The Ultimate Romantic Safari

The Ultimate Romantic Safari

Mana Pools, Hwange, Livingstone, Okavango Delta

nights
10
camps
5
from price, per person
USD17,453

This journey is designed for couples on safari, whether that’s on honeymoon or celebrating a special anniversary. From Zimbabwe’s Hwange and Mana Pools, to Victoria Falls and the Delta, every destination has been chosen for its intimacy and sense of wonder. Picture yourselves drifting silently on a mokoro, sharing a glass of wine under a sky alive with stars, or waking to the sound of elephants outside your tent. With moments of adventure, touches of indulgence, and private experiences crafted just for two, this is the ultimate romantic safari.

JH

James Harris

Sales Team Leader

Wilderness Chikwenya

Wilderness Chikwenya

Exploring Mana Pools National Park

Exploring Mana Pools National Park

Boating

Boating

Wilderness Little Makalolo

Wilderness Little Makalolo

Game drives in Hwange National Park

Game drives in Hwange National Park

Star Bed at Wilderness Little Makalolo

Star Bed at Wilderness Little Makalolo

Wilderness Toka Leya

Wilderness Toka Leya

Exploring the Zambezi River (Toka Leya)

Exploring the Zambezi River (Toka Leya)

wildlife & activities

Highlights

  • Discover romance across a range of destinations, from Zimbabwe’s Hwange and Mana Pools to Victoria Falls and Botswana’s Okavango Delta.
  • Stay at some of our more intimate, secluded camps; perfectly suited for couples seeking privacy and connection.
  • Experience unforgettable moments together – from mokoro trips, to stargazing, boating and nature walks.
  • Spend a night (or two) at a Star Bed – just you and your loved one, high up on a platform overlooking a waterhole in the remote wilds.
  • Celebrate romance in every detail, with added extras like helicopter flights and massage treatments adding to the magic.

Your Itinerary

Day 1

Victoria Falls Airport

Victoria Falls Airport to Wilderness Chikwenya

Flight • 03:00h

On arrival at Victoria Falls Airport and after clearing customs and immigration, you will be met and assisted by a Wilderness representative to your light aircraft for your onward transfer to Wilderness Chikwenya.

Day 1 - 3
Wilderness Chikwenya
Location IconMana Pools, Zimbabwe

Wilderness Chikwenya overlooks a beautiful stretch of the Zambezi River in the eastern section of Mana Pools National Park, one of the most remote and beautiful areas in Zimbabwe. Views extend over open floodplains down to the legendary river and across to the mountains of the Rift Valley escarpment, while stretching inland behind Wilderness Chikwenya are the dense woodlands so characteristic of the area. The canvas tents are set on low wooden decks and linked to the raised main area by wooden walkways. A lounge, dining and bar area offer a sanctuary of hospitality and relaxation, while a pool deck and fire place offer alternate spaces to take in the scenery and passing wildlife. The area is renowned for its large numbers of elephant, buffalo, hippo and eland, especially in winter when they concentrate along the river – these and a variety of predators can be seen from camp. Insider's Tip: Protein-rich albida pods attract many species, particularly elephant, during the dry season.

2 nights • Tented Room x 1

Selected experiences

Exploring Mana Pools National Park

Learn more

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.

Boating

Learn more

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.

Day 3

Wilderness Chikwenya to Wilderness Little Makalolo

Flight • 02:30h

You will be taken by light aircraft from Wilderness Chikwenya to Wilderness Little Makalolo.

Day 3 - 5
Wilderness Little Makalolo
Location IconHwange, Zimbabwe

A charming, intimate camp in the south-east of Hwange, Wilderness Little Makalolo features prominently on the mental maps of local wildlife, all drawn to its reliable waterhole. A log-pile hide affords unique, thrilling close-up views of elephants, and habitat diversity ensures year-round wildlife. Activities focus on game drives and morning nature walks. The many waterholes produce amazing sightings, or guests can relax in camp and wait for wildlife to come to them. The six spacious en-suite tents (including a family tent) are only surpassed in the experience stakes by the opportunity to sleep out at the Madison Pan star bed. Insider's Tip: Visit the log-pile hide between game drives to enjoy close up viewing of wildlife at the productive waterhole. Elephants are often the star attraction so make sure you have your camera ready ...

