The Best of Zimbabwe: Victoria Falls, Hwange & Mana Pools

Witness the breathtaking majesty of Victoria Falls, a World Heritage Site straddling the borders of Zimbabwe and Zambia. As you stand before the most expansive curtain of water on Earth, experience the breathtaking "Smoke that Thunders," locally known as "Mosi-oa-Tunya." From February to May each year, the Victoria Falls are in full flood and 500 million litres of water tumble over the edge into a series of gorges each minute! After a briefing and explanation of the Falls, your guide accompanies you along the 1.7-kilometre scenic pathways of the rainforest, stopping at numerous viewpoints to gaze at the Falls. This privately guided tour lasts approximately 1.5 - 2 hours.

Take to the skies in an unforgettable 22 minute adventure with a scenic helicopter flight over the Victoria Falls, and witness the unparalleled panoramic views of the world's largest sheet of falling water. The term 'Flight of the Angels' was originally coined by David Livingstone when he witnessed the area and wrote "a sight so wonderful that Angels must have gazed down on it in flight." This one of a kind immersive experience offers a unique vantage point to the beauty of the cascading waters. From the comfort of the helicopter, witness the majestic power and grandeur of the falls from above, as our skilled pilot guides the helicopter in left and right-hand circuits. The journey continues with a trip up the Zambezi River, and will conclude with a view of the Zambezi National Park from the sky.

Game drives in Hwange National Park showcase the rich diversity of Zimbabwe’s largest wildlife reserve, from open savannahs and mopane woodlands to seasonal pans and riverine corridors. Morning and afternoon drives in open 4x4 vehicles allow the opportunity to encounter elephant herds, lion prides, leopard, wild dog, and an array of antelope species, while the park’s prolific birdlife adds further fascination. Wildlife congregates around waterholes, particularly during the dry season and our experienced guides and small guest numbers ensure encounters are unhurried, intimate experiences where sightings can be fully appreciated.

Mana Pools National Park lies at the heart of the Lower Zambezi Valley, a remote and enchanting wilderness. The area is home to large concentrations of elephants, while common waterbuck, pods of hippos and crocodiles can be seen crowding the riverbanks. The birdlife is also superb with migratory carmine bee-eaters nesting in the riverbanks during their breeding season alongside resident white-fronted bee-eaters, while numerous other local specials, like the collared palm-thrush and racket-tailed roller can also be spotted. Enjoy magical sightings while cruising this amazing stretch of the Zambezi River. * Water levels permitting.

The riverine belt of the iconic Mana Pools is known as one of Zimbabwe’s most productive wildlife-viewing regions. For the more adventurous, there is the thrilling experience of canoeing along the famous Zambezi River, allowing for a different perspective of the area. This is also a remarkable way to experience some of the smaller creatures of the river, such as frogs and insects, while spotting some of the many resident or migratory birds.

On your Mana Pools safari you will typically enjoy twice-daily game drives in open 4x4 vehicles. The park’s relative remoteness and Wilderness' location in private safari concessions mean sightings are unhurried, perfect for photography or simply observing nature unfold. Guided walking safaris are a highlight at Mana Pools, allowing you to track animals on foot through the forest and along the river, guided by skilled locals who interpret animal signs, tracks, and behaviours. The Zambezi River also offers seasonal boating and canoeing excursions, where you can enjoy the park's abundant birdlife, or try your hand at catch-and-release fishing.