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Buffalo

Victoria Falls & Hwange Lodge - Zimbabwe Safari

Tour Length6 days
Priced from pps $2237 R42318 £1772 2074 A$3433 C$3028 NZ$3744 Full pricing info
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Summary of this Short Stay Tours & Budget Safari Package

  • Starts & ends in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
  • Accommodation Hotel / Lodge / Safari Lodge
  • Transport Microbus / Game Viewing Vehicle
  • Wildlife Big 5, Elephant, Leopards, Lions, Rhino & More
  •  See Departure Dates

Quick Itinerary Overview

Take in the big game of Africa and experience great adventures at the massive natural wonder of Victoria Falls on this action-packed short Zimbabwe Safari!

Ease into holiday mode with a laid-back sunset boat cruise on the Zambezi, followed by a cultural dining experience for a taste of traditional Zimbabwean specialities. Cross into Botswana on day two and spend the day game viewing in Chobe National Park, one of Africa's finest wildlife destinations. Next morning: take an easy canoe trip on the upper Zambezi River - soaking up the natural scenery and spotting wildlife and birds as you navigate small rapids and quiet waters. In the afternoon we visit Victoria Falls with a guide - admiring the awe-inspiring spectacle up close. Day four takes off with the Flight of Angels, a thrilling helicopter flight over Vic Falls, before our cultural encounters in a local village.

Then it is time to head to Hwange National Park and our lodge bordering the national park. Here, we embark on 4x4 game drives in Hwange National Park, sighting an abundance of wildlife and birds, including the Big Five of Africa.  

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Itinerary for this Tour

Tour Highlights:

  • Zambezi River Sunset Cruise
  • Cultural Boma Dinner & Village Tour
  • Chobe National Park Day Trip
  • Half Day Canoeing Upper Zambezi
  • Guided Tour of Vic Falls
  • 15-minute Helicopter Flight
  • Hwange Game Drive
  • Hwange National Park Game Drives
  • Painted Dog Conservation Centre visit

Day 1: Zambezi River Cruise & Cultural Boma Dinner – Zimbabwe

This Victoria Falls & Hwange Park Safari kicks off with collection from the Victoria Falls Airport in Zimbabwe. You are transferred from the airport to Victoria Falls Rainbow Hotel in the heart of Victoria Falls town. After checking in at the hotel you are free to rest in your air-conditioned room, relax in the leafy gardens and take a dip in the pool. The Victoria Falls Rainbow Hotel is within walking distance of the Victoria Falls waterfall, offering easy access to some of the viewpoints.

Zambezi River Sunset Cruise

This afternoon at about 15:30, we set off on a two-hour sunset cruise along the Zambezi River towards Victoria Falls. The laid-back boat cruise takes us downstream as far as Palm Island, from where we can see the spray of the mighty waterfall. Soak up the scenery and keep an eye out for wildlife and birds as we enjoy sundowners and snacks (included). Hippos, crocodiles and antelopes are often spotted, along with various other animals including elephants, giraffes, buffalos and even rhinos.

Cruising along the Zambezi River is the perfect way to end your first day on safari - easing into holiday mode while watching a beautiful sunset from the water.

Cultural Boma Dinner

Returning from our lazy sunset boat cruise we head to The Boma restaurant for a unique African dining experience. Taste an array of traditional foods and enjoy warm Zimbabwean hospitality under the stars at the boma amid indigenous trees. It's an evening set to delight the senses - filled with new aromas, sights, flavours and vibrant African rhythms. Tuck into Zimbabwean specialities such as game, potjiekos (meat stew), fish and vegetarian dishes. The Boma is famous for its warthog fillet and the adventurous can try ethnic delicacies such as mopane worms, deep fried kapenta fish and groundnuts.

Amakwezi traditional performers entertain us with lively singing and dancing, and after dinner, a local sangoma (traditional healer) enthrals us with old tales of Zimbabwe. The local customs (beer tasting and hand washing rituals) bring special detail to the night, and the mysterious witchdoctor adds intrigue to this cultural feast. The evening ends on a high note with a live drumming session, which you are invited to join.

