Safari Planning Guide
Choosing Your Safari Style
Types of Safaris
Classic Game Drives
The traditional safari experience:
- Conducted in specialized 4x4 safari vehicles
- Open sides/roof for optimal wildlife viewing
- Morning and late afternoon excursions (3-4 hours each)
- Professional guide and tracker team
- Cover more ground than walking safaris
- Suitable for all ages and fitness levels
- Good photography opportunities with vehicle stability
Walking Safaris
On-foot wildlife experiences for a more intimate connection:
- Led by armed professional guides
- Focus on tracking, ecology, and smaller details
- Intense, immersive wildlife encounters
- Small groups (typically 4-8 people)
- Moderate fitness required
- Age restrictions (usually 12-16 years minimum)
- Morning walks when temperatures are cooler
Canoe Safaris
Paddling adventures on the Zambezi River:
- Guided multi-day trips or single-day excursions
- Paddle between camps along the Zambezi
- Close encounters with hippos, elephants, crocodiles
- Bird watching paradise with riverside species
- Camping on islands or riverside campsites
- Moderately physical but accessible to most
- Unique perspective of wildlife coming to drink
Mobile Camping Safaris
Traditional safari adventures moving between campsites:
- Camp moves with you or ahead of your journey
- More authentic, old-school safari experience
- Closer to nature with nighttime sounds
- Range from basic fly camping to luxury mobile setups
- Often more economical than permanent lodges
- Greater flexibility in remote locations
- Small group experiences with dedicated guide
Photographic Safaris
Specialized trips focused on wildlife photography:
- Expert photography guides
- Vehicles modified for camera equipment
- Optimal positioning for lighting and angles
- Longer stays at sightings
- Special hides and viewing platforms
- Flexible schedules following wildlife action
- Technical advice and post-processing tips
Fly-In Safaris
Accessing remote locations via small aircraft:
- Maximize time by flying between destinations
- Access remote areas difficult to reach by road
- Spectacular aerial views of landscapes
- Often combined with luxury accommodations
- More expensive but time-efficient
- Short bush flights between airstrips
- Often small planes with luggage restrictions
Accommodation Options
Luxury Lodges
High-end properties with exceptional service:
- Spacious, appointed rooms/suites
- Gourmet dining and premium beverages
- Private plunge pools common
- Expert guides and private vehicles available
- All-inclusive rates typical
- Spa facilities at many properties
- Limited number of guests
Tented Camps
Canvas accommodations ranging from rustic to luxurious:
- Permanent or seasonal structures
- Connection to nature with comfort
- En-suite bathrooms in most camps
- Communal dining and gathering areas
- Usually all-inclusive pricing
- Limited electricity (often solar powered)
- Authentic safari atmosphere
Safari Lodges
Solid structure accommodations in national parks:
- Range from mid-range to luxury
- More substantial buildings than tented options
- Often larger properties with more rooms
- Family-friendly options common
- Restaurant dining rather than communal
- More reliable power and connectivity
- Swimming pools and landscaped grounds
National Parks Accommodations
Government-run facilities within park boundaries:
- Basic but functional rooms and chalets
- Self-catering options available
- Simple restaurants at main camps
- Excellent locations within parks
- Much more affordable than private options
- Booking through Zimbabwe Parks authority
- Variable maintenance standards
Mobile Camps
Temporary camps that follow wildlife movements:
- Set up and broken down as safari progresses
- Ranges from basic to surprisingly luxurious
- Often used for walking or canoeing safaris
- More authentic, adventurous experience
- Staff moves ahead to prepare next location
- Usually all-inclusive with guide
- Limited or no electricity
Self-drive Camping
Independent safari camping for adventurous travelers:
- Maximum flexibility and independence
- Significant cost savings
- Equipment rental available (roof tents, etc.)
