Zimbabwe Safari Lodges 2026: Hwange vs Victoria Falls

Compare Zimbabwe's top safari lodges: Hwange for 45,000 elephants ($2,500–$6,000), Victoria Falls for adventure ($1,800–$5,500). Book verified operators on SafariFind.

Compare Zimbabwe's top safari lodges: Hwange for 45,000 elephants ($2,500–$6,000), Victoria Falls for adventure ($1,800–$5,500). Book verified operators on SafariFind.

Plan your South Africa safari in 2026. Compare Kruger routes, costs ($150–$1,500+), best seasons, and verified operators. Book with SafariFind today.

Nearly 65% of Kenya's wildlife lives outside protected areas. Wildlife corridors—strips of land connecting fragmented habitats—are critical to species survival, livestock coexistence, and tourism revenue. Community conservancies now protect 16% of Kenya's land.
Last updated: July 2026
Zimbabwe's top safari lodges split between two powerhouse destinations: Hwange National Park for elephant herds and wildlife density, Victoria Falls for dramatic scenery and adventure activities. Hwange lodges cost $2,500-$6,000 per person for 4-7 days; Victoria Falls lodges range $1,800-$5,500. The best choice depends on whether you prioritize wildlife viewing or scenic experiences. Book through verified operators on SafariFind to compare packages and read authentic reviews from travelers.
Zimbabwe's safari landscape divides into two distinct experiences, each with its own appeal. Hwange National Park is Africa's largest elephant stronghold, home to over 45,000 elephants and diverse wildlife populations.[1] Victoria Falls, known as "the smoke that thunders," combines world-class waterfall views with river-based activities and gateway access to Zimbabwe's wilderness.[2] Choosing between them shapes your entire safari adventure.
Both destinations offer luxury lodge accommodations, but they serve different traveler needs. Hwange delivers immersive wildlife encounters and game drives through vast protected terrain. Victoria Falls provides dramatic natural beauty, adventure sports, and convenient access to multiple ecosystems within a compact area.
Many travelers combine both destinations in a single trip. Victoria Falls sits just 2 hours by road from Hwange National Park, making a combined itinerary logical and rewarding.[5] This pairing lets you experience Africa's premier elephant habitat alongside one of the world's greatest natural wonders.
Hwange National Park covers 14,651 square kilometers in northwestern Zimbabwe and stands as one of Africa's premier wildlife destinations.[1] The park's elephant population exceeds 45,000 animals—the largest concentration in any African park. Game drives here offer consistent wildlife encounters, from elephants and lions to buffalo, leopards, and African wild dogs.
The landscape varies dramatically across Hwange. Northern sections feature woodland savanna with scattered watering holes. Southern regions open into grasslands ideal for spotting large herds. This diversity ensures different experiences depending on which lodge you choose and which areas your guide takes you through.
Seasonal water patterns create predictable wildlife movements. During dry months (July–October), animals concentrate near permanent water sources, making sightings almost guaranteed. This predictability makes Hwange especially popular with serious wildlife photographers and first-time safari visitors.
Nehimba Lodge sits within a private concession of Hwange National Park and offers intimate wildlife experiences.[4] The lodge features luxury accommodations, professional guides, and access to exclusive game-drive routes. Rates typically run $4,768 for 8 days including meals and activities.[4] This represents excellent value for premium safari experiences.
Bomani Tented Lodge provides a more adventurous experience while maintaining comfort standards.[1] Located in Hwange National Park, this lodge uses canvas structures to maximize wildlife immersion. The open design lets you hear elephant calls at night and wake to bird songs. Pricing typically ranges $3,200–$4,800 for 4–5 day packages.
Camelthorn Lodge operates across both Hwange National Park and the Ngamo Plains concession.[1] This positioning provides access to both protected park wildlife and private reserve experiences. The lodge emphasizes personalized service and flexible game-drive schedules. Expect to pay $3,500–$5,200 for 5–7 day stays.
Hwange Safari Lodge ranks among TripAdvisor's top accommodations in the park.[8] The facility combines modern amenities with authentic bush atmosphere. Game drives depart multiple times daily, and walking safaris are available for more adventurous guests. Rates range $2,800–$4,500 depending on season and room type.
For a comprehensive comparison of Zimbabwe safari options, check out our guide on Zimbabwe Safari vs Botswana 2026: Wildlife, Cost & Which Wins to see how Hwange stacks against regional alternatives.
Hwange's game drives typically last 3–4 hours in early morning or late afternoon, when animals are most active. Professional guides read animal behavior expertly, positioning vehicles for optimal viewing without disturbing wildlife. Morning drives often yield big cat sightings, while afternoon excursions focus on herbivores and bird species.
