation in simple dome tents, the meals and the guiding are the same standards as the higher quality camps and game drives are in 4x4 safari vehicles. For those on a limited budget, the Adventure Camps are a good alternative to the big tourist lodges and minibus tours for those for whom the safari experience is more important than hotel accommodation.
• Zimbabwe has 16 official languages namely: Chewa, Chibarwe, English, Kalanga, Koi-san, Nambya, Ndau, Ndebele, Shangani, Shona, Sign Language, Sotho, Tonga, Tswana, Venda, Xhosa.
• However, English, Shona and Ndebele are the most widely spoken languages in the country.
• Approximately 70% of the population is Shona speaking and speaks ChiShona as their first language. But the official language of Zimbabwe is English.

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Zimbabwe safaris

An expert guide to the best safari camps in zimbabwe.

Anthony Ham

• In this guide
• Best safaris
• Need to know
• How it works

I first came on safari in Zimbabwe in 2003 and I’ve been coming back as often as I can, in my role as a travel journalist and guidebook author.

When it comes to Zimbabwe, the question people most often ask me is: why? In a region of safari big-hitters, what makes Zimbabwe stand out from neighbouring South Africa , Zambia , and Botswana ?

For me, safari in Zimbabwe has always felt like a double-concentrated version of the Southern African experience. The country is considerably smaller than its neighbours, with a small but elite portfolio of national parks. It’s easy to travel around, and has impeccably high levels of professionalism across the local safari industry.

And for historical reasons that have nothing to do with wildlife or tourism, Zimbabwe flies well under the radar, even compared to the relatively niche Botswana next door. It’s the kind of place where the joy of seeing wildlife is rarely tainted by having to enjoy those animals through crowds of vehicles.

The main drawback of going on safari here is the backdrop of historical political instability. What keeps visitor numbers low is also what has made a visit here unpredictable in the past. Those days seem to be behind a country that made headlines for all the wrong reasons, but which is now one of the best places to go on safari in Africa.

featured Zimbabwe safaris

Victoria Falls and Zimbabwe Safari

Into Botswana & Zimbabwe

15 day small group tour.

Hwange, Lake Kariba and Victoria Falls Discovery

Ultimate African Taster

15 days from victoria falls to cape town.

Hwange Experiential Safari and Victoria Falls

Take a hike in Mana Pools National Park

The best safaris in Zimbabwe

Lodges, camps and hidden gems.

Hwange National Park

Elephant spotting in hwange national park.

Hwange (pronounced wang-ee) is a fabulous park, and is one of my favourites anywhere in Africa.

At the eastern edge of the six-country Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area which is known for having the highest concentration of elephants in Africa, Hwange is very much a part of that heritage: elephants are everywhere.

It’s also known for its lions – it was just outside Hwange that Cecil the Lion was shot by a hunter in 2015, resulting in a firestorm of international publicity. And late in the dry season, especially around October when water is scarce, these two giants – lions and elephants – very often do battle. It’s one of the greatest spectacles I’ve ever witnessed.

It's a vast park with so many different areas to explore; the park’s east is busiest but there are waterholes and sweeping savannah plains all across the park. Wildlife also includes leopard, cheetah and African wild dog, with plenty of plains game, too, such as giraffe, zebra, buffalo and wildebeest. Watch also for greater kudu, gemsbok (oryx), sable and roan antelope.

Mana Pools National Park

Walking safari in mana pools national park.

Many travellers fall in love with UNESCO World Heritage-listed Mana Pools National Park, in northern Zimbabwe. That may have something to do with the scenery – a series of pools on the Zambezi River floodplain, an escarpment backdrop, semi-arid plains sprinkled with baobabs. Or the wildlife – all of the major predators (including African wild dog) are present and commonly seen here, with a full suite of prey animals for them to choose from.

But in my experience, what makes Mana Pools especially thrilling is that here you feel like you’re a part of the food chain. That’s because Mana Pools is one of few major parks in Africa where you are free to go walking wherever you want around the park, including without a guide. Canoe explorations are also popular.

Gonarezhou National Park

Scenic gonarezhou national park.

This is a true hidden gem, down south in Zimbabwe and sharing wildlife with parks just across the borders with Mozambique and South Africa. Gonarezhou sees far fewer visitors than it deserves, possibly because the park was once ravaged by conflict and poaching. Thankfully, those days are long gone. While you have to work a little harder to see animals here than in, say, Hwange or Mana Pools, they’re very much worth it when you do.

In addition to all three big cats and lots of elephants, highlights might include some fascinating antelope varieties – such as nyala, roan, sable and suni – and there are reported to be king cheetah roaming the plains.

