Victoria Falls & Hwange Lodge Safari
Summary of this Short Stay Package
Take in the big game of Africa and experience great adventures at the massive natural wonder of Victoria Falls on this action-packed short safari!
Ease into holiday mode with a laid-back sunset boat cruise on the Zambezi, followed by a cultural dinner experience for a taste of traditional Zimbabwean specialities. Cross into Botswana on day two and the spend the day game viewing in Chobe National Park, one of Africa’s finest wildlife destinations. Next morning: take an easy canoe trip on the upper Zambezi River – soaking up the natural scenery and spotting wildlife and birds as you navigate small rapids and quiet waters. In the afternoon we visit Victoria Falls with a guide – admiring the awe-inspiring spectacle up close. Day four takes off with the Flight of Angels, a thrilling helicopter flight over Vic Falls, before our cultural encounters in a local village.
Then it is time to head to Hwange National Park and our lodge on a private concession area on the edge of the park. Here, we embark on 4×4 game drives in both private concession areas and Hwange National Park, sighting an abundance of wildlife and birds, including the Big Five of Africa.
Itinerary for this Tour
Tour Highlights:
- Zambezi River Sunset Cruise
- Cultural Boma Dinner & Village Tour
- Chobe National Park Day Trip
- Half Day Canoeing Upper Zambezi
- Guided Tour of Vic Falls
- 15 minute Helicopter Flight
- Hwange National Park Game Drives
- Private Hwange Concession Game Drives
Day 1: Zambezi River Cruise & Cultural Boma Dinner – Zimbabwe
This Victoria Falls & Hwange Park Safari begins with collection from the international airport in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. From the airport you are transferred to the Victoria Falls Rainbow Hotel and assisted with check-in at this comfortable hotel. The Victoria Falls Rainbow Hotel is located within walking distance of the mighty Victoria Falls waterfall, as well as the centre of Victoria Falls town.
Zambezi River Sunset Cruise
In the afternoon we embark on our scenic sunset cruise on the Zambezi River, departing at around 15:30. The cruise takes about two hours, travelling downstream towards Vic Falls as far as Palm Island, before turning back upstream.
The leisurely Zambezi River cruise is the ideal way to end your first day at Victoria Falls, catching a spectacular African sunset over the tranquil river and bush. The laid-back boat cruise includes sundowners and tasty snacks to complete the experience. Hippos and crocodiles are commonly spotted from the boat, along with various other wild animals such as elephants, giraffes, buffalos and even rhinos. An amazing array of birds can also be sighted on this mellow-paced cruise in nature.
Cultural Boma Dinner
Returning from our relaxing sunset boat cruise we head to The Boma restaurant for a unique African culinary and cultural experience. Tucked away in an indigenous forest, The Boma, offers warm Zimbabwean hospitality and tasty traditional cuisine under starry African skies. It’s an evening set to delight the senses – filled with the aromas, sights, flavours and beats of Africa. Tuck into the marvellous selection of Zimbabwean specialities, from game and potjiekos (meat stew) to fish and vegetarian dishes. The Boma is famous for its warthog fillet and the adventurous can try ethnic delicacies such as Mopani worms, deep fried kapenta fish and groundnuts.
Amakwezi traditional performers entertain diners with their lively song and dance, and after dinner a local sangoma (traditional storyteller) enthrals visitors with rich tales of folklore and Zimbabwean heritage. The local customs (beer tasting and hand washing rituals) bring special detail to the night, and the mysterious witchdoctor adds intrigue to this cultural feast. The evening ends on a high note with a live drumming session, which you’re welcome to join.
Day 2: Chobe National Park Safari – Botswana
Chobe National Park Day Tour
We have a 07:30 collection this morning for our journey across the border into Botswana and Chobe National Park. After exiting the Zimbabwe gate we transfer to an open 4×4 safari vehicle and head to the Botswana entry gate. En route be prepared for a stop to stand on a sanitised mat, a precaution to prevent anyone carrying Foot & Mouth or any other disease into the country. Once our passports have been stamped for entry into Botswana we head off for our safari adventure in Chobe National Park.
