WELCOME TO THE KAVANGO-ZAMBEZI
ZIMBABWE
The Kavango Zambezi TFCA is enormous, larger than Germany and Austria combined and nearly twice as large as the United Kingdom. It lies in the Kavango and Zambezi river basins where Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe converge.
Zimbabwe in depth.
Zimbabwe is a landlocked nation of great scenic beauty, boasting such natural and cultural wonders as Victoria Falls and Great Zimbabwe, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The majority of people live on the high central plateau, known as the Highveld. By contrast, the surrounding lowlands harbour some impressive tracts of wilderness, which include several of southern Africa’s top reserves and wildlife areas. It is here, in the country’s northwest corner, that Kavango Zambezi Zimbabwe is located. Its total area of some 71,500km2 represents some 14% of the park’s total, and offers some of its most exciting visitor experiences.
Hwange National Park lies along Zimbabwe’s border with Botswana and is the country’s premier reserve, protecting 14,650 km² of teak forest, thornveld and mopane woodland. The park is contiguous with the Chobe area of neighbouring Botswana, and the border between the two straddles a key wildlife dispersal area that sees one of Africa’s largest annual elephant migrations and lies at the heart of the Kavango Zambezi project.
Wildlife populations in Hwange are highly seasonal, but visit during the dry season and you’ll find enormous herds of elephant and buffalo thronging the permanent waterholes. Giraffe, zebra and numerous antelope species – including the majestic sable and roan – are present year-round, hippo frequent larger water bodies and all major predators occur, including lion, leopard, cheetah, spotted hyena and a notable population of African wild dogs. Thick bush can make game-viewing challenging at times, but with a good year-round road network and plentiful accommodation options, visitors are guaranteed a wealth of wildlife on any visit – including a fair selection of 365 bird species recorded here.
Adjoining Hwange are a number of smaller conservation areas, such as Deka and Matetsi, that share its basic ecology and wildlife. Adventurous travellers may also visit the remote Kazuma Pan National Park, immediately to the north, whose open plains are effectively an eastward extension of Botswana’s semi-arid Makgadikgadi Pans. The great cross-border elephant and buffalo migration also passes this way – and some of Kazuma’s wildlife, including oryx and brown hyena, reflect a Kalahari influence. This remote destination is inaccessible during the rains, when its waterlogged terrain teems with waterbirds.
North of Hwange, the land descends towards the Zambezi Valley. Here, marking the border with Zambia, southern Africa’s mightiest river flows eastwards towards the spectacular Victoria Falls, eventually plunging over the 1.7km-wide precipice in a cloud of spray known locally as Mosi oa Tunya (‘the smoke that thunders’). This is Kavango Zambezi’s greatest tourism hub, offering everything from bungee-jumping and whitewater-rafting to scenic flights and champagne cruises. But if you’ve come for the wildlife, you won’t be disappointed. There are baboons and warthogs roaming hotel grounds, hippo and crocodiles in the river and birds everywhere, including such local specials as Livingstone’s turaco and African finfoot. In Victoria Falls National Park you can explore a unique ‘rainforest’ created by the spray, and just upstream, in Zambezi National Park, you might meet elephant filing down to drink, or spot buffalo, kudu, giraffe and even the occasional lion among the riverine thickets.
East of Victoria Falls, the Zambezi continues eastwards – via a dramatic series of gorges – until it reaches Lake Kariba, an enormous man-made water body created in 1957 to supply hydroelectric power to Zimbabwe and Zambia. From a houseboat on the lake you can enjoy at leisure the hippos, crocodiles and other wildlife that frequent the shoreline. Alternatively, for rather more effort, you can head inland towards the dramatic Zambezi escarpment. Here, Chizarira National Park is a seriously off-the-beaten-track destination, promising adventurous visitors wild hiking and stirring views. Elephants and other large mammals were depleted by poaching here during the 80s and 90s but are now beginning to return, courtesy of Kavango Zambezi conservation projects. Meanwhile the rich habitat mosaic supports over 400 bird species, one-third of the Kavango Zambezi total, including such specials as taita falcon and Angola pitta.
