Explore Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, and Matopos National Park in style with this upscale nine-day itinerary. Take in the natural beauty of Zimbabwe with safari outings and guided hikes in areas populated by big game and diverse bird species. This trip is perfect for those who want to experience the wildlife of the African savanna while enjoying top-tier service and amenities at your base camp.

Highlights

  • Enjoy a whitewater rafting trip in Victoria Falls
  • Take a safari in Hwange National Park
  • Go hiking in Matopos National Park
  • Get up-close views of elephants and a herd of rhinos

Brief Itinerary

Day Highlights Overnight
Day 1 Arrive in Victoria Falls Victoria Falls
Day 2 Whitewater Rafting in Victoria Falls Victoria Falls
Day 3 Hwange National Park Hwange National Park
Days 4-5 Safari in Hwange National Park Hwange National Park
Day 6 Transfer to Matopos National Park Matopos National Park
Days 7-8 Explore Matopos from Amalinda Matopos National Park
Day 9 Depart Bulawayo  

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Victoria Falls

View of Victoria Falls
View of Victoria Falls

Welcome to Zimbabwe! The town of Victoria Falls is home to the eponymous waterfall, which is one of the largest in the world. A driver will be waiting for you at the airport, and they will transfer you to your hotel. You'll have the rest of the evening free to see the falls and explore. There are many outdoor activities available in the falls, and we are happy to provide you with details and help in booking.

Suggested activities include:

  • Take a sunset cruise down the Zambezi River
  • Book a helicopter flight over the falls
  • Test your adventurous spirit with a bungee jump over the falls
  • Go on a canopy tour with zip lines and rope bridges

Day 2: Whitewater Rafting in Victoria Falls

Whitewater Rafting
Whitewater rafting in Victoria Falls

Today, you'll have a full day for even more outdoor adventures near the falls. The falls are open from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm. For truly excellent views of the falls from the river below, you can go on a full-day whitewater rafting trip that includes stops for lunch and refreshments.

If you'd prefer to get up close and personal with some wildlife, you can take a walk through the bush with a whole herd of elephants and their professional handlers.

Day 3: Hwange National Park

Hwange National Park
Hwange National Park

You have the morning to do an activity or see the falls if you have not done so already. A driver will pick you up at your hotel at 10:00 am and drive you 2.5 hours to your accommodation in Hwange. Once you check in at the safari camp, you'll be able to take a game drive or a walk around the savanna.

Plan your trip to Zimbabwe
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.

Days 4-5: Safari in Hwange National Park

Cheetah on a game drive
Cheetah on a game drive

Today, you'll take a safari excursion to Hwange National Park. You'll also be able to take a walk with a guide if you'd like to get even closer to the wildlife.

After you return to the main lodge at camp, you can watch the animal activity at the waterhole. The lodge also has a restaurant, bar, lounge and pool area where you can relax.

Day 6: Transfer to Matopos National Park

Matopos National Park
Matopos National Park

Today, a driver will pick you up after breakfast and transfer you to the beautiful Matopos National Park, about 5 hours away. This area is known for its striking granite hills that make up the landscape, and one of the best rhino populations in Zimbabwe. You will arrive at your safari camp in time for an afternoon activity such as a game drive or a walk in the bush.

Days 7-8: Explore Matopos National Park

Unique Granite outcrops
Unique Granite outcrops

You'll have two full days to see Matopos National Park at your leisure. You can take additional safaris, relax at your accommodation, or schedule some more outdoor activities. The terrain in Matopos is excellent for those keen on hikes, and your guide will be able to take you on some great trails. Consider asking your guide to help you safely get up close to the resident rhinos!

Day 9: Depart Bulawayo

Elephant at a watering hole
Elephant at a watering hole

It's time to say goodbye to Zimbabwe! After your last breakfast at camp, a private driver will take you about 1 hour to Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport (BUQ) outside Bulawayo Airport to check in for your flight home.

Map

Map of Luxury Zimbabwe Safari: Victoria Falls, Hwange & Matopos - 9 Days
Map of Luxury Zimbabwe Safari: Victoria Falls, Hwange & Matopos - 9 Days