2 NIGHTS MATOPO, 3 NIGHTS HWANGE, 2 NIGHTS VICTORIA FALLS

Idyllically located in the spectacular Matobo Hills, the renowned Matobo National Park is known for its rich human history, its remarkably diverse flora and fauna and its magnificent, rugged terrain. This unspoiled natural wilderness features a range of massive red-tinged, granite boulders interspersed with gorgeous, wooded valleys making it a dream destination for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers alike. The reserve is compact, easily accessible and is home to an impressive range of African wildlife including the highly endangered black and white rhinoceros, zebra, wildebeest, giraffe, cheetah, hippo, warthog, and crocodile as well as Africa’s largest concentration of leopard and black eagles. This unforgettable national park serves as an ideal stopover for travellers heading to the popular tourist sites of Hwange and the majestic Victoria Falls.

Day Itinerary

1. Upon arrival at the Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport, you will be picked for a transfer to Matobo Hills Lodge for your 2 nights stay at the lodge.
2. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.

Overnight: Matobo Hills Lodge

Matobo Hills Lodge is situated within a private wildlife reserve bordering Matobo National Park (50km from Bulawayo). Matopos hills is an area of exquisite beauty, the lodge’s accommodation units are built upon a granite outcrop with sweeping panoramic views over the surrounding hills. There is a separate lounge/bar which commands spectacular 360-degree views of Mount Ififi and the Maleme Valley.

In an area of exquisite beauty, the lodge’s accommodation units are built upon a granite outcrop with outlooks over the surrounding hills. 34 beds in seventeen luxury hilltop lodges; 13 twin bedded and 4 double bedded. All lodges have shower, bath toilet and basin and wall-to-wall carpet. Extra beds on request.

Basis

Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

Day Itinerary

1. In the morning you, you will go for a game drive
2. In the afternoon you will go visit the San Rock Paintings. The paintings illustrate evolving artistic styles and also socio-religious beliefs. The whole bears testimony to a rich cultural tradition that has now disappeared. The rich evidence from archaeology and from the rock paintings at Matobo provides evidence that the Matobo Hills have been occupied over a period of at least 500,000 years and late afternoon you will visit the Grave of Cecil John Rhodes in Matobo National Park. Today the Grave of Cecil John Rhodes is part of Matobo National Park, Zimbabwe. There are great views over the park from the grave site. A short walk from the parking lot will lead visitors to the grave.

Activities

Matobo Game Drive

The diversity of the vegetation at Matobo National Park supports a wide range of wildlife such as giraffe, zebra, sable, impala and predators such as leopard , cheetah, wildcat and others. One of the many highlights for many visitors is the sighting of one or more of the endangered rhino.

Open, well-kitted 4-wheel drive vehicles will take you on a meander along the shores of a scenic lake, through the diversity of the vegetation at Matopo National Park. Let our professional guides impart their immense knowledge of the many species of mammals. With animals such as the African Elephant, Buffalo, Lion, Leopard, Giraffe, Zebra, Wildebeest, Warthog, Caracal, the majestic Sable, Eland, Waterbuck, Kudu, Bushbuck, Tsessebe, the elusive Gemsbok, and many more. The birds and wilderness elements you encounter will leave you wanting more.

Cave Paintings Tour

Grave of Cecil John Rhodes

On the 26 March 1902 at the age of 49 Cecil John Rhodes died in Muizenberg, Cape Town. Despite the fact that the Boer War still raged, his body was sent on an epic railway journey through war torn South Africa to Rhodesia to be laid to rest at this spot.

He may not have lived very long but he accomplished a lot of amazing achievements in his short life; he started the successful diamond company called ‘De Beers’, founded the state of Rhodesia (which was split into 2 areas and is now known as Zimbabwe and Zambia), was elected to the Cape Parliament in 1881, became the prime minister of the Cape in 1890 and founded an abundance of enterprises in Zimbabwe.

Nearing his death, Cecil John Rhodes requested that he like to be buried on top of the flat mountain near his land (in Matopos National Park). He was unaware that this was sacred ground belonging to the Ndebele… The Ndebele referred to this mountain ‘Malindidzimu’ which means ‘dwelling place of the generous spirits’. They allowed Cecil John Rhodes to be buried on top of this Zimbabwean Mountain (a month after his death) but requested that instead of a gun salute they would pay their respect to him with a ‘Hayate’ (a respectful silence)… he was the only European to ever be given this tribute.

Cecil John Rhodes also wanted his burial site to be called “view of the world” as he thought it was the most magnificent site around, overlooking the matapos rocks, massive boulders and exquisite scenery.

In the Bulawayo museum there is a copy of his original will which hangs on the wall. Above this is a plaque that states that Rhodes was a perfect example of someone who, in a short lifetime, accomplished many works. The plaque also points to one goal that Cecil John Rhodes followed throughout his life, it reads: “to render myself useful to my country.” Visiting the grave of Cecil John Rhodes is highly recommended; the calmness overwhelms you, the views are amazing and the grave site is spectacular.

