Hwange National Park: Best Time to Visit & 2027 Safari Costs

Visit Hwange National Park June–October for peak wildlife viewing. 2027 safari costs start at €1,724 for 6 days. Book verified operators on SafariFind.

Visit Hwange National Park June–October for peak wildlife viewing. 2027 safari costs start at €1,724 for 6 days. Book verified operators on SafariFind.

Discover Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary Safari Packages 2027: Prices & Booking. Expert guide from SafariFind.

Burundi protects 7.59% of its land through 3 national parks, 7 nature reserves, and 2 nature monuments. Kibira National Park—a 40,000-hectare Albertine Rift rainforest—leads a renaissance in peace-linked conservation, ranger deployment, and community-based protection, though illegal farming, deforestation, and underfunding remain critical threats.
Last updated: August 2026
Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe is best visited from June to October when wildlife congregates around waterholes. Entry fees cost $20 per day for international visitors in 2027. A 6-day safari starts from €1,724 per person. Book through verified operators on SafariFind to compare packages and read authentic traveler reviews.
Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe's largest and most visited national park, covering 14,651 square kilometers of diverse landscape. It sits in northwestern Zimbabwe, just two hours from Victoria Falls, making it easy to combine with other attractions. The park features open plains, forests, and seasonal wetlands that support one of Africa's largest elephant populations.
The park is known for its massive elephant herds, with populations exceeding 45,000 animals. You'll also encounter lions, African buffalo, wild dogs, and over 450 bird species. Hwange offers a raw, authentic safari experience without the crowds you find in other African parks. Visitors range from budget backpackers to luxury travelers, and the park accommodates both.
Hwange National Park operates year-round, but the dry season (June to October) delivers the best wildlife viewing. During these months, animals concentrate around permanent waterholes, creating incredible game-viewing opportunities. The park's accessibility and affordability make it ideal for first-time safari travelers and families.
Hwange National Park offers authentic African safari experiences at a fraction of the cost of Botswana or Kenya. The park's sheer size—14,651 square kilometers—means you escape the tourist circuits while still seeing world-class wildlife. Combining a Hwange safari with Zimbabwe Safari Cost 2027: What a Trip Really Costs planning helps you maximize value.
The park's location near Victoria Falls creates a natural two-destination itinerary. Many travelers spend 4–5 days in Hwange, then visit the falls for 1–2 days. This combination delivers diverse experiences—wildlife, adventure, and natural wonders—in a single trip. SafariFind helps you find verified operators offering these combined packages.
The best time to visit Hwange National Park is June to October, during the African dry season. Temperatures stay warm during the day but cool at night. Wildlife congregates around permanent waterholes, creating predictable, excellent game viewing. This six-month window is ideal for photographers and first-time safari travelers.[1]
June to October is peak safari season in Hwange. Temperatures range from 15°C to 28°C (59°F to 82°F) during the day, dropping to 5°C–10°C (41°F–50°F) at night. You'll need warm layers for early morning game drives. Rain is virtually nonexistent during these months.
Wildlife viewing peaks from August to October when water sources dry up across the park. Animals concentrate at remaining waterholes, creating dramatic encounters. You might see 20+ elephants at a single waterhole. Lion sightings increase as predators hunt thirsty prey. Wild dogs are most active during this period.
Accommodation fills quickly during June to August, so book 3–6 months in advance to secure lodges and get better rates. September and October are slightly quieter but still offer excellent wildlife viewing. These months also bring slightly cheaper rates as peak season ends.
November to May is the green season, with scattered rainfall and lush vegetation. Temperatures range from 20°C to 35°C (68°F to 95°F), with high humidity. Wildlife disperses across the park, making sightings less predictable. However, this season brings massive advantages for specific travelers.
Birdwatchers should visit November to April. Over 250 bird species migrate south, creating incredible birding opportunities. The landscape is vibrant green, making for stunning photographs. Accommodation costs drop 30–50% compared to peak season, and you'll encounter fewer tourists.