Walking safaris add another dimension to your experience. Expert guides lead small groups on foot through the bush, teaching you to read tracks, identify plants, and understand ecosystem dynamics. These walks typically cover 2–3 kilometers over 2–3 hours and provide an intimate connection to the landscape.
Night drives offer unique opportunities to spot nocturnal species like aardvarks, hyenas, and porcupines. Spotlight-equipped vehicles reveal animals rarely seen during daylight. This experience particularly appeals to wildlife enthusiasts and photographers seeking complete species checklists.
Victoria Falls ranks among the world's greatest natural wonders, with a curtain of water stretching 1,708 meters across the Zambezi River.[2] The falls produce a permanent mist cloud visible from 40 kilometers away, hence the local name "Mosi-oa-Tunya" (smoke that thunders). The sheer scale and power create an unforgettable first impression that photographs cannot capture.
Beyond the waterfall itself, Victoria Falls town serves as Zimbabwe's adventure capital. The location offers white-water rafting, bungee jumping, zip-lining, helicopter tours, and sunset river cruises. These activities appeal to travelers seeking active experiences alongside wildlife viewing.
Victoria Falls also provides access to multiple ecosystems. The Batoka Gorge downstream offers dramatic geology and bird watching. The Zambezi River supports hippos, crocodiles, and aquatic birds. Private game reserves near town provide traditional safari experiences within convenient driving distance.
Gorges Lodge overlooks the Batoka Gorge with panoramic views of the Zambezi River.[1] This luxury property emphasizes scenic beauty and relaxation. Accommodations feature private plunge pools and decks perched above the gorge. Rates run $4,200–$5,500 per night, making it ideal for travelers prioritizing comfort and views over game-drive intensity.
Victoria Falls Hotel stands as Zimbabwe's most iconic accommodation, operating since the colonial era.[2] The historic property combines elegance with authentic African atmosphere. Located within walking distance of the falls, guests enjoy convenient access to the natural wonder and town attractions. Rates range $2,800–$4,200 nightly depending on room category and season.
Victoria Falls River Lodge offers riverside positioning with hippo and crocodile viewing from your accommodation.[2] The lodge emphasizes water-based activities and sunset experiences. Game drives to nearby reserves can be arranged. Pricing typically runs $2,200–$3,800 per night.
The N1 Hotel Victoria Falls provides mid-range comfort with excellent value.[5] This property features a central location, quality service, and access to all major attractions. Rates start around $1,200–$2,200 per night, making it budget-friendly without sacrificing standards.
White-water rafting on the Zambezi River offers adrenaline-pumping adventure. Class III and IV rapids provide thrills for experienced paddlers, while Class II sections suit beginners. A typical half-day rafting excursion costs $120–$200 per person and takes 3–4 hours.
Helicopter tours provide aerial perspectives of the falls and surrounding landscape. A 12-minute scenic flight costs around $250–$300 per person. Longer 25-minute flights extending over the Batoka Gorge run $400–$500. These experiences offer unique photography opportunities and unmatched perspectives on the waterfall's scale.
Sunset river cruises combine relaxation with wildlife viewing. These 2-hour experiences typically include refreshments and bird watching as you float past hippos and crocodiles. Costs range $80–$150 per person. Evening light transforms the landscape into photographer's paradise.
Bungee jumping from the Victoria Falls Bridge provides extreme adventure. The 111-meter jump offers an unforgettable rush. Costs run $150–$200 per person. This activity appeals to thrill-seekers seeking bragging rights and adrenaline memories.
For deeper context on seasonal considerations, explore our article on Zimbabwe Safari in August–October 2026: Peak Dry Season to understand how timing affects both destinations.
Hwange lodges typically cost $2,500–$6,000 per person for 4–7 day packages, including accommodation, meals, and daily game drives.[4] Premium properties like Nehimba approach the upper range, while mid-range options cluster around $3,500–$4,500. Prices vary significantly by season, with July–October (peak dry season) commanding premium rates.
Victoria Falls lodges span a wider price range: $1,800–$5,500 per person for 3–5 days.[5] Budget properties start around $1,800–$2,500, while luxury experiences exceed $5,000. The range reflects diverse accommodation types, from historic hotels to exclusive riverside lodges. Activity costs add $100–$500 daily depending on which experiences you choose.
Combined Hwange-Victoria Falls packages typically run $4,500–$7,500 for 7–10 days, including all accommodation, meals, and activities at both destinations.[5] This combination offers better value per day than booking each destination separately. Many tour operators structure packages to minimize travel time between locations.
July–October represents peak season for both destinations, though for different reasons. Hwange benefits from concentrated wildlife at water sources, guaranteeing excellent game-viewing. Victoria Falls remains dramatic year-round, but water levels peak in April–June and gradually decline through the dry season. July–October offers comfortable temperatures, clear skies, and minimal rainfall.