Further east still, the rugged escarpment hills slope down to the flat fringes of the lake. Here, in Matusadona National Park, you will find plentiful elephant and buffalo grazing the shoreline, while lions stalk the floodplain and the last of the Zambezi Valley’s beleaguered black rhinos hide out in the foothillls. Surrounding safari areas, such as Chete and Charara, add additional conservation scope to this whole rich region – which is now the subject of some exciting new community-based rewilding programmes. If it’s adventure you’re after, you need look no further.
Explore Zimbabwe
Find out more about Zimbabwe
Uncover Kavango Zambezi’s Hidden Gems – Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust – Zimbabwe:
Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe
Selected Trips to Zimbabwe
Ilala Lodge
Ilala Lodge Hotel is a family-run hotel that offers luxury and comfort in the heart of Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. Nestled in attractive gardens, the well-appointed hotel is a mere eight-minute walk from Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The hotel is ideally located in the hustle and bustle of town, within walking distance of all historical sites, restaurants and activities in Victoria Falls. Offering warm and welcoming true African hospitality, our friendly and attentive staff will ensure that your visit is perfect in every way.
Destination | |
---|---|
Partners | |
Description | |
Zimbabwe |
Victoria Falls |
Zimbabwe Private Tour, Guide: Ruins + Bulawayo + Matopos + Hwange + Victoria Falls
10 NIGHTS
Explore beautiful Zimbabwe on this private tour, travelling with your own driver guide. Visit the astonishing Great Zimbabwe ruins, the city of Bulawayo and beautiful Matopos National Park, where Cecil John Rhodes is buried at World’s View, before continuing to Hwange National Park & Victoria Falls. English speaking guide, all transfers, sightseeing & game viewing included.
Destination | |
---|---|
Interest Category | |
Partners | |
Trip Budget |
Pure Africa
Pure Africa is an owner-run sustainable tourism operator in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, specialising in fully integrated service offerings ranging from premium experiences, events & incentives to destination weddings. We also offer our clients seamless destination services in and around Victoria Falls.
Destination | |
---|---|
Partners | |
Interest Category | |
Description | |
Zimbabwe |
Victoria Falls |
Sunset Cruise Zambezi Explorer
Pure Africa’s reimagined River Cruises bring a new level of sophistication to Victoria Falls, with our Sunset Cruise onboard our flagship vessel the Zambezi Explorer, the most popular offering. There are three decks onboard to choose from, the ‘Signature Deck’ on the uppermost level is pure extravagance, while the two lower ‘Luxury Decks’ offer inviting lounge seating and views through the tailored linen curtains towards the setting sun.Cruise the watery wilderness with the spray of the Victoria Falls, small river islands and lush vegetation as your backdrop. Throughout the cruise canapés and drinks are served. Into the experience, you’ll be treated to the most magical sunset – an African classic – before heading back to the Pure Africa Waterfront.
Destination | |
---|---|
Partners | |
Zimbabwe |
Victoria Falls, Zambezi NP |
Luxury Holiday: Great Zimbabwe Ruins + Matopos + Safari, Hwange + Victoria Falls
10 NIGHTS
This luxury holiday to Zimbabwe starts with a simple visit to the ancient Great Zimbabwe Ruins, then explore the rest of the country in more luxury. Stay at Camp Amalinda in the granitic Matopos Hills, where you can track rhino & view Rhodes’ grave; enjoy a Big Five safari in Hwange at Khulu Ivory Lodge; & relax at Victoria Falls Safari Club on the Zambezi. All transfers, game drives & sightseeing included.
The Eatery Dinner Experience
The Eatery Dinner Experience entices guests to enjoy al fresco dining at The Eatery at the Pure Africa Waterfront, where a delicious three-course meal is served by lantern light and enjoyed under a star-studded African sky. The Eatery Dinner Experience focuses on a carefully curated selected of African infused dishes prepared with high quality ingredients and prepared to perfection, each accompanied by your drink of choice. Perched on the banks of the river, on arrival gather around the fire-pit before following the lanterns to your table for dinner – the roar of the distant Falls, the grunting hippos and call of the fiery-necked nightjar for company.