The green season suits budget travelers, birdwatchers, and photographers who don't mind variable wildlife viewing. December and January are hottest and wettest, so avoid these months if possible. February to April offer the best balance—lower prices, good bird activity, and manageable heat.
Hwange National Park's wildlife patterns follow rainfall and water availability. During dry season (June to October), animals must visit waterholes daily. This concentration creates reliable game viewing. Elephants are most visible during August to October when they travel between distant water sources.
Lion activity peaks during dry season as prey animals gather at waterholes. Wild dogs hunt more successfully during this period. Predator sightings—lions, leopards, hyenas—increase significantly from August to October. If big cat encounters are your priority, visit during these months.
The green season disperses wildlife but brings migratory birds. Warthogs, zebras, and antelopes spread across the park. Elephant sightings decrease but are still common. The park remains worth visiting year-round, but your experience depends on your priorities and budget.
Explore Hwange National Park Safari Packages 2027: Entry Fees & Costs to compare seasonal pricing and availability.
Hwange National Park safari costs vary by accommodation level, group size, and season. Entry fees are $20 per day for international visitors in 2027.[3] A 6-day safari package starts from €1,724 per person. Luxury lodges cost $300–$900 per person per night.[4] Budget camps and basic lodges range from $50–$150 per night.
Park entry fees in 2027 are straightforward and affordable.[3] International visitors pay $20 per adult per day. SADC (Southern African Development Community) residents pay $15 per day. Zimbabwean residents pay $10 per day. Zimbabwean citizens pay $5 per day. Children under 12 typically receive 50% discounts at some lodges and entry points.
Entry fees are paid at the park gate upon arrival or through your lodge. Most tour operators include entry fees in their package prices. Always confirm what's included before booking. Some budget packages exclude entry fees, so clarify this during quote requests on SafariFind.
Budget safari camps cost $50–$150 per person per night.[4] These offer basic comfort—shared or private rooms, simple meals, and guided game drives. Budget camps cluster around waterholes in the northern sector. They provide excellent value and attract backpackers and families.
Mid-range lodges cost $150–$300 per person per night. These offer comfortable private rooms, quality meals, and experienced guides. Mid-range lodges balance comfort and affordability. Many families and couples choose this tier.
Luxury lodges cost $300–$900 per person per night.[4] These offer premium amenities—spacious suites, fine dining, premium game drives, and personalized service. Luxury lodges provide the best safari experience but require larger budgets. Most luxury properties are located in the prime northern sector near major waterholes.
A 6-day Hwange safari package costs approximately €1,724 per person as of 2027.[5] This typically includes accommodation, meals, game drives, park entry, and transfers from Victoria Falls. Some packages exclude flights, transfers, or travel insurance—always confirm what's included.
An 8-day Zimbabwe safari combining Hwange and other destinations costs from $4,768 per person.[6] This longer itinerary includes Hwange plus visits to other national parks or attractions. Eight-day packages offer better value per day and more diverse experiences.
| Package Type | Duration | Cost per Person | Includes | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budget Safari | 6 days | €1,724–€2,500 | Basic lodge, meals, game drives, entry | Budget travelers, backpackers |
| Mid-Range Safari | 6 days | €2,500–€4,000 | Comfortable lodge, quality meals, 2 drives daily | Families, couples, first-timers |
| Luxury Safari | 6 days | €4,000–€7,000+ | Premium lodge, fine dining, private guide | Luxury seekers, photographers |
| Extended Itinerary | 8 days | $4,768–$8,000 | Multiple parks, diverse experiences | Travelers wanting variety |
Book 3–6 months in advance to save 15–20% on peak season rates. Last-minute bookings during green season (November to April) offer significant discounts. Travel in September or October instead of June to August for lower prices and fewer crowds.
Group bookings receive discounts—larger groups negotiate better rates. Self-drive options are cheaper than guided tours but require 4x4 vehicles and experience. Combine Hwange with nearby Kazuma Pan National Park for package deals. Use SafariFind to compare quotes from multiple verified operators and identify the best value.
