Zimbabwe Safari Guide: Victoria Falls, Hwange & Mana Pools

“The most beautiful journeys are the ones that leave you speechless.”

Contents

Why Choose Zimbabwe for a Safari?Things to do around Victoria Falls Why I love Hwange Mana Pools: The Safari That Slows You Down Gonarezhou National Park: The heart of the wild Zambezi National Park: Wildlife Beside the River What Animals Can You See in Zimbabwe?When Is the Best Time for a Zimbabwe Safari?When should you visit Victoria Falls?How Many Days Do You Need in Zimbabwe?7-night Zimbabwe itinerary What Should You Pack for Zimbabwe?A Few Things to Know Before You Go My Final Thoughts on Zimbabwe FAQ

It’s a quiet morning, somewhere in Africa, where the Zambezi flows quietly. The mist is drifting over the waters, the first light has struck the trees and the wilderness slowly wakes up.

As the day goes on, elephants cross the golden paths in Hwange. Wild birds are singing in the woods. At dusk, the sky opens up to a thousand stars.

In Zimbabwe, nature is not just a thing to be seen. It’s something you feel.

When the Zambezi gets to Victoria Falls, the quiet is replaced with something extraordinary. Water cascades into the gorge, sprays fly up like a cloud of smoke and for a split second, the whole world stops.

Welcome dear travellers to Zimbabwe.

It is a country where dramatic landscapes and wild places come together in a beautiful manner. A visit to one of the world’s great waterfalls in the morning and you can be surrounded by African bush by afternoon.

It is this that makes a Zimbabwe safari special to me. It’s not simply about checking off the Big Five. It’s about the sensation of being in an open, expansive and wonderfully lived-in world.

So for first-time visitors, there’s so much more to see than Victoria.

Zimbabwe is a safari destination that can take on many moods, from Hwange’s elephants to the walking experiences of Mana Pools. Then there’s ancient history, friendly communities, dramatic rivers and unforgettable landscapes and this is a destination that deserves much more than a short stopover.

Therefore, let’s take a proper look at it.

Why Choose Zimbabwe for a Safari?

When people think of an African safari, Zimbabwe may not always be at the forefront of their minds.

That’s what makes it appealing.

There are also extensive protected landscapes across the country where one can view wildlife without feeling like they are moving from one hectic viewing spot to another. Some of Southern Africa’s most remarkable wilderness areas can be experienced in the country’s national parks, and Victoria Falls is an amazing natural attraction to add to the list.

Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZPWMA) oversees the country’s protected areas, such as the Hwange, Mana Pools, Gonarezhou, Zambezi National Park and others. It works to conserve the wildlife, the habitat and in partnership with communities and conservation partners.

Thus, a savvy Zimbabwe safari experience can be a wonderfully diverse one:

Big-game viewing

Walking safaris
River and canoe experiences
Birdwatching
Victoria Falls
Cultural experiences
Ancient heritage
Dramatic landscapes
Remote wilderness

But more important, you don’t need to opt for a waterfall holiday or a wildlife holiday.

You can have both.

Victoria Falls: Beginning of the Journey

If you have never seen Victoria Falls before, set aside a moment that will be beyond description in photographs.

The Zambezi River suddenly plunges over a great gorge into the air and the water vanishes. The sound comes before seeing the scope of it.

Victoria Falls, locally known as Mosi-oa-Tunya (The Smoke That Thunders), is one of Zimbabwe’s natural wonders. It is also part of a property of the UNESCO World Heritage property which crosses into the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Here, I always say: give yourself plenty of time, don’t try to fit the falls in between flights.

Take a tour of the rainforest trails. Make a stop at various viewpoints. Hear the water’s roar. Observe the mist going over the gorge.

Then look up.

On sunny days the rainbows can be seen in the spray making one of those travel moments that will stick with you long after you are back home!

Things to do around Victoria Falls

The Victoria Falls are not only a sight to see.

This is where you can create a couple of quite different experiences based on your interest and season, depending on the falls you choose.

Consider:

Walking the Victoria Falls viewpoints
Taking a sunset cruise on the Zambezi
Enjoying a scenic flight over the falls
If conditions permit, attempt white-water rafting.
Taking part in guided wildlife experiences
Exploring the surrounding rainforest
Enjoying local markets and cultural events
Combining Victoria Falls with a safari in nearby parks

A Victoria Falls safari can be an ideal opening or closing activity for a trip to Zimbabwe.

There’s one more benefit.

Victoria Falls can also be a stunning addition to an itinerary that takes you around multiple countries in Southern Africa. Across the Zambezi, Zambia and for those planning a longer safari, Botswana, is within reach.

Take inspiration from our ‘Southern Africa safari guide’ which suggests other destinations in the region where Zimbabwe can be included.

Hwange National Park: Zimbabwe’s Great Wildlife Stage

Past Victoria Falls, the landscape opens into a vast wilderness.

The roads lead through open grasslands, woodland and vast wilderness.

Welcome to the Hwange National Park.

Hwange is Zimbabwe’s biggest national park, with an area of approximately 14650 km2. It is especially renowned for elephants and harbours some 100 mammal species and nearly 400 bird species, according to Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority.

