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Private Holiday
10 Days ex Harare
Departs: Daily
Harare (1) | Matobo (3) | Hwange (3) | Zambezi (2)
This 10-day safari showcases the country’s rich diversity, blending culture, history, wildlife, and iconic landscapes. Beginning in Harare, the journey travels south to the UNESCO-listed Matobo National Park for rhino tracking, ancient San rock art, and cultural exploration before continuing to Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe’s premier safari destination, renowned for its vast elephant herds, predators, and immersive game viewing experiences. The adventure concludes on the banks of the Zambezi River near Victoria Falls, where guests enjoy luxury safari accommodation, river-based activities, wildlife encounters, and guided visits to one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders. Throughout the itinerary, travellers stay in carefully selected boutique lodges and safari camps that combine authentic Zimbabwean hospitality with exceptional comfort and access to the country’s most remarkable destinations.
Highlights:
- 24/7 local operator support in Zimbabwe
- Scenic light aircraft flights
- Spectacular Victoria Falls
- Rhino tracking on foot
- San rock art, culture and history
- Exceptional game viewing in a private concession
- Itinerary
- Accommodation
- Important Information
Day 1: Harare
The journey begins in Harare, Zimbabwe’s vibrant capital, renowned for its lively energy, modern cultural scene, tree-lined boulevards adorned with jacarandas, and warm hospitality. As the principal gateway to the country’s remarkable wildlife and safari destinations, Harare provides the perfect introduction to Zimbabwe before venturing into its untamed wilderness.
Nestled in a peaceful residential area just beyond the city centre, Victoria 22 Hotel is a stylish boutique sanctuary that blends sophisticated comfort with a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Family-owned and inspired by Tuscan design, the property offers an intimate and tranquil setting, making it an ideal place to unwind after a long international journey. Guests stay in spacious Standard Suites, thoughtfully appointed with elegant furnishings, a curated collection of Zimbabwean and international artwork, ensuite bathrooms, air conditioning, and a range of modern amenities.
Overnight: Victoria 22 Hotel
Day 2: Harare - Matobo National Park (BLD)
After breakfast, fly from Harare to Bulawayo before continuing by road to Amalinda Lodge, where you will spend the next three nights immersed in the remarkable landscapes of Matobo National Park. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Matobo is renowned for its striking granite formations, ancient scenery, rich cultural heritage, and unique wildlife experiences, offering a captivating blend of natural beauty, history, and spiritual significance.
Overnight: Amalinda Lodge
Day 3 & Day 4: Matobo National Park (BLD)
During your stay, experience a variety of activities including rhino tracking on foot or by vehicle, guided walks through the granite hills, visits to ancient San rock art sites, cultural village encounters, historical excursions to landmarks such as Cecil John Rhodes’ “View of the World,” game drives, hiking opportunities, and optional spa treatments. Matobo is especially celebrated for its thriving black and white rhino populations, dramatic scenery, and profound cultural and spiritual legacy.
Overnight: Amalinda Lodge
Day 5: Matobo - Hwange National Park (BLD)
This morning, fly to Hwange National Park and transfer to Khulu Bush Camp, your home for the next three nights. Zimbabwe’s largest national park, Hwange is renowned for its abundant wildlife, including some of Africa’s largest elephant populations, impressive predator sightings, sweeping grasslands, and diverse ecosystems that provide exceptional safari experiences.
Nestled on a private concession bordering the park, Khulu Bush Camp offers an intimate and luxurious wilderness retreat. Guests stay in elegantly designed Deluxe Suites featuring spacious ensuite bathrooms, indoor and outdoor showers, private viewing decks, and refined safari-inspired décor. Overlooking a wildlife-rich waterhole, the camp combines personalised service with an authentic bush ambience, creating outstanding opportunities to observe wildlife from the comfort of camp while enjoying the tranquillity of the surrounding wilderness.
Overnight: Khulu Bush Camp
Day 6 & Day 7: Hwange National Park (BLD)
Khulu provides guests with an immersive experience, including thrilling guided game drives that reveal the majesty and mystery of wildlife, both during the day and night. Visitors can also enjoy walking safaris, sitting in hides, and observing animals in their natural habitat. There’s a chance to visit the Painted Dog Conservation Centre, located just outside Hwange, where visitors can gain insight into the important work being done to protect these remarkable wild dogs.