Hwange National Park is located 2 hours from Victoria Falls, making it highly accessible. Most travelers fly to Victoria Falls airport, then transfer to Hwange. The nearest major international airport is Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport in South Africa, about 5 hours from Hwange. Alternative entry points include Beitbridge border crossing from South Africa.
Most international travelers fly to Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA). From there, it's a 2-hour transfer to Hwange lodges. Some operators arrange small charter flights directly to Hwange airstrips, which saves 2 hours but costs more. Check with your lodge about charter flight options.
Alternative: Fly to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport in South Africa. From there, it's a 5-hour drive to Hwange. This route works if you're combining South African parks with Hwange.
Most lodges include transfers from Victoria Falls as part of their packages. The 2-hour drive is scenic and sometimes offers wildlife sightings. Some travelers self-drive using rental 4x4 vehicles, but this requires experience on rough roads and is not recommended for first-timers.
Alternative access: Beitbridge border crossing connects South Africa to Zimbabwe. From there, it's about 5–6 hours to Hwange. This route suits travelers combining Kruger National Park with Hwange.
Road Scholar offers a unique train adventure along Hwange's eastern side, with off-train game drives included.[2] This option combines transportation with safari experiences and appeals to travelers seeking something different.
Most international visitors receive a 30-day tourist visa on arrival in Zimbabwe. Ensure your passport is valid for 6+ months. Some nationalities need pre-arranged visas—check with the Zimbabwean embassy. South African and Botswanan citizens typically enter visa-free for short stays.
A typical Hwange safari day starts before sunrise with a 5:30 AM game drive. Your guide drives slowly through the park, spotting wildlife and sharing knowledge. Morning drives last 3–4 hours, returning by 9:30 AM for breakfast. Afternoon drives start at 3:00 PM and continue until sunset around 6:00 PM.
Most lodges offer twice-daily game drives during peak season. Budget camps might offer once-daily drives. Walking safaris are available at some lodges, providing intimate wildlife encounters. Night drives (where permitted) reveal nocturnal animals like hyenas, porcupines, and occasionally leopards.
Your guide determines drive routes based on recent sightings and animal behavior. Guides are typically Zimbabwean nationals with deep knowledge of the park. Professional guides are excellent—they spot distant animals and share fascinating wildlife facts. Tipping guides $5–$10 per day is customary and appreciated.
Hwange National Park hosts 110+ mammal species and 450+ bird species.[1] The park is famous for its massive elephant herds—over 45,000 animals. You'll see elephants during almost every game drive, especially near waterholes during dry season.
Lions are common, particularly in the northern sector. You might see prides hunting or resting. African buffalo congregate in large herds near water. Leopards are present but elusive—sightings require luck and patience. Giraffes, zebras, warthogs, and antelopes are abundant.
Wild dogs are Hwange's special attraction—the park protects one of Africa's largest wild dog populations. Sightings are most likely June to October. Hyenas, jackals, and smaller predators round out the carnivore roster. Birdwatchers find eagles, crowned cranes, and countless smaller species.
Bring binoculars, a good camera, and a field guide. Wear neutral-colored clothing—avoid bright colors that startle animals. Early mornings and late afternoons are best for photography due to soft light. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.
Respect wildlife—stay in your vehicle during game drives. Never feed animals or leave the vehicle without permission. Listen to your guide's safety instructions. Bring a light jacket for early morning and evening drives, even during warm months.
Physical fitness matters—game drives involve sitting for 3–4 hours. Some lodges offer walking safaris, which require moderate fitness. Most accommodations are accessible for people with mobility limitations, but confirm with your lodge in advance.
Follow a detailed 5-Day Hwange National Park Safari Itinerary 2027 for day-by-day planning and cost breakdowns.
Hwange National Park sits perfectly positioned to combine with Victoria Falls, just 2 hours away. Most travelers spend 4–5 days in Hwange, then 1–2 days at the falls. This combination delivers both wildlife and natural wonder experiences in a single trip.
