Zambia Safari Cost 2026: Budget vs Luxury by Operator

Zambia safari costs $2,000–$5,000 per person for 7–8 days in 2026. Compare budget, mid-range, and luxury operators with real pricing and verified reviews.

Zambia safari costs $2,000–$5,000 per person for 7–8 days in 2026. Compare budget, mid-range, and luxury operators with real pricing and verified reviews.

Spanish citizens travelling to Zambia do not need a yellow fever certificate when arriving directly from Spain, but proof of vaccination is required if you've transited through a yellow fever endemic country for more than 12 hours. Hepatitis A, typhoid, and malaria prophylaxis are strongly recommended for all travellers.

Compare Burundi safari lodge chains ($250-$400/night) vs independent operators ($150-$350/night) in 2026. Find verified operators, pricing, quality standards, and sustainability practices.
Last updated: July 2026
A Zambia safari costs $2,000–$5,000 per person for 7–8 days in 2026, with budget options starting at $150–$200 daily and luxury packages exceeding $500 per day. Prices cover accommodation, meals, park fees, and guided game drives. Book with verified operators on SafariFind to compare real prices and read authentic traveler reviews.
Zambia safari pricing in 2026 varies widely based on your comfort level, operator choice, and season. [1] A Zambia safari in 2026 costs $2,000–$5,000 per person for 7–8 days, offering exceptional value for wildlife experiences. Your cost covers accommodation, meals, national park fees, and guided game drives. Budget safaris start at $2,000, while luxury packages can exceed $5,000 per person.
The price difference comes down to where you sleep, what you eat, and who guides you. Budget camps use shared tents or simple lodges. Mid-range options offer comfortable rooms with private bathrooms. Luxury properties provide premium suites, fine dining, and exclusive experiences.
Zambia is less crowded than Kenya or Tanzania, so you often get better wildlife viewing at lower prices. The country has three major national parks: South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi, and Kafue. Each park offers different price points and experiences.
Zambia safari costs break down into five main categories: accommodation, meals, park entrance fees, game drives, and transportation. Budget operators keep costs low by using group vehicles and basic camps. Luxury operators charge more for private guides, exclusive lodges, and personalized itineraries.
Peak season (May–October) costs 20–30% more than shoulder season (November–April). However, shoulder season offers better weather in some parks and fewer tourists. Many operators offer discounts for group bookings or multi-park combinations.
Zambia attracts fewer international tourists than its neighbors, so prices stay reasonable. [5] The price of Zambia budget/camping safaris start at around US$150 per person per day. Although you're more likely to pay upward of US$200 per person a day. On top of that you need to factor in your flights to get here, personal shopping and tips for guides.
South Luangwa National Park is famous for walking safaris, which cost less than vehicle-based tours. Lower Zambezi offers river safaris and canoeing, adding variety without huge price jumps. Kafue Park remains remote and undeveloped, keeping prices low while offering pristine wildlife viewing.
Safari operators in Zambia fall into three clear tiers, each with different daily rates, accommodation styles, and service levels. Understanding these tiers helps you pick the right package for your budget and expectations.
Budget operators run group tours in shared vehicles with mixed nationalities. You sleep in basic camps with communal facilities or simple lodge rooms. Meals are simple but filling. Game drives follow set routes with other guests.
A 7-day budget safari costs $1,050–$1,750 per person (before flights). This includes shared accommodation, three meals daily, park fees, and two game drives per day. You'll share a vehicle with 6–10 other travelers. Guides are knowledgeable but may speak English as a second language.
Budget safaris work well for backpackers, students, and cost-conscious families. You meet other travelers and save money. The trade-off is less privacy and flexibility. Popular budget operators include regional companies that focus on volume over luxury.
Mid-range operators balance comfort and cost. You get a private or semi-private vehicle with 4–6 guests maximum. Accommodation includes en-suite rooms with hot water and electricity. Meals feature local and international cuisine.
A 7-day mid-range safari costs $1,750–$2,800 per person (before flights). This tier includes better lodges, smaller group sizes, and more flexible itineraries. Guides often have specialized training in wildlife biology or photography. You have more control over your daily schedule.
Mid-range safaris suit families, couples, and travelers wanting comfort without extreme luxury spending. You get a good balance of experience quality and value. Many first-time safari-goers choose this tier and report high satisfaction.
Luxury operators offer exclusive experiences with private guides and premium lodges. You travel in your own vehicle with just your group. Accommodation features spacious suites, fine dining, and premium amenities like spa services or wine cellars.