Here, waiting is part of the safari. It may take some time to observe an empty waterhole.

Nothing. Then a huge elephant comes along.

Then another. Soon, the quiet landscape is transformed.

Lions, leopards and buffalo are also found in the game reserve along with the rare sable, roan and African wild dogs.

Its diversity makes it one of the best wildlife destinations to add to your Zimbabwe safari.

Why I love Hwange

Hwange is a very spacious park.

Does not provide wildlife right away. Rather, the terrain invites you to pause and contemplate.

Observe tracks in the sand.

Keep an eye on birds around the water.

Observe the movement in the grass.

Your guide may stop because something small has caught their attention. After a few seconds, you might notice that they’ve seen an animal that you would have passed.

That’s what travelling with someone who knows the bush is all about,

Mana Pools: The Safari That Slows You Down

Whereas Hwange is all about vast expanses of land and astounding wildlife, Mana Pools is different.

Much quieter.

Much more intimate.

And, for a lot of visitors, it was hugely memorable.

Mana Pools lies along the Zambezi River, within a much larger wilderness area. The Greater Mana Pools area covers approximately 2,190 square kilometres, making it much larger than the park itself.

It is a place where walking can be the main attraction in the trip.

You can get out of the car and go for walks around bush with a qualified tour guide instead of just sitting in the car.

All of a sudden, something is different.

You hear crunching leaves under your feet. In the soil you study tracks. You stop to listen.

The wilderness is nearer at hand.

In addition, Mana Pools is famous for its Zambezi setting, so canoeing is another great way to get around.

Envision being able to quietly cruise along the river as animals gather around the banks.

No loud engine.

No rush.

Only water, sky and wilderness.

That is Mana Pools.

Gonarezhou National Park: The heart of the wild

If you have time, seek out some of the lesser known parks in Zimbabwe.

In the southeast of the country, Gonarezhou National Park is another facet of Zimbabwe’s wilderness.

The park is named “Place of Elephants” and its large elephant population, dramatic scenery and remote nature are well known.

Then things change again, rugged places, open woodland and the famous Chilojo Cliffs offer an impressive view over the Runde River valley.

For those who are planning a longer trip, Gonarezhou is a good option if they want to explore more of Zimbabwe than just around Victoria Falls and Hwange.

Zimbabwe’s tourism authorities also highlight Gonarezhou among the country’s major attractions.

Zambezi National Park: Wildlife Beside the River

It doesn’t have to be the farthest places in the world from Victoria Falls for you to see wildlife.

Zambezi National Park is located on the Zambezi River and is considered one of the waterways’ most attractive parks for game viewing.

This is especially attractive to those travellers looking to extend their Victoria Falls holiday experience with a slightly shorter safari experience.

It is a magical time of day in the morning.

The air is cooler. Birds are calling. The river flows quietly, along the edge of the bush.

After that the terrain starts to come to life.

If you don’t have as much time as you would like to spend on a Victoria Falls safari, this can be a convenient addition to your journey.

What Animals Can You See in Zimbabwe?

The best thing about any safari is the element of surprise as each drive brings new sights.

Many of the most renowned animals in Africa can be viewed in Zimbabwe.

Depending on the park, season and luck, you may encounter:

Elephants
Lions
Leopards
Buffalo
African wild dogs
Giraffes
Zebras
Hippos
Crocodiles
Antelope
Warthogs
Baboons
Numerous bird species

Elephants are especially abundant at Hwange, and Mana Pools is an unparalleled wilderness experience for walking and observing the animals up close.

You may also hope for another special sighting, African wild dogs. An encounter is exciting because they are endangered and hard to come by.

The word here is hope.

The safari should never make guarantees for a specific animal.

Wildlife is wild.

It’s that randomness that makes it so unique.

When Is the Best Time for a Zimbabwe Safari?

The best time to visit depends on what you want to watch and experience.

May to October: Dry season

The dry season is a good time for many travellers to experience wildlife during the months in-between.

When there is less water available in the bush, animals can come together around any water sources that are available. Vegetation also thins out, making the search for wildlife easier.

Overall drier weather, with surprisingly cool mornings and evenings.

Pack layers.

Believe me, on this one.

A first early morning game drive can be quite chilly while sitting in an open safari vehicle.

November to April: Green season

The rain brings a dramatic change in the landscape.

Grass becomes greener. Trees turn back to their original colour. Birds of passage visit and young animals can be spotted in many places.

Showers or prolonged spells of showers are possible in the afternoon, but this does not necessarily mean that the day is lost.

A photographer can have a beautiful green season!

The bush is a new and fresh place.

When should you visit Victoria Falls?

The water level of the Zambezi fluctuates all year round and Victoria Falls changes accordingly.

When the water reaches higher levels, the show can be massive and mighty, with powerful sprays defying the gorge.

Under low water conditions, some areas may be more accessible to view and some activities, like rafting, may be more appropriate depending on the conditions.

Instead of asking ‘When is the best time?’, ask: What would I like my Zimbabwe experience to be like?

That’s a much better way to plan.

How Many Days Do You Need in Zimbabwe?