Other nearby attractions include Kazuma Pan National Park, known for its elephant herds and remote wilderness. The Ngamo Plains offer scenic walking safaris. Longer itineraries can include Chinhoyi Caves or Matobo National Park.
Victoria Falls is one of the world's Seven Natural Wonders, located just 2 hours from Hwange. The falls are 1,708 meters wide and drop 108 meters. Activities include viewing the falls, helicopter tours, white-water rafting, and zip-lining.
A typical 7-day itinerary includes 4–5 days in Hwange and 2–3 days at Victoria Falls. This balance gives excellent wildlife viewing plus the iconic falls experience. Most operators offer combined packages at better rates than booking separately.
Combining Hwange and Victoria Falls creates a complete Zimbabwe experience. You see Africa's wildlife and one of its natural wonders. This combination appeals to families, first-time safari travelers, and adventure seekers. SafariFind offers combined Hwange-Victoria Falls packages from multiple verified operators.
An 8-day Zimbabwe safari might include Hwange, Victoria Falls, and Great Zimbabwe National Monument or Matobo National Park. Extended itineraries cost $4,768–$8,000 per person but offer diverse experiences.
Read 7-Day Zimbabwe Safari Itinerary 2027: Daily Route & Cost for detailed planning and pricing information.
Hwange offers accommodation across all budget levels. Budget camps ($50–$150/night) provide basic comfort and value. Mid-range lodges ($150–$300/night) balance comfort and price. Luxury lodges ($300–$900/night) deliver premium experiences. Most accommodations cluster in the northern sector near prime waterholes.
Many lodges include twice-daily game drives, meals, and park entry in their rates. Confirm what's included before booking. Some budget camps offer basic amenities—no hot water or electricity—which reduces costs significantly. Luxury properties feature air conditioning, fine dining, and personalized service.
Browse Best Safari Lodges in Hwange National Park 2027: Luxury vs Budget for detailed reviews and comparisons of specific properties.
Book directly with lodges or through verified tour operators. SafariFind connects you with verified operators offering Hwange packages. Compare quotes from multiple operators to find the best value. Always read authentic traveler reviews before committing.
Peak season (June to August) books 3–6 months in advance. Green season (November to April) offers last-minute availability and discounts. Request quotes that clearly specify what's included—accommodation, meals, game drives, entry fees, transfers, and insurance.
SafariFind helps you compare Hwange packages side-by-side, read verified reviews, and request quotes from multiple operators. This transparent marketplace approach saves you time and money while ensuring quality experiences.
June to October is the best time to visit Hwange National Park. During these dry months, animals concentrate around permanent waterholes, creating excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Temperatures are warm during the day (15°C–28°C) but cool at night. This six-month window is ideal for photographers and first-time safari travelers.[1]
A 6-day Hwange safari costs approximately €1,724 per person in 2027.[5] Park entry fees are $20 per day for international visitors.[3] Lodges range from $50–$900 per person per night depending on comfort level. Budget safaris start around €1,724, while luxury packages exceed €7,000. Most prices include accommodation, meals, game drives, and park entry.
Hwange hosts 110+ mammal species and 450+ bird species.[1] The park is famous for massive elephant herds exceeding 45,000 animals. You'll also see lions, African buffalo, wild dogs, leopards, giraffes, zebras, and warthogs. Birdwatchers find eagles, crowned cranes, and countless smaller species. Wildlife sightings are most reliable June to October during the dry season.
Hwange National Park is located 2 hours from Victoria Falls. Most travelers fly to Victoria Falls International Airport, then transfer to Hwange lodges. The scenic 2-hour drive sometimes offers wildlife sightings. Combining Hwange (4–5 days) with Victoria Falls (1–2 days) creates a complete Zimbabwe experience covering wildlife and natural wonders.
Most international visitors receive a 30-day tourist visa on arrival in Zimbabwe. Ensure your passport is valid for 6+ months beyond your travel dates. Some nationalities need pre-arranged visas—check with the Zimbabwean embassy before traveling. South African and Botswanan citizens typically enter visa-free for short stays.