A 7-day luxury safari costs $2,800–$4,900+ per person (before flights). Some ultra-luxury operators charge $700–$1,000+ daily. You get personalized itineraries, private airstrips, and exclusive access to remote areas. Guides are expert naturalists, often with university degrees in wildlife management.
Luxury safaris appeal to honeymooners, photographers, and travelers seeking once-in-a-lifetime experiences. You get maximum flexibility, privacy, and service. The cost is high, but the memories justify it for many travelers.
| Tier | Daily Cost | Accommodation | Vehicle Type | Group Size | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | $150–$250 | Basic camp/lodge | Shared (6–10 guests) | 8–12 people | Backpackers, students |
| Mid-Range | $250–$400 | Comfortable lodge | Semi-private (4–6 guests) | 4–6 people | Families, couples |
| Luxury | $400–$700+ | Premium suite | Private vehicle | 2–4 people | Honeymooners, photographers |
Ready to compare real operators and prices? Browse verified Zambia safari packages on SafariFind to see what actual travelers paid and what they thought of their experience.
Zambia safari packages include different services depending on the operator and tier. Understanding what's bundled helps you compare prices accurately and avoid surprise costs.
All reputable Zambia safari packages include accommodation, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), national park entrance fees, and guided game drives. These core services form the base price. A 7-day package means 7 nights' accommodation and all meals for those days.
Game drives typically run twice daily: early morning (5:30–10:00 AM) and afternoon (3:30–7:00 PM). Guides provide commentary on wildlife, plants, and local culture. Park fees ($10–$30 per day depending on the park) are pre-paid by the operator and included in your package price.
Flights to Zambia are never included in safari package prices. International flights from Europe or North America cost $800–$1,500. Domestic flights within Zambia (to remote lodges) add $200–$500 per person. Travel insurance is your responsibility and costs $50–$150 for a week.
Tips for guides and staff are not included but expected. Budget $5–$10 per day for guides and $2–$3 daily for lodge staff. Alcohol and soft drinks beyond what's offered at meals usually cost extra. Premium activities like walking safaris, canoe trips, or helicopter tours add $200–$600 per activity.
Visa fees for Zambia cost $50 for Spanish citizens and others, depending on your nationality. Check Zambia visa requirements for your country before booking. Travel vaccinations (yellow fever, typhoid) are recommended and cost $100–$300 total.
Park fees sometimes increase during peak season. A park that costs $10 daily in shoulder season might jump to $20–$30 in July–August. Always confirm park fees when booking to avoid surprises.
Fuel surcharges occasionally apply if oil prices spike. Some operators add $2–$5 per day if fuel costs rise sharply. Equipment rentals (binoculars, camera lenses, hiking boots) cost $20–$50 per item if you don't bring your own.
Laundry services, phone calls, and internet access at lodges are usually extra. Budget $50–$100 for miscellaneous expenses during your week. Travel to the airport from your home is your responsibility and varies by location.
Not all operators at the same price point offer equal quality. Some budget operators skimp on guide training or vehicle maintenance. Some luxury operators overcharge for mediocre experiences. Choosing wisely saves money and frustration.
Read reviews from multiple sources, not just the operator's website. Look for patterns in feedback. If 20 reviews praise the guide's knowledge but one complains, that's a positive sign. If several reviews mention broken vehicle air conditioning or cold showers, that's a red flag.
Check how operators respond to negative reviews. Do they defend themselves rudely or offer solutions? Operators who handle complaints professionally usually deliver better overall experiences. SafariFind shows verified reviews from real travelers, making comparisons easier.
Ratings of 4.5 stars or higher are generally reliable. Ratings below 4.0 stars warrant careful reading—something is wrong. Look for reviews mentioning specific details: "Guide knew 47 bird species," or "Vehicle broke down twice." Generic praise ("amazing experience!") is less useful than specific feedback.
Operators with no reviews or very few reviews are risky. They might be new or struggling to attract repeat customers. Avoid operators offering prices 30–50% below competitors—they likely cut corners on safety, food quality, or guide training.
Beware of operators that won't confirm itineraries in writing or avoid answering questions about included services. Legitimate operators provide detailed pre-trip information and answer emails promptly. If an operator seems evasive, look elsewhere.
Check that operators have proper business registration and insurance. Ask for references from past travelers. Reputable operators gladly provide contact information for recent clients. If an operator refuses, that's a warning sign.
Two operators both charging $300 daily might offer different experiences. Operator A might include alcoholic drinks and walking safaris. Operator B might charge extra for both. Read the fine print carefully.
Ask operators these specific questions: How many years have you operated? What's your guide-to-guest ratio? What's included in meals? Where exactly do you lodge (specific lodge names)? Do you offer refunds if weather cancels activities?