2 nights • Tented Room x 1

Selected experiences

Game drives in Hwange National Park

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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.

Star Bed at Wilderness Little Makalolo

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Wilderness Little Makalolo's Star Bed is situated at the productive Madison Pan. From the raised deck, sit and look out over the passing wildlife that comes to drink; a dazzle of zebra as the sun sets, herds of elephant in the night, or a lone hyena at sunrise. When rumblings of your own begin, Little Makalolo’s Star Bed even has its own wood-fired oven for pizza – a delicious treat to enjoy in the middle of the bush.

Day 5

Wilderness Little Makalolo to Victoria Falls Airport

Flight • 00:40h

You will be taken by light aircraft from Wilderness Little Makalolo to Victoria Falls Airport.

Victoria Falls Airport

Victoria Falls Airport to Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport

Road • 0 min

You will be met by a Wilderness Touring Zambezi representative for your private transfer from Victoria Falls Airport to Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport.

Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport

Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport to Wilderness Toka Leya

Road • 00:30h

You will be met by a Wilderness Touring Zambezi representative for your private transfer from Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport to Wilderness Toka Leya.

Day 5 - 7
Wilderness Toka Leya
Location IconLivingstone, Zambia

On the banks of the Zambezi River, Wilderness Toka Leya is far enough from Livingstone to ensure a tranquil, authentic bush experience, yet close enough for guests to enjoy all the many activities in the greater Victoria Falls area. Wilderness Toka Leya can be all about adrenaline, or an opportunity to relax and unwind before or after a safari. Wilderness Toka Leya has twelve luxurious tents (of which three are family tents). Each has a sumptuous outdoor bath, while the wellness centre with yoga and meditation options complements the serene surroundings. Boating and catch-and-release fishing excursions bring the Zambezi experience to life. Insider’s Tip: Reconnect with nature by enjoying a massage treatment on the banks of the Zambezi River!

2 nights • Tented Room x 1

Selected experiences

Exploring the Zambezi River (Toka Leya)

Learn more

A boat cruise reveals the magic of the Zambezi River, drifting past hippos and basking crocodiles, herds of elephants, and antelope in numbers, as well as a dazzling abundance of bird species. Running from two to four hours, cruise options include breakfast, lunch, sundowner, and dinner cruises as well as more focused bird-watching cruises. Whether you choose to explore the islands above the Falls; take a breakfast cruise to experience the river waking up; or an elegant dinner as the sun sets behind the silhouettes of elephants, this legendary river will leave you with indelible memories.

Day 7

Wilderness Toka Leya to Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport

Road • 00:30h

You will be met by a Wilderness Touring Zambezi representative for your private transfer from Wilderness Toka Leya to Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport.

Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport

Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport to Kasane Airport

Road • 00:30h

You will be met by a Wilderness Touring Zambezi representative for your private transfer from Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport to Kasane Airport.

Kasane Airport

Kasane Airport to Wilderness Chitabe

Flight • 00:50h

On arrival at Kasane Airport and after clearing customs and immigration, you will be met and assisted by a Wilderness representative to your light aircraft for your onward circuit air transfer to Wilderness Chitabe.

Day 7 - 9
Chitabe
Location IconOkavango Delta, Botswana

Chitabe’s location places it at the heart of a complex and beautiful mosaic of habitats, and this diversity results in Chitabe being one of the most storied of all Botswana’s areas. Experienced, passionate guides are inspired by the intricate and dynamic landscapes to deliver wildlife experiences few other locations can match. Eight elevated, meru-style guest tents provide the perfect human habitat, while a stroll along the elevated walkways connecting them to the main area is a safari experience in itself. Day and night drives, and guided walks, showcase the varied wildlife and landscapes of the Okavango. Insider’s Tip: Learn more about the African wild dog packs of the area; if you’re lucky you’ll see some of these endangered carnivores.

