Intimate Botswana & Zimbabwe Encounter 2025

Shearwater Explorers Village is a lodge located in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, close to Victoria Falls, Curio Shops and Elephants Walk Shopping Centre. Surrounded by indigenous vegetation and wildlife, the accommodation features a range of standard and deluxe rooms as well as camping facilities. Rooms are equipped with air conditioning, a mosquito net, an en-suite bathroom and Wi-Fi. The camp facilities feature communal ablutions, showers and a kitchen area. Guests may enjoy a tasty meal and refreshing drink at the on-site restaurant.

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Explorers Village Communal Areas Credit: Shearwater Victoria Falls Explorer's Village communal areas provide inviting spaces for relaxation and socialising, featuring a lively bar, restaurant, outdoor pool, and cosy seating areas amidst beautifully landscaped gardens.

Explorers Village Credit: Shearwater Victoria Falls Aerial view of Explorers Village

Explorers Village Deluxe Twin Room Credit: Shearwater Victoria Falls Explorer's Village Deluxe Rooms provide a stylish retreat with modern amenities, including en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and outdoor seating, all set within beautifully landscaped gardens.

Explorers Village Deluxe Double Room Credit: Shearwater Victoria Falls Explorer's Village Deluxe Rooms provide a stylish retreat with modern amenities, including en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and outdoor seating, all set within beautifully landscaped gardens.

Explorers Village Credit: Shearwater Victoria Falls The serviced dome camping site at Explorer's Village offers a cozy and convenient camping experience with comfortable bedding, power outlets, lighting, and access to clean communal bathrooms and hot showers.

Explorers Village Communal Areas Credit: Shearwater Victoria Falls Explorer's Village communal areas provide inviting spaces for relaxation and socialising, featuring a lively bar, restaurant, outdoor pool, and cosy seating areas amidst beautifully landscaped gardens.

Standard Chalets Deluxe Chalets Serviced Tents

The Standard Chalets have either twin-size beds or double beds. For added comfort, they are fitted with air-conditioning and mosquito nets. The Chalets have ensuite bathrooms. There is an in room safe, team and coffee-making facilities, USB charging points, as well as, Wi-Fi.

The Deluxe Chalets have either twin-size beds or double beds. For added comfort, they are fitted with air-conditioning and mosquito nets. The Chalets have ensuite bathrooms. There is an in room safe, team and coffee-making facilities, USB charging points, as well as, Wi-Fi.

These serviced tents offer clients a more rustic experience, without the hassle of having to carry your own equipment. The tents are fitted with twin beds and fresh sheets. There are communal ablusions and showers, as well as, a communal kitchen for you to make use of.

Property Facilities

Activity Desk, Bar, Barbeque Facilities, Battery Charging Facilities, Internet Access (Complimentary), Malaria Free, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, TV Room, Vegetarian

Room Facilities

Air Conditioning, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Electrical Outlets, Heater, Iron / Ironing Board, Laundry Facilities, Mosquito Nets, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah, Wheelchair Friendly

Available Services

24-hour Security, Disability, Meal on Request, Room Service, Travel Desk

Activities on Site

Bird Watching, Game Viewing, Massages

Activities Nearby

Adrenaline Activities, Animal Encounters, Art Galleries, Big 5, Bird Watching, Boat Cruises, Canoeing, Catch-and-release Fishing, Cultural Tours, Cycling, Fishing, Fly Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Helicopter Rides, Helicopter Scenic Flights, Hiking, Historical Tours, Horse Riding, Rhino Tracking, River Cruises, Safaris, Scenic Flights, Squash Court, Tennis Court, Walks (Guided), Wildlife Tours, Wine Tasting

Cresta Mowana Safari Resort & Spa is located on the banks of the mighty Chobe River. In the tranquil surroundings, guests can experience authentic African comfort, spacious accommodations and delectable cuisine. Take full advantage of a wealth of wildlife and embark upon an exhilarating game drive in the Chobe National Park. The national park is famed for it’s large elephant herds, and has some of the largest concentrations of game on the African continent. For a more laid back holiday, tackle 9 holes on the popular golf course, or simply interact with the spectacular, natural surrounds on a slow walk along the river. Guests can also enjoy bird watching from the Mokoro, or a leisurely canoe trail on the waters of the Chobe. The onsite spa offers an opportunity for relaxation and recuperation with a range of treatments. The resort also features air conditioned guest accommodations, decorated in an Afro-centric style that adds to the natural ambiance.