Request detailed itineraries showing exactly where you'll be each day. Budget operators sometimes move you between parks mid-trip, adding travel time and reducing game drive time. Luxury operators usually stay in one location longer, giving better wildlife viewing.
Don't book based on price alone. A slightly more expensive operator with better reviews often delivers better value. You're spending a week of your life and significant money—choose wisely. Compare verified Zambia safari operators on SafariFind to see ratings, review counts, and detailed descriptions.
Zambia safari prices fluctuate throughout the year based on wildlife visibility and traveler demand. Booking during the right season for your budget and interests maximizes value.
Peak season costs 20–30% more than other times. A mid-range operator charging $300 daily in April might charge $390 in July. Accommodation fills quickly, forcing early bookings (3–6 months ahead).
However, peak season offers the best wildlife viewing. Dry conditions concentrate animals around water sources. Vegetation is sparse, making animals easier to spot. Weather is cool and pleasant (60–75°F). Most travelers choose peak season despite higher costs.
[7] Peak-season camps in the northern Serengeti and Mara fill 9–12 months ahead. Early booking locks rates and your preferred camps. Zambia's parks fill faster than Serengeti, so book 6–9 months in advance for peak season.
Shoulder season costs 15–25% less than peak. A $300 daily mid-range package might drop to $240–$255. Accommodation is easier to find, allowing last-minute bookings. Flights are cheaper too.
Wildlife viewing is still good but less concentrated. Animals spread across larger areas due to water availability. Vegetation is thick, making spotting harder. However, you see fewer tourists and feel more immersed in nature.
November–December is warm and humid with afternoon rains. January–March is hottest and wettest. April is transition month with cooling temperatures. December and April offer the best balance of good prices and decent wildlife viewing.
Green season costs 30–40% less than peak. Budget operators drop from $200 daily to $140–$160. Mid-range drops from $300 to $210–$240. Luxury operators offer the biggest discounts, sometimes 40% off peak rates.
Green season attracts birdwatchers and photographers seeking lush landscapes. Over 400 bird species visit Zambia during this period. The landscape is stunning with green vegetation and wildflowers. Fewer tourists mean more peace and quiet.
The downside is rain and humid weather. Some dirt roads become impassable. Visibility is reduced by vegetation and clouds. Large mammal viewing drops significantly. Choose green season if you prioritize budget and don't mind weather challenges.
| Season | Months | Budget Daily Rate | Mid-Range Daily Rate | Luxury Daily Rate | Wildlife Viewing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peak | May–Oct | $200–$250 | $300–$400 | $500–$700+ | Excellent |
| Shoulder | Nov–Apr | $140–$200 | $210–$300 | $350–$500 | Good |
| Green | Nov–Mar | $140–$160 | $210–$240 | $300–$400 | Fair (birds) |
For detailed information on planning your trip during specific months, read our guide on Zambia Safari in October 2026: Walking Routes & Real Daily Costs.
Zambia's three major parks have different pricing structures based on accessibility, popularity, and amenities. Choosing the right park affects your total cost and experience quality.
South Luangwa is Zambia's most developed park with the widest range of lodges. Budget camps cost $150–$200 daily. Mid-range lodges run $250–$350 daily. Luxury properties exceed $500 daily. Park fees add $15 daily.
South Luangwa is famous for walking safaris, which cost less than vehicle-based tours. Many operators include daily walks in their packages. Walking safaris offer intimate wildlife encounters and unique perspectives. The park has excellent infrastructure and reliable services.
South Luangwa fills quickly during peak season (June–October). Book 6–9 months ahead for premium lodges. The park is accessible year-round, though some camps close briefly during heavy rains (January–February).
Lower Zambezi is less crowded than South Luangwa but still accessible. Budget options are limited; most lodges are mid-range to luxury. Expect $250–$350 daily for mid-range and $400–$700+ for luxury. Park fees are $20 daily (highest in Zambia).
Lower Zambezi specializes in river safaris and canoe trips. These activities add $200–$400 to your package but create unforgettable experiences. The park is smaller and more intimate than South Luangwa. Wildlife viewing is excellent during dry season (May–October).
Lower Zambezi has fewer lodges than South Luangwa, so prices stay higher year-round. Book 4–6 months ahead even for shoulder season. The park closes briefly during peak rains (January–February).
Kafue is Zambia's largest park but least developed. This keeps prices low: budget camps $150–$200 daily, mid-range $220–$300 daily. Luxury options are rare; most high-end operators charge $400–$600. Park fees are just $10 daily (cheapest in Zambia).
