This highlight of Zimbabwe holiday takes in 4 of the region's best areas, showcasing the country's diverse scenery and incredible wildlife. You will be accommodated in luxury lodges and camps offering expert guides, exceptional cuisine, and personalized service. Expect thrilling activities from game drives and safari walks to Zambezi River canoeing and lake fishing.
The adventure begins at the legendary Victoria Falls where you will enjoy the sights, sounds and activities on offer, before moving onto the famous Hwange National Park, an arid park, known as the 'land of the giants', for its big elephant herds.
After becoming accustomed to the dry landscape at Hwange dotted with watering holes, your next destination, Mana Pools National Park is a total contrast. Bisected by the Mighty Zambezi River this park is lush, and the banks of the river provide ideal camping spots. As you idly canoe down the river you will be treated to sights such as swimming elephants, a host of aquatic birds and of course plenty of hippos and crocodiles. However, the river is only half of the story in Mana Pools, so your camping adventure is complimented by a stay at Kanga Expeditions for wildlife viewing from dry land. Particularly good in the dry season, large concentrations of buffalo and elephant are to be found along the river's edges, while predators such as lion, wild dog, leopard, and cheetah are often sighted.
Round off your trip with a stay at Lake Kariba and its surrounds. Spend your time cruising the lake in a private boat, taking in the gorgeous vistas and try your hand at catching a tiger fish. Go on a scenic lakeside walking safari or go on a game drive in search of the Matusadona lions.
Starts - Catch your overnight flight from JFK to Livingstone
2 nights - Thorntree River Lodge, Livingstone & Victoria Falls, Zambia
3 nights - Somalisa Acacia, Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe
2 nights - Kanga Expeditions, Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe
2 nights - Zambezi Expeditions, Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe
3 nights - Bumi Hills Safari Lodge, Lake Kariba and Matusadona, Zimbabwe
Ends - Transfer to Harare for your international flight home
At a glance
Zimbabwe, Zambia
12 Nights
Safari
Tailormade itineraries
Every Mahlatini trip is tailored to your exact travel wishes—no readymade tours or set departures. Get in touch with our experts to start creating your bespoke itinerary.
Guide Price
Low Season from {: 16800|toCurrency :} per person
High Season from {: 22700|toCurrency :} per person
Includes flights from JFK
Itinerary Details
Day-by-day
Make it yours
Tailormake this itinerary to your exact wishes
We've got you covered
Our trips are unashamedly high-end but always deliver excellent value for money. Our guide price covers the majority of trip costs upfront, on a per person basis, including international flights and all transfers.
Includes
International flights as detailed
Meals and accommodation as detailed
Drinks (excluding premium brands)
Road transfers as detailed
Light aircraft transfers as detailed
Twice daily scheduled safari activities
National Park Fees
Excludes
Entry visas and fees
Gratuities
Personal travel insurance
Items of a personal nature
Additional activities or options on offer
Indulge in your passions
ACTIVITIES
This sample trip offers countless adventures and activities to ensure lifetime memories are made. From unforgettable thrills to indulgent relaxation, choose those that appeal most and we will curate your perfect itinerary.
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Boat Trip
Guided Walking Safari
Helicopter Flights
White Water Rafting
Cultural Experience
Canoeing/Kayaking
Fishing
Photographic Safari
Natural Wonders
Wellness/Spa
Enriching encounters
ICONIC WILDLIFE
Whether you want to tick off the Big Five or encounter specific safari species and sea creatures on your safari and coastal stay, our expert guides reveal the typical wildlife sightings to expect on this sample trip.
Wild Dog
Zebra
Wildebeest
Southern Giraffe
Pels Fishing Owl
Lion
Leopard
Kudu
Hippo
Flamingo
Elephant
Crocodile
Cheetah
Buffalo
Baboon
African Fish Eagle
Sample itineraries
TRIPS TO INSPIRE
From exhilarating wildlife encounters to out-of-this-world natural wonders, echoes of ancient empires, and rose-gold beaches, every bespoke journey is designed to immerse you in the extraordinary. Whether you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime safari, a milestone celebration, a soul-stirring retreat, or simply looking to travel well and with purpose, these itineraries offer a starting point for what’s possible. As a top tour operator in the world, as recognised by both Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveller, we will guide you on how to shape the ultimate expedition.