Day 1 to 3: Victoria Falls Airport to Hwange National Park – Zimbabwe
Your Hwange, Victoria Falls & South Luangwa Safari starts at Victoria Falls Airport where you are greeted upon arrival. From there you will be driven to the beautiful Nantwich Lodge in the northwest corner of Hwange National Park. It overlooks a large dam with resident crocodiles and hippos and offers one of the best views in the park.
Hwange National Park is the largest reserve in Zimbabwe, known for its diverse landscapes, from the Zambezi watershed in the north to grasslands, marshes, and scattered woodlands in the west, including natural seeps where animals dig for water. The park is home to a vast array of wildlife, including one of the world’s largest elephant populations, endangered wild dogs, critically endangered black rhinos, and rare roan and sable antelopes. Around 500 bird species have been recorded, making it a paradise for birding enthusiasts. The area is also known for its incredibly diverse plant life.
During your stay, explore the vast reserve on game drives, bush hikes, and horse-riding safaris. Visit secluded hides and waterholes that offer prime opportunities to observe the wildlife in its natural habitat. Unique to the area are the natural springs close by. Night-time game drives on the private concession provide an exciting chance to witness nocturnal creatures, guided by skilled expert rangers who will reveal to you the secrets of the bush.
Between each adventure return to the comfortable lodge to spend a relaxed afternoon by the pool or while away the evening in the stunning open lounge and dining area at the main lodge. There is a spa offering rejuvenating treatments with a unique combination of African and Western massage techniques.
- Included Activity: Road Transfer, Game Drives, Bush Hikes, Horse-Riding Safari
- Meals Included: Dinner (Day 1), Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (Day 2 & 3)
About Nantwich Lodge – Western Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe
Nantwich Lodge is a secluded eco-lodge with a rich history deeply connected to Hwange National Park. It offers an off-the-beaten-track experience in this pristine wilderness. Committed to conservation and responsible tourism, the lodge blends heritage with modern eco-friendly design. There are six rooms, four of which offer interleading doors for families or friends seeking both connection and privacy. The main lodge building offers wireless internet and features a dining area, indoor and outdoor lounges, and a swimming pool to relax and unwind.
Day 4: Hwange to Victoria Falls – Zimbabwe
After breakfast, you are driven to Victoria Falls. Your epic Hwange, Victoria Falls & South Luangwa Safari stays overnight at Ilala Lodge in Victoria Falls village tonight.
Victoria Falls is truly one of the world’s most breathtaking waterfalls, spanning 1,708 meters (5,604 feet) across the Zambezi River, forming the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. The nearby town of Victoria Falls on the Zimbabwe side serves as a gateway to thrilling activities such as scenic flights, white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and excursions into Chobe National Park.
There is a host of activities for you to choose from. Alternatively, explore the town’s vibrant markets and cafes before witnessing the awe-inspiring waterfall – known by locals as the “Smoke that Thunders” – where the thundering, cascading waters create a misty spectacle. Later in the afternoon, unwind on a leisurely sunset cruise on the majestic Zambezi River above the falls, keeping a lookout for wildlife on the banks while enjoying the colours of a dramatic African sunset.
- Included Activity: Road Transfer, Zambezi Sunset Cruise
- Meals Included: Breakfast
- Optional Activities: Birdwatching Cruise, Breakfast or Lunch Cruise, Scenic Helicopter Ride, Flying Fox Cable Slide, Gorge Swing, Bungee Jump, Zip Lining, Bridge Slide, Canopy Tour, and more (Pre-booking is recommended for all activities)
About Ilala Lodge Hotel – Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Ilala Lodge Hotel is the closest hotel to Victoria Falls on the Zimbabwean side, offering 73 stylish and luxurious rooms, each with en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, free WiFi, and private patios/seating areas overlooking the Falls and National Park, where wildlife often roams. Guests can enjoy gourmet dining at the renowned Cassia Restaurant or embark on a historical journey aboard the Ra-Ikane fleet of river boats, which offers various Zambezi River cruises. Just an eight-minute walk from the Falls, the hotel provides breathtaking views of the rising mist of the waterfall, known as the “Smoke that Thunders,” while ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay with exceptional service and amenities.
Day 5 to 7: Victoria Falls to South Luangwa National Park – Zambia
After breakfast, you will be collected to cross the bridge into Zambia and a road transfer to nearby Livingstone Airport for your flight to Mfuwe (not included). You are met upon arrival and taken to the beautiful Tafika Main Camp in Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park for the next three nights of your Hwange, Victoria Falls & South Luangwa Safari.
Tafika Safari Camp, nestled on the east bank of the Luangwa River, is the perfect base for exploring the South Luangwa wilderness on game drives, walking safaris, and unique cycling trails. Bordering Zambia’s mighty Luangwa River, the northern and southern Luangwa National Parks are among Africa’s most pristine wilderness areas, known for their diverse wildlife. South Luangwa, in particular, is famous for its walking safaris, providing close-up encounters with elephants, hippos, and even lions, under the guidance of expert armed guides.
During your stay, you can embark on morning, afternoon, and evening game drives to observe the park’s rich wildlife. Guided walking safaris bring you closer to nature, while cycling safaris offer a unique perspective of the landscape and a visit to the nearby Mkasanga village provides insight into local culture. The camp features two hides overlooking a waterhole for excellent game-viewing between activities from the comfort of camp. Additionally, from September to October, a seasonal Carmine bee-eater hide provides fantastic photographic opportunities for these popular and vibrant birds.
- Included Activity: Road Transfer, Game Drives, Walking Safaris, Cycle Safaris
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
About Tafika Camp – South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
Tafika Camp is located in the northern Nsefu Sector of South Luangwa National Park and serves as the base for a family-run operation known for its high-quality bush camps. This remote camp overlooks the Luangwa River and offers stunning views and a peaceful retreat between activities. Each thatched chalet features an en-suite bathroom, undercover veranda, USB charging ports and solar-powered lighting, ensuring comfort while maintaining an eco-friendly approach. The camp features two hides overlooking a waterhole, where elephants frequently gather with a host of other animals, offering excellent game-viewing between activities. Dining is communal, though private dining is available on request.
Day 8: South Luangwa to Victoria Falls Airport – Zimbabwe
After breakfast, your affordable Hwange, Victoria Falls & South Luangwa Safari concludes with a road transfer to Victoria Falls Airport to catch your onward flight.
- Included Activity: Road Transfer
- Meals Included: Breakfast
Hwange, Victoria Falls & South Luangwa Tour Notes
This Hwange, Victoria Falls & South Luangwa Safari departs daily with a minimum of 2 people to guarantee departures.
This itinerary is just a sample and can easily be tailored to suit your specific needs. Speak to our travel experts who are very happy to discuss your requirements and options.
Our friendly travel consultants are happy to arrange pre and post-tour accommodation and transfers should you wish to arrive the day before, or leave the day after your Hwange, Victoria Falls and South Luangwa Safari. Victoria Falls in particular has a host of activities to be experienced and it is advisable to spend more time to fully experience everything on offer. Speak to a consultant who will gladly assist you. Our friendly consultants can also help you choose regional and international flights that ensure your Zimbabwe and Zambia Safari is seamless and hassle-free.
For more details contact African Budget Safaris.