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Cresta Mowana entrance Credit: CrestaMowanaSafariResort&Spa

Standard room Credit: CrestaMowanaSafariResort&Spa

Lounge and bar Credit: CrestaMowanaSafariResort&Spa

Restuarant Credit: CrestaMowanaSafariResort&Spa

Swimming pool area Credit: CrestaMowanaSafariResort&Spa

Gym Credit: CrestaMowanaSafariResort&Spa

Luxury Bedroom Luxury Suite

All of the luxury bedrooms at Cresta Mowana face the magnificent Chobe River, complete with a spacious balcony from which you can observe the daily happenings amidst the abundant wildlife habitat surrounding the river. The rooms also look out onto the adjoining Namibian floodplains, where often a numerous amount of game animals congregate. To provide sanctuary from the heat of the African sun, each of the luxury bedrooms at this Botswana safari lodge are air-conditioned. Select the temperature setting you prefer and allow yourself to unwind on one of the broad, cosy beds.

The Luxury Suites at Cresta Mowana Safari Resort & Spa exude opulence and serenity. Along with an enormous and inviting four poster bed, the spacious suites are accompanied by 1.5 bathrooms; a roomy stand-alone shower, and a Jacuzzi tub. Much like the Luxury Bedrooms, each of the air-conditioned suites have balconies overlooking the mighty Chobe River, and provide an excellent viewpoint from which to survey the abundant wildlife below. The suites have been tastefully decorated in a unique ethnic style, which is in perfect harmony with the surrounding African wilderness. In a more modern sense, each of the Cresta Mowana suites include 2 large flat screen TV’s to entertain your viewing pleasures.

Property Facilities

24-hour Security, Bar, Business Centre, Conference Centre, Disability Services, Gym, Kiddies Club, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa

Room Facilities

Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Disabled Rooms, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Hair Dryer, Heater, Internet Access (Complimentary), Iron / Ironing Board, Laundry Facilities, Mini Bar, Mosquito Nets, Safe, Satellite / Cable Television, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Television

Available Services

Airport Shuttle (Available), Airport Shuttle (Complimentary), Babysitting Service, Credit Card Facilities, Foreign Exchange, Room Service, Room Service (24 hours), Travel Desk

Activities on Site

Bird Watching, Boating, Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Golf, Massages, Tennis Court

Activities Nearby

Adrenaline Activities, Boat Cruises, Fine Dining, Fishing, Game Viewing, General Sightseeing, Golf, Health and Fitness Centre, Hiking, Hot Air Ballooning, Massages, River Cruises, Safaris

A hidden gem within a hidden gem, experience this unique and intimate eco-lodge reclaimed from a bygone era. Hideaways Nantwich Lodge has a history closely tied to that of Hwange National Park, as described here by acclaimed author Tony Park. Nantwich Lodge attracts true safari lovers who want to get off the beaten track and discover the pristine wilderness and abundant wildlife of Northern Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe. Perched up on a hill overlooking a large dam with resident crocodile and hippo, the game lodge boasts some of the best game viewing in the area. This remote safari lodge in Hwange National Park promotes conservation and responsible tourism by preserving the natural heritage of this great wilderness.

