7-day Zimbabwe safari packages under $2,000 cover Victoria Falls, Hwange, and Mana Pools. Book May–October for peak wildlife. Compare verified operators on SafariFind.
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Zimbabwe safari packages under $2,000 offer incredible value for 7-day trips covering Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, and Mana Pools. The best time to visit is May through October during the dry season when wildlife viewing peaks. Book through verified operators on SafariFind to compare packages, read authentic traveler reviews, and secure early-bird discounts of up to $200 for 2026 departures.
Zimbabwe safari packages under $2,000 deliver authentic African wildlife experiences without breaking your budget. These 7-day itineraries combine affordable lodges, tented camps, and budget hotels with expert guides and game drives through world-class parks. Your package typically includes accommodation, meals, park fees, and guided wildlife viewing.
Zimbabwe offers three major safari destinations. Victoria Falls sits on the Zimbabwe-Zambia border and delivers stunning views plus adventure activities. Hwange National Park covers 14,651 square kilometers and hosts over 100,000 elephants. Mana Pools National Park features remote river safaris and walking tours along the Zambezi River.
These packages are designed for travelers seeking authentic safari experiences at genuine budget prices. Unlike expensive luxury safaris costing $5,000–$10,000 per person, under-$2,000 packages use comfortable mid-range lodges and shared group transportation. You still see incredible wildlife and enjoy professional guides—you simply skip the five-star amenities.
The affordability comes from several factors. Zimbabwe's weaker currency makes accommodations and services cheaper than Kenya or Tanzania. Budget operators run group tours instead of private vehicles, reducing per-person costs. Local camps offer excellent value without sacrificing safety or comfort. Additionally, spring and summer sales in 2026 offer discounts up to $200 on tour packages.[1]
Zimbabwe delivers superior value compared to other safari destinations. Accommodation costs run 30–50% lower than Kenya or Botswana. A comfortable safari lodge in Zimbabwe costs under $150 per night, while the same quality in Kenya costs $250–$400.[2] This savings directly lowers your package price.
Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport in Harare is the main entry point for international visitors.[3] Flights to Harare often cost less than flights to Nairobi or Cape Town. Internal transfers to the parks are short and affordable—Hwange is just 4 hours from Harare.
Wildlife viewing quality matches premium destinations. Hwange National Park hosts one of Africa's largest elephant populations. Victoria Falls attracts 300,000 visitors yearly and offers unmatched natural beauty. Mana Pools provides intimate walking safaris and river encounters few other parks can match. You see the same animals as expensive safaris—just with more budget travelers in your group.
Most 7-day Zimbabwe safari packages under $2,000 include these core features:
Most packages do not include international flights, travel insurance, or personal expenses like drinks and tips. Some operators offer optional add-ons like helicopter rides over Victoria Falls or gorilla trekking in Rwanda at additional cost.
Standard 7-day Zimbabwe safari itineraries under $2,000 follow predictable routes that maximize wildlife viewing and value. Most packages combine 2–3 parks with rest days for travel. Here are the most popular structures:
This itinerary is the most popular for budget travelers. Day 1 involves arrival in Harare and drive to Hwange (4 hours). Days 2–4 focus on three full days of game drives in Hwange National Park, exploring different zones for varied wildlife encounters. Day 5 includes a drive to Victoria Falls (4 hours) with an afternoon tour of the falls. Day 6 offers optional activities like bungee jumping, white water rafting, or a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. Day 7 returns to Harare for departure.[1]
This itinerary costs $1,500–$1,800 per person depending on accommodation quality and season. You see elephants, lions, buffalo, zebras, and giraffes in Hwange, then enjoy one of the world's largest waterfalls. The short distances between parks minimize travel time and fatigue.
This route suits travelers seeking remote wilderness and fewer tourists. Day 1 covers arrival and transfer to Hwange. Days 2–3 include two full game drives in Hwange. Days 4–6 involve transfer to Mana Pools (6 hours) with three days of walking safaris and river camps. Day 7 includes return travel and departure.
Mana Pools National Park offers an intimate, off-the-beaten-path experience. Walking safaris along the Zambezi River let you see animals up close and hear wildlife sounds. This itinerary costs $1,600–$1,900 and suits adventurous travelers comfortable with rustic accommodations.
This package combines Zimbabwe with Botswana for added value. Days 1–2 focus on Victoria Falls exploration. Days 3–5 include a short 2-hour drive to Chobe National Park in Botswana for river safaris and game drives. Days 6–7 cover return travel and departure.
Chobe sits just 2 hours from Victoria Falls and hosts over 120,000 elephants.[1] This combination gives you two countries in one trip. Costs run $1,700–$2,000 per person. The short border crossing is straightforward with proper documentation.
Looking for verified operators offering these itineraries? Compare verified Zimbabwe safari tour operators on SafariFind to see current packages, real traveler reviews, and available discounts for 2026.