But if you weren’t coming here on safari, you might well do so for the scenery alone. Stands of mahogany and acacias provide a special cast to the landscape, while the red cliffs above the Runde River may just be one of Zimbabwe’s most beautiful corners.

Matusadona National Park

Canoe safaris in matusadona national park.

I’ve never quite understood why Matusadona isn’t world-famous. For one thing, it rises beautifully from the shore of Lake Kariba in the country’s north. Because of its proximity to the water, numerous water-borne activities – canoe and boat trips among them – nicely complement the guided game or wildlife drives.

You can even go on walking safaris here, including one where you track black rhino with the experts. And Matusadona has nothing to envy other Zimbabwean parks when it comes to wildlife – there’s a good chance that you’ll see lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and other charismatic megafauna while you’re here.

If Matusadona has a drawback, it also lies in its proximity to Lake Kariba. The lake is one of Zimbabwe’s most popular resort areas. While that does not directly affect the park itself, you need to venture some distance inside the park (and even away from the lake) to feel like you’ve left the circus behind.

Victoria Falls

Dodging tourists at victoria falls.

It may be a cliché, but there’s a very good reason why Victoria Falls is one of the most popular places to visit in Africa. Spanning the Zimbabwean and Zambian borders, Mosi-oa-Tunya (‘The Smoke that Thunders’) is indeed a miraculous sight.

By all means dive into the activities on offer here, from kayaking to bungee-jumping. But stay too long and I find the hype that surrounds the experience, especially in the Zimbabwean gateway town of Livingstone, quickly starts to overwhelm.

Once you’ve seen the Falls from every possible angle, I’d suggest you leave the crowds and head for Zambezi National Park. Much of the park is river frontage: stay in a lodge overlooking the mighty Zambezi River. You might see lion, leopard, elephant, giraffe, buffalo and hippo while you’re here. And if you can’t face returning to Victoria Falls, in Zambezi National Park you’re within an hour of the Botswana border and world-class Chobe National Park.

Great Zimbabwe

Welcome to one of Africa’s most celebrated archaeological sites, and the best-preserved medieval ruins south of the Sahara, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Great Zimbabwe. The site dates back to the 13th to 15th centuries and is a fascinating add-on to any safari visit. Combine it with a visit to Gonarezhou National Park and Zimbabwe’s Eastern Highlands.

Linkwasha Camp

Close to Ngamo Plains, one of the most wildlife-dense areas of Hwange National Park, this uber-luxurious camp faces out onto the surrounding savannah; I’ve seen lions walking along (and sleeping under) the camp’s boardwalks. Elephants often pass by really close, and it’s a good area for African wild dogs. It’s a wonderful place to immerse yourself in Hwange’s special surroundings.

Camping at Main Camp

The bungalows here are fine, but the campsites have shade and acceptable ablutions blocks. But the real treat of camping here alongside the park headquarters are the honey badgers that roam around the camping area after dark. Ask at the park office about reserving one of the mobile campsites out in the remote wilds of the park.

Nantwich Lodge

Bestselling thriller writer Tony Park owns this lodge out in the park’s west. It’s an excellent place to stay, the safari trails in this part of the park only see a fraction of those elsewhere but with much the same wildlife, and if Tony’s in residence, he’s a fine host and raconteur. He’s also a good friend – ask him about the first time he met and threatened to report me to the park’s authorities…

Ruckomechi Camp

On a remote private concession and right by the Zambezi River, Ruckomechi gives you the best of all possible worlds. Expect luxury safari tents, impeccable service, fine dining food and wildlife sightings even before you leave the camp.

Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

On stilts high above the Savé River, this superb safari lodge takes full advantage of the park’s scenic landscapes. I could sit on the terrace of my own private terrace for days and not grow tired of the view.

Rhino Safari Camp

Everything you could want in a tented camp while on safari, Rhino Safari Camp removes you from the Lake Kariba crowds. Staying here does what every safari lodge or tented camp should aspire to: you feel like you’re a part of the park’s wild environment while doing so in supreme comfort – if you’re lucky, you’ll hear lions roaring at night from the safety of your own bed.

Imire Rhino & Wildlife Conservancy

Not far from Harare, this impressive 10,000-hectare private conservancy is devoted to rhino and elephant conservation. A visit here, or even a spell volunteering, can really deepen your understanding of the conservation challenges Zimbabwe faces, thereby adding considerable depth to your safari.