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Preparing dinner

Wildlife

Room

Wildlife

Birds-eye view

Enjoying the view

Dinner

Room - Bathroom

Superior Room

Wildlife

Game drive

Pool area

Safari hide

Wildlife

Main area - Outside

Standard Room Superior Room

Each room has been lovingly recreated in an eco-friendly way, adding a refreshing modern touch and a new purpose. We have repurposed existing into stylish and useful accents around the lodge, a prime example of true African innovation. All six rooms sleep two guests with four of them having inter-leading doors allowing for families or friends to share yet still have privacy.

Each room has been lovingly recreated in an eco-friendly way, adding a refreshing modern touch and a new purpose. We have repurposed existing into stylish and useful accents around the lodge, a prime example of true African innovation. All three rooms sleep two guests.

Property Facilities

24-hour Security, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Pool, Secure Parking

Room Facilities

Bath, En-Suite, Fan, Laundry Service (Available), Mosquito Nets, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah

Available Services

Credit Card Facilities

Activities on Site

Big 5, Bird Watching, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Safaris, Walks (Guided)

Activities Nearby

Big 5, Bird Watching, Cooking Courses, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Safaris, Walks (Guided)

Game Drives Guided Walk The Hidden Eye - Safari Hide Spa Treatements Night Drives

Search for wildlife in an open-air safari vehicle in Hwange National Park. Professional guides embark with our guests in search of wildlife during day and night-game drives. Guests are escorted through the Hwange region in an open game drive vehicle that safely transports them to all the wildlife hotspots. Your guide is an expert in his field and will share his niche knowledge with you while also tailoring your journey to what you are most interested in.

Game drives are either half-day (in the morning or afternoon), full-day, or in the evening for nocturnal game viewing.

The flat plains that Nantwich is known for makes an excellent environment for guided bush walks. The terrain is comfortable to traverse and wildlife is easily viewable. Our expert guides ensure that guests are safe on these walks, while sharing their unique insights about this remote area. Unique to the area are the natural springs close by.

The Hidden Eye is our extraordinary new hide at Nantwich Lodge, a haven designed to captivate and delight our esteemed guests. Nestled amidst the breathtaking natural landscape, this hide embodies the epitome of game viewing excellence. Crafted with meticulous precision, our hide seamlessly merges with the surrounding environment, ensuring minimal disruption to the wildlife that frequents the area. Immerse yourself in the heart of nature’s magnificence, as you witness firsthand the mesmerizing dance of animals in their natural habitat.

Situated mere steps away from our marvellous waterhole, the hide offers an unrivalled vantage point, granting you the privilege of experiencing exhilarating game sightings right from the comfort of the lodge. Whether you seek solace or adventure, our hide is the perfect sanctuary for those seeking an alternative to traditional game drive.

Nothing quite beats a pampering session in the wild African bush, hence the introduction of our in house ecospa at our lodge. Enjoy a variety of luxurious treatments in the natural tranquillity of mother nature and experience the perfect spa and safari holiday in Hwange.

The spa’s philosophy is about rejuvenating the mind, body, and soul through a unique combination of African and Western massage techniques. Set in the magnificent natural surroundings, indulge yourself with some unique treatments and excellent game viewing at the same time on your Hwange safari.

Night drives are a fantastic opportunity to experience the magic of Nantwich Lodge in a whole new light. As the sun sets and darkness falls, our expert guides will take you on an unforgettable adventure through the concession. The night brings out a different side of wildlife, and you'll have the chance to witness animals that are rarely seen during the day.

Embarking from Masumu River Lodge in Binga to sail on Lake Kariba, the Sovereign Houseboat offers a unique safari experience. Designed with space and style in mind, the experience ensures options for relaxation throughout your stay, fringed in luxury. Lake Kariba is the world’s largest man-made lake, located along the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia.

The Sovereign Houseboat is a 10 cabin cruise boat with air-conditioned cabins, each with an en-suite shower. The large lounge, dining room and bar are also fully air-conditioned with wide windows to offer you views of the passing landscape. A staircase leads to the top deck, from where the captain sails the vessel. From here guests will have a bird’s eye view of the lake and its surroundings. Guests may also enjoy the boat's pool and sun loungers.

