To me, the perfect trip is one that is filled with life-changing cultural experiences, allows me to meet locals and international travelers, unfolds at a moderate pace (not too fast and not too slow), allows some level of flexibility, and ignites something within me that I never knew was there before.

If you agree with me about the elements of a perfect trip, then here are some tips to ensure that your future trip to Africa is all that you imagined and more:

Don’t Be Shy: In order to truly immerse yourself into the local culture, it sometimes takes stepping outside of your comfort zone. Start conversations with merchants, restaurant personnel, safari guides, and accommodation staff members. I promise you that by the end of your trip you will think that Africans are some of the most genuine and hospitable individuals you have ever met. In fact, many of our clients return home with a new appreciation for African cultures, new friends and relationships, and a warm feeling in their hearts, thanks to the locals of Africa.

Think New: You wouldn’t visit Paris to go shopping at the GAP, right? No, probably not. You’d want to visit local boutiques, art galleries, and shops that can’t be found in your homeland. This should be your same mindset when visiting Africa. The best way to absorb the various cultures and spark self growth is by trying new things, tasting new dishes, and exploring new places. The mystery of new experiences adds a thrilling element to your trip—and who knows, you might just learn something new about yourself (e.g. that you like tripe or smileys)!

Pick and Choose: Africa is a once-in-a-lifetime trip for many individuals. For these travelers, they often think that jam packing their itinerary with stuff they’ve always wanted to do is the best course of action. We have had many travelers come to us looking for a filled-to-the-brim itinerary, and often times, when they return home, they say that they wish they opted for more downtime in their itinerary.

When you’re moving fast, going from activity to activity and place to place, sometimes you miss the most beautiful and finite elements. Taking in your surroundings, enjoying the leisureliness of sundowners on your private veranda, and watching Africa slowly unfold around is you much more moving and enriching than a fast-paced itinerary. Not only can a packed itinerary cause stress, but it also results in zero flexibility with your schedule.

Therefore, when you are in the process of planning your trip, be sure to do your research and ask the advice of fellow travelers and your safari vacation agent.

Capture Moments: Some of the best ways to capture memories of your trip is by writing in a journal each night—describing what you saw and did during the day and your observations—taking photographs of the landscapes, wildlife, and people, and buying souvenirs that resonate with a specific experience you had.

How do you absorb the most culture from your travels?

Today we feature a guest interview with the African Bush Camps management team, where they describe what makes their camps unique from others in southern and eastern Africa, and what guests can experience while staying at one of African Bush Camps’ accommodations.

See below for the interview (**NOTE: All images in blog post are provided and owned by African Bush Camps):

1. African Bush Camps has five camps in various locations around Botswana and Zimbabwe. Although each camp is different, what are some constant characteristics that can be seen throughout all of the camps (i.e. superior service, design elements, etc.)

Above all, we’re focused on the experience of our guests and we pride ourselves on the really personal elements of a safari. We believe that the people at our camps are key to making a safari the most memorable and extraordinary experience. What we try to achieve at all of our camps is to create a truly inviting experience, reminiscent of ‘old untouched Africa’ while at the same time doing whatever we can to promote  responsible and sustainable tourism practices. Our hope is that through this we can conserve for the future, the wilderness and the wildlife, as well as the local cultures in the areas in which we operate

2. Briefly describe what makes each of the African Bush Camps unique.

We try and avoid a stamped and branded look and feel in the camps and each one has been designed and built with its own character right down to the furnishings and final touches. In addition, the staff at each camp has their own sense of community, which gives each one its own unique sensibility.

3. Out of all of the countries in Africa, what inspired African Bush Camps to base their accommodations in Botswana and Zimbabwe?

Our owner, Beks Ndlovu, is originally from Zimbabwe and grew up in the areas surrounding Hwange National Park, where Somalisa Camp—the first to the portfolio—was built. As a result, Beks has a particular passion to share the beauty of the country in which he was born with people from around the world. As development of the safari industry in Southern and East Africa exploded over the past decade, Zimbabwe has remained somewhat undeveloped. The lower concentrations of travelers have left the wilderness relatively untouched in terms of mass development. This, in turn, has allowed for visitors to experience the wilderness away from the crowds and the more obvious tourist routes.