Savé Valley Conservancy

Savé Valley Conservancy is one of the best-run private conservancies in Southern Africa. It’s a great place to visit, the wildlife is exceptional and you can do all the things – walking safaris, night drives, off-road excursions – that aren’t allowed in national parks. Although you won’t see it, part of the conservancy is also a hunting concession – Savé Valley is one of few places in Africa where this complicated conservation mix works. Whatever your view, ask them any questions you want, and visit with an open mind.

featured zimbabwe safaris

Elephants wading in the Zambezi River, Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe safaris: Need to know

Everything you wish you'd known before you booked, the best times for safari in zimbabwe.

As is the case throughout much of southern Africa, the best time to go on safari in Zimbabwe is during the dry season months from April to October.

Not only are these the best months when it comes to weather conditions (clear skies, mild temperatures), but it’s also when wildlife-viewing is at its best; during the dry season, animals congregate around the last remaining water sources, making them easier to find and see. There are downsides to visiting at this time: this is high season, which means higher prices and you’ll share safari trails with many more travellers and their vehicles.

If you visit during the November-to-March wet season, bring your binoculars: this is when migratory bird species from Europe and North Africa arrive in Zimbabwe to escape northern winters. The volume of water from the Zambezi River that cascades over Victoria Falls also increases exponentially at this time, although it’s not necessarily the best time to see the Falls: especially late in the wet season, the amount of water is so great that the Falls themselves may be obscured by clouds of spray.

Things have improved dramatically on this front in recent years, but it’s not that long ago that self-drive safari-goers in Zimbabwe were stopped at checkpoints every few kilometres and asked for money. If this happens, politely decline, but carry an open pack of cigarettes, a can or two of South African beer, or small denomination US dollars and you should soon be on your way.

How a safari in Zimbabwe works

Zimbabwe is popular both as a self-drive and as a guided tour destination.

If you’re self-driving, cars can usually be picked up in Harare or Victoria Falls, although some travellers choose to pick up their vehicle across the border in Kasane, in Botswana. From Kasane, it’s an easy and short cross-border drive to either Victoria Falls or Hwange National Park. You can book lodges or camps directly, and booking campsites in national parks is usually done through the Zimbabwe Parks & Wildlife Management Authority (www.zimparks.org.zw).

If you’re on a guided safari tour, which can be either a private or a group safari, you’ll most likely fly into Victoria Falls, from where you’ll later be transferred from one park to the next by road or by small plane flying into one of the parks’ airstrips.

About the author

Anthony is a renowned travel journalist and guidebook author and is one of the world's leading authorities on Africa safari, wildlife and conservation. He has been travelling to Africa for more than two decades to research Africa safari guidebooks for Lonely Planet. He is widely published in The Age, Sydney Morning Herald, The Monthly, Virginia Quarterly Review (VQR), National Geographic Traveler, BBC Wildlife, Lonely Planet Traveller, Africa Geographic, The Independent, Travel Africa, among many others.

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Zimbabwe Safari Guide

Where & when to go, and what to see on safari in zimbabwe.

Interested in a Zimbabwe safari? Read on below for the full low down…

Located between the mighty Zambezi and Limpopo rivers, landlocked Zimbabwe is one of Africa’s most pristine countries. The country borders Botswana , Mozambique, South Africa , and Zambia, and is best known for the magnificent spectacle of the Victoria Falls – a wonder of the world.

Having gone through decades of social unrest during the Mugabe era, Zimbabwe now openly welcomes tourists to the country.  Zimbabweans, as a rule, are friendly and warm people, the country sees fewer tourists than its neighbours, the game reserves are virtually untouched by mankind, and the guides are excellent. All this makes Zimbabwe a top – if under-attended -safari destination.

Alongside some of Africa’s best game viewing the country boasts its fair share of epic African scenery. The name Zimbabwe is derived from the incredible stone structures of the Great Zimbabwe ruins , a World Heritage Site, and the country has a further four World Heritage Sites, including Victoria Falls, the conservation area of Mana Pools and the spectacular granite Matobo Hills.

The central and western parts of the country are made up of mostly savannah grassland, with tropical evergreen forests in the eastern highlands and wonderful rock formations in the north. Whether you’re visiting for a safari or simply to take in the scenery, Zimbabwe offers a fantastic variety.

Self-drive safaris are an option in most national parks in Zimbabwe, though to enjoy full access to the most remote (and tourist-free!) areas you’ll need a 4WD car or jeep. If you fancy taking a tour or arranging your own guide and/or driver have a look at our list of safari tour companies in Zimbabwe before arrival in the country.

Useful resources

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Zimbabwe wildlife

Zimbabwe Tourist Board

Zimbabwe guidebooks

Zimbabwe safari highlights

Experience the victoria falls.

Forming the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, the 110 meter tall waterfall is one of the seven wonders of the world for good reason. Over 400,000 tourists visit Victoria Falls annually, to watch the Zambezi plummet over a cliff quite spectacularly.