With panoramic views of Lake Kariba, the Sovereign Houseboat offers a spacious and unique safari experience. Sweeping vistas of uncharted waters, with a backdrop of silhouetted trees and breathtaking sunsets bestow the ambience of freedom – the lake and the wilderness solely yours.

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Upper Deck Credit: ZambeziCruiseSafaris

Lounge Credit: ZambeziCruiseSafaris

Bedroom View Credit: David Rogers

Sunset Credit: David Rogers

Lounge and Dining Room Credit: David Rogers

Sovereign at Sunset Credit: Hideaways

Activities on Site

Bird Watching, Boating, Catch-and-release Fishing, Fishing, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Walks (Guided)

Cabins

Cabins are either double or twin and feature comfortable bedding, linen, air-conditioning and bathrooms equipped with an en-suite shower. Each cabin has sliding doors which boast views of the lake, watching the world go by as you cruise from bay to bay. The doors have additional sliding mosquito nets attached so as to keep out any bugs while letting in the cool air.

Shashani Matobo Hills Lodge is situated on a private game reserve approximately an hour's drive from Bulawayo on the border of Matobo National Park. Ancient rock paintings and a historical grain-bin site are a morning's walk away. You can watch many species of plains game from the lodge.

10 individual en-suite loges are spaced widely on the edge of a huge rock dome with views over a wooded valley and the characteristic Matobo granite hills. all rooms are comfortably furnished and have private verandas.

The main building has a comfortable lounge with adjoining dining room, all open fronted towards the breathtaking view. A large fireplace takes the chill, out of winter evenings. The swimming pool is ideally placed to gather the sun's warmth and to offer beautiful views over the surrounding landscape whilst relaxing.

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Shashani Matobo Hills Credit: paul Karnstedt Lodges situated on a granite rock

Shashani Matobo Hills Credit: Paul Karnstedt Beautiful views over surrounding landscape, whilst relaxing

Shashani Matobo Hills Credit: Paul Karnstedt Twin bedroom with views

Shashani Matobo Hills Credit: Paul Karnstedt Unparalleled views

Shashani Matobo Hills Credit: Paul Karnstedt Comfortable lounge and bar, open fronted towards the breathtaking view

Shashani Matobo Hills Credit: Paul Karnstedt Luxurious double bedroom with Indian Day bed

Lodge

10 individual en-suite lodges are spaced widely on the edge of a huge rock dome with views over a wooded valley. Each room has an overhead fan, mosquito nets and mini bar and is tastefully decorated with modern finishes. There are 6 twin rooms and 4 double rooms.

Each room has a private veranda.

Property Facilities

24-hour Security, Bar, Barbeque Facilities, Communal Dining, Laundry Service (Available), Malaria Free, Pool, Secure Parking

Room Facilities

Balcony / Deck, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Lounge Area, Mini Bar, Mosquito Nets, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah

Available Services

Airport Shuttle (Available)

Activities on Site

Bird Watching, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Horse Riding, Walks (Guided), Walks (Self Guided)

Activities Nearby

Animal Encounters, Bird Watching, Catch-and-release Fishing, Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing, General Sightseeing, Hiking, Horse Riding, Horse-back Safaris, Rhino Tracking, Walks (Guided), Walks (Self Guided)

An oasis set among the Mokolwane palms on the edge of the pans. It is ideally situated close to the entrance to the Nata Sanctuary and is just off the main road, 10 km from Nata village. This is the junction to the Okavango, Chobe and Francistown areas. The Nata River delta feeds the Sua Pan in the Nata sanctuary and forms the breeding ground for a host of water birds including pelicans and flamingo in their thousands, transforming the shore line into a pink haze blending into the western sky. Nata Lodge offers guided tours in open safari vehicles into the sanctuary, not to be missed.