There are several National Parks and protected conservancy areas that allow the wildlife to flourish and roam freely. In addition, the National Parks of Zimbabwe encompass a huge diversity of landscapes and ecosystems, each with their own unique plants and animals and stunning natural beauty—so people coming here really are spoiled for choice.

Whilst Zimbabwe is our base, you could say our second home is Botswana. Boasting its own unique appeal with vast deserts punctuated by the truly spectacular Okavango Delta and Linyanti regions, Botswana pairs perfectly with Zimbabwe. Stunning landscapes and untamed wilderness brimming with animals and birdlife, as well as their commitment and a truly holistic approach to conserving the environment and wildlife, meant that Botswana was the perfect place to combine with Zimbabwe when we decided we wanted to expand on and create an experience that would offer our guests the best that Africa has to offer.

4. How does location play a role in how travelers experience African Bush Camps?

Almost all of our camps are set within private concessions, away from the more obvious tourist stops. This allows our guests to experience an authentic, remote, and truly wild Africa. In addition, water is a significant feature at our camps with rivers, marshes, pans, and waterholes attracting game year round.

5. What types of activities does African Bush Camps offer?

Standard game activities include 4×4 game drives and walking safaris. Depending on the location, we also offer canoeing and fishing safaris, mokoro expeditions and night drives. While lots of other operators offer similar things, what we feel that what sets us apart are our guides, as it is their ability and knowledge that can turn just another game drive or walk into a revelatory and unforgettable experience.

About African Bush Camps

African Bush Camps is a small and independently owned African-based company run by one of Africa’s top Safari guides Beks Ndlovu and his wife Sophia. The company was formed as a result of the growth of Beks Safaris, where Beks used his natural talents and outstanding guiding skills to promote the concept of privately guided safaris through remote parts of Africa. Click here to read more about African Bush Camps.

Guest post written by Mark Homann, Hills of Africa Travel safari guide, safari consultant, and private safari guide

If you missed part I of this post, click here.

Or for part II, click here.

The next stop on our safari was to Victoria Falls. I always enjoy coming “home” to Zimbabwe but this time the experience was quite different. Over the last 10 years Victoria Falls has been quiet from tourism’s prospective, with most people staying on the Zambian side of the river, but not this time, I have not seen Victoria Falls so busy since the late 1990s!

The Grand Old Victoria Falls Hotel was actually full! Zambian tourism has come a long way and their product is great, but in all honesty a view of the Falls from this side just is not the same as from the Zimbabwean side. The reason for this is that The Victoria Falls go into a deep chasm and Zimbabwe’s viewing takes place from the opposite side of this gorge. We did look across to the Zambia side to see a number of people swimming at the very edge of the waterfall, call me a wimp but I just could never do this!

We spend the afternoon viewing the Falls and were treated to a number of fantastic rainbows and showers from the spray. The overall appearance of the National Park around the Falls has been updated and looks very nice, they have retained the natural thorn tree barriers with clean stone walkways.

The next morning we went for an elephant back safari, which was most enjoyable, such intelligent creatures, before heading off to Cape Town.

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Below is our list of the top five things to see and do in Zimbabwe:

Hwange National Park: As Zimbabwe’s largest and arguably Africa’s best national park, Hwange National Park is an extremely diverse wilderness where visitors often spend days in order to soak in all that this vast region has to offer. Comprised primarily of savanna, scrubland, dispersed waterholes, and woodlands, Hwange National Park is often referred to as “Noah’s Ark” for its rich biodiversity. The area is also known for its large herds of buffalo, one of the biggest populations of wild dog in Africa, 400 species of bird, and a variety of fierce predators. We suggest visiting Hwange during the months of September through November when there are large populations of roan and sable antelope, and we also recommend booking a private guide for a highly exclusive experience.

Where to stay: Little Makalolo Camp

Canoe the Mighty Zambezi: Experience the beauty of Zimbabwe from a completely unique perspective on a canoe safari down the Zambezi River where you’ll have the opportunity to witness over 380 species of bird (many of which are endemic to the area), the Big Five, crocodile, and hippos. Unlike a traditional bumpy game drive, a canoe safari is a quiet and relaxing way to soak in the beauty of nature, while witnessing the heart of an untouched wilderness. As the main source of water for residential animals, the Zambezi River attracts hundreds of various species to its shores, making a canoe safari one of the most wildlife-dense activities to take part in.