The safari begins with a river cruise into the park where along with the numerous waders, we can expect to see hippos and crocodiles. Chobe is home to many herbivores, which gather at the river to drink, and some of those you can expect to see are elephant and buffalo. Lechwe and puku are often spied on the islands and many buck gather on the river bank, kudu, impala and water buck being quite common.
Soft drinks and water are on hand during the cruise and we stop for a buffet lunch at the recently renovated Chobe Game Lodge. Lunch includes a complimentary drink and tea or coffee.
After the lunch break we set off in our safari vehicles, ideal for game viewing and photography, for an exciting game drive. Lions are often spotted in Chobe, as well as antelope and if we are really lucky we may see a cheetah. The game drive lasts for 3 hours and then it’s time to head back to the border posts for our return journey to Victoria Falls, where we expect to arrive around 18:00. Don’t forget to take you passport with you today, a camera, a hat or cap and sunscreen are essential and binoculars are useful too.
Day 3: Half Day Zambezi Canoe Trip & Vic Falls Tour – Zimbabwe
Zambezi Canoe Trip
At about 07h30 this morning we set off on our half day canoe trip on the Upper Zambezi River, above the spectacular Victoria Falls.
The day starts with a game drive en route to our starting point at Chundu, in the Zambezi National Park. After a safety briefing by the professional river guide and a quick practise session on the water, the paddle begins. This is not a challenging paddle, navigating only small, easy rapids and no canoeing experience is required. We canoe along the channels of the island-dotted Zambezi River for a 15km stretch, passing alongside the banks of the Zambezi National Park.
We paddle down the Upper Zambezi at an easy pace, looking out for hippos, buffalos, crocodiles, elephants, kudus, impalas and other wild creatures along the banks. Canoeing along the river is also a great way to spot birds, including the powerful Martial Eagle, among the over 50 bird species commonly sighted.
This gentle paddle is all about soaking up the beautiful scenery and enjoying the local fauna and flora up close. Afterwards we relax on the riverbank to eat a picnic lunch.
Victoria Falls Tour
This afternoon the adventure continues with a guided tour of Vic Falls. Our guide first leads us to an ancient Baobab tree in the forest to admire the 16m thick giant, simply known as the “Big Tree”, before taking us to the Falls. This guided walking tour passes through the rainforests at Vic Falls, where you may be lucky enough to see bushbuck and other wild animals.
The skilled guide explains the geology of Victoria Falls and tells you more about this epic waterfall as you walk along the entire length of Vic Falls. The walk takes you from Livingstone View to the Devil’s Cataract to the Main Falls, and on to the Rainbow Falls and Danger Point – a full range of the stunning viewpoints.
Day 4: Flight of Angels, Cultural Tour & Hwange Concession Game Drive – Zimbabwe
Helicopter Flight of Angels
Today we lift off on our thrilling helicopter flight at 08h00 in the morning. This Flight of Angels takes us on a scenic chopper ride over the thundering Victoria Falls waterfall, providing fantastic views and a whole new perspective of this natural wonder.
The 15 minute helicopter flight provides an uninterrupted bird’s eye view of the magnificent Victoria Falls, the Zambezi River and surrounding bush. We fly upstream over Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, looking out for game below, and downstream over the impressive Batoka Gorge. This scenic Flight of Angels is conducted in a helicopter designed to offer each passenger superb views.
From above the falls it is easy to see why the helicopter flight over Vic Falls is called the Flight of Angels!
Cultural Village Tour
After our helicopter flight we return to our hotel in Victoria Falls, checking out by about 09h30. Then we head to a local village, where our knowledgeable guide takes us on the village tour, which provides insight into the lives of local Zimbabweans and their rich traditions. We visit Mpisi Village to see how the Matabele people live and find out more about their unique history and customs.
