Safari Itineraries in Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe Wildlife & Horse Safari Itineraries
Cawston Encounters Zimbabwe Wildlife Safari Itinerary
Cawston Encounters fits perfectly as the heart of a wild journey that takes you through the western half of Zimbabwe.
Dramatic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich experiences come together seamlessly on this wild journey.
From the granite hills, awe-inspiring vistas, and rhino tracking of Matopos, to the authentic charm of a working ranch at Cawston, on to the vast wilderness of Hwange National Park, and the awe-inspiring energy of Victoria Falls, this itinerary offers a journey filled with variety, adventure, and moments that stay with you long after you leave.
Arrival in Bulawayo – Gateway to Matopos National Park
- Arrive in Bulawayo into Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport (see Getting To Cawston for visas and other useful information), 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.
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.
Transfer To Cawston Encounters
- Early breakfast and a drive through Bulawayo to Cawston Encounters (approx. 2-3 hours).
- Arrive in time for lunch.
- Afternoon game drive
- Horse Safari guests meet their horses and enjoy a short introductory ride
- Sundowners around the campfire before dinner, sharing stories of the day’s sightings.
Cawston Encounters Safari Adventures
Horse Safari guests enjoy a 4 to 6-night riding itinerary
Non-riding guests enjoy full days incorporating game viewing, birding, elephant interaction, and other unique ranch activities curated just for you!
Transfer to Victoria Falls – The Smoke That Thunders
- Morning game drive or horse ride before departing for Bulawayo airport for your short commercial flight to Victoria Falls.
- Arrive and settle into your lodge or hotel.
- Afternoon at leisure to explore the local markets or enjoy a sunset cruise on the Zambezi.
Victoria Falls – Awe-Inspiring Natural Wonder
- Morning 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.
Departure Day
– or for those wanting additional holiday time – Transfer to Hwange National Park
- Early breakfast and scenic drive to Hwange National Park (approximately 4 hours) or a charter flight for those staying further south in the Park.
- 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.
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.
Departure – Farewell to Zimbabwe
- Transfer to Victoria Falls International Airport for your onward journey home.
Itinerary Prices
Pricing estimates are per person sharing and include transfers.
Option 1
Matopos 2 nights – Cawston 4 nights – Victoria Falls 3 nights:
Price starting from $3,850pp.
Option 2
Matopos 2 nights – Cawston 4 nights – Victoria Falls 3 nights – Hwange National Park 3 nights:
Price starting from $5,400pp.
We are more than happy to help you book your safari trip according to your needs.
Please Get In Touch for availability and options!
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.