Where to stay: Ruckomechi Camp

Visit Victoria Falls: As one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Victoria Falls is a geological phenomenon. The feeling of the ground as the falls plummet into a thundering cloud of mist and the sheer sight of this 360-foot spectacle, known by locals as “The Smoke that Thunders,” is truly indescribable. With tons of exciting activities to take part in, such as white water rafting, bungee jumping, hiking excursions, and helicopter tours, you’ll never be short of memories or epic stories to tell after visiting this world-renowned site.

Where to stay: Victoria Falls Hotel

Monde Village Tour: Discover the history of Victoria Falls and the local customs and traditions on a private tour through the Monde Village. During this tour, your private guide will take you into a local village to interact with the community and take a tour of a real-life African village to experience their daily life, which has changed very little in over century. The Monde Village Tour not only provides visitors with a deep insight into a new culture, but it also introduces the locals to new and exciting cultures from around the world. The tour is also celebrated for its inclusion of the local people in a real and beneficial manner. The Monde Community is a shareholder in the tour and the guides are local villagers.

Where to stay: Victoria Falls Hotel

Lake Kariba: Created by damming the Zambezi River, Lake Kariba is a vibrant sanctuary where fish eagles wild dog, elephant, lion, black rhino, and leopard find refuge. Best known for its game drives, fishing safaris, and canoe safaris, Lake Kariba offers nature-enthusiasts a unique perspective on the areas biodiversity and contrasting eco-systems. The area is also celebrated for its exceptional birding safaris where you can observe indigenous species such as the western banded snake-eagle, Lilian’s lovebird, African golden oriole, carmine bee-eater, Pel’s fishing-owl, and much more.

Where to stay: Bumi Hills Safari Lodge

What would you love to see or do in Zimbabwe?

Image to the left taken from the Chishakwe website.

If you’re looking for a completely exclusive and customized experience in the African bush, than look no further than Chishakwe. Located in the secluded Save Valley Conservancy of Zimbabwe’s South East Lowveld, visitors to this remote area receive private access to the area’s unspoiled wilderness.

Although there are many camps that offer private access to various natural territories of Africa, Chishakwe is unique in the sense that it offers visitors the opportunity to take part in special interest workshops and lend a hand in conservation efforts.

Situated on the Msaize River, Chishakwe Camp boasts tranquil views of sprawling plains and lush grasslands. With five luxurious thatched chalets, all featuring their own en suite facilities and private balcony, Chishakwe Camp offers visitors the ultimate in comfort and convenience. To ensure that guests enjoy a completely customized experience with superior service, the camp can only be booked by one party at any given time.

Image taken by one of our clients, Gary Harwyn.

Beginning in 1986, the area where The Save Valley Conservancy now lies was enjoying its first transformational steps into a conserved territory. Black rhino were the first to be introduced to the area, in the hopes of protecting them from the devastating effects of poaching and other detrimental human influences. But it wasn’t until 1991 that The Save Valley Conservancy was officially established. For more than 21 years, wildlife has been introduced into The Save Valley Conservancy, which is now known as one of Africa’s leading conservation-designated areas.

Visitors to Chishakwe have a variety of activities to choose from, many of which can be tailored to fit their exact needs. Some of the most common ways to enjoy the area include animal tracking on foot, horseback riding, and game drives (both day and night game drives are offered). Guests can also enjoy canoeing safaris to witness crocodiles and other river-dwelling species, as well as fish for bass and bream.

Guests can also enjoy a relaxing morning or afternoon in one of the area’s hides to witness animals at a close range, learn about the biodiversity of the land, and enjoy a quiet experience with nature.

Although Chishakwe’s wildlife-related activities are highly rewarding, their conservation projects bring a new insight into African life—and not just African wildlife, but also the people of Africa. Visitors to Chishakwe can visit nearby villages to lend a hand in the Chishakwe Community Project, while discovering the rich culture of the area.

The Chishakwe Crafts Project is another conservation program that encourages sustainable crafting and gives locals a source of income. Travelers can purchase mats and baskets woven from Sisal, cotton tableware, handmade clay pots, as well as handmade paper.