Overnight: Khulu Bush Camp
Day 8: Hwange - Zambezi National Park (BLD)
The final stage of your journey concludes along the banks of the mighty Zambezi River near Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and among Africa’s most iconic travel destinations.
Positioned on the banks of the Zambezi River, Victoria Falls River Lodge boasts breathtaking views and an enviable location that’s only a short distance from the world-famous Victoria Falls. This private retreat provides the perfect balance of proximity to the falls’ misty spray and the tranquillity of the surrounding wilderness. Guests can enjoy both the serenity of nature and the excitement of exploring one of the most iconic landscapes on earth, all from a prime position within the Zambezi National Park.
Overnight: Victoria Falls River Lodge
Day 9: Zambezi National Park (BLD)
Victoria Falls River Lodge offers a range of unforgettable activities to fully experience the diverse beauty of the area. Guests can embark on thrilling game drives through the national park, with opportunities for both day and night safaris to spot the region’s remarkable wildlife, from elephants to wild dogs. For those seeking a more peaceful adventure, guided walks with expert safari guides reveal the hidden wonders of the bush. Sunset river cruises and exclusive picnics on Kandahar Island provide a serene way to soak in the magnificent surroundings. Birdwatching enthusiasts will find themselves captivated by the variety of species, with many endemic birds gracing the area.
Overnight: Victoria Falls River Lodge
Day 10: Victoria Falls (B)
After breakfast transfer from Victoria Falls River Lodge to Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA) for onward regional and international flight connections.
TOUR INCLUSIONS:
- 24/7 service and full local backup from our representatives Zimbabwe
- 9 nights’ accommodation
- Breakfast in Harare
- Full board including local beverages, and game activities at Matobo, Hwange and Zambezi National Parks
- Private transfers between airports and accommodation with a licensed tourism driver
- Economy class flight Harare – Bulawayo
- Light aircraft transfers Bulawayo – Hwange National Park - Victoria Falls
- National Park and Conversation fees
- Zimbabwe Travel Notes - issued by Innovative Travel
TOUR EXCLUSIONS:
- International/Domestic airfares not listed in the itinerary
- Optional tours and excursions
- Tipping/Gratuities (please refer to tour notes for a recommended guideline)
- Personal Expenses
- Visas (unless specified)
- Travel Insurance – note personal travel insurance is compulsory
- Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above
Accommodation based on the following (or similar):
Harare
Victoria 22 Hotel
Boutique on 22 offers the perfect balance of relaxation and accessibility, situated on the edge of the bustling city. Guests can immerse themselves in a serene atmosphere while being just minutes away from both the cultural and commercial hubs of Harare. The enchanting landscape invites exploration and discovery, providing the ideal backdrop for a truly memorable retreat. This location is perfect for those seeking the charm of a tranquil lodge combined with the excitement of urban life.
The hotel has 15 spacious, elegant rooms, each thoughtfully designed in the distinctive Tuscany Reggia Lodge style. Every room is a beautifully curated space, showcasing a blend of global art and local craftsmanship, with no two rooms alike. From Moroccan rugs to exquisite Italian furnishings, every detail has been carefully selected to captivate and inspire. This is not just a place to stay—it’s a transformative experience, where relaxation and comfort come together to create an unforgettable retreat.
Images Credit: Victoria 22 Hotel
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Motobo
Amalinda Lodge
Located in Zimbabwe’s oldest and smallest national park, Amalinda Lodge is surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of Matobo, renowned for its unique “kopjes” rock formations that date back over two million years. The park, which holds deep spiritual significance, is home to a wealth of wildlife, including the endangered rhinoceros. Visitors can immerse themselves in the quiet beauty of the area, with vast, undisturbed views and a sense of tranquillity that’s hard to find anywhere else. Matobo is not only a haven for nature lovers but also an important cultural site, where ancient rock art offers a glimpse into the past
Each room at Amalinda Lodge is uniquely designed to fit within the natural rock formations that surround it, offering an intimate and immersive experience that brings guests closer to the stunning environment. The lodge’s accommodation is built on an ancient Bushman’s shelter, making every stay feel like a journey back in time while offering the comfort and luxury expected of a modern retreat. Whether it’s the spectacular views, tranquil atmosphere, or thoughtfully designed spaces, Amalinda promises a stay that nurtures the body, mind, and spirit.