Booking a Zimbabwe safari under $2,000 requires strategic planning to secure the best deals and avoid overpaying. Most travelers book 3–6 months in advance to access early-bird discounts and ensure availability during peak season.
The dry season from May through October is peak safari season in Zimbabwe. Vegetation thins out, animals concentrate around water sources, and wildlife viewing peaks. July and August offer the best game drives but attract the most tourists and higher prices. May, June, September, and October deliver excellent wildlife viewing with fewer crowds and lower costs.
Book your safari 3–6 months before your intended travel dates. Early bookings unlock discounts up to $200 on 2026 tours.[2] If you book just 4–6 weeks ahead, availability shrinks and prices rise 10–20%. Last-minute bookings (2 weeks or less) rarely offer discounts.
The wet season from November through April brings lower prices (30–40% savings) and lush landscapes, but wildlife viewing is harder as animals spread across the landscape. Roads become muddy and some parks restrict access. Most budget travelers avoid this season despite the savings.
SafariFind connects you with verified Zimbabwe tour operators offering transparent pricing and authentic traveler reviews. Browse Zimbabwe safari packages on SafariFind to compare prices, durations, itineraries, and ratings side-by-side. Filter by price range (under $2,000), duration (7 days), and destination.
Major tour operators offering under-$2,000 packages include Safari Bando, VacationOtrips, Dav Safaris, and African Budget Safaris.[1][2][5][7] Each offers different itineraries and accommodation styles. Read recent traveler reviews on SafariFind to see which operator matches your preferences for comfort level, group size, and destination focus.
Avoid booking through generic travel websites or social media ads. Use SafariFind's verified operator network to ensure the operator is legitimate, insured, and has real customer feedback. Scams targeting budget safari travelers do exist—verified operators provide peace of mind.
Most under-$2,000 packages include accommodation, meals, park fees, game drives, and guides. International flights, travel insurance, visa fees, and travel to the airport are never included. Tipping guides (typically $5–$10 per day), drinks, personal activities, and souvenirs are extra.
Some operators quote prices excluding meals to advertise lower numbers. Always confirm whether meals are included before booking. Request a detailed itinerary showing exactly what's covered each day.
Optional add-ons cost extra:
Budget an additional $200–$500 for activities, tips, and personal expenses during your 7-day safari.
Zimbabwe's safari parks deliver authentic African wildlife encounters. You'll see the Big Five (lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, rhinos) plus dozens of other species. Game drive success depends on season, weather, and luck—but Zimbabwe's animal populations ensure regular sightings.
Hwange National Park covers 14,651 square kilometers in northwestern Zimbabwe and hosts over 100,000 elephants—one of the largest populations in Africa.[1] You'll regularly see elephants at waterholes, especially in the dry season. Lions, buffalo, zebras, giraffes, hyenas, and wild dogs are commonly spotted on game drives.
Hwange's varied habitats—open grasslands, wooded areas, and wetlands—support diverse wildlife. Morning game drives (5:30 AM–11:00 AM) are most productive as animals are active in cooler temperatures. Afternoon drives (3:00 PM–6:00 PM) offer a second chance to spot wildlife.
Victoria Falls sits on the Zambezi River between Zimbabwe and Zambia. The falls themselves are a natural wonder—not primarily a wildlife destination. However, the Zambezi River hosts hippos, crocodiles, fish eagles, and various water birds. Sunset river cruises offer peaceful wildlife viewing and stunning photography.
The surrounding area provides adventure activities beyond wildlife. Bungee jumping, white water rafting, and helicopter tours are popular. Many travelers spend one day on wildlife activities and one day on adventure activities.
Mana Pools National Park offers walking safaris—a unique experience most budget safaris skip. Walking through the bush with an armed guide creates intimate animal encounters. You move quietly through habitats, observing animal behavior closely. Elephants, buffalo, lions, and numerous bird species are commonly encountered.
Walking safaris require fitness and comfort with wilderness. You walk 3–6 hours daily with a guide carrying a rifle for safety. The experience is more immersive than vehicle-based game drives but also more challenging. Mana Pools is best visited May through October when water levels are predictable.
Want to know what specific animals you'll encounter? Learn which animals you'll see in each Zimbabwe park with detailed species lists and sighting probability by season.
Zimbabwe is a safe safari destination for travelers following basic precautions. The tourism industry is well-established, guides are professional, and infrastructure is reliable. However, understanding local conditions ensures a smooth trip.
Zimbabwe's tourism areas are secure and welcoming to international travelers. Victoria Falls town is busy with tourists and has good security. National parks are remote but monitored by rangers. Safari camps employ professional staff trained in guest safety.