The third project of Chishakwe is wildlife research and conservation. Visitors may also take part in this project, offering research assistance while discovering effective wildlife conservation techniques.

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Image taken from http://thehide.com/activities.html

I recently had the pleasure of planning an African safari honeymoon for a couple, Tanny and June from New York who were kind enough to share some of their experiences with us, and in turn, with you.

Tanny and June spent the beginning of their trip at The Hide in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe where they enjoyed morning game drives, spectacular cuisine, night game drives and more. On these safari tours, they witnessed everything from martial eagles to spotted hyenas, ostriches to mongoose, hippos to Burchell’s zebras, warthogs to giraffes, and wildebeest to elephants.

The Hide offers an intimate setting, with just 10 luxury suites overlooking a larger waterhole that is frequented by resident wildlife. When you’re not on safari, enjoy a siesta beneath your verandah or lounge by the pool with a book.

For dinner, The Hide offers exceptional cuisine and dining experiences that vary from day to day. Tanny describes a dinner at The Hide below:

“Each evening the camp is called to dinner by the beating of long drums. Dinner is also served around the big dining table which is great as everyone can talk and share their stories from the day. The food is served buffet style with the ladies getting to go first. The chef there is amazing, and we feasted on excellent meals each night. Our favorite dish probably being a pork roast cooked over an open fire. Learning that we liked spicy food, the chef made a great sauce for us from chilis he was growing behind his tent.”

During their time at The Hide, Tanny and June stayed in a luxury tent, which Tanny referred to as “Glamping” (Glamorous camping as opposed to the traditional form of camping).

Image taken from http://thehide.com/accommodation.html

Get an insiders look into a luxury tent through video at The Hide when you visit their website.

To view more videos and pictures from Tanny and June’s honeymoon, you may view their website here (which they were so kind to share with us).

We also had the opportunity to ask Tanny a few questions about his experience working with us. Here’s what he had to say:

What were your greatest interests / challenges / obstacles that brought you to Africa?

We chose Africa for our trip looking for an adventurous trip full of new experiences that would also allow us to have a bit of luxury and romance for our honeymoon.

What was the experience while traveling and working with Hills of Africa Travel?

Hills of Africa Travel was a delight to work with. With the hectic schedule of wedding planning it was nice to leave the majority of our trip execution to HOA. We had a conference call with HOA at the beginning of the planning stage to let them know our personality and desires for the trip. They presented us with several options which they helped us refine over several iterations to the perfect honeymoon. Even with us being in different states (and countries at times) HOA proved to be very adept at email and electronic communication and were always available to answer any questions we had.

What has changed for you since your travels?

Since our journey we have gained a greater appreciation for Africa and a longing to go back.

Why did you decide to book with Hills of Africa Travel over other companies?

We very rarely use travel agents, being well traveled we typically plan our own travel. However, certain areas of the world require someone with regional expertise and through several personal referrals we were directed to HOA.  We have not regretted any part of working with HOA travel.

Have a question about creating the ultimate African honeymoon? Ask us in our comments section.

Guest post by Mark Homann, professional safari guide

In the early 1990s I guided out of a National Park known as Chizarira in Northern Zimbabwe. The park is dominated by the Zambezi escarpment that takes up its Northern border. It is by no means a well-known wilderness; not then and certainly not now, but it is very beautiful, unique, and wild. It was with this in mind that I guided a group of clients back here in 2009. I have shared many safaris with this particular group so I knew that they would appreciate this majestic place for what it was.

We had a great safari there. The park was in good shape considering that it has seen less than a handful of tourist in the last decade. The animals were there, but not in the massive numbers as I saw in the early 90s. But we did get to walk up on a large herd of buffalo and two elephant bulls.

Two things make this area so special. One is the people. They are known as the Tonga people. They were moved, after some resistance, from the flood plains of the Zambezi River when Lake Kariba was built, to the foot hills of the escarpment where they live today.  We went to visit an old friend and chief of this area who goes by the name of Judas. He showed us great hospitality and showed us around his village and introduced his family (which has grown to 4 wives and a number of kids in the 20 years since I called his valley home).  Life is not easy for these people as they live in one of Africa’s harsher environments—the Zambezi valley is very hot and not very fertile (except by the river, which the Tonga people used as their main source of food and income).