November–March brings the green season. Vegetation explodes with color, bird activity increases dramatically, and landscapes turn lush. However, afternoon rains can interrupt game drives, and wildlife disperses across wider areas. Accommodation rates drop 20–40% during this period. This season suits photographers seeking landscape beauty and bird enthusiasts.
May–June offers a sweet spot: dry enough for reliable game viewing yet before peak season prices arrive. Temperatures remain pleasant, and lodges offer better availability. This shoulder season provides 15–25% savings compared to July–October rates while maintaining good safari conditions.
For detailed seasonal planning, consult our guide on Zimbabwe Safari in July 2026: Hidden Season Pricing & Wildlife for specific July conditions and pricing dynamics.
Choose Hwange if: You're a wildlife enthusiast seeking consistent animal encounters. You want to photograph elephants, big cats, and diverse species. You prefer extended time in one location with multiple daily game drives. You're willing to invest in premium safari experiences. You're on a first safari and want maximum wildlife certainty.
Choose Victoria Falls if: You want dramatic scenery as your primary focus. You enjoy adventure activities like rafting and bungee jumping. You prefer a mix of nature, culture, and active experiences. You're traveling with non-wildlife-focused companions. You want convenient access to multiple attractions in a compact area. You're budget-conscious and seeking good value.
Choose Both if: You have 7–10 days and want a comprehensive Zimbabwe experience. You want to balance wildlife viewing with adventure and scenic beauty. You're willing to allocate your budget across premium and mid-range options. You want flexibility to adjust activities based on daily interests and weather.
Browse verified safari packages that combine both destinations on SafariFind. You can compare operators, read authentic traveler reviews, and request quotes tailored to your preferences and budget.
The drive from Victoria Falls to Hwange National Park takes approximately 2 hours via well-maintained roads.[5] Most lodges arrange transportation, included in package prices or available as add-ons ($150–$300 per vehicle). The journey itself offers wildlife viewing opportunities—keep binoculars ready as you pass through natural habitat.
Alternatively, charter flights connect the destinations in 30 minutes. Several operators offer scenic flights with game-viewing components. Charter costs run $400–$800 per person depending on aircraft size and timing. This option saves time and provides aerial perspectives of both regions.
Most combined packages include all ground transportation. Read package details carefully to confirm what's included. Some budget packages require you to arrange your own transport, potentially adding unexpected costs.
Book 3–6 months in advance for July–October travel to secure preferred lodges and save 15–20% on rates.[4] Peak season fills quickly, and last-minute availability becomes limited. Early booking also provides better flight connections and flexibility in package customization.
For November–March travel, booking 6–8 weeks ahead provides good availability at significantly lower rates. This season is less crowded, so last-minute deals sometimes emerge. However, advance booking ensures consistent quality and preferred lodge selection.
Use SafariFind to compare multiple operators and packages simultaneously. Read verified traveler reviews to understand real experiences beyond marketing claims. Request quotes from 2–3 operators to evaluate pricing, inclusions, and service quality. Many operators offer free quote customization to match your specific interests and budget.
A typical Hwange day starts at 5:30 AM with tea and coffee before a 6:00 AM game drive. You'll return around 10:00 AM for breakfast and rest. The afternoon brings relaxation, optional activities, or lodge amenities. Evening game drives depart around 4:00 PM, returning at 7:00 PM for dinner. This rhythm maximizes wildlife viewing during active hours while providing rest and comfort.
Victoria Falls days offer more flexibility. Morning activities might include waterfall exploration, adventure sports, or optional game drives. Afternoons allow rest, swimming, or town exploration. Sunset river cruises or evening activities often conclude the day. This less-structured approach appeals to travelers wanting varied experiences.
Both destinations require basic fitness for game drives (sitting 3–4 hours in open vehicles) and optional walking safaris. Bring sun protection, neutral-colored clothing, and sturdy hiking boots. Lodges provide detailed packing lists tailored to seasonal conditions.
For first-time safari planning, check our beginner's guide at Zimbabwe Safari First-Timer's Guide: 7 Days Under $2,500 for essential tips and budget strategies.
Hwange National Park prioritizes wildlife viewing with 45,000 elephants and diverse species in a protected ecosystem, ideal for game drives and photography. Victoria Falls emphasizes dramatic natural scenery combined with adventure activities like rafting and bungee jumping, plus cultural and scenic experiences. Hwange suits wildlife enthusiasts; Victoria Falls appeals to adventure seekers and scenic lovers. Many travelers visit both for a complete Zimbabwe experience.