Basis

Fully Inclusive – Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities

Located in western Zimbabwe, Hwange National Park (formerly Wankie Game Reserve) is the largest natural reserve in the country and is famous for its rich diversity of wildlife. Home to one of the biggest elephant populations in the world, as well as around 100 mammal species, the park is a wonderland for animal lovers. Several protected animals inhabit the awe-inspiring open landscapes, including the endangered wild dog, critically endangered black rhino, and rare roan and sable – along with lion, cheetah, and around 500 bird species. Adventurers can look forward to guided bush hikes, game drives, and horse-riding safaris, all of which offer excellent photographic opportunities. Hwange boasts several unique natural features, most notably the natural seeps such as Nehimba and Shakwanki animals dig for water.

Day Itinerary

1. Soon after breakfast, we say goodbye to Matobo Hills Lodge and transfer in an air-conditioned vehicle to Hwange for your 3 nights stay at Ivory Lodge on fully inclusive.  The transfer will be approximately 4 hours.
2. Upon arrival in the afternoon, you have lunch at the Lodge and then in the afternoon, you will be picked up for the afternoon game drive in the top national parks in Africa in terms of size, diversity, and quantity of game.
3. Dinner will be at the Lodge.

Overnight: Ivory Lodge

A small intimate lodge featuring 7 luxurious tree houses and 2 Presidential Elephant Suites set on elevated platforms amongst the indigenous flora of Hwange Game Park.

Deep in the mystical teak forests of Hwange is this unobtrusive camp, bathed in the tales of pioneering hunters and explorers such as Fredrick Courtney Selous. Lumbering giants drift around your stilted platforms, their tusks glinting in salute to the sanctuary of shade offered up by these massive trees.

This is Ivory Lodge – place of elephants. It is here that great herds of elephants are found – sometimes over 100 strong.

Hwange is renowned for its huge tuskers – big old bulls with magnificent tusks.  It is also here that the famous Presidential Herd drinks – these elephants’ home-range is amongst the dense feeding areas of the SikumiVlei and where they find refuge from the scorching heat at Ivory’s water hole.

Silently, elegantly, the lodge stands over the waterhole…. watch by flood light under a star-spangled African night sky – the elephants in their play-fighting…. their display of instinctive rituals, their caressing and murmurings…all which speak of years gone by.

Activities

Hwange Game Drives

Game drives are the best way to see the variety of wildlife and scenery of the park and they almost always yield unexpected sightings. Often, sitting quietly and watching an impala ram guard his harem against marauding bachelors can be just as fascinating as coming across a pride of lions lazing under the broad canopy of an acacia tree.

Basis

Full Board Plus – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities

Day Itinerary

1. On this day, you will go for a morning game drive in the Hwange National Park.  Hwange National Park offers excellent wildlife viewing, and most big safari animals can be seen.
2. Soon after lunch, you will be picked again for an afternoon game drive in the national park. As one of the best-kept game parks on the continent, Hwange offers an experience like no other.

Activities

Hwange Game Drives

Hwange ranks among the top national parks in Africa in terms of size, diversity and quantity of game. Big game includes lion, leopard, rhino and buffalo as well as some of Africa’s largest elephant herds. In the expert hands of our guides, you’ll find yourself heading out through the acacia-fringed grassy vleis and through the teak forests in search of Hwange’s Big Five.

Basis

Full Board Plus – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities

Day Itinerary

Today you will embark on a full-day Game Drive.  Full day drives will commence early in the morning, with a number of breaks during the day, lunch spent under one of the ever-shady Natal Mahoganies.

Activities

Hwange Game Drives

As one of the best-kept game parks on the continent, Hwange offers an experience like no other, from walking safaris to exciting game drives. Visitors can look forward to a private and secluded safari in a pristine environment.

Basis

Full Board Plus – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities

Victoria Falls is one of the world’s most impressive waterfalls. It is set on the magnificent Zambezi River which creates the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. These spectacular falls can be easily visited and viewed from the Zimbabwean side. Considered to be the world’s widest waterfalls, Victoria Falls measures an impressive 1708 metres in width. The small town of Victoria Falls, which lies adjacent to the waterfalls, serves as a great base from which to explore the many attractions this area of Zimbabwe has to offer. The surrounding area provides a wide range of adrenalin-filled activities for adventure lovers. Visitors can look forward to an array of wonderful activities including scenic flights, micro lighting, white water rafting, bungee jumping, kayaking, and once-in-a-lifetime expeditions into the incredible Chobe National Park.