They also began struggling with the complete collapse of their tourism-based wildlife economy thanks to the onslaught of bad press Zimbabwe has had since 2000 (it’s worth mentioning that the last time a foreign tourist was hurt in Zimbabwe from politically motivated violence was back in the early 1980s!). Today the Tonga people make a living growing millet (which is regularly eaten by elephant) and some vegetables grown on the sides of the spring lines coming out of the escarpment. They are as proud and tough as ever and it’s easy to feel that the Tonga people could outlive us all.

The other aspect to this area is the Zambezi escarpment itself. As a young guide I spent many hours walking through this wild terrain. Made up of very old sandstone and lifted by tectonic movement, the area is awash with natural spring lines, rugged cliff faces, and deep river gorges that cut deep down into the sandstone, creating a wilderness of valleys and gorges. Elephants have negotiated paths through these steep hills that are thousands of years old (their feet have worn paths into the rock itself). I more than once saw a whole herd of elephant 900 feet above us feeding on the steep sides of river gorges in places where we would not tread without safety harnesses.

So Chizarira may not be the ideal place for a safari for the average person, but it is one of the finest wilderness areas for dedicated wilderness explorers.

Elephant trail in the sandstone.

White Rhino and Giraffe

Not convinced to visit Zimbabwe yet? Get a taste for your Zimbabwe family vacation or group vacation from the sample itinerary below. But keep in mind, this itinerary showcases just a few activities and accommodations in Zimbabwe. There are dozens of accommodations and hundreds of varying activities to choose from in Zimbabwe. This sample itinerary in particular is for the adventurous traveler.

Below is a sample itinerary for an adventure-seeking family or group:

Day 1: An Exciting Arrival

Arrive at the Johannesburg International Airport, where you will take a short connecting flight to beautiful Harare. Upon your arrival, you will be warmly greeted by a guide from African Bushcamps. You will then be escorted to African Bushcamps’ intimate Vundu Camp in the majestic Mana Pools. Here, sprawling waterways burst with wildlife and over 380 species of indigenous birds speckle the river banks.

As you retire to your spacious walk-in-tent and nestle into your plushy bed, you’ll feel the charm of Africa come to life as the soft sounds of nature put you to sleep.

In the morning, experience traditional hot bucket water showers, and get ready for the exciting day ahead in your personal en-suite facilities. As you take your first step outside your walk-in tent, you’ll be delighted at the sight of elephants sipping from the Zambezi River, and herons sitting peacefully in the cast of the rising morning sun.

Day 2 – 4: Close Encounters

On your second day in Zimbabwe, you will partake in the journey of lifetime through the heart of the Mana Pools on Wilderness-Safaris’ 3-day Mana Canoe Trail. During your first day aboard your two person canoe, you’ll see hippos, elephants, crocodiles, and other shore dwelling animals and birds at an amazingly close proximity.

Each day, you will experience a full day of canoeing safaris, and walking safaris through the lush wilderness of the Mana Pools, and experience a completely new and stimulating side to nature you’ve never seen before.

At night, you will stay in full-serviced dome tented camps and awake to another day of exciting activities and magnificent sights.

The Hide Safari Camp, Zimbabwe

Day 5: “Hiding” in the Bush

After an exciting Mana Canoe Trail experience, you will take an aircraft to your next destination, Hwange National Park. Upon your arrival to the Hwange Airstrip, you will be greeted by a guide from The Hide, a lodge located in one of Hwange’s most wildlife-rich locations. You will then take an hour and a half game drive through the Park, where you will then reach The Hide.

The Hide provides guests with furnished tents—which are built for luxury, not mobility—that exude the essence of the area’s natural surroundings. Each tent provides guests with their own en-suite bathroom for convenience and privacy.

During your stay at The Hide, you’ll partake in an assortment of fantastic safaris including night drives, day drives, and walking safaris in the bush. When you are not on a safari tour, but still feel the urge to get up-close to the wildlife of Zimbabwe, visit one of The Hide’s two concealed “hides” located on either side of The Hide’s waterhole. Here, you can see elephants and other large game at a remarkably close proximity with the security of the hide.

At the end of your stay at The Hide, you will clearly understand why The Hide has coined the phrase: “You’ll arrive as a stranger and leave as a friend.”