Pack binoculars, a good camera, and neutral-colored clothing to avoid startling animals. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. Include a light jacket for early morning and evening drives when temperatures drop. Field guides help identify birds and animals. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. For green season visits, pack rain gear and insect repellent.
Book through verified tour operators on SafariFind to compare packages, prices, and authentic traveler reviews. Request quotes that specify included amenities—accommodation, meals, game drives, entry fees, and transfers. Peak season (June to August) requires 3–6 months advance booking. Green season offers last-minute availability and discounts. SafariFind's transparent marketplace helps you find the best value from trusted operators.
Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe's premier safari destination, offering world-class wildlife viewing at affordable prices. The park's best time to visit is June to October when animals concentrate at waterholes, creating predictable, excellent game viewing. Entry fees are just $20 per day for international visitors in 2027, and complete safari packages start from €1,724 for 6 days. The park's proximity to Victoria Falls—just 2 hours away—makes combining both attractions straightforward and rewarding.
Whether you're a budget backpacker, family, or luxury traveler, Hwange accommodates all budgets and preferences. Booking 3–6 months in advance during peak season saves 15–20% and secures your preferred lodge. Green season visits (November to April) offer lower prices and excellent birdwatching, though wildlife viewing is less predictable.
Start planning your 2027 Hwange safari today. Compare verified operator packages on SafariFind, read authentic traveler reviews, and request quotes from multiple tour companies. SafariFind's transparent marketplace helps you find the perfect safari experience at the right price. Your African adventure awaits—book with confidence through verified operators who deliver exceptional experiences.
These recommendations use real data from SafariFind, where you can compare operators, browse packages, and read verified traveler reviews before you book.
Escape To Adventure Safaris - Zimbabwe • 228 reviews • Verified operator
Cultural Vibes Travel & tours - Zimbabwe • 158 reviews • Verified operator
Victoria Falls Serious Fun Travel - Zimbabwe • Verified operator
CUSTOMISE TRAVEL & TOURS - Zimbabwe • Verified operator
13-Day Zimbabwe Explorer Safari • $5,650 • 13 days • by Cultural Vibes Travel & tours

by Cultural Vibes Travel & tours • 13 Days
4-Day Hide Safari Lodge Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe • $3,950 • 4 days • by Cultural Vibes Travel & tours

by Cultural Vibes Travel & tours • 4 Days
3-Day Safari Tour Staying at Robins Camp, Hwange in Zimbabwe • $1,450 • 3 days • by Cultural Vibes Travel & tours

by Cultural Vibes Travel & tours • 3 Days
5-Day Victoria Falls, Hwange & Chobe Safari • $2,950 • 5 days • by Cultural Vibes Travel & tours

by Cultural Vibes Travel & tours • 5 Days
13-Day Botswana and Hwange National Park with Majestic Victoria Falls • $5,000 • 13 days • by Africa Beast Safaris

by Africa Beast Safaris • 13 Days
12-Day Safari in Okavango Delta, Chobe National park, Victoria • $6,028 • 12 days • by Cultural Vibes Travel & tours

by Cultural Vibes Travel & tours • 12 Days
5-Day The Luxury + Victoria Falls Hotel and The Top Class Ivory Lodge Hwange National Park Experience • $6,500 • 5 days • by Africa Beast Safaris

by Africa Beast Safaris • 5 Days
3-Day Hwange National Park Wildlife Safari Tour • $1,500 • 3 days • by Africa Beast Safaris

by Africa Beast Safaris • 3 Days
5★ - "Cultural Vibes Travel and Tours has proved to be excellent yet again as this is now the third time, we have used them and a much-needed break after almost 3 years with the Covid pandemic. Tongesai is extremely reliable, " - Charles Kinnaird • Verified review
"Cultural Vibes Travel and Tours has proved to be excellent yet again as this is now the third time, we have used them and a much-needed break after almost 3 years with the Covid pandemic. Tongesai is extremely reliable, professional, knowledgeable and does everything to make your trip a memorable experience. Compared to local larger companies, Tongesai’s individual package rates are more reasonable and come with a customized touch. We felt that our holiday with Tongesai was much better and suited us more so than if we had booked through a larger company. His individual tailoring, personal involvement and attention to detail pays off in the smooth running of your trip. Our visits to the Victoria Falls, both sides from Zimbabwe and Zambia were magnificent and never cease to amaze us. On this trip Tongesai arranged for a private sunset cruise on the Zambezi just for our family of four instead of on the larger vessels, which was a very pleasant alternative. The boat trip in Chobe is magical and a must if you venture into Botswana. Wildlife was in abundance, including lion, elephant, wildebeest, buffalo, puku, kudu, bushbuck, waterbuck, impala, gemsbok, steenbok, sable and roan antelope, etc. We even saw a relative of Cecil, the famous black-maned lion, ‘once a true king of Hwange National Park’. I have no hesitation in recommending the company for arranging tours in Zimbabwe, Zambia and Botswana - we will definitely be seeing him again. He is currently setting up arrangements with colleagues in Kruger National Park to venture into South Africa and I wish him every success with that."