After our cultural experience we hope in our comfortable microbus and drive south to Sable Sands Lodge, located on the edge of Hwange National Park. The transfer from Vic Falls to Hwange only takes about an hour, bringing us to the safari lodge at about 13h30. First, we have lunch and relax at the lodge, until tea time and our afternoon game drive.
Hwange Concession Sunset Game Drive
After coffee, tea and a sweet snack at 15h30 we set off on our two-and-a-half to three hour sunset game drive in a private concession area of Hwange Park. The perks of game viewing in the concession area include encountering fewer vehicles, having more freedom to explore in the 4×4, experiencing uncrowded wildlife sightings and enjoying night game drives. We go in search of the multitude of wild animals found in the Hwange ecosystem – ranging from lions to giraffes and zebras. We are sure to see elephants as the Hwange area is famous for its abundance of African elephants – hosting one of the largest populations on the continent.
Back at the lodge this evening dinner is served at 19h30, followed by free time to unwind and enjoy the bush setting. Sit around the campfire under the stars or have a drink at the bar before retiring to your private rondavel.
Day 5: Game Viewing in Hwange National Park – Zimbabwe
Hwange National Park Game Viewing
The day begins with an early wake up call at 05h30. We start with a continental breakfast of cereal, fruit, toast, juice, coffee and tea. Breakfast is served in the dining area from where you can watch the bush coming to life and possibly spot your first wildlife of the day. By 06h30 we depart for our game drive in the 14,651km² Hwange National Park (entry fees payable directly at the park entrance in cash).
Not only is Hwange National Park home to massive elephant herds, but also impressive buffalo herds, as well as healthy populations of the other Big Five – lion, leopard and rhino. Keep your eyes open for endangered African wild dogs too, as Hwange is one of Africa’s major strongholds for these social canids. All of the endangered species of Zimbabwe are in fact represented in Hwange, from sable and roan to wild dog. We may encounter cheetahs, jackals and both brown and spotted hyenas too, along with all kinds of antelopes.
After our exploration we return to the safari lodge where you have time to freshen up, have a hot and cold brunch and take it easy. Swim in the pool, take a nap or read a book in the shade, before meeting up for tea, coffee and a sweet treat. At 15h00 we embark on our second game drive of the day, returning to the world-famous Hwange National Park for more wildlife action.
We head back to the lodge at about 18h30 and at about 19h30 we tuck into our final dinner together, enjoying our last night under the stars.
Day 6: Hwange Private Concession Game Drive & Transfer to Vic Falls
Hwange Concession Game Drive
Rise and shine extra early on the final day, departing on a morning game drive at about 05h45. We spend about two hours exploring the private concession area of Hwange. Game viewing in the private concession is similar to that in Hwange, as the same animals can be spotted, but with the added bonus of restricted access which keeps visitor numbers down. The private concessions are smaller but the benefits include sharing the roads with fewer vehicles; which are 4×4 safari vehicles driven by professional guides.
Back at the lodge by 08h00 we have a quick breakfast before transferring to the airport in Victoria Falls at 08h45.
Victoria Falls Accommodation – Vic Falls Rainbow Hotel
Accommodation on this Victoria Falls Budget Tour Package is at the Victoria Falls Rainbow Hotel, located on the Zimbabwean side of Vic Falls.
Spend three nights in pleasant en-suite rooms with air-conditioning on a bed and breakfast basis. These comfortable rooms have their own balconies and tea and coffee making facilities. The hotel features a swimming pool with a poolside bar, a restaurant, lounge and lovely gardens. The staff offer personal and attentive service creating a friendly atmosphere.
Victoria Falls Rainbow Hotel is within walking distance of Victoria Falls National Park and the centre of Victoria Falls town in Zimbabwe, making it a convenient base for adventure activities and exploring.
