REVIEW: THE CANON R5 MARK II
2 June 2025
TRIP REPORT: MADIKWE PHOTO SAFARI 2025
13 June 2025REVIEW: THE CANON R5 MARK II
2 June 2025TRIP REPORT: MADIKWE PHOTO SAFARI 2025
13 June 2025DISCOVER ZIMBABWE
A COMPREHENSIVE TRAVEL GUIDE
INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT ZIMBABWE
WHY ZIMBABWE
STANDS OUT
SAFARI ADVENTURES
You simply cannot visit Zimbabwe without going safari. Zimbabwe still offers a very "old school" type safari in some of the wildest parts left in Africa. Whether viewing wildlife from an open safari vehicle, or approaching big game on foot, you are sure to leave with an immersive and life changing experience.
MANA POOLS NATIONAL PARK
Mana Pools National park, located in the Zambezi valley, is is arguably one of the best known destinations in africa and for good reason. "Mana Pools" meaning four pools, originates from the parks four permanent water pools which attracts a wide variety of wildlife and birds, particular during the dry season. There are very few places in the world where you can view and photograph potentially dangerous game such as elephants, lions and to a lesser extend african wild dogs with the backdrop of the Zambezi River and escarpment. It is highly recommended that any on foot activities are done with the presence of a professional local guide, not only from a safety point of view, but also to dive into the incredible knowledge that the Zimbabwe guides are so well known for. Accommodation can vary from five star luxury to camping ,depending on budget and the experience that you are after.
Nyamatusi Camp situated with breathtaking views over the Zambezi River is an ideal camp for those that enjoy luxury, whilst at the same time being at a small and intimate camp. The Camp’s sophisticated design and elegant architecture beautifully blend with the rugged landscape of the Zambezi. Designed with sustainability in mind, Nyamatusi Camp is powered entirely by solar energy and built from organic resources, including thatch and indigenous materials. It features handwoven lighting fixtures and furniture, highlighting the craftsmanship of local artisans and enhancing the eco-conscious status.
Zambezi Expeditions is the perfect glamping experience. With only six luxury tents, Zambezi expeditions still feels like you are a part of nature but with all the necessary luxuries like safari-style rain showers, king-size beds and floor-to-ceiling mesh windows. The shared common area features a comfortable lounge and a spacious dining table, as well as a complete bar set up. With stunning views of the Zambezi River, this is the ideal place to sit back, relax and enjoy the peace and tranquility of Mana Pools.
Vundu Camp is a little piece of paradise situated underneath a shady forest of riverine trees on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River. What makes this location even more special is that you are situated in a private concession, away from the general camping areas, affording you the freedom and luxury of doing your own thing. Vundu camp pride themselves in their amazing guides which forms a huge part of the overall experience. Whether you decide to canoe down the Zambezi River, or walk though the breathtaking winter thorn forests, you can be assured that guides will take good care of you.
DID YOU KNOW
We host a scheduled photographic safari to Mana Pools
HWANGE NATIONAL PARK
Hwange National Park is situated in the western part of Zimbabwe and is the country's largest national park. Hwange is very well known for having some of the highest elephant populations in the africa as well as boasting healthy numbers of predators such as lion and the endangered african wild dog.
Linkwasha Camp is positioned on the edge of Hwange National Park’s productive Ngamo Plains, an area renowned for some of the best year-round game viewing you could find.. During summer, the plains teem with wildlife, and in winter they gather in abundance at the many waterholes throughout the park. The camp is shaded by leadwood trees and offers views over the camp's waterhole and grassland plains.
Little Makalolo is beautifully tucked away in a teak forest and overlooks a productive waterhole. This intimate bush camp with only six tented suites ensures that you will have a private experience and personal service you were looking for.
Somalisa Expeditions is off the beaten track and has become famous for close in camp elephant encounters thanks to the elephant pool located in front of camp. Somalisa also has a dedicated hide for wildlife photographers to capture those unique close up images of the variety of wildlife that make their way to the waterhole. Additionally, experience a dreamy night under the starry night sky at Somalisa Sleep-Out – a romantic treehouse retreat overlooking a watering hole just fifteen minutes from camp.