Use common sense: avoid flashing expensive jewelry or cameras, keep valuables in your hotel safe, and stay with your guide during wildlife activities. Don't approach wild animals or leave your safari vehicle without guide permission. Follow your guide's instructions regarding wildlife safety.
For detailed safety information, read the complete Zimbabwe safari safety guide for 2026 covering health precautions, political stability, and current travel advisories.
Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport in Harare is Zimbabwe's main entry point.[3] Most international flights arrive in Harare from major African hubs (Johannesburg, Cape Town) or Europe. Flight times from Europe are typically 15–20 hours with one connection.
From Harare, you'll drive to the parks. Hwange is 4 hours by road. Victoria Falls is 18 hours by road (often split into two days with an overnight stop). Mana Pools is 6 hours from Harare. Most packages include these transfers in the quoted price.
Most nationalities require a visa for Zimbabwe. You can obtain a visa on arrival at Harare airport (approximately $30–$50 USD) or apply in advance through the Zimbabwean embassy. Check your government's travel requirements before booking.
Bring a valid passport (6+ months validity), travel insurance (highly recommended), and copies of important documents. Yellow fever vaccination is not required for Zimbabwe but is recommended if traveling from malaria areas.
Under-$2,000 packages use mid-range lodges and tented camps, not backpacker hostels. Expect clean rooms with private bathrooms, ceiling fans or air conditioning, and reliable meals. Amenities include hot showers, comfortable beds, and dining areas. Some camps offer basic Wi-Fi.
Luxury safari lodges cost $400–$800 per night and include premium linens, fine dining, and spa services. Budget safari lodges cost $80–$150 per night and provide comfortable accommodation without frills. For detailed comparisons, explore Zimbabwe safari lodges: luxury vs. budget options to understand what different price points offer.
Zimbabwe competes with Tanzania, Kenya, and Botswana for budget safari travelers. Each destination offers different value propositions, wildlife experiences, and price points. Understanding the differences helps you choose the best destination for your budget and interests.
Tanzania's Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater are world-famous and attract more tourists. Tanzania packages typically cost $2,500–$4,000 for 7 days due to higher demand and park fees. Zimbabwe packages cost $1,500–$2,000 for comparable experiences. However, Tanzania's Great Migration (1.5 million wildebeest crossing July–October) is a bucket-list experience Zimbabwe cannot match.
If your budget is under $2,000, Zimbabwe offers better value. If you can stretch to $3,000+, Tanzania's iconic parks may justify the extra cost. Both countries offer excellent wildlife and professional guides.
Kenya's Masai Mara is equally famous as Tanzania's Serengeti. Kenya packages typically cost $2,800–$5,000 for 7 days due to high demand and expensive park fees. Kenya is pricier than Zimbabwe for equivalent safari experiences. However, Kenya offers more luxury options and easier logistics for first-time safari travelers.
For budget travelers, Zimbabwe delivers better value. For travelers willing to spend $3,500+, Kenya's Masai Mara offers iconic wildlife and excellent infrastructure.
Botswana's Okavango Delta is a premier safari destination but extremely expensive—$4,000–$8,000+ per person for 7 days. Botswana deliberately positions itself as a luxury destination with limited budget options. Zimbabwe is significantly cheaper while still offering world-class wildlife.
However, combining Zimbabwe with Botswana (Victoria Falls to Chobe) offers excellent multi-country value at $1,700–$2,000 per person. This combination gives you two countries and diverse experiences within a tight budget.
| Destination | 7-Day Budget Package | Peak Season Crowds | Best For | Signature Experience |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zimbabwe | $1,500–$2,000 | Moderate | Budget travelers | Hwange elephants, Victoria Falls |
| Tanzania | $2,500–$4,000 | High | Great Migration seekers | Serengeti Great Migration |
| Kenya | $2,800–$5,000 | Very High | First-time safari travelers | Masai Mara game drives |
| Botswana | $4,000–$8,000+ | Low (limited access) | Luxury travelers | Okavango Delta water safari |
For under-$2,000 budgets, Zimbabwe is the clear winner. For $2,500–$3,500, Tanzania offers more iconic experiences. For $3,500+, Kenya provides excellent infrastructure. For $4,000+, Botswana delivers luxury experiences. Choose based on budget, interests, and travel style.
The dry season from May through October is peak safari season in Zimbabwe. This period delivers the best wildlife viewing, most comfortable weather, and highest prices. Planning ahead ensures you secure under-$2,000 packages during this premium season.
During the dry season, vegetation thins out and animals concentrate around remaining water sources. Game drives are productive—you'll see multiple species daily. Temperatures are mild (60–75°F), making game drives comfortable. Rainfall is minimal, so roads remain accessible and camps operate without restrictions.
However, dry season attracts peak tourist crowds. Popular parks become busy with safari vehicles. Prices are highest—early bookings with 3–6 month lead time can still access under-$2,000 packages, but last-minute bookings cost 20–30% more.