Optional Vic Falls Accommodation Upgrade – Azambezi Lodge
You can choose to upgrade your accommodation to en-suite rooms at the Azambezi Lodge, at a small extra cost. Please check the Full Pricing for the cost of this accommodation upgrade as the indicative tour price includes accommodation at Rainbow Hotel.
Along the banks of the majestic Zambezi River, on the edge of the Zambezi National Park, lies Azambezi Lodge. Situated in Victoria Falls, the Azambezi is the ideal spot to unwind, with its lush riverside gardens, sparkling pool, two bars and two restaurants overlooking the Zambezi.
Hwange Accommodation – Sable Sands Lodge
Sable Sands Safari Lodge is located on a private wildlife concession on the outskirts of Hwange National Park. This eco-friendly lodge overlooks the dry riverbed called Dete Vlei and a waterhole where elephant and buffalo herds, zebras, sable and other antelopes are often sighted. Various predators are also spotted at the waterhole in front of the lodge, including lions, cheetahs, hyenas, wild dogs, jackals and sometimes leopards. The Dete Vlei is known for its rich birdlife, hosting about 350 species.
Sable Sands has 16 en suite rondavels (round chalets) scattered in the indigenous bush along the vlei and around the swimming pool. Each of the thatched rondavels has its own small patio for relaxing outdoors. The units are simply furnished and tastefully decorated ensuring a comfortable stay close to nature. Guests can choose between twin or double beds, all fitted with mosquito nets.
The lodge has a lounge and dining area with a terrace overlooking the active watering hole. There is also a bar and a small library in the main area, which features an open-air fire pit for laid back evenings under starry skies. The lodge has a rustic tree house, and a scattering of hammocks and bean bags for lazing around and reading a book.
Optional Vic Falls Activities (not included in the tour price):
Horseback Safari (3 hours)
Experience the African Bush along the banks of the Zambezi River on the back of a horse. This Horseback Safari will allow you to get up close and personal with several game species endemic to the area including duiker, bushbuck, warthog, elephants, hippos and crocodiles.
The outride is under the expert guidance of game rangers. The Horseback Safari is designed for inexperienced riders, and for those who have had considerable riding experience. You will be grouped with riders of similar experience to your own to ensure you get the most out of your outing. A perfect way to assimilate with the natural game of the area.
Rafting and Riverboarding
The ultimate place for riverboarding – the Zambezi River has the necessary volume of water and few exposed rocks in its rapids and pools, making it ideal for this exhilarating activity.
Riverboarding on the Zambezi can be done as a half or full day activity and is combined with rafting in an action-packed and thrilling adventure. Along the way stops are made to relax and play between rapids and clients always have the option of switching to the back-up raft. The riverboarding adventures are lead by trained and professional guides with first aid certificates to ensure your safety.
White Water Rafting
The White Water Rafting experience on the mighty Zambezi has been described as the best commercial white water rafting experience in the world. This exciting full day excursion on the mighty Zambezi River is a fantastic experience for those with a sense of adventure. The day is all about clean water, a healthy helping of African sunshine and a dose of exercise; all this against the backdrop of one of the beautiful waterfalls in the world the spectacular Victoria Falls.
The day begins early with a briefing and breakfast. Its then off on your adventure where you will tackle some Grade 5 rapids under the expert guidance of world class guides. Lunch is included.At the end of the day you will be lifted out of the gorge where you will be met with cold drinks and beers. At the end of the white water rafting excursion you get to watch a DVD of your thrilling day of Zambezi rafting.
A truly exhilarating experience!
Bungee Jumping
Plunge off the Victoria Falls Bridge, falling 111 metres into the Batoka Gorge below! Experience a pure and extreme adrenaline rush as you plummet into the narrow gorge, flanked by Victoria Falls waterfall! More than 50 000 people have taken on the challenge of bungee jumping off this bridge where you dangle over the Zambezi River.
Both ankle and body harnesses are used and photographs or videos of your leap can be purchased to capture the heart-racing experience.
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