Big five spotting

Go big five spotting at Hwange – Zimbabwe’s most famous national park. With raised viewing platforms of waterholes teeming with wildlife, Hwange is a park that almost always delivers for game. But seeing all the big five in one game drive? That will be a lot harder!

Take a Zambezi wildlife cruise

Downstream from the Victoria Falls, the Zambezi – one of Africa’s mightiest rivers – flows through Zimbabwe’s Matusadona and Mana Pools national parks, home to hippos, rhinos and birdlife. There’s plenty of opportunities to hop on to a boat of some type to enjoy the wildlife whilst floating down the river.

Relax lakeside at Kariba

Zimbabwe’s Lake Kariba is the world’s largest man-made lake, stretching 226 km, and forming part of the border between and Zambia and Zimbabwe. As with the all of Africa’s Great Lakes, Kariba offers spectacular views, stunning sunsets, great fishing, and is a wonderful spot to simply relax and reflect on your African adventure.

Best time to safari in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is a year-round safari destination, though depending on where you go and what you plan to see (and how much rain and heat you can take), you may want to plan on visiting at a specific time of year.

Peak season to visit Zimbabwe is from May to October. At this time of year, Victoria Falls is in full flow and at its most impressive, while the wildlife viewing is excellent as animals concentrate around waterholes and rivers. With peak season comes crowds of tourists, though as the temperature rises to the 30s from July to October there are fewer visitors to contend with away from Victoria Falls.

The rainy season – made up predominantly of afternoon showers – begins in November or December, and lasts into March. Although some camps around Hwange close for the rainy season fthe park and many lodges remain open. This is a great time for a crowd-free safari with the added bonus of migratory birds. At this time lots of wildlife is born and the dry Zimbabwean bush becomes green and lush. Water levels in the Zambezi are low through the rainy season, making for better whitewater rafting on the Zambezi.

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National parks in Zimbabwe

Over 15% of Zimbabwe’s land area is protected, with most of the resulting national parks in Zimbabwe including some form of UNESCO World Heritage Site. Although Zimbabwe – and Zimbabwean wildlife – has seen some tough times in recent years, the tourism industry is open for business, and wildlife populations are slowly increasing to former levels. Zimbabwe is the premier destination in the world to see huge elephant herds and black rhinos .

Top Zimbabwe national park picks

Hwange national park.

The jewel in the crown of Zimbabwe’s national parks – covering the largest area (14,650 sq km) and holding the most wildlife, including over 30,000 elephants.

Matusadona National Park

A picturesque park on the southern shore of Lake Kariba, backdropped by the Matusadona mountain range. The park is a refuge for the black rhino – one of Africa’s most endangered species .

All national parks in Zimbabwe

Use the map to locate all national parks in Zimbabwe. Click the icons for more info.

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Hwange National Park: The jewel in the crown of Zimbabwe’s national parks – covering the largest area (14,650 sq km) and holding the most wildlife, including over 30,000 elephants.

Matobo National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site of unique granite boulder scenery and over 3,000 ancient rock art sites… as well as an incredible 35% of the world’s species of eagles.

Matusadona National Park: A picturesque park on the southern shore of Lake Kariba, backdropped by the Matusadona mountain range. The park is a refuge for the extremely endangered black rhino.

Chimanimani National Park: A hikers paradise with some totally wild and unspoiled parts.  The park borders Mozambique and you can hike to peaks of 2,437 m for unsurpassed views back across the country.

Mana Pools National Park: A wild and natural park covering 2,200 sq km and home to plenty of lion, wild dog, elephant, hippo, and crocodile. The unique thing here is that nothing is fenced in.

Victoria Falls National Park: A small national park bordering Zambia and providing the most spectacular views of one of the wonders of the world – the mighty Victoria Falls.

Have you been to a national park in Zimbabwe, or got some useful information you’d like to share on the topic? Please feel free to get involved in the comments section below.

Zimbabwe safari resources

Search & book zimbabwe accommodation, read safari guides to all countries.

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A country of dramatic landscapes, Zimbabwe is home to one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, a wide variety of rare animals and a nation of gentle people with an impressive heritage.

A country of understated beauty

Zimbabwe’s abundance of natural beauty, protected wildlife, world-renowned guides and near-perfect weather makes it easy to understand why it is considered the birthplace of the southern African safari trade.

The largest waterfall in the world

Victoria Falls, located on the mighty Zambezi River, is more than a kilometre wide and is over one hundred metres high. The roar of its waters plunging into the pools below can be heard from a distance of 40 kilometres away.

