This trip to Zimbabwe is perfect for nature lovers as it combines two of Africa's top locations to see wildlife—Hwange National Park and Lake Kariba. Go on safari in Hwange to see lions and elephants before heading to the lake for stunning views and the chance to relax in style on the savanna.

Highlights

  • See the famous Victoria Falls
  • Take a safari through Hwange National Park
  • Relax by a bonfire under the stars on the savanna
  • Take a boat ride on Lake Kariba

Brief Itinerary

Day Highlights Overnight
Day 1 Arrive in Victoria Falls Victoria Falls
Day 2 Whitewater Rafting in Victoria Falls Victoria Falls
Day 3 Explore Hwange National Park Hwange National Park
Day 4 Safari and Walk in Hwange National Park Hwange National Park
Day 5 Transfer to Lake Kariba Kariba
Day 6 Boat Ride on Lake Kariba Kariba
Day 7 Free Day in Kariba Kariba
Day 8 Depart Kariba via Victoria Falls  

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 ziplines and rope bridges

Day 2: Whitewater Rafting in Victoria Falls

Zipline in Victoria Falls
Zipline in Victoria Falls

Today, you'll have a full day for even more outdoor adventures near the falls. For truly excellent views of the falls from the river below, you can go on a full-day whitewater rafting trip which is a full-day experience 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: Explore Hwange National Park

Sable Sands
The camp in Hwange National Park

Today, a driver will take you on an 2.5-hour journey to Hwange. Your accommodation is one of 16 open-plan, thatched huts known as rondavels with en-suite bathrooms. The main area of the camp holds the restaurant, lounge, library and bar with full views of a watering hole that's popular with wildlife. In addition, you can access a quaint treehouse and a solar-powered pool to cool off during the heat of the day.

You can go on two excursions day, which consist of safari drives and nature walks.

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

Day 4: Safari and Walk Through Hwange National Park

Relaxing at Sable Sands
Relaxing at Sable Sands

You have the whole day free to enjoy activities like safari drives and nature walks around the park.

The watering hole close to camp is frequented by herds of sable antelope, elephant, buffalo and other plains' animals. Lucky safari sightings include lions, cheetah, painted dogs, jackals, and, on the rare occasion, leopard. You can also see an estimated 350 bird species in this park.

In the evenings, guests can either enjoy a delicious three-course dinner inside the main dining area or a cozy dinner under the starry African sky next to the nightly campfire.

Day 5: Lake Kariba

Swimming pool at Changa
Swimming pool at Changa

This morning, you will take a transfer back to Victoria Falls Airport to take a flight to Kariba Airport (KAB) where another driver will be waiting to take you to the Changa Safari Camp. Set on the lakeshore, this luxury camp offers many quiet retreats where you can relax and take in the lake views or continue your adventure with more safari activities.

Days 6-7: Boat Ride on Lake Kariba

Famous Kariba Sunset
Famous Kariba Sunset

Today, you can make the most of the lake by taking a relaxing boat ride to see fish and more wildlife. You have the full day to explore the area and take in the scenery.

Here are a few suggestions for activities:

  • Go on a safari drive through the area
  • Take a hike with experienced guides
  • Fish in the lake
  • Swim in the fabulous on-site pool

Day 8: Depart Kariba via Victoria Falls

Say goodbye to Victoria Falls!
Victoria Falls

Today, you'll be able to enjoy your last breakfast in Africa before a driver takes you back to Victoria Falls Airport for your flight home.

Map

Map of Wildlife Spotting in Zimbabwe: Hwange & Lake Kariba - 8 Days
Map of Wildlife Spotting in Zimbabwe: Hwange & Lake Kariba - 8 Days