Gonarezhou & Gorongosa Discovery Safari - 2024

Day notes

Arrive at Harare Airport – After a quick and easy arrival, you will be welcomed by one of our team and transferred to Malcolm Lodge, where we will check you for the night – dinner can either be arranged at the lodge or maybe visit a nearby local restaurant. 

Day notes

Today, you will be picked up and driven to the airport to board your private charter light aircraft heading to Chipinda Pools in Gonarezhou. This flight is approximately 2 hours long. Upon landing, Doug MacDonald will greet you warmly before you embark on a game drive from the airstrip to your first camp, which is a 45-minute drive away.

You'll arrive just in time for lunch, allowing you to settle into your chalet and start soaking in your surroundings. In the afternoon, we'll head out for a game drive. It's important to note, however, that the Dam (Lake) in front of the camp is a wildlife hotspot and on certain days, the most amazing experiences can be had watching hundreds of elephants as they come and go.

After your exciting day, dinner will be served in the mess area and you may choose to follow it with a nightcap. The sounds of the bush, and most often the resident hippos, will serve as your evening serenade.

Day notes

As part of the immersive Gonarezhou experience we've planned for you, we'll spend some time fly camping at the junction of the Save and Runde rivers, at a seasonal pan in the heart of the park. This region is teeming with wildlife, ranging from the petite Hyrax to majestic Elephants. If fortune favors us, we may even spot one of the Wild dog packs that hunt in the open woodlands and across the pans that define this landscape. This area hosts some of the largest gatherings of Impala I've ever witnessed.

Birdlife flourishes here and although our goal is exploration, simply being present in this landscape can be an unforgettable experience. Depending on how the day's wildlife encounters unfold, we'll likely enjoy lunch in camp, under the shade of an Acacia tree. After an afternoon of discovery, we'll return to camp for another freshly prepared meal enjoyed together.

The camp will be pre-set for you, eliminating the need to pitch any tents. We prepare 3m x 3m Canvas Dome Tents, equipped with cot beds, an extra cushioning mattress, and proper linen to ensure a comfortable night's sleep. Inside, you'll find a solar light, and outside, a hand basin with preheated water awaits you.

We also set up a screened-off bucket shower system with water preheated to your preference - a perfect end to a long day of exploration.

Day notes

We'll seize another morning to admire the lower Runde River system through a mix of game drives and walks. Doug, a phenomenal tracker, will often lead you on foot to investigate fresh tracks, adding a layer of thrill to your experience.

After enjoying lunch in the area, we'll head westward to the Chilojo Cliffs region of the park. This journey peaks atop the iconic sandstone cliffs, where you'll grasp the sheer scale of the Gonarezhou wilderness and capture stunning photographs. Wildlife encounters on the cliffs can be both thrilling and fascinating.

The Chilojo Cliffs, formed over millions of years through deposition and erosion by the Runde River, are one of Gonarezhou's most emblematic land features. Our private tented camp, perfectly positioned on the banks of the Runde River and facing the cliffs, resides in the heart of an exceptional game-viewing area. The large walk-in safari tents, complete with en-suite bathroom facilities, offer a comfortable living space while our team remains on hand to ensure your safety and comfort.

After a day of exploration, you'll be able to unwind in your spacious and well-furnished mobile camp, your home for the next few blissful days of bush life. The view from camp across to the Chilojo cliffs will leave you in awe.

Mornings will begin perfectly with breakfast around a campfire, as the sun rises over the red cliffs. Lunch venues will be guided by our daily plan, which will flex depending on nature's whims and where it leads us. Memorable dinners on an open sand river under a starlit sky become even more enchanting when paired with the echo of Hyena and Leopard calls along the valley and the magnificent silhouettes of elephants crossing nearby.

Day notes

Today you will set off with Doug and your fellow guests on a safari to the little visited Bvumba Mountains to explore this diverse habitat. 
 

We have planned a two-night stay at the Seldomseen Lodge, beautifully situated in the Bvumba Mountains. This destination offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature in a tranquil setting. The lodge, known for its cozy, rustic charm, provides comfortable accommodation against a backdrop of stunning landscapes.

Birdwatching enthusiasts will find the Bvumba Mountains a paradise with a wide variety of bird species. Key sightings include the Swynnerton's Robin, Chirinda Apalis, and the elusive Orange Ground Thrush. The early morning chorus of birds is a delightful auditory experience, with melodious songs echoing through the air.

Alongside its rich bird life, the area is also home to diverse wildlife. During guided walks or while relaxing at the lodge, guests might see small mammals like bushbucks, duikers, and Samango monkeys. The region's lush vegetation and scenic vistas also add to the peaceful and rejuvenating ambiance of the stay.

Day notes

Today you move on to cross in to Mozambique. Doug will ensure this is a smooth transition .
At Gorongosa Wild Camp, guests can expect a genuine, close-to-nature experience. This camp, located in the heart of Gorongosa National Park, offers a straightforward and authentic way to engage with the wilderness. The accommodation is comfortable and functional, designed to blend in with the surrounding environment, ensuring a focus on the natural beauty of the area.

The wildlife viewing at Gorongosa is a highlight, with opportunities to see a range of animals including elephants, lions, and a variety of antelope species. The park is also known for its birdlife, offering chances to see both common and rare species.  on foot or by vehicle, arll led by Doug MaCdonald who provide insights into the ecosystem and animal behaviors.

Gorongosa Wild Camp allows guests to connect with local communities and learn about their traditions and way of life. This aspect adds depth to the safari experience and highlights the relationship between the park and its neighboring communities.

Overall, a stay at Gorongosa Wild Camp is about immersing yourself in the wilderness and experiencing wildlife and local culture in a direct and unfiltered way. It's an opportunity to disconnect from daily life and engage with the natural world.

Day notes

After the flight from Maputo, guests arrive at Anvil Bay, a unique destination that offers a blend of land and water-based experiences. Situated along the stunning coastline, Anvil Bay is characterized by its diverse habitats, including pristine beaches, coastal dunes, and lush forest areas.

On land, guests can explore the rich biodiversity of the coastal forest, home to various bird species and smaller wildlife. The area's trails offer the chance to experience the tranquility and natural beauty of the forest up close. Additionally, guests may encounter local fauna such as monkeys and a range of bird species during guided walks or independent explorations.

The ocean at Anvil Bay provides ample opportunities for water-based activities. Guests can enjoy snorkeling in the clear waters, where they'll find a vibrant marine life including colorful fish and coral reefs. Kayaking and paddle-boarding are also popular, allowing guests to explore the coastline at a leisurely pace.

Anvil Bay's unique position, where forest meets ocean, provides a comprehensive and varied experience for guests looking to explore both land and water environments. The combination of serene forest trails and the lively ocean offers a well-rounded costal experience.

Day notes

Transfer back to Maputo Airport to connect with your homeward flights.