- Campsites in all major national parks
- Need for self-sufficiency and preparation
- 4x4 vehicle essential for most areas
- Full wilderness experience
Where to Safari in Zimbabwe
Top Safari Destinations
Hwange National Park
Hwange National Park
Zimbabwe’s largest national park and premier safari destination:Key Features:
- Massive elephant population (30,000+)
- All Big Five possible (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino)
- Over 100 mammal species and 400 bird species
- Diverse landscapes from teak forest to Kalahari sands
- Excellent game viewing around waterholes in dry season
- Good infrastructure with accommodation options at all levels
- Classic game drive safaris
- Walking safaris in some concessions
- Night drives in private areas
- Photography at waterholes
- First-time safari visitors
- Year-round destination with temperate climate
- May-October for clearer landscapes and easier hiking
- Green season (November-April) for lusher scenery
- Avoid public holidays when Rhodes’ grave area can be crowded
- Camp Amalinda (luxury)
- Big Cave Camp (midrange)
- Matobo Hills Lodge (midrange)
- Hermits Peak (budget)
Comparing Safari Regions
Understanding the differences between Zimbabwe’s main safari regions helps in choosing the right destination:
Multi-Park Recommendations:
| Park | Key Wildlife | Landscape | Accessibility | Crowd Levels | Accommodation Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hwange | Big Five, huge elephant herds | Savanna, woodland, Kalahari sands | Easy (2hr from Victoria Falls) | Moderate | Budget to luxury |
| Mana Pools | Elephants, wild dogs, big cats | Riverine forest, floodplains | Moderate (flight or 4x4) | Low | Mid-range to luxury |
| Matusadona | Elephants, buffalo, water birds | Lake shore, hills | Moderate (boat or flight) | Very low | Mid-range to luxury |
| Gonarezhou | Elephants, rare antelope | Dramatic sandstone cliffs, rivers | Difficult (long drive, 4x4) | Very low | Limited, mid to luxury |
| Matobo | Rhinos, leopards | Granite kopjes, balancing rocks | Easy (40min from Bulawayo) | Moderate | Budget to luxury |
| Zambezi NP | Elephants, buffalo, hippos | Riverine woodland | Very easy (near Victoria Falls) | Moderate | Limited, mid to luxury |
- First safari: Hwange + Victoria Falls
- Adventure focus: Mana Pools + Matusadona
- Off-beaten-path: Gonarezhou + Great Zimbabwe
- Cultural & wildlife: Matobo + Hwange
- Comprehensive tour: Hwange + Mana Pools + Victoria Falls
Best Time for Safari
Zimbabwe offers excellent year-round safari opportunities, but conditions vary significantly by season:Dry Season (May-October): Peak Safari Period
Photographer’s Note: Each season offers distinct photographic opportunities - dry season for wildlife action and concentration, green season for landscapes and dramatic skies.
- Wildlife concentrates around water sources (best viewing)
- Sparse vegetation improves visibility
- Cooler temperatures, especially June-August
- Little to no rain, predictable conditions
- Higher prices and more visitors
- Dust can be significant by late dry season
- October brings extreme heat but exceptional game viewing
- Lush green landscapes and dramatic skies
- Birthing season for many species
- Excellent bird watching with migratory species
- Lower prices and fewer visitors
- Some roads become impassable
- Wildlife more dispersed and harder to spot
- Many safari operators close in Mana Pools January-March
| Month | Conditions | Wildlife Highlights | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | Heavy rains, lush | Newborn animals, migratory birds | Some areas inaccessible |
| February | Peak rains, very green | Predators hunting vulnerable young | Limited access to remote parks |
| March | Rains easing, verdant | Last of the migration birds | Mana Pools still closed |
| April | Transition month | Good all-around viewing | Victoria Falls at peak flow |
| May | Cooler, drying out | Excellent predator-prey action | Shoulder season value |
| June | Cool mornings, mild days | Increasing wildlife at waterholes | Perfect weather conditions |
| July | Cold mornings, pleasant days | Concentrated wildlife | Peak season rates |
| August | Warming up, very dry | Excellent predator sightings | Busy period, book early |
| September | Warm days, cool nights | Peak wildlife concentration | Excellent photography |
| October | Very hot, extremely dry | Most dramatic wildlife action | Heat can be challenging |
| November | Building heat, early rains | Last of dry season concentration | Dramatic storm photography |
| December | Rainy, lush regrowth | Calving season begins | Holiday period rates apply |
Safari Booking Process
When to Book
Planning horizons for Zimbabwe safaris:Luxury Lodges (Peak Season)
- Book 12-18 months in advance
- Especially critical for July-September
- Limited availability in small exclusive camps
- Particularly important for Mana Pools and specialist camps
- Book 6-12 months in advance
- Some flexibility possible in shoulder season
- Group spaces fill faster than individual bookings
