African Sunrise Safaris: Vida and Dwight Williams - Golf & Safari in Africa

Morning, afternoon and night game drives lead by experienced and knowledgeable guides will be done in an open-sided safari vehicle. During the safari we'll lookout for wildlife including elephant, giraffe, buffalo, sable antelope, common duiker and a variety of bird species such as ostrich, brown snake eagle, lilac-breasted roller and swallow-tailed bee-eater. Our vehicles hold a maximum of 6 guests, so everyone has a "window" seat.

These will be taken by an experienced guide for a more intimate experience of the sounds and scents of the wild. The area is well suited for walks through the camelthorn forests to marvel at elephants.

Imvelo partnered with the Mlevu community to set up a rhino sanctuary on their land. Our rhino are guarded 24/7 by the Cobras Community Wildlife Protection Unit. Visitors will be given an overview of the scope and vision of this award-winning and ground-breaking project, as well as an understanding of Imvelo’s broader community and conservation commitments, before heading out to find the rhinos themselves.

Note: every guest staying at Tum Tum Treehouse Lodge pays a Community Rhino Conservation Initiative levy of US$200 per person per stay; these funds all go into the rhino sanctuary along with community projects in the nearby villages.

Two km from Tum Tum Treehouse Lodge at Mandiseka, one of the famous old waterholes of Hwange, we have installed a ground level Look Up blind with ensuite bathroom. Imvelo’s Look Ups are famous for providing excellent photographic opportunities as well as close up experiences with Hwange’s famous elephant.

this fascinating morning tour will visit the school and/or the homestead of a local elder and is often the unexpected highlight of a safari, with a welcome sealed with endless smiles and laughter. The Imvelo Mlevu Rhino Sanctuary – Imvelo partnered with the Mlevu community to set up a rhino sanctuary on their land. Our rhino are guarded 24/7 by the Cobras Community Wildlife Protection Unit. Visitors will be given an overview of the scope and vision of this award-winning and groundbreaking project, as well as an understanding of Imvelo’s broader community and conservation commitments, before heading out to find the rhinos themselves.

Nehimba is situated on its own private concession in the Northern area of the national park where many of Hwange’s wild residents enjoy wandering freely through the area. You may choose to relax on your private balcony with an early morning cup of coffee, or whittle away the last of the daylight hours on the main lodge deck with sundowners, where the animals amble by and pause at the nearby waterhole to quench their thirst. We highly recommend one day having an arm chair safari

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Elephants drinking from the pool Credit: Imvelo Safari Lodges

Aerial view of Nehimba Lodge and its waterholes Credit: Imvelo Safari Lodges

Elephants drinking from the pool Credit: Imvelo Safari Lodges

Around the campfire with elephants Credit: Imvelo Safari Lodges

Elephants bathing at Nehimba Lodge Credit: Imvelo Safari Lodges

Dinner with the elephants at Nehimba Credit: Imvelo Safari Lodges

Credit: Imvelo Safari Lodges

Dinner with the elephants at Nehimba Credit: Imvelo Safari Lodges

Nehimba is situated right on the edge of the mopane woodlands of northern Hwange and the kalahari sandveld of the west, and so offers the full spectrum and diversity of fauna that Hwange has to offer. The elephant hunting Lions of this area are famous. The area is well watered so is host to large numbers of animals throughout the year but particularly during the dry season. Game drives are conducted in specially modified Land rovers designed to provide wildlife enthusiasts with ideal opportunities for photography. During drives, our expert guides enjoy sharing their extensive knowledge with you - be it while watching the African bush come to life as the sun starts to rise, or whilst marvelling at a large elephant herd drinking at a waterhole as the sun slips behind the horizon.

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For an entirely different perspective, join one of our armed professional guides and get close to nature. During a game walk you can experience the thrill of approaching wildlife on foot. Your guide will also teach you the basics of how to track wildlife from the ground as well as interesting facts about the surrounding vegetation and ecology.

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For those who would like to view Hwange in a different 'light', we offer our guests the opportunity to accompany one of our guides on a night drive through our concession. Filtered spotlights are used to pick out the various nocturnal species that can be found such as hyena, porcupines, civets, genet cats, and if you're lucky, perhaps even a leopard on hunt!

