Victoria Falls, Hwange & Mana Pools: Authentic Safari

Victoria Falls, is a world-renowned natural wonder that promises an unforgettable travel experience. As you approach this breathtaking site, the roar of the cascading waters and the ethereal mist rising into the sky will leave you in awe. The sheer size of the falls is astonishing, with a width of over a kilometre and a height of more than 100 meters, making it one of the largest waterfalls on Earth. It’s no wonder that Victoria Falls is often referred to as the ‘Smoke that Thunders.’

Beyond the stunning views, Victoria Falls offers a myriad of adventure activities for thrill-seekers. From heart-pounding white-water rafting in the Zambezi River to exhilarating bungee jumps from the Victoria Falls Bridge, there’s no shortage of adrenaline-pumping experiences. For those who prefer a more tranquil adventure, take a serene sunset cruise on the Zambezi River and witness wildlife in its natural habitat.

Your visit to Victoria Falls is not complete without exploring the rich local culture. The nearby town of Victoria Falls offers a vibrant marketplace where you can purchase handcrafted souvenirs, interact with the warm and welcoming Zimbabwean people, and savour local cuisine. Immerse yourself in the traditions and stories of the indigenous people, adding a cultural dimension to your journey.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or an adventure seeker, Victoria Falls is an absolute must-visit destination. With its unparalleled natural beauty, exciting activities, and a warm cultural experience, it’s no wonder this UNESCO World Heritage site continues to captivate travellers from around the globe.

The Palm River Hotel embodies a vision that marries luxury with the warmth of home comfort. Nestled along the banks of the iconic Zambezi River, the hotel offers stunning, unimpeded views while ensuring privacy and tranquillity. Its central location is just 4 kilometres from the breathtaking Victoria Falls, allowing guests to experience the wonder of this natural marvel from the comfort of their rooms.

Activities & Highlights
As Africa's Adventure Capital, Victoria Falls offers an array of exhilarating experiences for every traveller. Guests can soar above the Falls on a scenic helicopter flight, embrace the thrill of highwire activities over the 120 meter gorge, or tackle the thrilling white-water rapids below the waterfall. For those seeking a more serene experience, the hotel provides easy access to five National Parks within 100 kilometres, perfect for immersive game viewing amidst untouched wilderness. A complimentary shuttle bus operates throughout the day, transporting guests between The Palm River Hotel and Victoria Falls Town, making stops at key landmarks, including the Victoria Falls Rainforest and local craft markets.

Accommodation
The Deluxe Rooms at The Palm River Hotel are thoughtfully designed with modern furnishings and comfort in mind. Each room features a private balcony, allowing guests to soak in the breathtaking views of the Zambezi River and lush gardens. The spacious bedrooms come equipped with a writing desk, fixed luggage storage, bedside tables with reading lights, and a fully stocked tea and coffee station. The contemporary bathrooms boast clean lines and spacious layouts, complete with double vanities and all necessary amenities for a relaxing stay. Generous wardrobe space offers ample storage for guests’ belongings.

Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe’s largest and most diverse wildlife sanctuary, is a prime destination for those seeking an authentic safari adventure. With its vast open plains, dense teak forests, and countless waterholes, Hwange offers a unique and untamed African landscape that’s home to an impressive array of wildlife. Prepare to be captivated by the park’s breathtaking scenery and the opportunity to witness the Big Five in their natural habitat.

Hwange is renowned for its thriving elephant population, one of the largest on the continent, making it an ideal place for incredible close encounters with these gentle giants. But the park isn’t just about elephants; lions, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos also roam the area, along with an abundance of other wildlife species. Expertly guided game drives and walking safaris promise thrilling moments as you witness the beauty of the animal kingdom up close.

Hwange National Park’s close proximity to local communities makes it a unique destination for travellers looking to combine their love for wildlife with responsible tourism. Many lodges in the region are committed to conservation efforts and community engagement, allowing you to be a part of a meaningful journey that supports both wildlife and the local people.