- School holiday periods book quickly
- National Parks accommodations: 3-6 months ahead
- Exclusive campsites in parks: 6+ months
- Basic campsites: 1-3 months (sometimes available last-minute)
- Vehicle rentals: 3-6 months for specialized 4x4 camping vehicles
- Occasional cancellations at luxury properties
- Green season often has availability with shorter notice
- Some properties offer last-minute discounts
- Flexibility on exact properties improves last-minute options
- 12+ months ahead: Research and select safari style and regions
- 9-12 months ahead: Book high-end accommodations and specialized trips
- 6-9 months ahead: Arrange international flights
- 3-6 months ahead: Book activities and transfers
- 2-3 months ahead: Purchase travel insurance and prepare documentation
- 1 month ahead: Final preparations, packing, and confirmations
Booking Options
Tour Operators
Full-service safari planning and booking:Advantages:
- Expert advice on destinations and timing
- Seamless logistics and transfers
- Single point of contact
- Often access to preferential rates
- Support if things go wrong
- Can arrange multi-country itineraries
- First-time safari travelers
- Complex, multi-destination itineraries
- Special interest safaris (photography, walking)
- Luxury high-end experiences
- Travelers valuing convenience over cost
- International safari specialists
- Zimbabwe-based operators
- General travel agencies with safari divisions
Direct Booking
Contacting camps and lodges directly:Advantages:
- Sometimes better rates without middleman
- Direct communication with property
- Greater control over exact arrangements
- Special requests more easily accommodated
- Personal relationship with property
- Experienced safari travelers
- Single-destination trips
- Return visitors to familiar properties
- Specific date or accommodation requirements
- Those comfortable arranging own transfers
- Requires more research and coordination
- No support system if issues arise
- May need to arrange own transfers
- Payment terms often less flexible
Safari Planning Services
Customized planning without full booking services:Advantages:
- Expert advice without full service markup
- Tailored itineraries to your interests
- Unbiased property recommendations
- Flexibility to book some elements yourself
- Local knowledge and insights
- Semi-independent travelers
- Those with time to handle some arrangements
- Travelers seeking specialized advice
- Budget-conscious but wanting expertise
- Custom itinerary development
- Property recommendations
- Activity suggestions
- Logistics advice
Independent Booking
Complete self-organization of safari:Advantages:
- Maximum control over all elements
- Potential for significant cost savings
- Sense of adventure and accomplishment
- Flexibility to change plans
- Direct connections with local operators
- Very experienced safari travelers
- Those with plenty of planning time
- Adventure-minded travelers
- Budget-focused experiences
- Self-drive enthusiasts
- Zimbabwe Parks website for national parks
- Property websites for private lodges
- Self-drive guidebooks and maps
- Safari forums and travel communities
- Significant research time
Safari Costs and Budgeting
Understanding safari pricing structures and budgeting realistically:What’s Typically Included:
Money-Saving Tips:
- Accommodation in camps/lodges
- All meals and some beverages
- Daily game drives/activities
- Park fees (at most properties)
- Laundry service (at luxury properties)
- Airport transfers (luxury and all-inclusive)
- Premium alcoholic beverages
- Specialized activities (hot air balloons, helicopter flights)
- Gratuities for guides and staff
- Travel insurance
- International and domestic flights
- Visa fees
| Category | Accommodation | Game Viewing | Meals & Drinks | Total Per Day |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | $30-80 | Self-drive or $40-60 | $20-40 | $90-180 |
| Mid-range | $150-300 | Included | Included | $150-300 |
| Luxury | $400-800 | Included | Included | $400-800 |
| Ultra-luxury | $800-1,500+ | Included | Included all premium | $800-1,500+ |
- Travel during shoulder season (April-June, November)
- Combine self-drive with occasional guided activities
- Mix accommodation types (some national parks, some luxury)
- Longer stays often qualify for discounted nights
- Group departures typically cost less than private safaris
- Combine Zimbabwe with more affordable Zambia or Botswana regions
- Package deals through operators often provide better value
- Tips (budget 5-10 for camp staff)
- Quality binoculars ($150-300 if purchasing)
- Appropriate clothing and gear
- Vaccinations and anti-malarials
- Camera equipment
- Mobile data and communication
Best Time for Safari
Zimbabwe offers excellent year-round safari opportunities, but conditions vary significantly by season:Dry Season (May-October): Peak Safari Period
Photographer’s Note: Each season offers distinct photographic opportunities - dry season for wildlife action and concentration, green season for landscapes and dramatic skies.