Hwange lodges cost $2,500–$6,000 per person for 4–7 days including meals and game drives.[4] Victoria Falls ranges $1,800–$5,500 for 3–5 days. Combined 7–10 day packages run $4,500–$7,500 per person.[5] Budget options cluster around $2,500–$3,500, while luxury experiences exceed $5,000. Activity add-ons (rafting, flights, cruises) cost $100–$500 daily. Book 3–6 months ahead to save 15–20% on peak-season rates.
Nehimba Lodge in Hwange provides excellent value at $4,768 for 8 days with premium accommodations and professional guides.[4] Bomani Tented Lodge offers adventure at $3,200–$4,800 for 4–5 days. In Victoria Falls, the N1 Hotel provides mid-range comfort from $1,200–$2,200 nightly, while Victoria Falls Hotel combines historic prestige with accessibility at $2,800–$4,200 per night.[2] Gorges Lodge delivers luxury views at $4,200–$5,500 nightly.[1] Compare packages on SafariFind to find options matching your preferences and budget.
July–October (peak dry season) offers the best wildlife viewing and weather, with concentrated animals at water sources and temperatures of 15–25°C. Rates peak during this period. November–March brings lush landscapes and bird activity with 20–40% lower rates, though afternoon rains can interrupt game drives. May–June offers a sweet-spot shoulder season with good conditions and 15–25% savings compared to peak rates. Choose based on your wildlife priority and budget flexibility.
Yes, the destinations sit just 2 hours apart by road, making combined itineraries ideal.[5] Seven-to-ten-day packages typically allocate 4–5 days to Hwange and 3–4 days to Victoria Falls. Combined trips cost $4,500–$7,500 per person and offer better daily value than booking separately. Most lodges arrange transportation between destinations. This combination balances wildlife viewing with adventure activities and scenic experiences.
Choose Hwange if wildlife photography, elephant encounters, and intensive game drives are your priorities. Choose Victoria Falls if you want dramatic scenery, adventure sports (rafting, bungee jumping), and varied daily activities. Choose both if you have 7–10 days and want comprehensive Zimbabwe experiences. Use SafariFind to explore packages tailored to different interests, read traveler reviews describing real experiences, and request customized quotes matching your specific preferences and budget constraints.
Most Hwange packages include daily game drives (morning and afternoon), meals, and accommodation. Walking safaris and night drives often cost extra ($50–$100 daily). Victoria Falls packages typically include accommodation and meals, with activities available as add-ons: waterfall tours (free to $30), river cruises ($80–$150), rafting ($120–$200), helicopter tours ($250–$500). Check package details carefully to confirm what's included versus optional. SafariFind listings specify inclusions and allow you to compare across operators.
Zimbabwe's safari lodges deliver distinct experiences depending on your priorities and travel style. Hwange National Park dominates for wildlife enthusiasts seeking Africa's greatest elephant concentration and consistent game-viewing success rates exceeding 90% during peak season.[1] The park's professional guides, multiple lodge options, and diverse landscapes ensure memorable encounters with lions, leopards, buffalo, and 400+ bird species.
Victoria Falls complements wildlife viewing with dramatic natural wonder and adventure activities. The waterfall's scale and beauty create unforgettable impressions, while white-water rafting, helicopter tours, and sunset cruises add adventure dimensions beyond traditional safaris. The destination suits families, adventure seekers, and travelers wanting mixed experiences.
The optimal strategy combines both destinations in a 7–10 day itinerary, allocating 4–5 days to Hwange's intensive game drives and 3–4 days to Victoria Falls' scenery and activities. This combination costs $4,500–$7,500 per person and delivers comprehensive Zimbabwe experiences balancing wildlife, scenery, and adventure.[5]
Book your Zimbabwe safari adventure now through SafariFind. Compare verified operators, read authentic traveler reviews, and request customized quotes for Hwange, Victoria Falls, or combined packages. Early booking (3–6 months ahead) unlocks 15–20% savings on peak-season rates and ensures access to your preferred lodges. Start exploring safari packages on SafariFind today to find your perfect Zimbabwe experience.
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
12-Day Safari in Okavango Delta, Chobe National park, Victoria falls and Hwange Experience • $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
10-Day Day Zimbabwe Fly-In Safari (Mana Pools, Kariba & Hwange) • $11,420 • 10 days • by Expert Safari Services LTD

by Expert Safari Services LTD • 10 Days
6-Day Victoria Falls & Hwange Safari Experience • $1,000 • 6 days • by Touch Africa Tours

by Touch Africa Tours • 6 Days
2-Day 2-Day Hwange National Park-Mid Range Safari • $850 • 2 days • by Victoria Falls Serious Fun Travel

by Victoria Falls Serious Fun Travel • 2 Days
2-Day Hwange National Park-Budget Safari • $510 • 2 days • by Victoria Falls Serious Fun Travel

by Victoria Falls Serious Fun Travel • 2 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
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."