I would not want to rush Zimbabwe.

When planning a trip to Victoria Falls, the minimum is 2-3 nights if you are travelling mainly for the falls.

Victoria Falls and Hwange make for a much more rewarding visit with around 5–7 nights split between the two destinations.

If you want an even more immersive safari experience, then 8-12 nights is the best choice (or more if you want to do a combination of Mana Pools or another national park with the transport involved).

A basic trip might be:

7-night Zimbabwe itinerary

Nights 1–3: Victoria Falls

Visit the Falls, catch a sunset on the Zambezi and select an adventure or culture experience.

Nights 4-6: Hwange National Park

Enjoy the day on game drives, elephants, lions, buffalo and other animals.

Night 7: Victoria Falls

Come back for an evening at the Zambezi before you set off on the rest of your way.

For an even more serene and experiential wilderness adventure, take a longer road to Mana Pools if time permits.

If you are looking for more inspiration from Africa, our Ultimate African Safari Holidays Guide can give you some idea of the various safari experiences and destinations available.

Is it possible to travel to Zimbabwe, Zambia and Botswana in one go?

Absolutely.

One of the things I really enjoy about travelling to Southern Africa is the variety of things you can do.

Each country has something different to offer, and Zimbabwe can be wonderful to play a complementary role in neighbouring destinations.

You can start at Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, cross into Zambia, head towards Botswana and end at Okavango Delta or Chobe region.

People looking to go on a safari to Zambia can proceed with our Zambia Safari Guide.

If you are thinking of a trip to Botswana, our Botswana Safari Guide may help you. If you are considering Chobe, check out our Chobe Safari Guide. If you want to see the overall picture, head back to our Southern Africa Safari Guide and see how the destinations synergise.

What Should You Pack for Zimbabwe?

You don’t need to overthink your safari packing.

Focus on functionality, not fashion.

Bring:

Lightweight neutral-coloured clothing
Early morning jacket or fleece to keep warm
Comfortable walking shoes
Sun hat
Sunglasses
High-SPF sunscreen
Insect repellent
Binoculars
Camera and spare batteries
Reusable water bottle
Small day bag
Light rain jacket depending on the season

Good footwear is a major consideration for walking experiences.

Remember binoculars as well!

You might think you’re perfectly sighted until your guide guides your attention down, silently, to a leopard sitting in some tree far away.

In a flash, your binoculars come in handy.

Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority also suggests items that are needed during a visit to the park including binoculars, cameras, walking shoes, and first-aid supplies.

A Few Things to Know Before You Go

With a little preparation, your trip can go a great deal smoother.

Malaria precautions

Some areas of Zimbabwe have malaria risk. Before travelling, especially planning on a safari trip in the wildlife areas, take the necessary precautions and consult a qualified health care professional. ZimParks also recommends taking anti-malarial precautions when visiting the parks.

Observe your guide’s directions

Wild animals do not behave in a predictable manner.

Do not approach, leave a vehicle or walk away from a guide without permission.

This is particularly crucial around elephants and other large animals.

Bring patience

Safari is not a zoo experience.

There can be a great morning with many sightings, followed by a day in the afternoon that doesn’t see a single sighting.

This doesn’t mean that the safari is a failure.

Sometimes the still hours of the day are the ones we’re paying the most attention.

Respect the landscape

Follow the routes, respect nature and use responsible tourism operators.

Conservation and careful management of Zimbabwe’s Protected areas ensures there are wildlife and habitats to look after for future generations.

Zimbabwe Is More Than a Safari

This is by far the greatest advice I would give to a first time visitor.

Don’t view Zimbabwe just as a safari spot.Here are some history lessons. There is culture, Old stone cities, dramatic landscapes, rivers and communities with stories that extend beyond the safari vehicle.

The famous archaeological site of Great Zimbabwe, located near the town of Masvingo, presents a totally different image of the place. Matobo National Park offers spectacular granite scenery and culture, the Eastern Highlands have mountains, forests and waterfalls.

It is that variety that makes Zimbabwe such a good destination for those seeking something more than wildlife.

One day to follow the elephant tracks and another to explore centuries of history.

My Final Thoughts on Zimbabwe

Some places make an impression on you. Others remain by your side. Zimbabwe is among the second group. It is not just the sound of the water when you see it.

It’s an elephant that comes through the dust in Hwange.
It is the silence of a canoe gliding over the Zambezi.
It’s the sense of being in the bush, taking everything in, listening for every noise around you, in Mana Pools.
It’s a night around the bonfire that the sky is filled with stars.

Which may be the reason why a Zimbabwe safari is a different experience.

You don’t just see Africa. For a short time you are living at its speed, soaking in those unforgettable world holiday vibes.

So, if you have been dreaming about a trip to Africa where you can experience Victoria Falls, memorable wildlife, vast lands of wilderness and an authentic adventure then Zimbabwe should be at the top of your list.

Begin at the falls. Don’t leave the wilderness. And take away tales you’ll be narrating years after.

If you need guidance on other areas of Southern Africa to visit as well, keep exploring our Southern Africa Safari Guide and find out how Zimbabwe can be part of a much longer African adventure.