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This special designated conservation area is one of the only year-round, naturally occurring water supplies in the massive Hwange National Park. The seep is an ancient source of surface water that was once used by the San Bushmen. Today the area is frequented by elephant, who can be found digging for minerals as well as enjoying the water.

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Situated in a scenic hilly spot only 15-kilometres from Sinamatella Camp, the Mandavu Dam is a wonderful location for both bird watching and game viewing. Take a leisurely morning drive to the dam before joining a variety of wildlife for a picturesque picnic brunch at the water’s edge.

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Cuan Rush - Imvelo Safari Lodges Credit: Cuan Rush - Imvelo Safari Lodges

Elephants drinking Credit: Imvelo Safari Lodges

Crocodile and birds Credit: Imvelo Safari Lodges

Hippo wallowing Credit: Imvelo Safari Lodges

Cuan Rush - Imvelo Safari Lodges Credit: Cuan Rush - Imvelo Safari Lodges

Game viewing on the Chobe River is most exceptional from March to November, when the weather is drier and the animals are more mobile in search of food and water. Winter offers particularly dramatic sightings, while the spring and autumn shoulder seasons provide excellent opportunities for viewing wildlife. During the summer rains, the landscape transforms into a vibrant tapestry of life, creating unique wildlife and birdwatching experiences.

Each day, guests venture out by tender boat to observe large herds of elephants, buffalo, lions, crocodiles, zebras, and more, all drawn to the river. The guides maintain a respectful distance, monitoring animal behaviour and adjusting the boat as needed to ensure minimal disruption. Guests will also encounter an impressive array of birdlife and plant species along the way.

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No trip to the Chobe is complete without experiencing the thrill of fishing. On the Chobe River, it's not just about the catch – it’s about the adventure. Hooking a Tiger fish, one of Africa’s most sought-after species, is an experience anglers dream of. Known for their strength and speed, Tiger fish offer an exciting challenge that leaves guests with unforgettable memories.

Fishing safaris are conducted on a catch-and-release basis, ensuring the sustainability of the fish populations. The knowledgeable guides are dedicated to safely returning the fish to the water, allowing them to thrive for years to come.

Rates include all conventional fishing gear, such as rods, lures, lines, and reels. For those interested in fly fishing, it’s recommended to bring personal gear, as preferences can vary. This ensures each guest enjoys a fishing experience tailored to their needs.

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With over 450 species, diverse terrains, and a stunning African backdrop, the Chobe River provides the ideal setting for a highly rewarding bird-watching safari. Birding season begins in September, with the arrival of migratory birds boosting the population by up to 20% compared to the winter months.

The prime time for birdwatching is early morning before breakfast, as various species leave their roosts and venture into the National Park. Guests aboard any of the three Chobe Princesses enjoy access to knowledgeable guides and tender boats, ensuring a truly rewarding birding experience.

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Uninterrupted access to wild animals, absolute silence, and golden light make the Chobe River an unforgettable photographic safari destination, and one of Africa's top spots for wildlife photographers. To help capture that perfect moment, a custom-designed photographic safari boat is available on request, accommodating up to four clients in individual photographic seats.

The boat features custom-designed swivel chairs, offering greater stability and 360-degree views for a wider range of subject matter. Each seat is equipped with a mount for resting SLR cameras, and an experienced safari guide will assist in finding the perfect shot.

Guests are encouraged to bring their own photographic equipment, as it is not provided onboard. The recommended lens is an 80-400mm zoom for optimal results.

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Travel by tender boat to a local Namibian village on the floodplains of the East Caprivi and meet the elders and locals of the Subiya tribe. Gain a deeper understanding of life in this 100-year-old village as you learn about their daily challenges, farming practices, and traditions.

The tour concludes with a vibrant display of traditional dancing and singing, where guests are welcome to join in the fun.

As a memento of your visit, consider purchasing a woven basket, beaded jewellery, or a carved wooden animal. The sale of these crafts helps empower the village by providing a valuable source of income. If you wish to bring gifts for the village children, items such as school stationery, books, or clothing are always highly appreciated.

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