Images Credit: Amalinda Lodge
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Hwange
Khulu Bush Camp
Situated on a private concession in the Sikumi Forest Reserve and a mere 15 minute drive from Hwange National Park, Khulu Bush Camp is a small, intimate camp. The elevated, thatched safari suites provide a one-of-a-kind experience for every visitor, with each suite showcasing its own unique design. Guests can enjoy the luxury of both an indoor and an outdoor shower, a private balcony ideal for observing wildlife, and a dedicated tea and coffee corner. The main lodge is built on an elevated wooden deck with a lounge and dining area overlooking the camp's splash pool where elephants enjoy stopping by for a drink.
Images Credit: Khulu Bush Camp
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Zambezi
Victoria Falls River Lodge
Set along the banks of the majestic Zambezi River, deep within the Zambezi National Park, Victoria Falls River Lodge presents exceptional wildlife viewing experiences and convenient access to the historic town of Victoria Falls. Its prime location not only allows for unforgettable visits to the renowned Falls but also invites exploration of this awe-inspiring natural wonder by foot.
Accommodation is in luxurious airconditioned tented suites featuring elegant safari-inspired interiors, private plunge pools, spacious decks, air conditioning, ensuite bathrooms, and uninterrupted views across the Zambezi River and surrounding bushveld.
Accommodation is in luxurious airconditioned tented suites featuring elegant safari-inspired interiors, private plunge pools, spacious decks, air conditioning, ensuite bathrooms, and uninterrupted views across the Zambezi River and surrounding bushveld.
Images Credit: Victoria Falls River Lodge
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National Park Regulations and Private Conservation Areas
Game drives in National Parks are restricted to closed-sided, pop-top 4WD vehicles during daytime. Walking safaris are not permitted. In many private reserves and conservation areas, open-sided vehicles are permitted as are walking safaris and night time drives.
Keeping Healthy in Zimbabwe
Malaria: Anti-Malarial precautions are an absolute necessity when visiting Africa. It is important that you check with a qualified health professional for the most current information concerning your travel itinerary and personal health history. In addition, other personal protective measures, such as the use of insect repellents (containing the active ingredient ‘DEET’), covering arms and legs after dusk, avoid the use of scented products, help to reduce malaria risk.
Yellow Fever: If you are arriving in Zimbabwe (or planning to re-enter) from an area that is infected with yellow fever, or arriving from a country where yellow fever is endemic (check the list of countries) you are required to have a yellow fever vaccination and it must be administered at least ten (10) days before your arrival (or re-entry). If your travel itinerary requires you to have a yellow fever vaccination, you must ask your doctor to provide you with an "International Certificate of Vaccination" which should be carried with you while travelling to serve as proof that you have fulfilled the vaccination requirement.
Direct arrivals from non-endemic countries in Europe and North America are not required to show the certificate/yellow fever card, but when travelling between African countries by plane or vehicle you will be asked for it.
Luggage on internal flights
Luggage on internal flights is restricted to 15kg per person (including hand luggage) and it is a requirement that bags are soft-sided. This is due to compartments in light aircraft being small and of an irregular shape, making soft-side/flexible luggage essential.
Mobility information:
This tour is generally not suitable for people with limited mobility. If you are unsure, please contact us before booking.
Entry Requirements - Zimbabwe
All visitors are required to carry a passport that is valid for six months beyond the intended length of stay. There should be sufficient blank pages for entry stamps upon arrival. With a valid passport, one may obtain a visa either before arriving in Zimbabwe at the Embassy/High Commission abroad, online, or at any port of entry staffed by immigration officials, such as an international airport. We strongly recommend that guests apply for the E-Visa two months prior to their arrival date to avoid any last-minute disappointments.
Visa and entry requirements can change without prior notice and it is the traveller's responsibility to secure necessary visas for all countries travelling to. Prior to travel, ensure you verify the latest entry requirements for each country on your itinerary by consulting with your local embassy/consulate, or your travel agent/broker.
Trip prices and dates are correct at the time of the website going live, however all offers are subject to reconfirmation at the time of booking. All featured tour itineraries and offers may be subject to change due to seasonal variations without notice, or due to local conditions or other conditions. Please confirm all details at time of booking. Travel insurance is mandatory for all Innovative Travel bookings. All passports must be valid for 6 months prior to your return to your home country. Visas are the responsibility of the traveller. Special VIP meet and assist offers are available in some destinations for New Zealand passport holders, for other nationalities please check at the time of booking. For full terms and conditions, please refer to our Booking Conditions page.