Day 9: The Rumbling Falls

Today, you will journey to one of the world’s seven natural wonders where you will experience an explosive energy you’ve never felt before. This riveting wonder is none other than Victoria Falls.

But, before you can arrive at Victoria Falls, you must take two-hour road transfer with a Hills of Africa guide to your next accommodations, the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge.

Located on an exclusive, natural plateau overlooking The Zambezi River, the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge offers a panoramic view of an on-site waterhole, sprawling grasslands, and lush treetops. During your stay, you’ll have the ability to sharpen your photography skills as you witness residential wildlife flock to the waterhole for a morning drink.

As night falls, watch as the sun melts behind the horizon while enjoying a five-star dining experience at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge’s relaxing outdoor dining area.

Day 10: The Grand Finale

Your adventure in Africa is by no means over yet! Today, you will experience a once-in-a-lifetime, private elephant back safari at The Elephant Wallow. After your personal guide takes you through the expansive and wildlife-rich landscape of The Zambezi River area, you’ll embark on your next journey, the Tour of the Falls. Here, you’ll witness Victoria Falls up-close and immediately understand why it is categorized as one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

After your Tour of the Falls, you will embark on your next adventure—a favorite among travelers to the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge—where you will walk with the lions.

On this activity, you will visit with lion cubs at an ongoing research project, which is a captive breeding program to safeguard the genetic diversity of Africa’s greatest carnivore. The adult lions have been rescued from all parts of the world and were never introduced to the wild. They are treated and introduced to their new dwelling and once established, the adult lions are bred. Then, the cubs are reared and introduced to the wild, and will one day be fully released. Part of the re-introduction is walking in the bush, on a daily basis. On this activity you will join a professional guide in the national park, while he walks with his cubs. A truly exciting and rewarding experience to take part in!

The day isn’t over yet.

As the evening approaches, you will experience a traditional African nighttime experience with food, music, and plenty of dancing.

Day 11: The Journey Will Continue Once Again

You will arrive home and eagerly book your trip to Africa for next year!

Did you find this post helpful? If so, let us know in our comments section.

Photo from Fitnesssafaris.com

Considered one of Africa’s deadliest snakes, the gaboon viper is one of three vipers in the African giant viper group—the other two of the group include the puff adder and the rhinoceros viper. 

As a native to Chimanimani, Zimbabwe, I’ve seen many of these gorgeous, yet frightening snakes throughout my years growing up in the region. These snakes are also primarily found throughout central Africa in the dense rain forests.

Weighing in at an average of 18 lbs., and growing up to 7 ft. in length, you would think these snakes would be obvious to spot. They’re not. Their ability to mesh in with the surroundings often makes this deadly snake an unseen predator.

Interesting facts:

• Equipped with some of the largest fangs of any snake, the gaboon viper’s fangs can grow up to 2 in. in length.
• The gaboon viper’s brown, triangle-shaped head has a shocking resemblance to a fallen leaf, which allows it to blend perfectly into the rainforest floor. In addition to its head, the gaboon viper’s body is thick and comprised of colorful geometric shapes and hues including brown, black, white, purple, and pink.
• The gaboon is a nocturnal ambush predator that waits patiently beneath leaves in the dark for the perfect time to strike its unsuspecting prey. Although they only hunt at night, the gaboon can attack at any time of the day if threatened—often, if a human is attacked it’s because they stepped on a sleeping gaboon. 
• Other names the gaboon viper goes by include the butterfly adder, swampjack, and forest puff adder.
• The gaboon viper gives birth live—an average of 20 offspring at a time. 
• Gaboon vipers are usually calm and only attack when agitated.  
•  When going in for the kill, the gaboon viper waits completely still and very patiently for their prey. These reptiles will eat smaller animals such as mice, rats, frogs, and birds, but have also been known to eat much larger prey if they can handle it. Their venom is deadly and is injected to kill.

Known for its wonderful game-viewing, captivating scenery, and mesmerizing soul, Zimbabwe is one of Africa’s greatest unspoiled terrains. Zimbabwe is home to some of Africa’s most breath-taking parks and adventure sites including Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, Kariba, Mana Pools National Park, and Matobo National Park.  Known for its many luxurious accommodations, picturesque scenery, and deep cultural heritage, Zimbabwe is the perfect place to enjoy an African family safari or honeymoon safari.

