Wildlife & Whales: From Hwange and Mana Pools to Vilanculos

Wildlife & Whales: From Hwange and Mana Pools to Vilanculos

Hwange, Mana Pools, Johannesburg, Vilanculos

nights
12
camps
4
from price, per person
USD11,095

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.

HD

Hope Dudley

Trainee Safari Specialist

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 Ruckomechi

Wilderness Ruckomechi

Exploring Mana Pools National Park

Exploring Mana Pools National Park

Boating

Boating

City Lodge O.R. Tambo Airport

City Lodge O.R. Tambo Airport

Santorini Mozambique

Santorini Mozambique

wildlife & activities

Highlights

  • Explore two of Zimbabwe’s premier wildlife regions, Hwange and Mana Pools, where exceptional elephant, predator, and other wildlife sightings await.
  • Combine game drives, walking safaris, and river-based experiences for a varied safari adventure.
  • Witness whales and whale sharks off Mozambique’s coast, with opportunities to dive or snorkel in the pristine waters.
  • Relax on a beach after your safari, exploring vibrant coral reefs at Santorini in Vilanculos, the perfectly serene ending to your trip.
  • Enjoy seamless connections and intimate, down-to-earth accommodations, where heartfelt hospitality meets exceptional wildlife and marine experiences.

Your Itinerary

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.

Day 1 - 4
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 ...

3 nights • Tented Room x 1

Selected experiences

Game drives in Hwange National Park

Learn more

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

Learn more

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.

Day 4 - 7
Wilderness Ruckomechi
Location IconMana Pools, Zimbabwe

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

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 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

Day 7 - 8

City Lodge O.R. Tambo Airport

Location IconJohannesburg, South Africa

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

Day 8 - 13

Santorini Mozambique

Location IconVilanculos, Mozambique

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.

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
  • Breakfast included at city hotels

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.

View all awards
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
12
from price, per person
USD11,095