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Nata Lodge

Room interior Nata Lodge

Swimming pool Nata Lodge

Nata Lodge

Bath in Nata Lodge chalets

Luxury chalets Nata Lodge

Makgadikgadi Salt Pans

Luxury chalets Nata Lodge

Situated close to the village of Gweta, 290 km from Francistown and 200 km from Maun, this family friendly camp accepts children of all ages. Planet Baobab combines style with comfort while remaining true to its African inspiration. Accommodation provides different options at all price levels. Traditionally styled, beautifully painted Kalanga Huts with en-suite bathrooms or the shady campsite are a couple of accommodation options available. The Africantastic ‘shebeen’ style central mess features a tasty bar menu, and when it heats up, cool off in the biggest coolest pool in the Kalahari. Activities on offer all year round include: guided bush walks; traditional cattle post and village visits; incredibly friendly habituated meerkats; expeditions to Nxai Pan. During the dry season (25th April to 31st October) activities include quad biking on the saltpans; a sleep out under the magnificent Makgadikgadi night sky. During the wet season (1st November to 24th April) visitors can witness the spectacular zebra and wildebeest migration experience.

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Bakalanga Hut(s)

Afro-chic interiors, Mosquito nets, African blankets and Crisp cotton sheets

Thamalakane River Lodge is ideally located an easy 20-minute drive from Maun Airport en route to the famous Moremi Game Reserve. It is a secluded haven of tranquility nestled in a grove of mature riverine trees on the bank of the Thamalakane River. The rambling lodge has an idyllic setting and is committed to service excellence. Character en-suite stone chalets, some with private splash pools are positioned in the shade of the riverine forest, overlooking the river. All chalets and common areas have terraces that take advantage of the serene 180 degree view of the riverbanks lined with fluttering reeds visited by an ever changing array of water fowl and birds. It is a delightful place to come home to after a day spent exploring.

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Thamalakane River lodge entrance to restaurant Entrance to restaurant

Thamalakane river lodge bar area Bar & restaurant

Thamalakane River lodge swimming pool Swimming pool area

Thamalakane River lodge view View next to the pool

Babbler Chalets King Fisher family units

Sleeping 2 adults on double or twin beds. The spacious chalet interiors have a feature stone wall with an en-suite bathroom consisting of a shower, hand-basin and toilet.

Consisting of 2 bedrooms sharing one bathroom. One bedroom accommodates 2 adults in either twin or double beds and the other bedroom sleeps 2 children on twin beds. These units lounge areas overlooking the river.

Property Facilities

24-hour Security, Bar, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Private Vehicle (Available), Restaurant, Secure Parking

Room Facilities

Complimentary Wi-Fi, Disabled Rooms, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Internet Access (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah, Wheelchair Friendly

Available Services

Airport Shuttle (Available), Credit Card Facilities

Activities on Site

Big 5, Bird Watching, Boating, Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Helicopter Scenic Flights, Horse Riding, Horse-back Safaris, Massages, Mokoro Excursion, Safaris, Scenic Flights, Sleep Outs, Walks (Guided), Wildlife Tours

Activities Nearby

Big 5, Bird Watching, Boat Cruises, Boating, Child Friendly Activities, Cultural Tours, Game Drives, Game Walks, General Sightseeing, Helicopter Rides, Helicopter Scenic Flights, Hiking, Horse Riding, Horse-back Safaris, Mokoro Excursion, River Cruises, Safaris, Scenic Flights

Mankwe, meaning “mother leopard,” is a serene sanctuary situated on a private concession east of the Moremi Game Reserve, just 85 kilometers from the vibrant tourism hub of Maun. A hidden oasis on the edge of a wilderness paradise, Hideaways Mankwe Tented Retreat offers a rare and intimate safari experience in the heart of Botswana. A gateway to the Okavango Delta, Khwai region, and Chobe National Park, Mankwe Tented Retreat provides an eco-conscious escape into some of Africa’s most iconic landscapes.