- Wildlife concentrates around water sources (best viewing)
- Sparse vegetation improves visibility
- Cooler temperatures, especially June-August
- Little to no rain, predictable conditions
- Higher prices and more visitors
- Dust can be significant by late dry season
- October brings extreme heat but exceptional game viewing
- Lush green landscapes and dramatic skies
- Birthing season for many species
- Excellent bird watching with migratory species
- Lower prices and fewer visitors
- Some roads become impassable
- Wildlife more dispersed and harder to spot
- Many safari operators close in Mana Pools January-March
| Month | Conditions | Wildlife Highlights | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | Heavy rains, lush | Newborn animals, migratory birds | Some areas inaccessible |
| February | Peak rains, very green | Predators hunting vulnerable young | Limited access to remote parks |
| March | Rains easing, verdant | Last of the migration birds | Mana Pools still closed |
| April | Transition month | Good all-around viewing | Victoria Falls at peak flow |
| May | Cooler, drying out | Excellent predator-prey action | Shoulder season value |
| June | Cool mornings, mild days | Increasing wildlife at waterholes | Perfect weather conditions |
| July | Cold mornings, pleasant days | Concentrated wildlife | Peak season rates |
| August | Warming up, very dry | Excellent predator sightings | Busy period, book early |
| September | Warm days, cool nights | Peak wildlife concentration | Excellent photography |
| October | Very hot, extremely dry | Most dramatic wildlife action | Heat can be challenging |
| November | Building heat, early rains | Last of dry season concentration | Dramatic storm photography |
| December | Rainy, lush regrowth | Calving season begins | Holiday period rates apply |
Safari Booking Process
When to Book
Planning horizons for Zimbabwe safaris:Luxury Lodges (Peak Season)
- Book 12-18 months in advance
- Especially critical for July-September
- Limited availability in small exclusive camps
- Particularly important for Mana Pools and specialist camps
- Book 6-12 months in advance
- Some flexibility possible in shoulder season
- Group spaces fill faster than individual bookings
- School holiday periods book quickly
- National Parks accommodations: 3-6 months ahead
- Exclusive campsites in parks: 6+ months
- Basic campsites: 1-3 months (sometimes available last-minute)
- Vehicle rentals: 3-6 months for specialized 4x4 camping vehicles
- Occasional cancellations at luxury properties
- Green season often has availability with shorter notice
- Some properties offer last-minute discounts
- Flexibility on exact properties improves last-minute options
- 12+ months ahead: Research and select safari style and regions
- 9-12 months ahead: Book high-end accommodations and specialized trips
- 6-9 months ahead: Arrange international flights
- 3-6 months ahead: Book activities and transfers
- 2-3 months ahead: Purchase travel insurance and prepare documentation
- 1 month ahead: Final preparations, packing, and confirmations
Booking Options
Tour Operators
Full-service safari planning and booking:Advantages:
- Expert advice on destinations and timing
- Seamless logistics and transfers
- Single point of contact
- Often access to preferential rates
- Support if things go wrong
- Can arrange multi-country itineraries
- First-time safari travelers
- Complex, multi-destination itineraries
- Special interest safaris (photography, walking)
- Luxury high-end experiences
- Travelers valuing convenience over cost
- International safari specialists
- Zimbabwe-based operators
- General travel agencies with safari divisions
Direct Booking
Contacting camps and lodges directly:Advantages:
- Sometimes better rates without middleman
- Direct communication with property
- Greater control over exact arrangements
- Special requests more easily accommodated
- Personal relationship with property
- Experienced safari travelers
- Single-destination trips
- Return visitors to familiar properties
- Specific date or accommodation requirements
- Those comfortable arranging own transfers
- Requires more research and coordination
- No support system if issues arise
- May need to arrange own transfers
- Payment terms often less flexible
Safari Planning Services
Customized planning without full booking services:Advantages:
- Expert advice without full service markup
- Tailored itineraries to your interests
- Unbiased property recommendations
- Flexibility to book some elements yourself
- Local knowledge and insights
- Semi-independent travelers
- Those with time to handle some arrangements