Somalisa Camp offers a remarkable safari experience in one of Southern Africa’s most biodiverse regions, Hwange National Park. Known for its abundant wildlife, the park is home to impressive populations of elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, and African wild dogs. Guests at Somalisa Camp can immerse themselves in the luxury of the wild while enjoying intimate encounters with these iconic animals in their natural habitat.

Activities & Highlights
At Somalisa Camp, adventure awaits with a variety of safari activities. Enjoy thrilling game drives, serene birding excursions, and immersive walking safaris, all led by expert guides. The Elephant Pool offers a unique vantage point for observing elephants as they quench their thirst, providing remarkable close-up encounters in a safe environment. For a truly unforgettable experience, spend a night under the stars at Somalisa Sleep-Out, a romantic treehouse retreat overlooking a nearby watering hole. Guests can also engage with the local community by visiting African Bush Camps Foundation projects in Mambanje and Dete, including the opportunity to volunteer at the nutrition program.

Accommodation
Somalisa Camp features seven exquisitely furnished luxury tented suites that blend the beauty of nature with sophisticated design. Each suite is equipped with a wood-burning fireplace, a copper slipper-style bath, and a lavish king-size bed, along with both indoor and outdoor showers. Guests can relax on their private viewing deck, taking in breathtaking landscapes and keeping an eye out for majestic wildlife, ensuring an unparalleled safari experience. Emphasizing sustainability, the camp operates entirely on solar power and boasts a water purification system that recycles 80% of its water, proudly holding Zimbabwe's first GOLD Green Tourism Certification.

Known for its diverse ecosystems and the meandering Zambezi River, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers an unforgettable safari experience. Visitors can expect to encounter a plethora of wildlife, from majestic elephants to elusive leopards, against the stunning backdrop of lush riverbanks and towering acacia trees.

Mana Pools stands out for its unique feature – walking safaris. Exploring this untamed wilderness on foot under the guidance of expert rangers allows for up-close encounters with Africa’s incredible wildlife. Picture yourself observing hippos wallowing in the river, or watching as a pride of lions basks in the sun. These encounters create lasting memories and provide a deeper connection to the natural world.

The meandering Zambezi River presents the perfect opportunity for unforgettable canoe safaris. Drift along its serene waters while admiring elephants, crocodiles, and a myriad of bird species. Alternatively, try your hand at fishing for the fierce tigerfish, a prized catch in these waters. It’s a unique and tranquil way to experience the park’s abundant wildlife. Spend your nights under a star-studded sky, lulled to sleep by the sounds of the wild, making this safari adventure a truly authentic and unforgettable experience.

Kanga Expeditions is a wild, untouched paradise nestled within a private concession in Mana Pools National Park. This remote southwestern stretch of land features vlei lines, mopane woodlands, and riverine forests, creating an enchanting backdrop for exploration and adventure along the banks of the Zambezi River. As the sole water source during the dry season, Kanga Pan transforms into a wildlife haven, attracting a variety of animals to its heart. Visitors are sure to encounter captivating wildlife experiences that enrich their African safari journey.

Activities & Highlights
At Kanga Expeditions, a range of exciting activities awaits. Guided walking safaris allow guests to immerse themselves in the beauty of the concession, while exhilarating day and night game drives led by qualified local guides promise thrilling wildlife encounters. Kanga Camp collaborates with Zambezi Expeditions, offering guests the chance to enjoy canoeing and catch-and-release fishing on the stunning Zambezi River.

Accommodation
The Luxury Tented Suites at Kanga Expeditions offer a harmonious blend of comfort and elegance. Each Meru-styled tent features floor-to-ceiling mesh windows that invite natural light and a refreshing breeze. Guests can unwind in thoughtfully designed spaces complete with fans, en-suite bathrooms, flushing toilets, outdoor showers, hot running water, and private verandas for a tranquil retreat in the heart of nature.