A rich history of culture

The ruins of a royal kingdom dating to the 11 th -century hint at the country’s ancient past, while modern Zimbabwe is unique in that it has the highest literacy rate in Africa and 16 official languages, which is more than any other country on the planet.

Wildlife guides of a world-renowned calibre

Given Zimbabwe’s long safari history, it is no surprise that its guides are considered to be the most qualified on the African continent. They undergo rigorous training, are highly experienced, and take pride in paying close attention to detail.

Destinations in Zimbabwe

Mana Pools National Park lies to the north of the country with Hwange National Park and Victoria Falls to the northwest. Three natural treasures in one relatively concentrated location and Machaba has camps or lodges at each of them.

An hour South of Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park is the largest park in Zimbabwe. Once the royal hunting grounds of warrior-king Mzilikazi Khumalo, the Park now safeguards the world-famous elephants of Hwange – one of the largest populations on the planet.

The most remote park in the country, Mana Pools is the first Biosphere Reserve in Zimbabwe. It's known for its big herds of elephant, buffalo, endangered wild dogs, lions and the more shy leopards, cheetahs and spotted hyenas.

Wildlife in Zimbabwe

A wide variety of rare animals.

Some of Africa’s most exclusive wildlife is found in Zimbabwe. Many of the national parks contain elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo and rhino. This, coupled with the remoteness of the regions and attentive guides, makes for a likely wildlife encounter.

• Vastly varied habitats that support over 200 different species of mammal.
• World-famous birding destination, including 10 globally threatened species.
• Has some of the most knowledgable guides on the planet.
• The temperate climate offers all-year-round wildlife viewing.
• Is home to five UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
• Has one of the largest populations of the rare African wild dog.

Best times to see Zimbabwe

Visit us at any time of the year.

Zimbabwe’s near-perfect climate makes it a top safari destination. Each season attracts different types of wildlife, meaning that there is always something to do and see at any time of the year.

Hot humid weather (up to 35 C) with afternoon thundershowers and majestic cloud systems. The wildlife is more spread out and less dependent on artificial water points (pans) making game viewing good.

Dry with daytime highs of 28 degrees Celsius. The wildlife is becoming dependent on artificial water points in Hwange. From May, the wildlife congregates around the artificial water points and natural springs that Hwange National Park is famous for. 

The coldest time of the year, with temperatures ranging from 0 – 25 degrees. Wildlife is now fully dependent on pans and natural springs in Hwange and a good time to see large herds of elephant here. 

Very hot, with the first rains in the later months bringing cooler temperatures. With the rain comes an abundance of young making wildlife photography very good.

How we give back to Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is a rare and spectacular country. To help safeguard her many treasures, Machaba Safaris offers meaningful support to initiatives aimed at promoting the wellbeing of this great country’s wildlife, her citizens and its global guests.

Tailored Safari Packages

Inspired by our knowledge and first-hand experience of Botswana and Zimbabwe, we have crafted a series of packages to provide textured and authentic African safaris.

Zimbabwe & Botswana

Hwange National Park, Okavango Delta

Experience the best of Botswana & Zimbabwe. Explore the exquisite tapestry of natural wonders across the Okavango Delta. Traverse the mesmerizing landscapes of Hwange National Park and embrace the thundering cascade while marveling at the scenic grandeur of Victoria Falls. 

View Rates See Rates

Shoulder 1 Apr 2024 - 31 May 2024 & 1 Nov 2024 - 10 Jan 2025

$ 13199 pps

Peak 1 Jun 2024 - 31 Oct 2024

$ 16961 pps

Experience the essence of the Okavango Delta where untamed nature and captivating wildlife thrive. Then, venture into Hwange National Park, renowned for its abundant elephant herds, majestic big cats, and a myriad of plains game.

$ 11385 pps

$ 15147 pps

Hwange National Park, Chobe National Park, Okavango Delta

Discover the epitome of wilderness exploration starting in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe's largest reserve, followed by the untamed allure of Ngoma lodge offering endless views over the seasonal Chobe flood plain. Thereafter visit the classic safari lands of the Okavango delta.

$ 14851 pps

$ 19631 pps

Hwange National Park, Chobe National Park, Mana Pools National Park, Okavango Delta

Embark on the multifaceted odyssey traversing some of Africa's top safari destinations. Start in the magical landscapes of Mana Pools and Hwange National Park. Discover the grandeur of Victoria Falls and the wildlife-rich allure of Ngoma Safari Lodge in Chobe National Park. Conclude amidst nature's tranquility at Kiri Camp in the Okavango Delta to end off an unforgettable expedition.