Day Itinerary

1. Early in the morning, soon after breakfast you will be picked up for a visit to the Painted Dog Conservation area. he Painted Dogs Centre educates travellers about the Painted Dog, also known as the African Wild Dog, as one of Africa’s most fascinating endangered mammals. As the African Wild Dog is also highly endangered, the Painted Dog Conservation Centregives visitors information about the species – and to see them in real life.
2. Later in the day, you will then be transferred from Hwange to Victoria Falls, for your 2 nights stay at Pioneers Lodge on bed and breakfast basis.
3. Soon after arrival, late afternoon you will be picked up for a Sunset Cruise along the Might Zambezi River. Clients may have the opportunity to see a variety of game; including hippo, crocodile, and elephant as well as enjoy the many different bird species. The Zambezi River Sunset cruises ae built up to the gracious glow of the African Sunset on this vast body of water.
4. Dinner at the lodge (Own Account).

Overnight: Pioneers Victoria Falls

Set in lush gardens with beautifully manicured lawns, this fifty room lodge is a great option for those who value comfort and elegance. The rooms are spacious and tastefully decorated in a classic style, and each has a clear and open view of the garden.

The heart of “Pioneers” Lodge is the centrally located main area. The layout and classic décor here is extremely welcoming with a serene and stylish lounge which is airy and comfortable, and the rich inside dining room is certainly nostalgic and inviting. The guests also have the option of relaxing and dining on the spacious and expansive terrace, overlooking lush gardens. There is a large saloon style bar area which serves a variety of cold and hot beverages, including local craft beer made from our very own Zambezi water. For the modern traveller, Wi-Fi is important and this is readily available throughout the lodge.  Well placed in the lush gardens are two swimming pools for the guests to use at their leisure. In addition to these, a day spa, TV Room and a meetings room are also available on the property.

Pioneers is a family friendly property

Activities

Painted Dog Conservation

PDC was originally established as Painted Dog Research in 1992 by Gregory Rasmussen. During the first two years the human-induced carnage from snares, shooting and road kills accounted for 95% of all dog mortalities. Early public presentations showed prejudice and ignorance and it was clear that unless this situation was addressed, the species could become extinct. The initial emphasis was thus to identify the critical issues and develop a pragmatic and holistic strategy that would make a substantial, lasting contribution to Painted Dogs, nature conservation and, very importantly, to the lives of the local people.

Sundowner Cruise

The Zambezi River cruise is a superb way to relax and enjoy the beauty of the River. You may have the opportunity to see a variety of game; including hippo, crocodile, and elephant in their home environment, as well as enjoy the many different bird species.

The Sunset cruise is very popular and includes finger snacks, beer, wine, local spirits and soft drinks. There are great photo opportunities against often-spectacular African sunsets. Flocks of birds skim the waterline as the sun sets behind the African skyline.

Basis

Bed and Breakfast

Day Itinerary

1. Soon after breakfast, you explore the falls up close and on foot. Feel the thunder, be touched by the mist and enjoy endless great views as you walk the path hovering up close to the falls with an experienced guide.
2. In the early afternoon, soon after tour of the falls, you will be transferred to Lookout Cafe for you lunch where you have the spectacular views of the Batoka Gorge, Vic Falls Bridge and Spray of the Falls.
3. In the evening, you have dinner at the Boma. The Boma is a legendary dining and entertainment experience that offers an unforgettable fusion of mouth-watering local cuisine, energetic dance performances, interactive drumming, and traditional storytelling. The four-course meal includes a delicious platter of starters, soup from the campfire, a braai (barbecue) buffet, followed by a selection of desserts (Drinks Own Account).

Activities

Guided tour of the Falls (Zimbabwe)

A view of the Victoria Falls is something you will never forget and the best way to see them is on a guided tour. Discover how the Falls were formed and what local customs and traditions surround them. These tours are extremely informative and end with a visit to the local art and crafts centre.

The Lookout Café

Perched on the rim of the Batoka Gorge, the Wild Horizons Lookout Café is a fusion of spectacular views and exquisite food. The African Contemporary styled restaurant is designed to emphasize its unique panoramic view of the Victoria Falls Bridge and Batoka Gorges, which form part of the spectacular backdrop.

The Boma Restaurant

The Boma – Dinner & Drum Show is a “must do” Victoria Falls dining and entertainment experience, specializing in traditional African food, drumming and dancing. The food is cooked and served in the style and quantity of a lavish feast, including irresistible desserts.

On arrival, you are dressed in a chitenge (traditional sarong) and welcomed into a vibrant atmosphere in which the tantalizing aromas of local dishes and game meat on the braai (barbecue) fill the restaurant, which is partially open to the star-filled African sky.

Your meal begins with a mouth-watering platter of starters whilst the buffet includes soup from the campfire, a range of salads, game meat cooked on a braai (barbecue), followed by desserts.  Vegetarian options are also available, as well as local dishes such as peanut butter spinach

You can also look forward to outstanding performances by traditional singers and dancers, and enjoy an energizing interactive drumming show. A face painter, storyteller, hair braider and fortune teller also form part of this festive evening.

Basis

Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

Day Itinerary

1. Today we say goodbye to Victoria Falls and transfer Victoria Falls International Airport for your departure flight

Basis

Bed and Breakfast