- Travelers seeking specialized advice
- Budget-conscious but wanting expertise
- Custom itinerary development
- Property recommendations
- Activity suggestions
- Logistics advice
Independent Booking
Complete self-organization of safari:Advantages:
- Maximum control over all elements
- Potential for significant cost savings
- Sense of adventure and accomplishment
- Flexibility to change plans
- Direct connections with local operators
- Very experienced safari travelers
- Those with plenty of planning time
- Adventure-minded travelers
- Budget-focused experiences
- Self-drive enthusiasts
- Zimbabwe Parks website for national parks
- Property websites for private lodges
- Self-drive guidebooks and maps
- Safari forums and travel communities
- Significant research time
Safari Costs and Budgeting
Understanding safari pricing structures and budgeting realistically:What’s Typically Included:
Money-Saving Tips:
- Accommodation in camps/lodges
- All meals and some beverages
- Daily game drives/activities
- Park fees (at most properties)
- Laundry service (at luxury properties)
- Airport transfers (luxury and all-inclusive)
- Premium alcoholic beverages
- Specialized activities (hot air balloons, helicopter flights)
- Gratuities for guides and staff
- Travel insurance
- International and domestic flights
- Visa fees
| Category | Accommodation | Game Viewing | Meals & Drinks | Total Per Day |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | $30-80 | Self-drive or $40-60 | $20-40 | $90-180 |
| Mid-range | $150-300 | Included | Included | $150-300 |
| Luxury | $400-800 | Included | Included | $400-800 |
| Ultra-luxury | $800-1,500+ | Included | Included all premium | $800-1,500+ |
- Travel during shoulder season (April-June, November)
- Combine self-drive with occasional guided activities
- Mix accommodation types (some national parks, some luxury)
- Longer stays often qualify for discounted nights
- Group departures typically cost less than private safaris
- Combine Zimbabwe with more affordable Zambia or Botswana regions
- Package deals through operators often provide better value
- Tips (budget 5-10 for camp staff)
- Quality binoculars ($150-300 if purchasing)
- Appropriate clothing and gear
- Vaccinations and anti-malarials
- Camera equipment
- Mobile data and communication
Safari Packing Guide
Clothing Essentials
What to wear on safari:Colors and Material:
- Neutral colors (khaki, olive, tan, brown)
- Avoid bright colors and pure white
- Natural fibers (cotton, linen) or quick-dry blends
- Lightweight, breathable fabrics
- 3-4 short-sleeved shirts/t-shirts
- 2-3 long-sleeved shirts (sun/insect protection)
- 2-3 pairs lightweight pants/trousers
- 1-2 pairs shorts (knee-length best)
- 1 light sweater or fleece jacket
- 1 lightweight rain jacket/windbreaker
- 1 warm jacket (May-August, essential for morning drives)
- Comfortable walking shoes/hiking boots
- Sandals for camp
- Wide-brimmed hat with chin strap
- Swimwear
- Sleepwear
- Early mornings: Base layer + long sleeve + jacket
- Mid-day: Single lightweight layer
- Evenings: Add layers as temperature drops
Safari Equipment
Essential gear for optimal safari experience:Viewing Equipment:
- Binoculars (essential: 8x42 or 10x42 recommended)
- Camera with zoom lens (200mm minimum)
- Extra memory cards and batteries
- Dust-proof camera bag
- Phone with offline maps downloaded
- Headlamp or flashlight (essential for camps)
- Day pack/small backpack
- Reusable water bottle (1L minimum)
- Sunglasses with strap
- Bandana/buff (dust protection)
- Ziplock bags for electronics protection
- Power bank/portable charger
- Universal travel adapter
- Basic first aid supplies
Toiletries & Health
Personal care and health essentials:Sun Protection:
- High SPF sunscreen (50+ recommended)
- Lip balm with SPF
- After-sun lotion/aloe vera
- Insect repellent with DEET (20-30%)
- Anti-itch cream for bites
- Permethrin spray for clothing treatment
- Prescription medications in original packaging
- Anti-malarial pills (as prescribed)
- Pain relievers
- Anti-diarrheal medication
- Motion sickness remedies
- Antihistamines
- Rehydration salts
- Personal prescriptions with doctor’s letter
- Biodegradable soap/shampoo
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Quick-dry travel towel
Documents & Money
Essential paperwork and financial preparation:Documents:
- Passport with at least 6 months validity
- Zimbabwe visa or visa approval letter
- COVID-19 related documents (as required)
- Travel insurance policy and contact details
- Flight tickets and itinerary
- Accommodation vouchers
- Driver’s license (international if self-driving)
- Emergency contact information