4★ - "On 10.9. until 1.10. In 2023, I went on a trip to Botswana, Zimbabwe and a short visit to Zambia with my clients - friends. I carefully prepared the trip in cooperation with the manager of Cultural Vibes Travel & Tours, " - Viktor Chrást • Verified review
"On 10.9. until 1.10. In 2023, I went on a trip to Botswana, Zimbabwe and a short visit to Zambia with my clients - friends. I carefully prepared the trip in cooperation with the manager of Cultural Vibes Travel & Tours, Mr. Tongesai Mutematsaka. After arriving in Gaborone we organized a short tour of the city ourselves and met Tongesai in Maun. Tongesai was our driver and guide practically the whole way. We visited the Okavango River Delta and its surroundings (Moremi Reserve, Mokoro boat cruise, flight over the Okavango Delta. This was followed by a visit to the Makgadikgadi Salt Flats, then the Elephant Sands area and in Botswana Chobe National Park with a cruise on the Chobe River. Then we crossed to Zimbabwe, which was the main part of our journey. In the Victoria Falls area, we visited the Monde settlement, took a helicopter flight over Victoria Falls, followed by a cruise on the Zambezi River as part of a visit to the national park of the same name. We also walked past Victoria Falls on the Zimbabwean side and had a Boma dinner in the evening (too much of a "tourist thing"). On the Zambian side of the falls we saw white rhinos in Mosi - oa - Tunya National Park, then visited the museum in Livingstone and walked the Zambian side of the falls. From Victoria Falls, we headed to Hwange National Park, where we had a beautiful program - a safari, and after Hwange, there was also a very interesting program in Matobo National Park (there, among other things, white rhinos (a mother with her little daughter), beautiful rock formations and prehistoric cave drawings. The next place visited was Khami with very interesting buildings, and then we visited the ruins of Great Zimbabwe, which are among the most important world monuments. This was followed by a visit to the Chinhoya Karst and finally the gallery in Harare. I would also like to comment on the provision of services: Accommodation in the hotels was at the standard, expected level, only the service at the Great Zimbabwe Hotel was rather lazy. Accommodation in lodges - very good and the best accommodation was in Iganyana tented camp in Hwange National Park, mainly due to the extraordinary professionalism and very friendly attitude of the staff there towards us, the visitors. I must also highly praise all the local guides we met everywhere, e.g. in Chobe, Hwange and Matobo National Parks. I want to emphasize that this journey is one of the most interesting that I have made around the world. I believe that my clients - friends were also satisfied with the set. Thanks to the travel agency Cultural Vibes Travel & Tours and Mr. Tongesai Mutematsaka. I recommend Cultural Vibes Travel & Tours to anyone considering a trip to Zimbabwe."