VICTORIA FALLS NATIONAL PARK
Victoria Falls National Park is located in the northwestern part of Zimbabwe and is home to the world's largest waterfall at a height of 108 meters. Due to its remarkable natural beauty and cultural significance, the Victoria Falls was added to the list of UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES in 1989 and is one of the seven natural wonders of the world. The park covers an area of about 23.4 square kilometers and has a dense rainforest which is watered by the spray from the Falls. The source of the mighty Falls is the Zambezi River that flows 2,700 kilometers through six countries on its journey from its source in north-western Zambia to the Indian Ocean.
Victoria Falls Hotel, built by the British in 1904, was originally conceived as accommodation for workers on the Cape-to-Cairo railway) and today it is a famous luxury brand. Serene Lily ponds, arched loggias, and broad verandas – offering magnificent vistas - seem custom-built for a spot of high tea or a relaxed gin and tonic. Some rooms offer stunning views of the gorges and bridge below. For those interested in some fine dining, The Victoria Falls Hotel presents a connoisseur’s delight of dining options, with internationally-trained chefs creating exquisite dishes.
Victoria Falls River Lodge is set along the banks of the majestic Zambezi River, deep within the Zambezi National park and presents great wildlife viewing experience and convenient access to the town of Vic falls. Although the camp is close enough to see a glimpse the spray of the falls in the distance, it is nestled in a tranquil space free from the noise of air or road traffic, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the peaceful sounds of nature.
Matetsi Victoria Falls offers the perfect combination of safari, river, Victoria Falls and relaxation all wrapped up in warm genuine Zimbabwean hospitality. There is a wide range of activities within the Matetsi Private Game Reserve, from sunrise and sunset boat cruises to open vehicle safaris and even luxurious spa treatments.
DID YOU KNOW
We can create a tailor made safari and travel experience for you to Victoria Falls National Park and beyond?
WHITE WATER RAFTING ON THE ZAMBEZI
For those looking for an adrenaline filled experience, it will be hard to match white water rafting on the Zambezi River. Taking on some of the biggest grade 5 rapids in the world, this six hour experience is one filled with adrenaline whilst enjoying the spectacular landscapes of the Zambezi gorge.
Wild Horizons
Wild Horizons
Wild Horizons
Wild Horizons
Wild Horizons
Wild Horizons
HELICOPTER FLIGHT OVER THE FALLS
There is no better way to get a true sense of the scale of Victoria Falls than from the air. Whether you decide to do an early morning, mid day or sunset flight, you will be in awe of the shear size of the falls and the surroundings.
Wild Horizons
Wild Horizons
Wild Horizons
Wild Horizons
Wild Horizons
Wild Horizons
LAKE KARIBA
Weighing in at a volume of over 180 km³, with a surface area over 5,580 km², Lake Kariba is a water giant and the largest man made lake in the world. It’s situated along the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia and was engineered to generate hydroelectric energy for both countries. Construction began in the early 1950s, and its design was masterminded by French engineer and renowned ‘arch dam’ specialist, André Coyne. The dam measures 579m in length, and is truly a sight to behold – one that does well not to detract from the stunning surrounding landscapes. Once construction was complete, Kariba gorge was flooded. Today, the lake has a maximum width of 40 km, and maximum length of 223 km. It holds so much water, it has even been known to trigger seismic activity, reaching over a whopping 5 on the Richter scale.
Bumi Hills situated on its own private concession is surrounded by wildlife thanks to its close proximity to Matusadona National Park. Enjoy a variety of activities including boating, game drives, fishing, sunset cruises, walking safaris, star gazing, night drives, and birdwatching whilst enjoying the beautiful views of Lake Kariba.
African Bush Camps Bumi Hills
African Bush Camps Bumi Hills
African Bush Camps Bumi Hills
African Bush Camps Bumi Hills
African Bush Camps Bumi Hills
African Bush Camps Bumi Hills
GREAT ZIMBABWE RUINS
The Great Zimbabwe ruins are the largest collection of ruins in Africa south of the Sahara. Located in the heart of southern Africa, between the Zambezi and Limpopo Rivers, they are testament to a culture of great wealth and great architectural skill.Built between the 11th and 15th centuries, Great Zimbabwe was home to a cattle-herding people who also became adept at metal-working. The ruins are the largest of their kind on the Zimbabwe Plateau, but they are by no means unique. Other, smaller sites were ransacked by European treasure-hunters in the 19th century. These smaller ruins are called zimbabwes and can be found as far as Mozambique. Although inexpertly restored in many places, the ruins at Great Zimbabwe are still by a good margin the most impressive ancient structures in sub-Saharan Africa. They are also the source of considerable pride for present-day Zimbabweans. After all, the huge chiseled walls of the Great Enclosure, with its soaring stone tower and complex chevron patterns, are a work of high engineering skill.
