Zimbabwe

Dating as far back as the 11th century AD, Great Zimbabwe stands testament to the formerly underappreciated level of early civilization in Africa. These fascinating ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are beautifully preserved at the heart of the nation.

Numerous national parks offer great appeal on a luxury Zimbabwe safari, but it is Hwange National Park that frequently presents the most incredible wildlife experiences. Visitors can explore the relatively small park on foot, with elephant, zebra, crocodile, hippo and – if lucky – cheetah and leopard to be found.

• Mana Pools National Park. Worth mentioning again in more detail, Mana Pools is truly exceptional. Covering 850 square miles (2,200km²), Mana Pools possesses a higher concentration of game than many other parks across Africa. A guided walking safari is the best way to experience the park, immersing oneself in the sights, sounds and smells of this incredible destination. An array of wonderfully exclusive and secluded luxury camps and lodges on the banks of the Zambezi makes Mana Pools a stunning destination to spend several days.
• Hwange National Park. The most accessible of Zimbabwe’s national parks also makes it the most frequented. While numbers remain fairly low, you can expect to see other game drives and visitors. This, however, is small price to pay as the game viewing is spectacular. Hwange is arguably the finest destination for viewing elephant in the wild and the numerous water holes, or ‘pans’ of the national park attract elephant of all ages along with a swathe of the 500 or more species of animals and birds.
• Matobo National Park. Though wildlife – including white and black rhino, leopard and one third of the world’s eagle species – is a major attraction of Matobo National Park, situated in Zimbabwe’s western regions, the kopje are what makes Matobo unique. These towering granite monoliths comprise vast boulders stacked precariously by the hand of nature. These natural sculptures offer great appeal to hikers and are also revered by some as the spiritual center of Zimbabwe. Matobo is also the site of the tomb of early pioneer Cecil Rhodes.
• The Zambezi River. At 1,600 miles (2,575km), the Zambezi is far down the ranks of the world’s longest rivers, but what it may lack in length it more than makes up for in impressiveness. Cascading over the 350-foot (108m) precipice of Victoria Falls, many often only witness it only as the Mosi-oa-Tunya – ‘the smoke that thunders’ in the local Lozi dialect. To the northeast, the meandering Zambezi widens, presenting tranquil flood plains home to an abundance of wildlife and simply spectacular to view and kayak upon.
• Matabele Homesteads. The Matabele (traditionally Ndebele) were a fierce warring tribe recognized by their long shields, from which their name is derived. This colorful and creative nation spreads south into South Africa and offers a resplendent cultural experience. Relinquishing their warring days, welcoming you into their traditional homesteads with warmth and hospitality.

Mana Pools, on the shores of the Zambezi, is one of our favorite destinations in Zimbabwe to offer our clients. Several wonderful venues offer secluded lodges with superb game viewing. The national park itself spans 2,600 square miles (6,800km²) and several camps and lodges take full advantage of this lush and abundant landscape.

For the true luxury Zimbabwe safari experience, Hwange National Park provides a handful of private camps, some in private concessions to provide an even more intimate and elite stay. These venues have been established specifically to take advantage of the profusion of wildlife in the region and if game-watching is high on your vacation agenda, these luxurious canvas camps will not fail to impress.

From its early days of civil unrest to its contemporary status as a truly viable destination, Zimbabwe has absolutely embraced tourism and you will receive exceptional service wherever you venture, with a warm smile and rich hospitality.