  • Includes: Dinner

Day 2: Chobe National Park Safari – Botswana

Chobe National Park Day Tour

On day two we are collected from the hotel at 07:30 for our day trip to Chobe National Park in neighbouring Botswana. Leaving Zimbabwe, passports stamped, we transfer to a 4x4 safari vehicle for our game viewing adventure in one of Africa's top national parks.

First, we cruise along Chobe River, making our way into the park on the water. Chobe is renowned for its superb boat-based game viewing so keep a look out for hippos, elephants, crocodiles and a variety of other animals. Wildlife sightings on the islands and riverbanks include buffalos and an array of antelope species - from lechwe and puku to kudu and waterbuck. Chobe River also attracts prolific birdlife so bird watchers are in for a real treat!

Water and soft drinks are included on the boat cruise, which is followed by a buffet lunch with complimentary juice, at Chobe Safari Lodge.

After lunch, we continue in an open-sided safari vehicle for our three-hour game drive in Chobe National Park. Our 4x4 game drive provides excellent game viewing and photographic opportunities in the wildlife-rich African bush. Elephants are commonly sighted in Chobe Park, along with lions and antelopes, with rarer sightings including cheetahs and leopards. After our rewarding game drive, we return to the border post, crossing back into Zimbabwe and driving on to Victoria Falls.

At about 18:00 we arrive back at the hotel where you are free to unwind and enjoy the hotel facilities.

  • Includes: Breakfast & Lunch

Please note: Remember to take your passport with you today. A camera, hat or cap and sunscreen are also essential and binoculars will come in handy.

Day 3: Half Day Zambezi Canoe Trip & Vic Falls Tour – Zimbabwe

Zambezi Canoe Trip

Day three begins with a 07:30 departure for Chundu, where our half-day canoeing trip begins. Enjoy some game viewing en route to Chundu, located in the Zambezi National Park. After a safety briefing by the professional river guide and a quick practise session on the water, the paddle begins.

We canoe along the island-dotted channels of the Upper Zambezi River, above Victoria Falls, for about 15km's. This is an easy paddle, entailing a few small rapids. Canoeing experience is not required as the excursion is not challenging, but focuses on taking in the scenery and watching for animals and birds instead. Canoeing along the banks of the Zambezi National Park we may encounter hippos, buffalos, crocodiles, elephants, kudus, impalas and other animals, as well as over 50 kinds of birds, including martial eagles. After canoeing, we relax on the riverbank and have a picnic lunch with drinks included.

Victoria Falls Tour

This afternoon the adventure continues with a guided tour of the natural wonder of Victoria Falls. Our guide first leads us to an ancient baobab tree in the forest to admire the 16m thick giant, simply called the Big Tree. Then we walk on through the lush rainforest to Victoria Falls, looking out for bushbuck and other animals along the way.

Our knowledgeable guide explains the geology of Victoria Falls and tells you more about this massive waterfall as you walk along the entire length of Vic Falls. The walk takes you from Livingstone View to the Devil’s Cataract and on to the Main Falls, before heading to the Rainbow Falls and Danger Point - offering a full range of stunning views.

  • Includes: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 4: Flight of Angels, Cultural Tour & Hwange Sunset Game Drive – Zimbabwe

Helicopter Flight of Angels

Today we lift off on our thrilling helicopter flight at 08:00 in the morning. This Flight of Angels takes you on a scenic chopper ride over the thundering Victoria Falls waterfall, providing a whole new perspective on the world's largest waterfall.

The 15-minute helicopter flight provides an uninterrupted bird’s eye view of the breathtaking Victoria Falls, the Zambezi River and the surrounding bush. We fly upstream over the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, where we may see game roaming, and downstream over the impressive Batoka Gorge. This scenic Flight of Angels is conducted in a helicopter designed to offer each passenger the best visibility possible.

Cultural Village Tour

After our unforgettable helicopter flight, we return to the hotel in Victoria Falls, checking out by about 09h30. Then we visit a local village with a skilled guide, gaining insight into the lives of local Zimbabweans and their rich traditions. We visit Mpisi Village to see how the Matabele people live and find out more about their unique history and customs.

After our cultural experience, we hop into our comfortable microbus and drive south to Hwange Safari Lodge, located on the border of Hwange National Park. The transfer from the village near Vic Falls to Hwange takes about two and a half hours, bringing us to the safari lodge at about 13h00. First, we have lunch and relax at the lodge, until tea time and our afternoon game drive, departing at about 15h30.

