A nation of spectacular natural beauty, friendly people and rich culture, Zimbabwe’s status as one of Africa’s leading safari destinations was dampened for years by its political instability. But now that the country is transcending its strife and returning to a state of equilibrium, it is once again emerging as a vacation highlight of the continent. Victoria Falls – known to locals as ‘The Smoke That Thunders’ – is one of the seven natural wonders of the world and the sheer power of this massive body of water plunging into the Zambezi Gorge is awe-inspiring and unforgettable. Lake Kariba, with its game-rich shores and islands, is an idyllic safari spot featuring mind-blowing sunsets; Hwange National Park is known for its huge herds of elephants; and a kayak trip down the Zambezi through the Mana Pools National Park will appeal to the intrepid traveller, providing close encounters with crocodiles, hippos and a host of other wildlife.
The iconic waterfalls in the Zambezi River are one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. About two-thirds are visible from the Zimbabwean side. While the spectacle of masses of cascading water is undoubtedly the star attraction, the area also offers adventure and sightseeing opportunities which certainly warrant a longer stay. Victoria Falls, the tourist town at the western side of the falls, is easy to explore on foot. It has some excellent accommodation and restaurants and, of course, an eclectic variety of African curios and authentic art sold by friendly locals who are wonderfully welcoming and eager to help visitors enjoy the experience.
Activities: Scenic flights over the falls by helicopter or microlight; bungee jumping off the Victoria Falls Bridge; white-water rafting (seasonal); day trips to Chobe National Park.
Situated in the southern reaches of Africa, Botswana is renowned for its pristine wilderness areas characterised by deep lagoons, wetlands, lush palms, rugged hills and desert plains. The country’s primary tourist drawcard is undoubtedly the vast red expanse of the Kalahari Desert and its remarkably beautiful Okavango Delta, the largest inland delta in the world. These natural wonders provide a tranquil haven for an abundance of African wildlife to thrive. Other highlights include the impressive Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, where visitors are privy to massive zebra migrations during the flood season; the Savuti plains, which host a significant pride of lions; and the Tsodilo Hills, where 4500 rock paintings form a unique record of human settlement over many millennia.
Tucked away in the northeastern corner of Botswana, on the banks of the famous Chobe River, the scenic little town of Kasane rests on the doorstep of the spectacular Chobe National Park. There are no boundary fences separating the village from the park and game such as elephant and hippo are often spotted roaming around the town. If on the lookout for elusive game, pay a visit to the Sedudu Valley Road, where large dead trees provide temporary homes for leopards. Within Kasane, an ancient baobab tree stands on display, once serving as a local prison. Visitors can look forward to a multitude of activities including: enjoying a game drive through the park, taking a sunset cruise down the Chobe River, visiting a local village or jumping on a day trip to the breathtaking Victoria Falls.
The Khwai area of the Okavango lies along the northern boundary of the Moremi Game Reserve. Khwai Community Area has unfenced boundaries allowing wildlife to move freely between the woodlands in the wet season when water is plentiful and back to permanent rivers and lagoons in the dry season. The Khwai area offers the same wildlife experience as the Moremi Game Reserve with the added advantage of being a private concession, which means the ability to do walking safaris and night drives. Don't miss the opportunity to soak up beautiful views of the scenic landscape and spot an array of wildlife.