5★ - "My travel companions and I chose the 4 day experience. Technically it is really a 3 day experience, because the last day they provide airport transportation. I feel they go above and beyond in making sure they are provid" - Karan thomas • Verified review
"My travel companions and I chose the 4 day experience. Technically it is really a 3 day experience, because the last day they provide airport transportation. I feel they go above and beyond in making sure they are providing their customers with a safe, exciting and exceptional experience. Gari was our driver/guide in Zimbabwe, and was friendly, helpful, and courteous. Gari either made sure we were where we needed to be or provided his own guide trip to the Victoria Falls. He even provided the rain gear, which is most necessary. Gari and his "boss" Mr T. went above and beyond when Delta postponed our flight by a day, by helping to make sure that the connecting airline would change our reservation. They then made sure we got to the airport on time, a day later. They are always willing to provide any additional things that you would like to see and do. If you looking for a guided tour company, this is the one to use, and one that I would have no hesitation in using again."
5★ - "First, Tongesai Mtematsaka was excellent with communications and service. We couldn’t have asked for better. My questions via email were promptly answered. His English was excellent, and better. He was always on time in " - George Wagner • Verified review
"First, Tongesai Mtematsaka was excellent with communications and service. We couldn’t have asked for better. My questions via email were promptly answered. His English was excellent, and better. He was always on time in meeting us, coming and going. Our two hour trips from VIc Falls to the sable sands lodge, and then from the lodge to the Vic Falls airport were a highlight to our entire Africa trip. My wife and I will be discussing various aspects from the discussions with Tongesai for some time to come. By patiently answering my many questions he educated my wife and I about Zimbabwe and the region - culture, practices and assets of the people, typical family life, economy, weather, etc., and possibilities and trends into the future - all believable and detailed. The staff and facilities at the sable sands lodge were all excellent, beginning with Michelle’s clear instructions and cautions. She was a delight. We were asked if we wanted to take a charming hut as close as we could get to the marvelous watering hole there and got it. Incredibly we were greeted by a dust-cloud from a herd of maybe 100 Cape buffalo running to the water - unbelievable! The meals prepared by So and Derik were really good, throughout. MC, our drive guide was excellent and very accommodating to all the guests in the comfortable and safe-feeling, open 4x4. We met some nice co-guests. We saw so many animals on our safari that I will not attempt to recall here. I would just say that the many watering holes in the Hwange park were impressive, As an environmentalist myself I was very impressed with the solar powered system for exploiting the aquifers, and the foresight of the authorities in developing and maintains these. I know the history going back to the 1920’s, but if there wasn’t maintainence and upgrade the animals could not continue, especially with drought effects of climate change. Finally, I must comment on the fact that our first night in our hut was spent listening to the rumblings of the elephant just outside out hut. In the morning the tracks outside our hut showed how close our visitor was. We knew then that Michelle’s cautions were serious. But then more, the second night we had a lioness spend the night outside our hut, perhaps roaring a mating call. At first light MC came by with the truck and asked if we wanted to see the lion. I shot out with my camera. What an experience!! We hope our parting tip to the group of 16 people providing excellent service was meaningful. I will certainly recommend this trip to anyone who will hear me. What a privilege!!!"
5★ - "We booked our Zimbabwe trip with Cultural Vibes Travel & Tours following a recommendation from Nhongo Safaris in South Africa. Tongesai is a great communicator, and the booking process was quick, easy, and well organized" - Emma & Andrew • Verified review
"We booked our Zimbabwe trip with Cultural Vibes Travel & Tours following a recommendation from Nhongo Safaris in South Africa. Tongesai is a great communicator, and the booking process was quick, easy, and well organized. We were happy with the quote provided and were able to easily pay online. Tongesai was waiting for us at Victoria Falls Airport to take us to our accommodation. He has arranged an amazing whirlwind 48 hour visit, that was packed with a sunset cruise on the Zambezi, Morning Game drive, he accompanied us on an amazing walk of the Victoria falls and arranged an African experience dinner in the evening. It was so memorable, and everything we wanted! Overall, it was an fantastic trip, with a great guide, and we would highly recommend it for anyone considering a trip to Victoria Falls. For our next visit, we will definitely be reaching out to Tongesai and thoroughly recommend to all our friends."