Safari Itineraries in Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe Wildlife Safari Itineraries
Cawston Encounters Zimbabwe Wildlife Safari Itinerary
Cawston Encounters fits in perfectly with an itinerary that takes in the western half of Zimbabwe. The variety of scenery and activities you will encounter will surely keep your whole group happy!
Starting with Matopos National Park, renowned for its striking granite hills, unique rock formations, tracking rhinos and rich historical significance.
A 2 – 3 hour drive brings you to Cawston for your fabulous working ranch and wildlife experience.
A short flight or a 3 – 4 hour drive will take you from Cawston into your lodge in Hwange National Park. Hwange is renowned for big herds of elephant as well as myriad other species such as black-backed jackal, lion, cheetah, hyena and antelope and plenty of birdlife.
A short flight or a 3 – 4 hour drive will take you from Hwange National Park into Victoira Falls, the adrenaline capital of Zimbabwe. Renowned for one of the seven national wonders of the world, Victoria Falls is the widest natural falls in the world. There are so many things to do here you won’t be bored. Cruises on the river at almost any time of day, bunge jumps, zip-lining, helicopter flights, theatre, curio-shopping, micro-breweries, and a tram across the spectacular bridge.
We are more than happy to help you book your safari trip according to your needs, please contact us.
A suggested itinerary is laid out below but you can make this shorter or longer depending on the time available to you and your group.
Matopos, Hwange, Cawston & Victoria Falls
9-Day Zimbabwe Adventure
Day 1: Arrival in Bulawayo – Gateway to Matopos National Park
- Arrive in Bulawayo and transfer to your lodge near Matopos National Park.
- Matopos is renowned for its striking granite hills, unique rock formations, and rich historical significance.
- Afternoon at leisure: explore the lodge or enjoy a sundowner overlooking the granite hills.
- Dinner with a briefing about the exciting days ahead.
Day 2: Matopos National Park – Ancient Landscapes & Rock Art
- Morning: Guided tour of Matopos’ dramatic granite formations and ancient San rock art sites.
- Visit World’s View, the resting place of Cecil Rhodes, for panoramic views of the park.
- Afternoon: Game drive to spot rhinos, zebras, and the park’s birdlife.
- Evening: Relax at your lodge, reflecting on the rich history and wildlife of the area.
Day 3: Transfer Cawston Encounters
Working ranch with wildlife offering an authentic Zimbabwean family experience:
- Early breakfast and a drive through Bulawayo to Cawston Encounters (approx.2-3 hours).
- Arrive in time for lunch.
- Afternoon game drive and a visit to the Elephants
- Dinner around the campfire, sharing stories of the day’s sightings.
Day 4: Cawston Encounters – Full Day Safari Adventure
- Full day of game viewing and African style dude ranch activities curated just for your group!
- Dinner around the campfire, sharing stories of the day’s sightings.
Day 5: Transfer to Hwange National Park – Into the Wilderness
- Early breakfast and scenic drive to Hwange National Park (approximately 4 hours).
- Arrive in time for a late lunch at your safari lodge or tented camp.
- Afternoon game drive in Zimbabwe’s largest national park, known for its elephant herds and diverse wildlife.
- Dinner around the campfire, sharing stories of the day’s sightings.
Day 6: Hwange National Park – Full Day Safari Adventure
- Full-day safari: Morning and afternoon game drives or a guided walking safari for an up-close look at the park’s ecosystems.
- Picnic lunch in the bush.
- Look out for elephants, lions, wild dogs, and a variety of bird species.
- End the day with a sundowner at a waterhole, watching wildlife congregate as the sun sets.
Day 7: Transfer to Victoria Falls – The Smoke That Thunders
- Morning game drive in Hwange before departing for Victoria Falls (approximately 3 hours).
- Arrive and settle into your lodge or hotel with views of the Zambezi River.
- Afternoon at leisure to explore the local markets or enjoy a sunset cruise on the Zambezi.
Day 8: Victoria Falls – Awe-Inspiring Natural Wonder
- Morning guided tour of the mighty Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
- Afternoon: Optional activities such as a helicopter flight over the falls, bungee jumping, or zip-lining across the gorge.
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional Boma dinner with drumming and dancing.
Day 9: Departure – Farewell to Zimbabwe
- Morning at leisure: Relax by the pool, visit the Victoria Falls Bridge, or shop for souvenirs.
- Transfer to Victoria Falls International Airport for your onward journey.
We are more than happy to help you book your safari trip according to your needs.
ENCOUNTERS
Explore diverse activities like horse safaris, walking safaris, game drives, birding, and photography that bring you closer to the heart of the wild. Sleep under the stars on our mobile camping offerings or dive into the rhythms of ranch life with hands-on experiences in holistic farming.