Surrounded by mopane trees and expansive wilderness, Mankwe’s elevated Meru-style tented suites, designed with understated elegance, offer sweeping views of the bush from private decks, blending rustic charm with contemporary comfort. The lodge invites guests to not only engage in exploration—whether through game drives in the concession or safaris into bucket-list reserves—but also to take a step back and truly unwind. Interlinked by elevated wooden walkways, Mankwe offers a variety of tranquil spaces to relax, from the serene poolside to cozy nooks perfect for quiet reflection. Evenings bring the magic of the open-air boma, where stories are shared under a starlit sky, completing each day with moments of connection.

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Tented Suite

Featuring 10 eco-friendly Meru-style tented suites, each perched on elevated wooden platforms with private balconies sheltered beneath a canopy of mopane trees. Designed with sustainability in mind, the solar-powered tents include en-suite bathrooms with twin basins and a shower offering stunning views. Guests can choose between king or twin beds, dressed in high-end linen with ultra-comfortable mattresses, ensuring a restful stay.

Room Facilities

Complimentary Wi-Fi, Fan, Mini Bar (Paid/Free), Mosquito Netting

Property Facilities

Activity Desk, Bar, Business Centre, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Pool, Restaurant, Spa

Room Facilities

Fan, Mosquito Nets, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah

Available Services

Airport Shuttle (Available)

Activities on Site

Bird Watching, Game Drives, Game Viewing

Activities Nearby

Bird Watching, Boating, Game Viewing, Mokoro Excursion

Helicopter Experience Xakanxa Boat Trip Mokoro Excursion Night Drive Game Drive

Take to the skies on a helicopter experience in Khwai for the quintessential Botswana safari and get an entirely different vantage point over this unique wilderness area. The breathtaking world of the Okavango Delta is a multi-faceted marvel of nature, witnessed in vibrant detail from above.

Soaring through the air up to 1000 feet on your Khwai helicopter experience will uncover the true vastness of the Okavango Delta on one of Africa’s last remaining wetland excursions. Permanent waterways, palm islands and lagoons, and incredible wildlife sightings offer great photographic opportunities. You can also include a special champagne stop on your helicopter experience in Khwai. Land on a deserted palm island, pop the cork and enjoy the astonishing views while discovering more about the Delta.

Experience birdwatching and game viewing from a whole new perspective and enjoy the gentle tranquillity of a boat cruise in the Okavango Delta in Botswana, which is our playground. Moremi Game Reserve is part of the Okavango Delta, so depending on the season, it offers a great deal of water-related game viewing. Look out for leopard and African wild dog, as well as hippo, crocodile, lion, red lechwe, waterbuck, impala, and an abundance of birds.

The lifeline that is the Khwai River makes the area a wild haven as this stable water source also lies along a seasonal animal migratory route. A mokoro experience in Khwai, floating down the river in a dugout canoe, brings another perspective to Botswana’s wildlife wonders. Mokoros, traditionally crafted from hardwood tree trunks, have long served as a vital mode of transportation across the waterways of the Okavango Delta. In recent times, however, their purpose has transformed, as these very mokoros have found a new role in fostering sustainable tourism.

Night safaris offer a fascinating glimpse into the secretive world of nocturnal wildlife. These two-hour drives provide a rare chance to spot nocturnal species, including owls and predators that are rarely seen during the day, unveiling a whole new side of the wilderness.

Mankwe offers game drives within Moremi Game Reserve, the Chobe Corridor, Khwai Concession and their private concession in Botswana. Situated in the heart of the Botswana wilderness, the lodge attracts regular visits from elephants, buffalo, lions, leopards, and wild dogs. Its prime location offers front-row seats to the dynamic African Bushveld and excellent birding opportunities. Guests can enjoy morning, afternoon, and thrilling after-dark spotlight game drives within the concession.