- Copies of all documents (physical and digital)
- USD cash in small denominations (5, 20)
- Credit cards (inform bank of travel plans)
- Small amount for daily tips
- Separate money storage options
- Money belt or secure pouch
Luggage Considerations
Special luggage requirements for safari travel:Luggage Types:
- Soft-sided duffel bags strongly preferred
- Hard suitcases problematic in safari vehicles
- Strict weight limits on small aircraft (typically 15-20kg/33-44lbs)
- Small daypack for daily activities
- Light aircraft transfers have strict weight and size limits
- Some mobile safaris have limited vehicle space
- Dust protection important for all items
- Laundry service available in most camps (reducing clothing needs)
- Roll clothes rather than folding to save space
- Use packing cubes for organization
- Pack essential medications in carry-on
- Include one set of clothes in carry-on for delayed baggage
- Lightweight, quick-dry items that can be hand-washed
- Minimize excess—most camps have casual atmosphere
Safari Etiquette & Responsible Tourism
Guidelines for respectful and sustainable safari experiences:Wildlife Interaction:
- Never attempt to touch, feed, or call animals
- Keep voices low during sightings
- Follow guide instructions immediately and without question
- Maintain safe distances from all wildlife
- Do not request guides to go off-road where not permitted
- Accept that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed
- Take only photographs, leave only footprints
- Dispose of waste properly (pack out what you pack in)
- Conserve water, especially in drought-prone areas
- Use biodegradable toiletries
- Minimize plastic usage
- Stay on established roads and paths
- Respect rules about collection of plants, seeds, or souvenirs
- Ask permission before photographing local people
- Dress modestly when visiting communities
- Learn and respect local customs
- Support community tourism initiatives
- Engage respectfully with staff and local residents
- Learn a few basic phrases in local languages
- Research operators’ conservation credentials
- Support lodges with community involvement
- Consider carbon offset for flights
- Choose operators with fair employment practices
- Be willing to pay park fees that support conservation
- Report any unethical practices observed
Safari Guide Etiquette
Working effectively with your professional safari guides:Respecting Expertise:
- Trust your guide’s judgment about safety and wildlife
- Ask questions but respect when guides are concentrating
- Follow all safety instructions without exception
- Don’t pressure guides to get closer to dangerous animals
- Understand guides communicate with other vehicles
- Share special interests at the beginning (birds, plants, photography)
- Express preferences for activities or sightings
- Ask about appropriate times for questions
- Communicate any mobility or health issues
- Discuss photography needs before game drives
- Guide gratuities typically $10-20 per guest per day
- Trackers/spotters: $5-10 per guest per day
- Camp staff: $5-10 per guest per day
- Usually collected in a tip box or given directly at end of stay
- Specific, sincere feedback appreciated alongside tips
- Express appreciation throughout, not just at tipping time
Family Safaris
Special considerations for safari with children:Age Recommendations:
- Most safari operators recommend children be at least 6-8 years old
- Walking safaris typically have minimum age of 12-16
- Canoe safaris usually 12+ years minimum
- Some luxury lodges adults-only or have minimum ages
- Private game drive vehicles often required for young children
- Hwange: The Hide, Elephant’s Eye, Ivory Lodge
- Victoria Falls Area: Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, Elephant Camp
- Matobo: Big Cave Camp, Camp Amalinda
- General: National Parks accommodations have no age restrictions
- Consider private vehicles/guides for flexible schedules
- Book family rooms or adjacent accommodations
- Choose lodges with pools for midday breaks
- Bring small wildlife/bird guides designed for children
- Pack games and activities for downtime
- Consider malaria-free areas for very young children
- Prepare children for early mornings and quiet observation
- Build in rest days between long travel days
- Junior ranger programs at select lodges
- Child-focused game drives (shorter, more interactive)
- Guided nature walks around camp perimeters
- Animal tracking and identification activities
- Star gazing and night sounds experiences
- Cultural interactions with local children where appropriate
Safari FAQs
Is a Zimbabwe safari safe?
Is a Zimbabwe safari safe?