2 nights • Tented Room x 1

Selected experiences

Exploring the Chitabe concession

Learn more

In the Chitabe concession morning and afternoon game drives traverse a mosaic of grasslands, acacia woodland, and seasonal floodplains, with the area particularly renowned for its high predator densities. Lions, leopards, cheetahs, and wild dogs are frequently encountered here, alongside large herds of elephant, buffalo, and plains game. As daylight fades, night drives bring the chance to spot more secretive species. You may also choose to swap your game drive for a guided walk which adds a slower rhythm to your safari, uncovering details often overlooked from a vehicle, while private bush lunches on the Gomoti floodplains offer a unique experience or a chance to celebrate a special occassion. For keen photographers, specialist guiding ensures you have the time, positioning, and knowledge to capture the perfect shot. And for a perspective few ever experience, optional-extra scenic helicopter flights reveal the scale and beauty of the Delta from above.

Scenic Flight Over the Okavango Delta - 60 Min

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Experience an unforgettable 60-minute scenic flight with Helicopter Horizons. Where you will get to enjoy breathtaking views only possible from the air. Marvel at the channels meandering their way through lagoons, and then head out over the lush green flood plains where you might spot some of the Okavango's many species of animals.

Day 9

Wilderness Chitabe to Wilderness Little Vumbura

Flight • 00:40h

You will take a light aircraft transfer from Wilderness Chitabe to Wilderness Little Vumbura.

Day 9 - 11
Wilderness Little Vumbura
Location IconOkavango Delta, Botswana

This small, intimate camp embodies all that is best about the Okavango Delta – breathtaking beauty, remote, peaceful island location, abundant game and varied landscapes. Add in the warm hospitality of the people of this region – who are stakeholders in the ecotourism success story of the Okavango – and you have a winning (and beautiful) combination. With access to varied, game-rich habitats, this six-tented camp nestles beneath the trees of an ancient island forest. A floating jetty connects land with water, and the wildlife experience can include sightings of sable, and African wild dogs. Insider’s Tip: Float along a crystal-clear Okavango waterway by mokoro as you scan for reed frogs and water lilies.

2 nights • Tented Room x 1

Selected experiences

Exploring the Vumbura concession

Learn more

The Vumbura concession offers one of the most varied safari experiences in the Okavango Delta. Twice-daily game drives take you deep into this mosaic of habitats, where predators and prey are found in abundance. Because it is a private concession, you can stay out after dark, with night drives revealing the nocturnal side of the Delta. For those wanting a different perspective, guided nature walks allow you to slow down and connect with the smaller details of the bush, from animal tracks to the Delta birdlife. Seasonal water levels open up another world of exploration including mokoro rides, boat trips, or trying your hand at catch-and-release fishing.

Gliding silently through the waterways of the Okavango Delta in a mokoro, a modern take on a traditional dugout canoe, offers an intimate way to experience this UNESCO wetland. Typically lasting two to three hours, these excursions are guided by skilled polers who expertly navigate the channels, allowing you to drift past tiny reed frogs, herds of red lechwe, and an abundance of birdlife while observing the delicate ecosystem. The slow, quiet pace offers the opportunity to spot smaller creatures and hidden details often missed on a game drive. Mokoro trips are generally suitable for all ages and activity levels.

Day 11

Wilderness Little Vumbura to Maun Airport

Flight • 00:40h

You will take a light aircraft transfer from Wilderness Little Vumbura to Maun Airport.

Maun Airport

What to expect

Includes

  • All safari accommodation & meals
  • Twice daily safari activities
  • Park fees and concession fees
  • Laundry service
  • Airport and inter-camp transfers as specified
  • Meet & Greet
  • Helicopter tour for two persons

Excludes

  • International flights
  • Gratuities
  • Personal purchases
  • Travel insurance
  • Visa fees

Start your journey

These experiences are just a glimpse of what’s possible. If you’d like to book this trip or shape a custom itinerary, we are here to help you plan your perfect safari.

GUEST EXPERIENCES

What others say

Our awards

The hard work of our teams on the ground and the communities we work alongside has been recognised through numerous awards. And we couldn’t be prouder.

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Virtuoso Award 2025

Virtuoso Award 2025

Wilderness - Best Sustainability Community Partner

Travel + Leisure

Travel + Leisure

Wilderness Bisate Reserve - Best New Luxury Hotels

World Travel Awards

World Travel Awards

Wilderness Ruckomechi - Zimbabwe's Leading Safari Lodge

Condé Nast Traveler

Condé Nast Traveler

Wilderness DumaTau - #2 World Resorts

nights
10
from price, per person
USD17,453