For specific dry season timing and wildlife patterns, read the complete guide to Zimbabwe dry season safaris with month-by-month wildlife activity and booking tips.
May–June: Early dry season. Vegetation is still relatively green. Temperatures are mild (60–70°F). Elephant and buffalo sightings are good. Tourist numbers are moderate. Prices are 10–15% lower than July–August. This is an excellent value window for budget travelers.
July–August: Peak dry season. Vegetation is minimal and animals concentrate at waterholes. Wildlife viewing is exceptional. Temperatures are coolest (55–65°F). Tourist crowds are highest. Prices are peak. Accommodations must be booked months in advance.
September–October: Late dry season. Vegetation starts recovering. Temperatures warm up (65–75°F). Water sources shrink further, concentrating animals. Elephant sightings are frequent. Tourist numbers decline after August. Prices drop 10–20% from peak. This is another excellent value window.
For budget travelers, May–June and September–October offer the best combination of wildlife viewing and value. Book 4–6 months ahead for May–June departures (book in January–February). Book 4–6 months ahead for September–October departures (book in April–June).
A 7-day Zimbabwe safari under $2,000 costs $1,500–$2,000 per person depending on accommodation quality, season, and park choice. This price includes accommodation (6 nights), meals, park fees, game drives, and a professional guide. International flights, travel insurance, visas, and personal activities (drinks, tips, optional excursions) are extra. Early bookings 3–6 months ahead can secure discounts up to $200.[1][2]
Book 3–6 months before your intended travel dates to access early-bird discounts and ensure availability. Early bookings unlock savings up to $200 on 2026 tours. The best travel months are May–June and September–October (dry season with good wildlife viewing but lower crowds than July–August peak). Avoid booking less than 4 weeks ahead, as prices rise 10–20% and availability shrinks dramatically.
Zimbabwe is safe for safari tourists in 2026. Tourism areas like Victoria Falls and national parks are secure and welcoming. Safari camps employ professional, trained staff. Guides are experienced in wildlife safety. Use basic precautions: keep valuables in your hotel safe, stay with your guide during activities, and follow safety instructions. The established tourism infrastructure and professional operators ensure reliable safety standards.
You'll see African wildlife including the Big Five (lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, rhinos), zebras, giraffes, wildebeest, hyenas, and wild dogs. Hwange National Park is famous for elephants (100,000+ population). Mana Pools offers walking safaris with intimate wildlife encounters. The Zambezi River features hippos, crocodiles, and water birds. Specific sightings depend on season, location, and luck—but Zimbabwe's animal populations ensure regular daily sightings.
Book through a verified tour operator for safety, value, and convenience. Independent travel requires renting a vehicle, navigating roads, and arranging park entry—which costs more than a group package. SafariFind connects you with verified operators offering transparent pricing and authentic reviews. Operators handle logistics, provide expert guides, and ensure safety. Compare operators on SafariFind to find the best package matching your budget and preferences.
Yes, you can combine Zimbabwe with Botswana or Zambia within a $2,000 budget. Victoria Falls is on the Zimbabwe-Zambia border (easy day trip). Chobe National Park in Botswana is just 2 hours from Victoria Falls, adding diverse wildlife and river safaris. Multi-country packages cost $1,700–$2,000 per person. These combinations give you 2–3 countries in one trip without exceeding your budget. Browse multi-country safari packages on SafariFind to compare options.
Zimbabwe safari packages under $2,000 deliver authentic African wildlife experiences at unbeatable value. A 7-day itinerary covering Hwange National Park, Victoria Falls, and optional Mana Pools provides world-class game viewing, professional guides, and comfortable accommodation without premium luxury prices. The dry season from May through October offers peak wildlife viewing, and early bookings 3–6 months ahead unlock discounts up to $200 for 2026 departures.[1][2]
Zimbabwe competes favorably against Tanzania, Kenya, and Botswana for budget travelers. While Kenya's Masai Mara and Tanzania's Serengeti attract more tourists, Zimbabwe's lower costs, excellent wildlife, and professional tourism infrastructure make it the smartest choice for under-$2,000 budgets. Hwange's 100,000+ elephant population rivals any African park, and Victoria Falls remains one of the world's natural wonders.
The key to securing the best deals is booking through verified operators on SafariFind. Compare multiple packages side-by-side, read authentic traveler reviews, and confirm exactly what's included before committing. Early bookings provide flexibility to choose your preferred dates and accommodation style while maximizing savings.
Ready to book your Zimbabwe safari? Browse verified Zimbabwe safari packages under $2,000 on SafariFind to compare itineraries, prices, and operator ratings. Request quotes from multiple operators, read traveler reviews, and secure your 7-day African adventure today. Your dream safari awaits—at a price that fits your budget in 2026.
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
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."