Zimbabwe offers safe safari experiences with professional guides:
- Professional guides undergo rigorous training and certification
- Safari vehicles designed for wildlife viewing safety
- Lodges and camps have safety protocols for wildlife
- Walking safaris conducted with armed professional guides
- Medical evacuation services available from most safari areas
- Zimbabwe’s political situation rarely affects safari tourism
- Most safari areas far removed from urban centers
- Malaria precautions necessary in all safari areas
- Many lodges have basic medical supplies and first aid
- Serious medical issues require evacuation to cities
- Travel insurance with medical evacuation essential
- Pre-travel vaccinations recommended (consult travel clinic)
What about photography on safari?
What about photography on safari?
Tips for capturing memorable safari images:
- Minimum 200mm zoom lens recommended for wildlife
- Dust protection essential (lens covers, camera bags)
- Extra batteries and memory cards critical
- Bean bags or monopods more practical than tripods
- Morning and late afternoon offer best light
- Consider a dedicated camera rather than just smartphone
- Communicate photography interests to your guide
- Some lodges offer photography hides or specialized vehicles
- Private vehicles ideal for serious photographers
- Rechargeable power banks useful in remote camps
- Modern smartphones can capture excellent landscape and close wildlife shots
- Limited for distant subjects without add-on lenses
- Download offline photo editing apps before travel
- Consider small tripod or stabilizer for smartphones
Will I have internet and phone service?
Will I have internet and phone service?
Connectivity varies significantly by location:Urban Areas and Victoria Falls:
- Reliable mobile coverage
- 3G/4G in major towns
- WiFi in most hotels and restaurants
- Hwange: Variable cell coverage, better near Main Camp
- Mana Pools: Very limited, some spots on high ground
- Matusadona: Limited to certain areas
- Gonarezhou: Minimal to none
- Luxury lodges: Often satellite WiFi in main areas
- Mid-range: Variable, often limited or scheduled hours
- Budget/remote: Often no connectivity
- Inform important contacts of limited availability
- Download offline maps, guides, books before travel
- Consider mobile data packages or local SIM cards
- Embrace disconnection as part of wilderness experience
What about charging electronics?
What about charging electronics?
Power availability in safari locations:Luxury Lodges:
- 24-hour electricity common (generator or solar)
- In-room charging stations
- Sometimes battery charging service for cameras
- Scheduled generator hours typical (morning/evening)
- Charging stations in main areas
- Solar backup increasingly common
- Limited charging opportunities
- Shared charging stations during generator hours
- Solar options in some camps
- Vehicle charging adaptors essential
- Portable solar chargers useful
- Power banks for multiple device charges
What about food and dietary requirements?
What about food and dietary requirements?
Dining considerations on safari:Meal Patterns:
- Early light breakfast before morning activity
- Brunch/lunch upon return (10-11am)
- Afternoon tea before evening activity
- Dinner after sunset game drive (7-8pm)
- Luxury lodges: Excellent, often gourmet quality
- Mid-range: Good quality, simpler options
- Budget/camping: Basic but satisfying meals
- Vegetarian widely accommodated with advance notice
- Vegan, gluten-free, etc. possible at better lodges with advance notice
- More challenging in basic accommodations
- Self-catering an option for strict dietary needs
- Pack supplementary snacks for specialized diets
- Continental and hot breakfast options
- Buffet or plated lunch options
- Multi-course dinners
- Sundowner drinks and snacks during game drives
- Bottled water provided throughout
Safari Specialists and Resources
Resources for further research and planning:Zimbabwe Safari Operators:
- Wilderness Safaris
- African Bush Camps
- &Beyond
- Imvelo Safari Lodges
- The Hide Safari Collection
- Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge
- Great Plains Conservation
- Zimbabwe Tourism Authority website
- ZimParks (Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Authority)
- Safari Bookings comparison site
- TripAdvisor forum for Zimbabwe
- Lonely Planet Zimbabwe guide
- Bradt Zimbabwe guidebook
- Safari-specific travel insurance companies
- TripAdvisor Zimbabwe Forum
- Safaritalk.net
- Facebook groups dedicated to Zimbabwe travel
- Africa Geographic online magazine
