10 Days Of Family Zimbabwe's Falls, Hwange & Kariba

Overview

Zimbabwe’s natural beauty offers some of the most stunning landscapes in Southern Africa, and this itinerary is the ideal adventure for families. From the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls to the vast expanse of Hwange National Park and the tranquil shores of Lake Kariba, each destination presents its own unique charm. These iconic locations are not only vast in scale but also rich in wildlife and history: Victoria Falls is Africa’s largest waterfall, Hwange is Zimbabwe’s largest national park, and Lake Kariba is the world’s largest man-made lake by volume.

Your family’s adventure begins in Victoria Falls Town, renowned as Africa’s adrenaline capital, where you can enjoy activities such as white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and much more. Afterward, journey to Hwange National Park for classic Big 5 game drives, with opportunities to spot wild dogs and leopards, which are thriving due to ongoing conservation efforts.

The final leg of your journey brings you to the luxurious Bumi Hills Safari Lodge on the serene shores of Lake Kariba, where you can relax and unwind. On your last night, embark on a thrilling sleepout aboard the Lady Jacqueline Boat. As you cruise the lake, keep your eyes peeled for African fish eagles, cormorants, hippos, elephants, and the occasional Nile crocodile – all making the most of this vast body of freshwater.

Highlights & Activities

• Ideal for families with children
• Explore 3 of Zimbabwe’s most magnificent natural wonders
• Enjoy the mix of adrenaline, history, and adventure at Victoria Falls
• Embark on Big 5 game drives in Hwange
• Relax on the peaceful shores of Lake Kariba
• Experience a unique sleepout on a boat on Lake Kariba

Day 1-3: Experience Victoria Falls | 3 Nights

Upon arrival at Victoria Falls International Airport, your driver will meet you for the transfer to Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, a spacious retreat offering stunning views of Zambezi National Park. After settling into your suite, relax by the swimming pool or enjoy a refreshing drink on the sun-drenched deck, overlooking a popular waterhole and the expansive park. For an immersive experience, arrange a visit to the lodge’s photographic hide. The lodge also offers a complimentary shuttle service to various spots in Victoria Falls Town, including the outdoor craft market and a stylish indoor shopping arcade perfect for picking up unique mementos.

After a restful night, you’ll embark on a guided tour of Victoria Falls. Your guide will take you to the best vantage points, sharing fascinating insights into the geology, history, and seasonal changes of the Falls. The wet season, typically from February to May, offers the most dramatic views, with high water levels and mist (your guide will provide raincoats and umbrellas, and be sure to protect your camera). On clear full-moon nights, there’s a chance to witness the mesmerizing lunar rainbow, a rare and beautiful natural phenomenon stretching across the Batoka Gorge.

A highlight of your stay is a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. In the late afternoon, board a spacious cruiser for a leisurely ride, soaking in the spectacular scenery while enjoying drinks and snacks. As the sky transitions from brilliant blue to soft pink, enjoy a relaxed atmosphere of game and bird-watching from the comfort of your seat.

Day 4-6: Off to Hwange  | 2 Nights

On Day 4, you’ll leave Victoria Falls behind and embark on a scenic drive to Hwange National Park, where you’ll stay at Somalisa Acacia. This exclusive camp, featuring a limited number of tented suites, boasts its own waterhole, attracting Hwange’s renowned elephant population to drink and bathe.

Hwange, Zimbabwe’s largest national park, stretches to the edge of the Kalahari Desert, offering a unique blend of landscapes and wildlife. Home to around 100 mammal species and 400 bird species, it’s a haven for nature lovers. Thanks to ongoing conservation efforts, Hwange’s wild dog and leopard populations are making a remarkable recovery.

Your time at Somalisa Acacia will follow the rhythm of safari life: early mornings spent watching animals at the waterhole, leisurely brunches, and late-afternoon excursions to witness nocturnal predators preparing for the evening. As the camp is located in a private concession, you’ll enjoy the added privilege of night drives and nature walks with expert guides. Night drives offer the opportunity to spot owls, porcupines, and anteaters, while nature walks allow you to observe animal tracks, dung, insects, butterflies, and birdlife up close.

Day 7-10: Explore Lake Kariba  | 2 Nights

On Day 7, you’ll shift into a more relaxed pace and enjoy the tranquility of Lake Kariba, the world’s largest man-made reservoir by volume, which straddles the Zimbabwean-Zambian border. The lake is dotted with picturesque islands and provides excellent opportunities to spot both game and birdlife from the deck of Bumi Hills Safari Lodge.

Situated above Lake Kariba, with panoramic views, Bumi Hills offers an elevated retreat that feels more like a beach resort. The lodge features a rim-flow swimming pool that blends seamlessly into the endless blue of the lake below. After a day of exploration, unwind with a spa treatment while soaking in the stunning views. Families will appreciate the Ngwana Club, where children are cared for by trained supervisors and can enjoy activities like crafts, cooking lessons, and excursions to local schools and villages. The club’s name, “Ngwana,” means “explorer” in Tswana, and it offers children the chance to learn about conservation, waterways, and nature.

On your final night, you’ll embark on an unforgettable sleepout experience aboard the Lady Jacqueline Boat. After breakfast, you’ll cruise to an island for a walking safari and spend the day exploring the serene waters of Kariba. While the chef prepares delicious meals, try your hand at tiger fishing, or simply relax and enjoy the stunning surroundings. The lake attracts large herds of buffalo, giraffe, zebra, impala, and elephants as they come to drink. As you explore the shores, especially near Matusadona National Park, keep an eye out for elusive predators like lions and leopards.

Day 11: Farewell To Zimbabwe

After a wonderful night on the water, you will return to Bumi Hills. From there, you’ll travel back to the airstrip for your short flight to Victoria Falls International Airport, marking the end of your unforgettable Zimbabwe adventure.