Zimbabwe and Zambia
Picture this, you’re cruising through the untamed savannas, your heart pounding with excitement, on the lookout for the Big Five. Lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos are not just names in a book here, they’re the real VIPs of the safari scene, and you’re about to be their honoured guest.
And then there’s the legendary Victoria Falls, the majestic curtain of water that makes Niagara look like a mere trickle. Brace yourself for an up-close and personal encounter with the thundering waters, you might want to bring a poncho for this wild ride!
But it’s not just about the animals and landscapes. Oh no! Zimbabwe and Zambia have a rhythm and energy all their own. Dance to the beat of traditional drums, meet friendly locals who’ll teach you their secret handshake, and savour the flavours of authentic African cuisine.
Safari destinations in Zimbabwe & Zambia
Victoria Falls
Let’s start with why you probably came to this page in the first place, the wonder that is the biggest attraction in the region and the classic end-point to a safari. The Falls, traditionally known as Mosi-oa-Tunya or ‘the Smoke that Thunders’, is the largest in the world when you combine their height and width. Fed by the Zambezi River, they provide all sorts of adventures like visits to Livingstone Island, swimming in Devil’s Pool on the precipice, and sunset cruises.
Hwange National Park
The most famous and visited park in Zimbabwe is Hwange, which spans over 15,000 km² (5,850 mi²) and provides a haven for 107 mammal species and more than 400 recorded types of birds. If it’s elephants you want to see (there are between 45,000 and 60,000 living in Hwange), then this is the place. Hwange is most commonly combined with Victoria Falls as they are closest to each other.
Mana Pools National Park
Mana Pools is considered one of the prettiest reserves in the world. Its location near the Zambezi River gives it large pools that support an amazing collection of wildlife. Canoe safaris, a terrific way to see hippos, elephants, crocodiles and aquatic birdlife like herons, jacanas and fish eagles, are synonymous with Mana Pools and a serious must-do. It’s also one of the best places in Southern Africa to see the endangered wild dog that hunt at speed all over the reserve.
Lake Kariba
Lake Kariba is an enormous man-made inland sea situated on the majestic Zambezi River covering approximately 282 km² (109 mi²) of the Zambezi Valley. Lake Kariba is famous for its ghost-like trees that seemingly float on the water. It offers remarkable natural beauty protected by some of the finest nature reserves on the planet and it hosts an abundance of wildlife. Game viewing along Lake Kariba’s shoreline can be done by game vehicle, on foot, houseboat, canoe or boat.
Kafue National Park
Kafue National Park is the oldest and largest of Zambia’s national parks. It covers a massive 22,400 km² (8,650 mi²). Despite its size and prominent location, it remains little-known and largely unexplored with vast tracts of its virgin bush still untouched. Thanks to its size and variety of habitat types the Kafue holds a fantastic diversity of wildlife. Our favourite place within Kafue, The Busanga Plains, is famed for its productive prides of lions.
Best Time To Visit Zimbabwe & Zambia
Our top tip, April to June provides great value and fantastic views of Victoria Falls in full flow. Game viewing can also be very good at this time of year. It is a great time to travel and combine the falls with Zambezi, Hwange or Mana Pools National Parks
Animals on a Safari in Zimbabwe & Zambia
Frequently Asked Questions About Zimbabwe & Zambia
The local currency in Zimbabwe is the Zimbabwean dollar. However, the US Dollar and the South African Rand are more commonly used due to the weakness of the Zim dollar. The local currency in Zambia is the Zambian Kwacha. The Kwacha is the official currency used for all transactions within the country.
Regarding exchanging money before arriving, it’s advisable to carry some foreign currency in cash, like US Dollars, when travelling to both Zimbabwe and Zambia. US Dollars are widely accepted in many places, especially in tourist areas, and can be used for various transactions, including accommodation, tours, and purchases.
However, it’s also essential to have a combination of payment methods. Major credit cards (Visa and MasterCard) are generally accepted in larger establishments, but it’s always a good idea to carry cash for smaller purchases or places that may not accept cards.
Both Zimbabwe and Zambia are generally considered safe travel destinations for tourists. Pay attention to local news and advice from your accommodation to stay informed about any safety concerns during your visit.
When visiting Victoria Falls, stick to designated viewpoints and follow safety guidelines, as the currents and conditions around the falls can be dangerous.
Additionally, consulting with experienced operators like us, of course, or locals can provide valuable insights and tips for a safe and enjoyable experience in Zimbabwe and Zambia, both of which are amazing destinations and a far cry from what you see in the media.
Accommodations on a safari in Zimbabwe & Zambia can vary widely. Here at Moriti, we do not cut corners and only offer 4-5 star accommodation options. Our lodges all offer all-inclusive packages, including meals, game drives, and sometimes select drinks or activities. They prioritize guest comfort and provide an opportunity to connect with the surrounding wildlife and landscapes, something Moriti feels very strongly about.
When planning a safari, it’s essential to consider the level of comfort you desire, your budget, the location of the accommodation in relation to the wildlife areas you want to visit, and any additional activities or services offered. Moriti prides itself on tailoring the experience to your preferences and needs, ensuring you have a memorable and enjoyable stay while exploring the incredible wildlife and natural beauty of Zimbabwe and Zambia.
Yes, you can absolutely combine a safari in Zimbabwe and Zambia with other nearby attractions like Victoria Falls and Chobe National Park or countries. Both Zimbabwe and Zambia are located in the southern part of Africa, making them well-connected to several other exciting destinations in the region including South Africa, Botswana and Namibia.
When combining multiple destinations, it’s essential to plan your travel logistics well in advance, including transportation, visas, and accommodation arrangements. Working with us can help ensure a smooth and seamless journey, making the most of your time exploring the diverse attractions of the region.
Yes, it is a prerequisite when going on a safari with Moriti. Travel insurance provides important protection and peace of mind in case of unforeseen events or emergencies during your travels.
When purchasing travel insurance for your safari, make sure to carefully review the policy details, including the coverage limits and any exclusions that may apply. Different insurance providers offer varying levels of coverage, so choose a policy that best fits your needs and the specific activities you plan to participate in during your safari.
Before purchasing travel insurance, check if your existing health insurance or credit card benefits already cover certain aspects of your trip. If not, consider obtaining a comprehensive travel insurance policy to ensure you’re adequately protected throughout your safari experience.
The Best Zimbabwe & Zambia Safaris
Best Of Zimbabwe Safari (Kariba Dam Add-On)
Cape Town, Kruger, Victoria Falls
Kafue National Park and Victoria Falls Safari
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