Hwange Sunset Game Drive

After coffee, tea and a sweet snack at 15h30, we set off on our two-and-a-half to three-hour sunset game drive. The game drive will be either in the Hwange Conservation area or in Hwange National Park, in which case entry fees to the national park are not included and are payable at the gate.

We go in search of the multitude of wild animals found in the Hwange ecosystem - ranging from lions to giraffes and zebras. We are sure to see elephants as the Hwange area is famous for its abundance of African elephants - hosting one of the largest populations on the continent.

Back at the lodge, this evening dinner is served at 19h30, followed by free time to unwind and enjoy the bush setting. Sit around the campfire under the stars or have a drink at the bar before retiring.

  • Includes: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Excludes: Hwange Park entrance fees (US$20 per person), payable in cash on entry.

Please Note:

Park entry fees are not included for the Half Day Canoeing Trip and the Helicopter Flight (US$10 to US$12 where applicable). Excluded fees are payable direct on the given day.

Day 5: Game Viewing in Hwange National Park – Zimbabwe

Hwange National Park Game Viewing

The day begins with an early wake-up call at 05h30. We start with a continental breakfast of cereal, fruit, toast, juice, coffee and tea. Breakfast is served in the dining area from where you can watch the bush coming to life and possibly spot your first wildlife of the day. By 06h30 we depart for our game drive in the 14,651km² Hwange National Park (entry fees payable directly at the park entrance in cash).

Not only is Hwange National Park home to massive elephant herds, but also impressive buffalo herds, as well as healthy populations of the other Big Five - lion, leopard and rhino. Keep your eyes open for endangered African wild dogs too, as Hwange is one of Africa's major strongholds for these social canids. All of the endangered species of Zimbabwe are in fact represented in Hwange, from sable and roan to wild dog. We may encounter cheetahs, jackals and both brown and spotted hyenas too, along with all kinds of antelopes.

After our exploration, we return to the safari lodge where you have time to freshen up, have a hot and cold brunch and take it easy. Swim in the pool, take a nap or read a book in the shade, before meeting up for tea, coffee and a sweet treat. At 15h00 we embark on our second game drive of the day, returning to the world-famous Hwange National Park for more wildlife action.

We head back to the lodge at about 18h30 and at about 19h30 we tuck into our final dinner together, enjoying our last night under the stars.

  • Includes: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Excludes: Hwange entrance fees (US$20 per person) payable on entry.

Day 6: Hwange to Victoria Falls

On the final day, we have breakfast at the lodge and then head to the Painted Dog Conservation Centre at about 8h30. At the centre, we see African wild dogs and find out more about the work being done to conserve this endangered species.

After visiting the centre we drive back to Victoria Falls where you are transferred to the airport for your onward travels.

  • Includes: Breakfast

Victoria Falls Accommodation - Vic Falls Rainbow Hotel

Accommodation on this Victoria Falls Budget Tour Package is at the Victoria Falls Rainbow Hotel, located on the Zimbabwean side of Vic Falls.

Spend three nights in pleasant en-suite rooms with air-conditioning on a bed and breakfast basis. These comfortable rooms have their own balconies and tea and coffee making facilities. The hotel features a swimming pool with a poolside bar, a restaurant, lounge and lovely gardens. The staff offer personal and attentive service creating a friendly atmosphere.

Victoria Falls Rainbow Hotel is within walking distance of Victoria Falls National Park and the centre of Victoria Falls town in Zimbabwe, making it a convenient base for adventure activities and exploring.

Optional Vic Falls Accommodation Upgrade - Azambezi Lodge

You can choose to upgrade your accommodation to en-suite rooms at the Azambezi Lodge, at a small extra cost. Please check the Full Pricing for the cost of this accommodation upgrade as the indicative tour price includes accommodation at Rainbow Hotel.

Along the banks of the majestic Zambezi River, on the edge of the Zambezi National Park, lies Azambezi Lodge. Situated in Victoria Falls, the Azambezi is the ideal spot to unwind, with its lush riverside gardens, sparkling pool, two bars and two restaurants overlooking the Zambezi.

