Remarkable Zimbabwe
A journey that reveals Zimbabwe's reputation for incredible wildlife encounters and unmatched, untamed adventure, from Hwange National Park to the dreamy Mana Pools.
From USD 11,433 per person
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Hwange, Mana Pools, Johannesburg, Vilanculos
destinations
Hwange, Mana Pools, Johannesburg, Vilanculos
This is one of those journeys I never tire of recommending. You start in Hwange, then head to Mana Pools, seeing elephants, lions, and other wildlife across two of Zimbabwe’s most iconic reserves, before swopping the bush for the pristine waters of Vilanculos. Diving or snorkelling with whale sharks is an unforgettable highlight, and the quiet beaches and coral reefs offer the perfect contrast to safari excitement. It really is the best of both worlds.
Hope Dudley
Trainee Safari Specialist

Wilderness Little Makalolo

Game drives in Hwange National Park

Star Bed at Wilderness Little Makalolo

Wilderness Ruckomechi

Exploring Mana Pools National Park

Boating

City Lodge O.R. Tambo Airport

Santorini Mozambique
Day 1
Victoria Falls Airport
Victoria Falls Airport to Wilderness Little Makalolo
Flight • 00:40h
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 circuit air transfer to Wilderness Little Makalolo.








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 ...
3 nights • Tented Room x 1
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 4
Wilderness Little Makalolo to Wilderness Ruckomechi
Flight • 02:30h
You will be taken by light aircraft from Wilderness Little Makalolo to Wilderness Ruckomechi.








Situated in a large private concession in the heart of the Zambezi Valley’s Mana Pools National Park, Wilderness Ruckomechi looks out from the banks of the mighty Zambezi River. It is a remote, picturesque place with spectacular views of the broad flowing river, the adjacent woodland and the mountains of the Rift Valley escarpment. Ten spacious and beautifully decorated en-suite tents, including two family rooms, lie beneath the ana trees, best-beloved of local elephants for their nutritious seeds. The camp's central living space includes an inviting fire pit for pleasant evenings beneath the African night skies. Other unique features include a pool which overlooks a broad sweep of the river, an outdoor “bath with a view” in a secluded, scenic spot, and a romantic Star Bed by a busy waterhole. Open 4x4 vehicles, motorised pontoon boats, canoes and good old safari boots facilitate the wildlife viewing. Wilderness Ruckomechi is open throughout the dry (winter) season. Insider's Tip: A boat cruise along the mighty Zambezi is a wonderful way to see wildlife and waterbirds from a different perspective. For the more adventurous – there’s the option of canoeing along this famous river!
3 nights • Tented Room x 1
Exploring Mana Pools National Park
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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
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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 7
Wilderness Ruckomechi to Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport
Flight • 01:30h
You will be taken by light aircraft from Wilderness Ruckomechi to Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport.
Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport
VIP Meet & Assist (Arrival)
VIP Meet and Greet off international flights at RG Mugabe (Harare), assistance through Immigration and customs. Optional baggage handling service (collecting bags from the baggage carousel) also available.
Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport to O.R. Tambo International Airport
Flight • 01:45h
O.R. Tambo International Airport
Meet and Assist at Johannesburg
Upon arrival at O.R. Tambo International Airport, you will be met in the main terminal building by a Menzies Aviation representative carrying a name board. If arriving on an international flight, they will assist you through customs and immigration, and guide you to collect your luggage. You will then be escorted to the arrivals hall to meet your transfer driver for your onward journey.
O.R. Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) to City Lodge O.R. Tambo (A short walk from the Airport Terminal to the Hotel)
Road • 00:15h






Situated close to Johannesburg’s international airport, City Lodge Johannesburg Airport has 219 guest rooms. Providing both business and leisure travellers with spacious home away from home accommodation, our hotel is ideal for those commuting to and from Johannesburg and perfect for passengers requiring immediate access to the airport. We are also conveniently located for Johannesburg’s freeway system linking Gauteng with the rest of South Africa. Our hotel offers a board room and conference facilities, a fitness centre as well as a deck with a swimming pool and a coffee shop. INSIDER’S TIP: We offer a same-day laundry and dry-cleaning service, and parking is complimentary and convenient.
1 nights • Standard Room x 1
Day 8
City Lodge O.R. Tambo to O.R. Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) A short walk from the Hotel to Airport Terminal
Road • 00:15h
O.R. Tambo International Airport
Meet and Assist at Johannesburg
Upon arrival at O.R. Tambo International Airport, you will be met in the main terminal building by a Menzies Aviation representative carrying a name board. If arriving on an international flight, they will assist you through customs and immigration, and guide you to collect your luggage. You will then be escorted to the arrivals hall to meet your transfer driver for your onward journey.
O.R. Tambo International Airport to Vilanculos Airport
Flight • 02:00h
Vilanculos Airport
Vilanculos Airport to Santorini Mozambique
Road • 00:30h








Perched high on the red cliffs of Kingfisher Bay, Santorini Mozambique is a Grecian-style retreat overlooking the dazzling waters of the Bazaruto Archipelago. Just north of Vilanculos, this coastal sanctuary promises barefoot luxury and total seclusion – only a 20-minute drive from Vilanculos International Airport. The property’s Main Villa is the heart of Santorini, with five spacious suites, a shaded pool courtyard, rooftop sala, and ocean-facing martini pool. Each suite has a private balcony, sea views, and all the modern comforts. For couples, Villa Na Colina and The Chapel offer romantic hideaways, each with a private pool, lounge, and dining area. Families and groups will love Villa da Praia – an elegant four-bedroom escape with domed ceilings, curated artworks, and dedicated host service. Days at Santorini are filled with adventure and ease – from sunset cruises on the Supercat Catamaran to snorkelling the Bazaruto reefs, deep-sea fishing, or simply relaxing with an on-site spa treatment. With warm Mozambican hospitality and unforgettable views at every turn, it’s a place where time slows and the sea sparkles just for you. INSIDER’S TIP: Ask your host to arrange a sunset sail aboard the Supercat – drifting past the islands with a drink in hand is pure magic.
5 nights • Suite (Banque, Magaruque & Benguerra) x 1
Day 13
Santorini Mozambique to Vilanculos Airport
Road • 00:30h
Vilanculos Airport
Vilanculos Airport to O.R. Tambo International Airport
Flight • 02:00h
O.R. Tambo International Airport
Meet and Assist at Johannesburg
Upon arrival at O.R. Tambo International Airport, you will be met in the main terminal building by a Menzies Aviation representative carrying a name board. If arriving on an international flight, they will assist you through customs and immigration, and guide you to collect your luggage. You will be assisted with check-in and passport control, and accompanied to the boarding gate to await your onward flight.
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
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.
View all awards
Wilderness - Best Sustainability Community Partner

Wilderness Bisate Reserve - Best New Luxury Hotels

Wilderness Ruckomechi - Zimbabwe's Leading Safari Lodge

Wilderness DumaTau - #2 World Resorts