Shoulder 1 May 2024 - 31 May 2024

$ 14805 pps

$ 18940 pps

Shoulder 1 Nov 2024 - 15 Nov 2024

Watch elephants swim through the reeds in the Okavango Delta, or a leopard track its prey in the predator capital of the world at Gomoti. It’s the chance to see nature in un-edited detail.

$ 12337 pps

$ 16333 pps

Classic Botswana

Chobe National Park, Okavango Delta

Starting at the world-famous Chobe Game Reserve and moving to the world-renowned Okavango Delta, this safari includes the Gomoti Game Reserve – known as the predator capital of the world. Thereafter visit the classic safari lands of the delta.

$ 10433 pps

$ 13881 pps

Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park

The private Ngoma Safari Lodge, is located on the edge of a plateau, offering endless views over the seasonal Chobe flood plain. Thereafter visit Little Machaba, an intimate oasis nestled in the riverine trees.

Classic Hwange

Take a safari in the largest National Park in Zimbabwe. Hwange is a blend of semi-desert, forest and open savannah and is home to great herds of elephant, big cats and a myriad of plains game.

Classic Mana Pools

Mana Pools National Park is surprisingly textured. Its varied landscape gives rise to different plants, bird and animal life which can be seen from a game vehicle, by foot or the comfort of your eco-luxury accommodation.

Peak Special 1 Jun 2024 - 30 Jun 2024

Peak 1 Jul 2024 - 31 Oct 2024

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This Safari Company Has 9 All-inclusive Camps That Let You See the Best of Botswana by Foot, Boat, and Jeep

I visited three Desert & Delta lodges for one epic adventure. Here's how to craft your dream Botswana itinerary.

Nina Ruggiero is Travel + Leisure's senior editorial director and the co-founder of Be A Travel Writer , an online course for aspiring travel journalists. A New Yorker based in Los Angeles, she has a special interest in beach destinations, outdoor adventures, unique hotels, pet-friendly travel with her golden retriever, @travelswithcali, and all things Italy.

Camp Moremi

Camp okavango, chobe game lodge.

Nina Ruggiero / Travel + Leisure

It was day four of our trip to Botswana with Desert & Delta, and my fiancé and I were on our first safari by mokoro , a traditional dug-out canoe. Gliding quietly through the Okavango Delta in our sunken seats, it felt like we were the only people on the planet — until we turned the bend and caught a glimpse of our next surprise through the reeds. 

The staff of Camp Okavango, already fast friends of ours, stood ankle-deep in the river, grinning and waving their arms in the air, excited to show us the full bar they’d set up for sundowners, right in the middle of the water. As the sun started to set and they handed us our gin and tonics, an elephant appeared, perfectly on cue.

Nina Ruggiero / Travel + Leisure

Most evenings, our guide, Isak, took a “wrong turn” that ended with a cheeky smile and stunning cocktail setup in an impossibly remote spot, yet somehow we found ourselves truly surprised each time. Add in the serendipitous cooperation of the local wildlife, and you have a recipe for pure magic that couldn’t be replicated in the world’s best bars. 

That element of surprise kept us on a natural high all week long — with credit due to the human and non-human animals in almost equal measure. On day one, we laughed when Isak told us his favorite safari animal was the human. By the end, while I was personally still torn between lions and elephants, humans had moved far up my list. 

At Camp Okavango, we crossed the path of a lion while touring the bush on foot, got an overview of Nxaragha Island from a doorless helicopter, and went fishing downstream from a herd of hippos. At Camp Moremi, we started our mornings with families of monkeys, caught a majestic elephant water crossing, and watched the circle of life unfold as lions and lionesses took turns ravaging their prey. At Chobe Game Lodge, we marveled at spirited elephant calves splashing around while their elders protected them from crocs, and excitedly tracked little roars to find lion cubs playing at dusk. Leading each experience was a guide with encyclopedia-like knowledge that wowed us and enthusiasm that fueled our childlike wonder.

A 40-year-old company with nine camps and lodges that touch Botswana’s Chobe National Park, Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, Moremi Game Reserve, Okavango Delta, Savuti Channel, and more, Desert & Delta offers safaris by jeep, foot, and boat. Guests have the chance to mix and match camps to form their dream Botswana itinerary, or they can choose from curated all-inclusive packages . With more than 40 percent of its land dedicated to conservation, it’s difficult to beat Botswana as a safari destination — it’s home to eight game reserves, four national parks, and the largest African elephant population in the world. And there may be no better way to see the best of the country on one trip than going with Desert & Delta.