Hwange Accommodation - Hwange Safari Lodge

Hwange Safari Lodge is located on spacious grounds, bordering on Hwange National Park. This comfortable lodge has a viewing platform overlooking an active waterhole frequented by an impressive variety of animals. Regular sightings include elephant herds, buffalos, zebras, sable, wildebeest and other antelopes. Predators are sometimes also spotted at the waterhole near the lodge, including lions, cheetahs, hyenas, wild dogs and jackals.

The lodge has an airy restaurant and bar, a big swimming pool and established gardens. The rooms all feature en-suite bathrooms, air-conditioning and mosquito nets. Each room is fitted with an overhead fan, small desk and facilities for making tea and coffee.

Optional Vic Falls Activities (not included in the tour price):

Horseback Safari (3 hours)

Experience the African Bush along the banks of the Zambezi River on the back of a horse. This Horseback Safari will allow you to get up close and personal with several game species endemic to the area including duiker, bushbuck, warthog, elephants, hippos and crocodiles.

The out-ride is under the expert guidance of game rangers. The Horseback Safari is designed for inexperienced riders, and for those who have had considerable riding experience. You will be grouped with riders of similar experience to your own to ensure you get the most out of your outing. A perfect way to get up close to the natural game of the area.

Rafting and Riverboarding

The ultimate place for riverboarding - the Zambezi River has the necessary volume of water and few exposed rocks in its rapids and pools, making it ideal for this exhilarating activity.

Riverboarding on the Zambezi can be done as a half or full day activity and is combined with rafting on an action-packed and thrilling adventure. Along the way stops are made to relax and play between rapids and clients always have the option of switching to the backup raft. The riverboarding adventures are lead by trained and professional guides with first aid certificates to ensure your safety.

White Water Rafting

The White Water Rafting experience on the mighty Zambezi has been described as the best commercial whitewater rafting experience in the world. This exciting full day excursion on the mighty Zambezi River is a fantastic experience for those with a sense of adventure. The day is all about clean water, a healthy helping of African sunshine and a dose of exercise; all this against the backdrop of one of the beautiful waterfalls in the world the spectacular Victoria Falls.

The day begins early with a briefing and breakfast. It's then off on your adventure where you will tackle some Grade 5 rapids under the expert guidance of world-class guides. Lunch is included.At the end of the day, you will be lifted out of the gorge where you will be met with cold drinks and beers. At the end of the white water rafting excursion, you get to watch a DVD of your thrilling day of Zambezi rafting.

A truly exhilarating experience!

Bungee Jumping

Plunge off the Victoria Falls Bridge, falling 111 metres into the Batoka Gorge below! Experience a pure and extreme adrenaline rush as you plummet into the narrow gorge, flanked by Victoria Falls waterfall! More than 50 000 people have taken on the challenge of bungee jumping off this bridge where you dangle over the Zambezi River.

Both ankle and body harnesses are used and photographs or videos of your leap can be purchased to capture the heart-racing experience.

Optional Extras and Excursions

For up-to-date and confirmed pricing info for optional items, please drop us an enquiry.

  • Horseback safari
  • Riverboarding 
  • White water rafting
  • Bungee jumping

Child Policy

This tour does take children.

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+Where does the tour go to?
+Optional Activities & Day Trips
For confirmed pricing on these optional items, please drop us an enquiry
  • Horseback safari
  • Riverboarding 
  • White water rafting
  • Bungee jumping
+Included in the Tour Price
  • Transfers to and from Vic Falls Airport
  • 5 nights of hotel & lodge accommodation
  • Zambezi River Sunset Boat Cruise
  • Cultural Boma Dinner & Village Tour
  • Chobe National Park Day Trip
  • Half Day Zambezi River Canoe Trip
  • Guided Victoria Falls Tour
  • Helicopter Flight at Vic Falls
  • Hwange National Park Game Drives
  • Sunset Game Drive to Hwange
  • Meals, drinks & snacks as per itinerary
+Not Included in the Tour Price
  • Park entry fees (payable on the relevant days)
  • Travel insurance, flights & visas
  • Optional activities at Victoria Falls (as per the itinerary)
  • Accommodation upgrades
  • Personal items (curios, snacks etc)
+Departure Dates

This tour departs daily with a minimum of 2 clients.

Scheduled Tour Departures
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If you do not see departures listed for your dates, please do contact us for further info.

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