Destination | |
---|---|
Partners | |
Zimbabwe |
Victoria Falls, Zambezi NP |
Escorted Tour: Namibia + Botswana + Etosha + Caprivi + Chobe + Victoria Falls Park
20 NIGHTS
This 3-week grand escorted tour of Namibia & Botswana visit three fascinating countries. From Windhoek, explore the deserts & canyons of the south – including the Kalahari, the mighty Fish River Canyon, Succulent Karoo & Namib Desert, before heading north to view the wildlife of Etosha, Caprivi, Chobe & Victoria Falls park in Zimbabwe. Regular scheduled departures. English & German. Group size 2-16. No children < 12.
Exclusive Wilderness Camping Safaris
Umdingi Safaris specializes in exceptional mobile camping experiences in some of Zimbabwe’s National Parks, including Hwange, Zambezi, Chizarira, and Matopos. With a commitment to excellence and a deep respect for the natural environment, Umdingi Safaris provides immersive and personalized safari adventures for Wildlife and Birding enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
- Mobile Safaris:
Experience the thrill of Exclusive Wilderness Mobile Camping with Umdingi Safaris. Our safaris allow you to get closer to nature and explore the untouched wilderness of Hwange, Zambezi, Chizarira, and Matopos National Parks. Our skilled team sets up very comfortable and well-equipped camps in breathtaking locations, providing an authentic and intimate experience of the African bush.
- Safari Packages:
Umdingi Safaris offers carefully curated safari packages that revolve around our mobile camping experiences. Each package is designed to maximize your wildlife encounters and deliver an authentic African adventure. From wildlife drives and walking safaris to campfire storytelling and stargazing, our safari packages offer a range of experiences to suit your preferences.
- Conservation Commitment:
Umdingi Safaris is dedicated to responsible tourism and actively supports wildlife conservation efforts. We collaborate with local organizations to contribute to environmental sustainability, community development, and the protection of endangered species. By choosing Umdingi Safaris, you directly contribute to the preservation of Africa’s natural heritage.
- Safety and Comfort:
Your safety and comfort are our top priorities. Umdingi Safaris adheres to strict safety protocols and employs experienced Guides who are well-versed in navigating the African wilderness. We ensure that all necessary arrangements are made for Transportation, Meals, Drinks and Medical Assistance. Rest assured; you can focus on enjoying your mobile safari experience with peace of mind.
5.Private Guiding:
Enjoy the expertise of our highly knowledgeable and experienced private guides who will accompany you throughout your mobile safari. Our guides are passionate about wildlife conservation and possess an intimate understanding of the national parks we operate in. With private guiding, you’ll receive personalized attention, tailored insights, and a deeper appreciation for the wildlife and ecosystems that make these parks so special.
Destination | |
---|---|
Partners | |
Zimbabwe |
Chizarira NP, Hwange, Hwange NP, Kazuma Pans (Zimbabwe) NP, Zambezi NP |
Dinner Cruise on Zambezi River
Our Dinner Cruise offers everything and more. Not only the magical colours of the Zambezi River at dusk but a truly unique four-course dinner served as you savour the splendour of the setting sun. Ideal for food and nature lovers wanting it all. Embark from the Pure Africa Waterfront and head off into the evening. After your favourite drink is poured, you’ll be ushered to your set table where a delectable series of dishes freshly prepared on the boat and paired to premium drinks are served. Silhouettes of elephants against the sunset and hippos noisily grunting in the distance will most certainly add to the ambience.
Destination | |
---|---|
Partners | |
Zimbabwe |
Victoria Falls, Zambezi NP |
Description |
Wild Horizons
We are the lead provider of tours and adventure activities in and around Victoria Falls.
Destination | |
---|---|
Partners | |
Description | |
Zimbabwe |
Victoria Falls |
Desert, rock art and Victoria Falls
21 DAYS
This hands-on safari, which takes you through southern Africa in 21 days, is rich in contrast, diverse and full of experiences.
Rovos Rail Luxury Train: Victoria Falls to Cape Town, South Africa
15 NIGHTS
This Rovos Rail luxury train journeys from the stunning Victoria Falls to Cape Town in South Africa. After viewing the ‘Smoke that Thunders’, embark on this ‘double journey’ that involves two incredible train trips. Highlights include a safari in Hwange Game Reserve, Voortrekker Mounument in Pretoria & Big Hole in Kimberley, before disembarking in beautiful Cape Town (Pullman, Deluxe or Royal cabin).
Destination | |
---|---|
Interest Category | |
Partners | |
Trip Budget |