Within minutes of our bush plane landing near Camp Moremi , we encountered a new type of traffic as a journey of giraffes crossed in front of us, swiftly reminding us we weren't in Los Angeles anymore. The camp's location inside Moremi Game Reserve means the safari starts before you even check in. We arrived on property — a few hours late after begging to continue the game drive — and found 12 thatched tents, rebuilt in 2018 with canopied beds, private decks, and rain showers made of stone and wood. Cozy common areas included a bush-side fire pit deck, a pool, a library lounge, and a bar built around an ebony tree. We had many group meals at the long, wooden tables in the thatch-roofed dining room, and one romantic, private candlelit dinner on the deck. 

On our November trip, morning and afternoon game drives through Moremi Game Reserve were where we found the majority of our animal sightings in Botswana, including lions, zebra, hippos, elephants, giraffes, wildebeest, and more. It’s also possible to see leopards, cheetahs, and wild dogs. Steps from camp, we hopped on a motorized boat and explored the channels of the Xakanaxa Lagoon, where we spotted birds of all colors and sizes, an elephant taking a swim, and an unforgettable red sunset. 

Located on a remote island in the Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Camp Okavango feels like a secret hideaway. It holds 12 suites connected by a wooden boardwalk and surrounded by lush vegetation. Views of the surrounding wilderness from the dining room and pool deck below are completely different and equally beautiful as the day shifts from morning to night. For adventurous guests, there’s also a sleep-out deck with an immaculate bedroom and bathroom on a raised platform under the stars. 

At Camp Okavango, safaris are by boat (motorized and mokoro), on foot (with two protective guides), or by helicopter (for an additional fee). There are no vehicles there, but as we cruised the delta past hippos and elephants, made eye contact with a vigilant mother giraffe on foot, and paused to let a shy family of warthogs scurry by us, we didn’t miss the Jeep. 

A true luxury lodge and the only permanent game lodge within Chobe National Park, it’s not hard to see why Chobe Game Lodge has attracted the likes of Prince Harry and Elizabeth Taylor, who wed Richard Burton there (for the second time) in 1975. The Lodge has 44 rooms, all looking out over the Chobe River, four of them with private plunge pools. With elegant dining areas and bars, a scenic boardwalk, and a billiard room, it’s easy to unwind between game drives and boat tours. 

Here, all guides are female — a training program for women has been running since 2005 — and innovations in ecotourism have been recognized by the Botswana Tourism Organisation. Safaris are run via electric vehicles in the park and electric boats on the river, both gentle on the environment and offering a quiet approach that helps guests observe animals up close. Each day, we looked forward to boarding our boat with our guide, Miss B., and watching elephant families revel in their time at the watering hole, often coexisting with lions, hippos, and crocodiles on one incredibly lively riverbank. 

A refurbished Nxamaseri Island Lodge reopened in May, and it now hosts Desert & Delta's first wellness spa. Guests are gifted a complimentary treatment and escorted to the spa by water in a mokoro. A new pool also looks over the Nxamaseri Channel.

Rebuilt and reopening in June for the 2024 safari season, Savute Safari Lodge now has 12 contemporary, temperature-controlled rooms with outdoor showers and Savute Channel views, plus indoor and outdoor dining, a pool, and a sunken wildlife viewing area that puts guests at eye level with the animals.

For a totally off-the-grid experience, guests of Desert & Delta's Leroo La Tau lodge between June and October can book a Makgadikgadi Salt Pan sleep-out to dine by an open fire immersed in nature and sleep on a rollout bed under the endless night sky. Leroo La Tau is also the best place to see a massive zebra migration — and it was refurbished with migration viewing in mind in 2023.

To browse all nine properties and the experiences Desert & Delta offers, visit desertdelta.com .

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Safaris aren't the only tourist attraction in Africa. From cruises to wine tasting, here's what else you can do

A frica is blessed with some of the rarest and most beautiful animals in the world — a fact that entices tourists to book safaris year-round.

But safaris only scratch the surface of what the continent has to offer.  

From wine tours to vibrant coastal cities, other experiences await those who are willing to go beyond game drives and delve deeper into the core of the continent.

Mountains, dunes and rivers

For those who love hiking, Africa is blessed with many peaks — from Morocco's Mount Toubkal to the continent's highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.

But there's also Mount Nyangani in Zimbabwe, which has a skywalk atop the Mutarazi Falls, the country's highest waterfall.

South Africa's Table Mountain can be climbed in a matter of hours, but adrenaline junkies may prefer to bungie jump from Johannesburg's Soweto Towers , or the Bloukrans Bridge along the country's famous "Garden Route."

Africa is ideal for travelers who crave adventure, said Zina Bencheikh, managing director for Europe, the Middle East and Africa at Intrepid Travel.

