Zimbabwe Safaris

Until 2001 Zimbabwe was seen as one of the finest countries for a top quality safari.  The guides were the best in Africa, and the Zambezi River, the open plains of Hwange and the unique Kariba shoreline were settings for enthralling game viewing adventures.  The political chaos of the last eight years has seen a huge drop in tourism, the closure of many lodges and camps and an exodus of many guides.

Yet Zimbabwe is getting ready to welcome tourists again and we think that as soon as political change happens it will quickly revive as one of Africa’s most exciting destinations.   There are still tens of thousands of elephants and vast numbers of plains game in Hwange with almost no-one to see them.   Herds of buffalo, carefully protected rhinoceros and prides of lion roam the Kariba shoreline watched by pods of yawning hippo and crocodiles which lurk menacingly in the semi-submerged tree lines.  Paddling and drifting down the lower Zambezi for a few days on a canoe safari remains an unforgettable adventure, while the Chimanimani highlands are some of the best safari walking country in Africa.

A number of Zimbabwe’s best safari camps are still running and are set to thrive as tourists return.  Makololo Plains is a luxury tented camp deep in Southern Hwange, almost besieged by elephants as the long dry season advances.   At Ruckomechi you can enjoy walking and thrilling game drives in the dreamlike landscapes of Mana Pools as well as sunset boat rides on the Zambezi, and in Kariba Steve Edwards superb little Musango Camp is soon to be joined by a reopened Bumi Hills Safari Lodge.  And of course that Grand Old Lady the Victoria Falls hotel with her classic courtyards and red tiled roof celebrates her 105th birthday this year – still the best place to admire the mile wide waterfall.

So, if you want to beat the rush back to Zimbabwe call Africa Exclusive and we’ll organise a magical fly in safari.   The camps and lodges are running well, the wildlife is in great condition, the safari infrastructure works and Zimbabwe’s patient and friendly people will welcome you with open arms.