- Wildlife apps for species identification
- Roberts Bird Guide (Southern Africa)
- Mammal and bird checklists
- Safari companion field guides
Where to Safari in Zimbabwe
Top Safari DestinationsHwange National Park
Hwange National Park
Zimbabwe’s largest national park and premier safari destination:Key Features:
- Massive elephant population (30,000+)
- All Big Five possible (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino)
- Over 100 mammal species and 400 bird species
- Diverse landscapes from teak forest to Kalahari sands
- Excellent game viewing around waterholes in dry season
- Good infrastructure with accommodation options at all levels
- Classic game drive safaris
- Walking safaris in some concessions
- Night drives in private areas
- Photography at waterholes
- First-time safari visitors
- Year-round destination with temperate climate
- May-October for clearer landscapes and easier hiking
- Green season (November-April) for lusher scenery
- Peak game viewing: July-October (dry season)
- Green season opportunities: December-March
- Extreme heat in October (but excellent wildlife)
- Linkwasha Camp (luxury)
- The Hide (luxury/midrange)
- Davison’s Camp (midrange)
- Hwange Main Camp (budget/self-drive)
Mana Pools National Park
Mana Pools National Park
UNESCO World Heritage site along the Zambezi River:Key Features:
- Famous for walking safaris and canoe trips
- Spectacular Zambezi River frontage
- Iconic “long dog” albida forests attractive to elephants
- Excellent predator viewing (wild dogs, lions, leopards)
- “Standing” elephants reaching for seed pods
- More remote and wild than Hwange
- Walking safaris (premier walking destination)
- Canoe safaris on the Zambezi
- Photography of elephants in albida forests
- Adventure-minded safari enthusiasts
- Wildlife viewing along river floodplains
- Peak season: June-October
- Closed or limited access: January-March (rainy season)
- October offers spectacular wildlife but extreme heat
- Chikwenya Camp (luxury)
- Ruckomechi Camp (luxury)
- John’s Camp (midrange tented)
- Nyamepi Campsite (budget/self-drive)
Matusadona & Lake Kariba
Matusadona & Lake Kariba
Beautiful national park on the shores of Lake Kariba:Key Features:
- Combination of lake and terrestrial safaris
- Stunning sunsets over Lake Kariba
- Good populations of elephant and buffalo
- Excellent birding along shoreline
- Fishing opportunities for tiger fish
- Less visited than Hwange or Mana Pools
- Houseboats safaris combined with land activities
- Fishing and safari combination
- Photography of lake landscapes
- More exclusive experience with fewer visitors
- Year-round destination
- May-October for best land-based game viewing
- Fishing best September-December
- Bumi Hills Safari Lodge (luxury)
- Musango Safari Camp (midrange)
- Kariba Houseboats (various levels)
- Tashinga Camp (Zimbabwe Parks)
Gonarezhou National Park
Gonarezhou National Park
Remote wilderness in southeastern Zimbabwe:Key Features:
- “Place of elephants” with healthy population
- Spectacular Chilojo Cliffs and landscapes
- Pristine wilderness feel with few visitors
- Three major rivers: Save, Runde, and Mwenezi
- Increasing wildlife numbers after past poaching
- Part of Greater Limpopo Transfrontier Park
- Off-the-beaten-path experience
- Experienced safari travelers
- Spectacular landscapes and scenery
- Self-drive adventures (4x4 essential)
- Combination with Mozambique or South Africa
- May-October (dry season) best for wildlife
- Limited accessibility during rainy season
- September-October for concentrated wildlife
- Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge (luxury)
- Gonarezhou Bush Camp (midrange)
- Chipinda Pools (Zimbabwe Parks)
- Mabalauta (basic camping)
Matobo National Park
Matobo National Park
Ancient granite landscape with rhinos and historical sites:Key Features:
- UNESCO World Heritage site
- Exceptional rhino tracking opportunities
- Ancient rock art sites throughout the park
- Cecil Rhodes’ grave at “World’s View”
- Unique balancing rock formations
- Rich cultural and historical significance
- Rhino tracking on foot
- Historical and cultural interests
- Rock art enthusiasts
- Landscape photography
- Easy combination with Bulawayo city visit
- Year-round destination with temperate climate
- May-October for clearer landscapes and easier hiking
- Green season (November-April) for lusher scenery
- Avoid public holidays when Rhodes’ grave area can be crowded
- Camp Amalinda (luxury)
- Big Cave Camp (midrange)
- Matobo Hills Lodge (midrange)
- Hermits Peak (budget)