A Diary Of A Cawston Wildlife Estate Volunteer – Chapter 1

First Impressions Of Zimbabwe

Arriving in Zimbabwe is an experience like no other.

Flying into Bulawayo Airport from Johannesburg, I was struck by the contrast — a small airport, a quiet town, and beyond that, breathtaking African scenery.

Meeting the Johnstone family instantly made me feel welcome. They are the heart of Cawston, and whether you’re arriving as a visitor or a volunteer, they make you feel at home right away. I also quickly discovered that, as a conservation student, I’d be tested not just by hands-on activities but also by surprise quizzes on the local wildlife!

Exploring Victoria Falls

One of the highlights of my early days at Cawston was a trip to the mighty Victoria Falls with Chris and Sam, an American volunteer from Zooology.

The journey to Victoria Falls was an adventure in itself — long stretches of road, quirky traffic stops, and stunning views. On arrival, we explored both the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge and the Victoria Falls Hotel. Each offered unforgettable views, and we were lucky enough to see the Falls in full flow, with mist shooting high into the sky!

Tip: If you visit during the dry season, the Falls are still impressive, but in full flow, they are truly spectacular.

Adventures In Hwange National Park

No trip to Zimbabwe is complete without a safari, and Hwange National Park delivered an experience I’ll never forget.

The park is teeming with life. We drove around in search of wildlife, and our patience paid off: we watched a lioness and her cubs drinking at a waterhole, and marvelled at a herd of elephants moving gracefully through the bush.

Our final stop was a peaceful picnic spot called Ngweshla, where we enjoyed lunch surrounded by the sounds of nature. Even as we prepared to leave, the park gifted us one last sighting — a solitary elephant crossing our path, the perfect end to a remarkable day.

Final Thoughts

Travel in Zimbabwe is an adventure even before you reach your destination. If you have the chance to explore, I highly recommend making the most of it. Zimbabwe offers experiences that go far beyond what you’ll find in any travel guide or photograph.

Tip: Embrace every moment, and keep your camera close — you never know what wonders await around the next corner!

– JP