She recommends Madagascar's Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park, which has two geological zones called the "Small Tsingy" and "Big Tsingy," which in the local language of Malagasy, refers to a place "where one cannot walk barefoot."

"Big Tsingy Trek is not your usual hike!" she said, describing it as a "labyrinth of limestone formations that resemble a forest made of rock."

In Namibia, travelers can climb the iconic Dune 45 to admire the sand dunes of the Sossusvlei, explore the eerie white clay pan of Deadvlei , or hike through the picturesque Sesriem Canyon.

At Victoria Falls, along the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe, travelers can whitewater raft, bungee jump or swim at the Devil's Pool, which is on Zambia's side of the falls. Similar adventures can be found in Jinja, Uganda, where the River Nile begins.

Hot air balloons are a popular and adventurous way to explore too, with a bird's eye view of the berber villages of Morocco to Kenya's Masai Mara.

Explore the beach

African beach towns combine beauty and culture, in places like Seychelles, Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Mozambique, Mauritius, Zanzibar, Ghana, Namibia and Egypt.

Mombasa, a coastal city in Kenya, is one example.  

"Here, you'll experience African, Indian and Arab cultures in one place. Fort Jesus is one of Mombasa's notable sites and was built by the Portuguese in 1593. In less than 200 years, the fort changed hands nine times," said Luciemarie Swanepoel, owner of African Sky of Diamonds Tours & Safaris.

She recommends visiting Zanzibar to wander the Stone Town's labyrinthine alleys along with Kenya's Swahili Coast, the historical Gede ruins, and the UNESCO-named Mijikenda Kaya Forests .

"Madagascar … is another island gem, with beaches like Nosy Be and Ile Sainte Marie boasting palm-fringed coasts and vibrant coastal villages," said Swanepoel.

Durban and Cape Town are two of the best beach destinations in South Africa, she said, adding that travelers can kitesurf, snorkel, kayak or search for dugongs and whales there.

Go on a cruise

From budget-friendly houseboats to luxurious all-inclusive boutique lake cruises, Africa has a range of unique boating experiences.

Cruises along the Nile, Zambezi and Chobe rivers, as well as a cruise along Rwanda's Lake Kivu, come highly recommended, as water journeys can offer a spectacular viewing platform for wildlife.

"During a river cruise, you may spot a herd of elephants wading through shimmering water, witness great buffalo gathering along the water's edge, and even observe crocodiles stealthily slicing through pools. Hundreds of hippos also wallow in the river with just their nostrils poking out," says Kate Powell, general manager of the houseboat company Zambezi Queen Collection.

Travelers can also cruise between villages, fish, and bask in the tranquil waters. 

"One can explore the Manambolo River on a pirogue, or wooden dugout canoe, under the shadow of towering rock cliffs [or] stop to explore a cave and the eerie tombs of the Vazimba, said to be the earliest inhabitants of Madagascar," said Intrepid's Bencheikh.

In addition to being a popular stop for world cruises, East and South Africa have their own ocean cruise routes which follow the coastlines and visit offshore islands. Silversea, Norwegian Cruise Line and MSC have cruises departing from Africa.

The best places — and best times — to take a safari

Maritime journeys in Africa allow visitors to experience the continent's wildlife, cultures and landscapes from a unique vantage point, said Kevin Bubolz, Norwegian's vice president for Continental Europe, Middle East and Africa.  

"In Port Elizabeth, the Penguin Island Cruise excursion is a standout experience. You'll journey to the world's largest colony of African penguins in their natural habitat," he said. "If you're lucky, you might also catch a glimpse of playful humpback and bottle-nose dolphins."

Countries like Morocco, Namibia and Ethiopia have established wine regions. But South Africa is the continent's crown jewel.

"South Africa is renowned for its world-class wine regions, with the Western Cape being the heart of the industry," said Wrenelle Stander, CEO of Wesgro, Cape Town's tourism and trade agency.

"The areas around Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl comprise the famous Cape Winelands, where visitors can tour historic estates, taste award-winning wines, and learn about the winemaking process."

Not only is Stellenbosch one of the best places for wine tours, it's also a culinary hot spot, known for its innovative food scene. Elmarie Rabe, the marketing manager at Visit Stellenbosch, advises travelers to select wineries that are committed to sustainable and organic practices.

"Also consider the traveling distance between farms, as Stellenbosch stretches over 60 square kilometers," she said.

The best time to visit is during the harvest season from late January to March, when the vineyards are in full swing. But every season has its own charm, she added.

"Spring offers lush landscapes and ideal weather, while winter is perfect for enjoying bold red wines by the fireplace. Summer provides sunny days perfect for outdoor wine tasting," Rabe said.