HARARE - THE GATEWAY TO ZIMBABWE
Harare is your gateway to most if not all of your travel in Zimbabwe. Harare is affectionately nicknamed "The Sunshine City" due to its favourable climate. The city is home to one of the largest tobacco auction floors in the world, a hive of activity especially during the tobacco season. The auction floor plays a vital role in the economy, given the tobacco Is one of the country's main exports. Harare is a melting pot of cultures converging which contributes to the country's diverse cultural scene. From the traditional Shona and Ndebele art and dance to contemporary music and creative visual arts, the city culture is vibrant and filled with energy.
Zimbabwe Ruins
National Gallery of Zimbabwe
Harare Gardens
Mbare Musika Market
York Lodge
Highlands House
INSIDER TRAVEL PLANS
Zimbabwe is a hidden gem and the perfect destination for those that enjoy a slow and easy paced safari experience combined with some adrenaline filled experiences. Zimbabwe is an easy destination to get to and can easily be combine with most if not all African countries. I have put together two 14-day experiences to make the most of your time in Zimbabwe.
A ROMANTIC GETAWAY
DAY 1 - 2
Arrive in Harare and stay at a stunning bed and breakfast. Enjoy a casual stroll through the gardens in Harare. Enjoy a delicious private home cooked meal in beautiful surroundings.DAY 3 - 7
Board a chartered flight and fly to Mana Pools, one of the jewels of Africa. Enjoy the intimate luxury of private safari experiences, either in the form of open safari vehicles, or on foot. Relax with a couple's massage or enjoy a cocktail in your private plunge pool overlooking the Zambezi River.DAY 8 - 11
Fly from Mana Pools to Hwange National Park. Enjoy the abundance of wildlife, particularly elephants right at your doorstep. Experience the overwhelming beauty of the african night sky whilst having a private dinner, done in the traditional african way on an open fire.DAY 12 - 14
Fly from Hwange to Victoria Falls. Stay in a beautiful old school colonial hotel with breathtaking views over the gorge. Experience one of the natural wonders of the world by doing a tour of Victoria Falls, followed by a sundowner boat cruise on the Zambezi River.DAY 14
Visit the local market for traditional handcrafted arts and crafts, followed by lunch on top of the gorge overlooking the Zambezi River.
FAMILY VACATION
DAY 1 - 2
Arrive in Harare and explore the vibrant Mbare Musika market. Overnight in a family friendly bed and breakfast with fantastic facilities.DAY 3 - 6
Fly to Mana Pools and experience the beauty of the Zambezi valley during your private safari activities. During the day enjoy the spectacular views of the Zambezi River from your private deck or plunge pool.DAY 7 - 10
Fly from Mana Pools to Kariba. Enjoy a relaxing experience by exploring the largest man made lake in the world by boat, and try your hand at catching a tiger fish, one of the most sought after fresh water fish for anglers. Overnight at Bumi Hills and enjoy the magnificent views over Lake Kariba.DAY 11 - 13
Fly to Victoria Falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Enjoy a private tour of the falls, followed by a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. Take to the sky and view the falls from the air by helicopter, followed by a fun filled evening at the local boma dinner.Day 14
Visit a local village and school to get an idea of what life is like in this part of the world, followed by a lunch overlooking Victoria Falls before transferring by road to Vic falls airport.
TIPS FOR TRAVELING IN ZIMBABWE
Zimbabwe might not be the first destination that jumps to mind when thinking of travelling to Africa, but this little gem offers some incredible wildlife and nature experiences. From the magnificent Victoria Falls, down to the Zambezi valley and golden light in Mana Pools, you are guaranteed to have an incredible experience.
Stop waiting and start putting Zimbabwe on your list, you won't be disappointed.
Until next time,
Nature and the outdoors is something was instilled in me from a very young age, having grown up close the Kruger National Park. Most weekends were spent either visiting this iconic park looking for certain bird and mammal species or fishing at any given opportunity.