Top 5 reasons why you should take an African safari vacation in Zimbabwe:

Spectacular game-viewing: Zimbabwe is one of Africa’s most popular places to observe the Big Five up-close. Zimbabwe is the perfect place to enjoy a variety of safari excursions, such as the traditional vehicle safari, and canoe safaris. An African canoe safari boasts a fresh perspective on animal behavior. The rivers and water holes provide a place for animals drink, bath, and play. Watch a hippo charge into the water, a sly crocodile bask on a rock, or a baby elephant play with his mother. In addition to observing animals behaving in a different environment, a canoe safari boasts a large variety of birds and water-dwelling animals, which cannot be seen on any other type of safari. A canoe safari is so smooth you can even hold a cocktail while enjoying the surrounding wildlife and grandiose beauty. At the southern bank of the Zambezi River in Zimbabwe lies the Mana Pools National Park. Famous for its plentiful wildlife, majestic scenery, and unspoiled terrain, this Park is often referred to as Zimbabwe’s Wildlife Riviera. The river is an excellent magnet for a spectrum of wildlife, making a canoe safari a must.

The opportunity to walk with the lions: Not too long ago, over 250,000 lions roamed the African continent. Today, there are only about 20,000 and the numbers are continuing to decrease. Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe offers adventurists the rare opportunity to walk through the bush with up to three lion cubs for a period of 90 minutes. If you’re daring enough, you will have a once in a lifetime opportunity to learn about the lion’s behavior and social habits. There is no danger on the lion walk. It is an extremely safe activity and is supervised and managed by an experienced and qualified team who has been working with lions for over 20 years. The lions that you will be walking with range in age from three to sixteen months-old.

The unspoiled wilderness in Hwange National Park: The Park resembles what much of the interior of Africa was like more than 150 years ago, and is arguably Africa’s greatest wilderness haven. The park has been set aside solely to conserve wildlife in its natural habitat. Almost all of Zimbabwe’s specially protected animals are to be found in Hwange. It’s the only protected area where gemsbok and brown hyena can be found in reasonable numbers. The population of wild dog found in Hwange is thought to be the largest surviving in Africa today. With over 100 different species of animal and 400 species of bird, Hwange National Park is a must-visit destination for those looking to enjoy an African family safari or a honeymoon safari.

The “Adrenalin Capital of the World”: Experience what it must have been like for David Livingstone to discover Victoria Falls over 100 years ago. As one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Victoria Falls has the largest curtain of falling water on earth—more than twice the size of Niagara Falls. This incredible natural phenomenon is known locally as Mosi oa Tunya, or “The Smoke that Thunders.” It’s the “Adrenalin Capital of the World” with activities to blow you away, such as white water rafting, bungee jumping, elephant-back riding, abseiling, and gorge swinging. For those looking for more relaxing activities, enjoy a sunset cruise along the Upper Zambezi River, visit a local village, or shop for locally made crafts at the traditional craft markets. Whatever your mood, Victoria Falls will satisfy.

The Luxurious Accommodations: Boasting a wide spectrum of places to stay, including lodges, hotels, and camps, Zimbabwe offers high-end accommodations for those looking to enjoy authentic Zimbabwe safari tours with an essence of luxury. One of  Zimbabwe’s most highly-acclaimed lodge’s, Singita’s Pamushana Lodge in the Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve, was included in the prestigious Condé Nast Traveler annual “Hot List” for 2009.  In addition to the spectacular Singita’s Pamushana Lodge, The Hide is another amazing place to soak in the rich natural surroundings of the African plains. Celebrated for its joyful staff, friendly atmosphere, prime location, and marvelous accommodations, The Hide is one of the few lodges directly situated in Hwange National Park, and is the perfect place to stay on a Zimbabwe safari trip. The Victoria Falls Safari Lodge is another excellent place to stay, famous for its picturesque views, exhilarating activities, and ideal location in the unspoiled wilderness.

Explore unspoiled territory as you venture to Zimbabwe on an African family safari or honeymoon safari. You’ll be captivated by the abundance of wildlife, lush scenery, and blissful atmosphere. Let Hills of Africa Travel make your African safari dreams come true. Contact us today at (877) 845-4802 and experience an authentic African safari trip of a lifetime.