11 Days Of Walking with the Elephants on Safari in Zimbabwe and Zambia

What to Expect

Embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of Zimbabwe’s remote wilderness, starting in Mana Pools National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife. Explore the banks of Lake Kariba, where you can witness hippos and crocodiles lounging at the water’s edge, or try your hand at fishing in this serene setting. From there, venture into Hwange, Zimbabwe’s largest game reserve, where thrilling safaris await in its vast, wildlife-filled expanses. Finally, conclude your adventure with a visit to Victoria Falls from the Zambian side, offering a stunning perspective of one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders.

Day 1-3: Mana Pools National Park | 3 Nights

In the Shona language, mana means “four,” which is a fitting name for Mana Pools National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its four iconic pools. These pools were formed over millennia as the Zambezi River shifted course, creating a unique wetland waterscape. The park is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, with Nile crocodiles and hippos gliding through the murky waters, while the treetops are alive with over 350 species of birds. Elephants, buffalo, and other animals gather along the lush banks to feed, while big cats and hyenas lurk nearby, often spotted only by the keenest observers.

Highlights:

• Designated as a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site
• The park’s four pools span 2,196 km², formed over thousands of years by the shifting Zambezi River
• Excellent game-watching, especially in the dry season when wildlife congregates at the pools
• A paradise for birdwatchers, home to over 350 species of birds

Day 4-5: Lake Kariba |2 Nights

According to legend, the Zambezi River was once home to the Nyami Nyami, a river god with the head of a fish and the body of a snake. For centuries, the Nyami Nyami and the people of the Zambezi Valley coexisted peacefully—until the 1950s, when the construction of the Kariba Dam separated him from his wife. Furious, the river god attempted to force his way upstream to reunite with her, flooding the valley in the process and creating the vast Lake Kariba. While the murky waters may no longer shelter the Nyami Nyami, the lake is now home to fierce hippos and crocodiles, whose prowling waterside presence is a key feature of the Matusadona National Park.

Highlights:

• The world’s largest man-made lake, covering a vast 580 km²
• A prime location for game fishing, with tigerfish and over 40 other species
• The grassy shoreline is a rich grazing area for a diverse range of wildlife, including antelope, the Big 5, hippos, and Nile crocodiles
• Matusadona National Park borders the lake, providing excellent opportunities for birdwatching and game viewing

Day 6-8: Hwange National Park |3 Nights

The majestic elephant is almost a symbol of Hwange National Park, which is home to one of the largest elephant herds in all of Africa. As the largest and oldest national park in Zimbabwe, Hwange stands out as one of Africa’s premier game-viewing destinations. Its vast landscapes and diverse wildlife can be explored on foot, horseback, or during thrilling game drives. In addition to elephants, the park is home to a wide array of wildlife, including lions, leopards, rhinos, giraffes, buffalo, zebras, gemsbok, hyenas, wild dogs, and more. The park’s varied ecosystems offer something for every nature enthusiast.

Highlights:

• Zimbabwe’s largest and oldest national park
• Home to one of the largest elephant herds in Africa
• A birdwatching paradise with over 400 bird species recorded
• Explore the park’s wildlife on foot, horseback, or by game drive

Day 9-10: Victoria Falls | 2 Nights

Words often fall short in describing the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, yet its Kololo name, Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning “the smoke that thunders,” offers a fitting tribute. Spanning almost two kilometers and plummeting 108 meters, this UNESCO World Heritage Site holds the title of the largest waterfall in the world, thanks to the incredible volume of water cascading over its edge every minute.

Highlights:

• One of the Seven Wonders of the World
• The largest curtain of water on the planet
• A UNESCO World Heritage Site
• A natural border between Zimbabwe and Zambia