Safaris in Zimbabwe

Untamed Luxury in the Heart of Africa

Zimbabwe is a country of dramatic landscapes, iconic wildlife, and deep cultural heritage. From the thunderous Victoria Falls to the wide, elephant-filled plains of Hwange and the winding waterways of Mana Pools, this southern African nation offers a safari experience that is both raw and refined. Central to that experience are its safari camps and lodges  -  thoughtfully placed sanctuaries that connect travellers to nature, adventure, and genuine African hospitality. 

While Zimbabwe may fly under the radar compared to some neighboring countries, its safari accommodations rival the best in Africa -  offering immersive, low-impact stays that prioritize wilderness, wildlife, and meaningful encounters. 

Why Zimbabwe? 

Zimbabwe’s national parks and private reserves are celebrated for their biodiversity, dramatic settings, and highly skilled guides - often considered among the best on the continent. Many areas are less crowded than better-known safari destinations, allowing for intimate wildlife experiences and personal attention at camps and lodges. 

Whether you're looking for a luxurious riverside retreat, a rustic bush camp, or a tented hideaway in the heart of elephant country, Zimbabwe offers a safari stay to match your travel style. 

Types of Safari Camps and Lodges in Zimbabwe:

1. Luxury Lodges In Zimbabwe, luxury doesn't mean losing your sense of place. High-end lodges offer elegant suites or villas, gourmet meals, private plunge pools, and expansive views — all designed to complement, not overshadow, the surrounding wilderness. Many are solar-powered and built with sustainable materials, reflecting a commitment to conservation as well as comfort. 

2. Tented Safari Camps These camps capture the essence of old-world safari charm. Canvas-walled tents offer proper beds, en-suite bathrooms, and verandas with views of waterholes or game trails. Though they vary in scale and style, tented camps in Zimbabwe are generally intimate, with just a few tents and a focus on personal service and proximity to nature. 

3. Seasonal or Mobile Camps Set up in remote or wildlife-rich areas during peak seasons, these camps are designed for flexibility and adventure. They often follow migration routes or are positioned near known animal hotspots. While simpler in structure, they offer excellent guiding and a raw, unforgettable bush experience. 

4. Bush Lodges and Eco-Camps Some camps and lodges are designed to operate in harmony with the land, using renewable energy and local materials, and employing staff from nearby communities. These eco-conscious stays are perfect for travelers seeking meaningful, responsible tourism and a closer connection to local culture and conservation. 

Key Safari Regions and Accommodation Styles:

Hwange National Park  Zimbabwe’s largest national park is famed for its huge elephant herds, predator sightings, and varied ecosystems. Lodges and camps in Hwange range from luxurious to rustic, often located in private concessions or near waterholes frequented by wildlife. Many offer elevated viewing platforms, walking safaris, and night drives for a fuller immersion in the bush. 

Mana Pools National Park This UNESCO World Heritage Site along the Zambezi River is renowned for its wild beauty and adventurous spirit. Camps here are often remote and seasonal, set along riverbanks or in forests visited by elephants, lions, and wild dogs. Mana is one of the few parks where walking and canoeing safaris are a highlight, and camps reflect that sense of wilderness - open, unfenced, and free-flowing. 

Matobo Hills National Park  Nestled among granite outcrops and ancient rock formations, this area offers a different kind of safari - one rich in cultural history, spiritual significance, and opportunities to track rhinos on foot. Lodges here often emphasize design that blends into the rocky landscape and are ideal for those seeking solitude and heritage alongside wildlife. 

Matusadona National Park  Located along the shores of Lake Kariba, Matusadona offers a mix of water-based and land safaris. Lodges and camps here make the most of the scenic lake views, with game drives complemented by boat trips and fishing excursions. Accommodation options are varied, often tucked between forest and shoreline. 

Victoria Falls Area While best known for the world-famous waterfall, this region also offers safari opportunities in surrounding reserves. Camps and lodges here cater to travelers combining sightseeing with wildlife - offering a mix of luxury and accessibility, and often including river cruises, cultural visits, and helicopter tours. 

What to Expect at a Safari Camp or Lodge in Zimbabwe

Exceptional Guiding: Zimbabwean guides are internationally recognized for their training and knowledge, offering rich interpretation of both big game and the smaller wonders of the bush. 

Intimate Settings: Most camps are small, with an average of 6–10 tents or suites, ensuring privacy and personalized service. 

Twice-Daily Activities: Guests typically enjoy early morning and late afternoon game drives or walking safaris. In some regions, activities may also include canoeing, birdwatching, or tracking on foot. 

Dining Experiences: Meals are often served in open-air settings or under the stars, with locally inspired cuisine and fireside storytelling a core part of camp life. 

Wildlife Encounters: Many camps are unfenced, meaning animals may pass through. It’s not unusual to hear lions roaring at night or to see elephants wandering near your tent at dawn. 

Responsible Tourism and Conservation A growing number of safari camps and lodges in Zimbabwe are deeply committed to conservation and community development. By choosing these stays, guests directly contribute to wildlife protection, anti-poaching efforts, and sustainable livelihoods for local people. Many properties also invest in education, healthcare, and cultural preservation initiatives. 

Planning Your Safari Stay 

When choosing a safari camp or lodge in Zimbabwe, consider the following: 

Season: The dry season (May to October) is best for wildlife visibility, while the green season (November to April) offers lush scenery, fewer tourists, and excellent birding. 

Activity Preferences: If you're drawn to walking or canoe safaris, look for camps in Mana Pools or areas that specialize in active exploration. 

Travel Logistics: Some remote camps require small plane transfers or long drives, so plan your route and budget accordingly. 

Travel Style: Whether you're seeking understated luxury, remote wilderness, or community-based experiences, Zimbabwe has an option to match. 

Final Thoughts: 

Zimbabwe’s safari camps and lodges offer something rare in today’s world: a chance to slow down, tune into nature, and experience the wilderness on its own terms. Whether you're watching elephants cross a river at sunset, walking quietly through mopane woodlands, or sharing stories by lantern light, your stay becomes an inseparable part of your journey. 

In Zimbabwe, the safari isn’t just about the animals - it’s about where you are, how you experience it, and the people who guide you through it. And in that quiet, wild corner of Africa, you'll find something truly unforgettable.