Northern Zimbabwe Overlanding Safari
Embark on a journey through the heart of Southern Zimbabwe, a region blessed with very unique natural beauty, breathtaking landscapes, and a diverse array of wildlife that roams freely across pristine wilderness. Welcome to the Southern Zimbabwe Overlanding Safari, a truly exceptional adventure that promises to immerse you in the magic of Africa.
Our safari experience is carefully crafted to let you discover Southern Zimbabwe’s hidden gems and unique ecosystems while enjoying the comfort and convenience of well-planned itineraries. Get ready to experience the heart-pounding thrill of close encounters with majestic wildlife, the tranquility of serene lake cruises, and the awe-inspiring spectacle of Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
ITINERARY
Day 1-3: Mana Pools, Zambezi
Our adventure begins in the Mana Pool National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, wildlife photographers, and nature lovers. Over three days, you will experience game drives and guided bush walks, Mana Pools is one of the few national parks in Zimbabwe where you are allowed to explore on foot. Immerse yourself in the park’s unique Zambezi Valley flora and fauna. We paddle along the Zambezi River on traditional canoes, observing hippos and crocodiles basking in the sun. By night, gaze in wonder at the African stars, unspoiled by light pollution.
Activities:
- Game Drives
- Guided Nature Walks
- Wildlife Photography
- Canoe on the Zambezi River
Â
The AOF team will meet you at Harare Airport (Robert Mugabe International Airport) from where we will drive to Mana Pools National Park.
Mana Pools National Park
Northern Zimbabwe
Mana Pools National Park, nestled in the northernmost part of Zimbabwe along the Zambezi River, spans 2,196 square kilometers. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, in partnership with five adjacent safari areas and Zambia’s Lower Zambezi National Park, is a remote wilderness haven. The name “Mana,” derived from the local Shona language, signifies “four” and signifies the four pristine pools: Green, Chisasiko, Chine, and the vast Long Pool, which stretches over six kilometers and teems with hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and a plethora of aquatic birds. Home to the renowned big four (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard), painted dogs, diverse antelope species, and a rich avian population boasting around 380 species, the park’s unique landscape transitions from alluvial floodplains nurturing riverine woodlands to mopane forests, dense jesse bush, and towering baobab trees as it extends away from the Zambezi River.
Source: Zimparks
Day 4: Kariba Town, Lake Kariba
We continue our journey to the charming town of Kariba. Nestled on the shores of Lake Kariba, this picturesque town offers us a quick relaxing break in our adventure. Explore the local markets, where you can shop for unique handicrafts and interact with friendly locals. We enjoy a hearty dinner and savor the breathtaking views of Lake Kariba, including the impressive Kariba Dam wall.
Activities:
- Curio ShoppingÂ
- View From Kariba Heights
- Kariba Dam Wall
- Dinner in Kariba Town
Day 5 - 7: Kariba Houseboat Safari
On day five we set sail for two nights on a luxurious houseboat safari on Lake Kariba. It’s time to relax as we enjoy wildlife viewing from the deck of our houseboat, with hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species often in sight. Take a refreshing swim in the clear waters of Lake Kariba, right off the boat’s deck (we’ll keep a lookout for Crocodiles), or relax in the jacuzzi on the deck. Continue your angling adventure by trying to land that trophy tiger fish. Each evening, embark on a sunset cruise on a small motorized boat to witness the breathtaking African sunsets while sipping on your favourite beverage, and afterward a first-class dinner.
Activities:
- Tiger Fishing
- Sunset Cruises
- First Class Cuisine
- Swimming in the lake
- Lots of relaxing on the deck
- Game viewing along the shoreline from small boats
Lake Kariba
Northern Zimbabwe
Discover the world’s largest man-made lake, an expansive marvel that offers stunning views, unforgettable sunsets, excellent fishing, water sports, and safari adventures along its pristine shoreline. With a predominantly sunny climate year-round, with warm days even in the heart of winter. This colossal reservoir, stretching 226 kilometers (140 miles) in length and up to 40 kilometers (25 miles) in width, not only provides electricity to Zambia and Zimbabwe but also supports a thriving fishing industry. Its sheer size can make you momentarily forget it’s a dam, offering an ocean-like experience in certain areas.
Day 8 - 10: On the shores of Lake Kariba
Our adventure continues as we head to the southern shoreline of Kariba and enter Matusadona National Park, a truly off-the-beaten-track park that sees very few tourists. Our expert guides will lead you on game drives, ensuring you witness the incredible wildlife that calls this park home. Look out for elephants, lions, buffalos, leopards, and many plains game species. We camp in wilderness campsites right on the edge of the lake and we cruise along the shoreline in small boats, marveling at the park’s stunning landscapes while encountering wildlife coming to drink from the lake.
Activities:
- Afternoon & Morning Game Drives
- Tiger Fishing
- Birding
Matusadona National Park
Lake Kariba
Named after the picturesque Matusadona hills that grace its water-rich landscape, Matusadona National Park is a remote, rugged gem flanked by Lake Kariba in the north and two perennial rivers, the Ume and the Sanyati. Proclaimed a National Park in 1975, it once thrived as a stronghold for African elephant and black rhino conservation, becoming a sought-after tourism destination. Covering 1,470 square kilometers, this unique landscape features undulating hills, dense wooded areas, abundant springs, and lush riverine vegetation. The northern edge of the park borders Lake Kariba, providing a stunning backdrop. Matusadona is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, hippo, and various antelope species. Facing challenges, African Parks, in collaboration with the PWMA, is dedicated to rejuvenating Matusadona through effective conservation measures, community engagement, and wildlife reintroductions.
Source: African Parks
Day 11 & 12: Victoria Falls
Our final destination is the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Stand at the edge of the gorge and feel the thundering power of the falls. You will have to opportunity to go bungee jumping, white-water rafting, and a scenic helicopter ride for breathtaking aerial views. Explore the lush rainforest surrounding the falls, home to unique flora and fauna. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the nearby town, with opportunities to visit local markets, curio shopping, and interact with the friendly locals.
Activities (Not Included):
- Curio Shopping in Vic Falls Town
- Bungee Jumping
- Bridge Swinging
- Helicopter Flight over the falls
- River Rafting
- Half Day Tiger Fishing
Return Transfer:
An African Outdoor Fanatics representative will drop you off at Victoria Falls International Airport. We can assist with your flight arrangements back to OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, South Africa.