Kafue offers genuine wilderness experiences with minimal tourist infrastructure. You'll see fewer tourists and more pristine landscapes. Wildlife viewing is excellent but requires patience and good guides. The park is ideal for adventurous travelers seeking authenticity over comfort.
Kafue is remote and requires longer travel times. Some lodges are accessible only by charter flight. The park has poor road conditions, especially during rains. Book with experienced operators familiar with Kafue's challenges. Shoulder season (April–May) offers the best balance of accessibility and prices.
| Park | Budget Daily | Mid-Range Daily | Park Fee/Day | Best For | Peak Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Luangwa | $150–$200 | $250–$350 | $15 | Walking safaris | Jun–Oct |
| Lower Zambezi | Limited | $250–$350 | $20 | River safaris | May–Oct |
| Kafue | $150–$200 | $220–$300 | $10 | Wilderness | Apr–Sep |
For more details on walking safaris and their costs, check our guide on Walking Safari in Zambia 2026: Cost & Best Operators.
Where you sleep accounts for 30–40% of your safari cost. Zambia offers diverse accommodation options at every price point.
Budget camps use basic structures: canvas tents, simple bandas (huts), or basic lodge rooms. You share communal bathrooms and showers. Electricity is limited (often available only during certain hours). Internet is rare or unreliable.
Budget camps provide clean beds, mosquito nets, and basic toiletries. Meals are simple but nutritious. You eat with other guests, creating a social atmosphere. These camps attract backpackers, students, and budget-conscious families.
Mid-range lodges offer en-suite rooms with private bathrooms and hot water. Rooms have electricity, fans, and sometimes air conditioning. Beds are comfortable with quality linens. WiFi is available in common areas.
Mid-range lodges serve better meals with local and international options. Common areas are comfortable with libraries, lounges, and sometimes small bars. Service is friendly and attentive. These lodges appeal to families, couples, and first-time safari-goers.
Luxury lodges feature spacious suites with premium furnishings and decor. Bathrooms are large with hot and cold water, quality toiletries, and sometimes outdoor showers. Rooms have excellent electricity, AC, heating, and high-speed WiFi.
Luxury lodges serve gourmet meals with wine pairings and special dietary accommodations. Amenities include spas, swimming pools, game libraries, and fine dining restaurants. Service is exceptional with personalized attention. These lodges attract honeymooners, photographers, and luxury travelers.
For specific lodge recommendations and pricing, read our detailed guide on Zambia Safari Lodges 2026: Luxury vs Budget Under $300/Night.
Beyond the safari package itself, you'll have health, visa, and travel expenses. Planning for these prevents budget surprises.
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Spanish citizens need an eVisa costing €50. Italian citizens require a visa costing €50. Dutch citizens need an eVisa for €50. Other nationalities vary; check your country's specific requirements.
Apply for visas online 2–4 weeks before travel. Processing usually takes 5–10 days. Have your passport, travel itinerary, and proof of funds ready. Most nationalities can obtain visas on arrival for slightly higher fees ($50–$75).
For detailed visa information for your nationality, check our guides: Zambia Visa for Spanish Citizens 2026 and Zambia Visa for Italian Citizens 2026.
Yellow fever vaccination is required for entry if you're coming from certain countries. Typhoid, tetanus, and hepatitis A are strongly recommended. Malaria prophylaxis is essential; consult your doctor 4–6 weeks before travel.
Vaccinations and prophylaxis cost $100–$300 total. Get vaccinated at travel clinics, not your regular doctor. Travel clinics have experience with safari-specific health needs. Schedule appointments early; some vaccines require multiple doses spaced weeks apart.
For comprehensive health information, read our guides on Vaccinations & Health Rules for Zambia for Italian Travellers 2026 and What Health Rules Apply to Dutch Travellers to Zambia in 2026?
Flights from Europe to Zambia typically cost $800–$1,500 depending on your departure city and how far ahead you book. Book 2–3 months in advance for better fares. Mid-week flights (Tuesday–Thursday) are cheaper than weekend flights.
Flights from North America cost $1,200–$2,000. Most routes require one connection through Johannesburg, Dubai, or London. Flight time from Europe is 12–16 hours total. Add 1–2 extra days to your itinerary for travel and jet lag recovery.
Travel insurance is highly recommended for safaris. Standard plans cost $50–$100 per week. Premium plans with adventure sports coverage cost $100–$150. Insurance covers flight cancellations, medical emergencies, and trip interruptions.
Check that your policy covers malaria treatment, safari activities, and evacuation. Some policies exclude high-risk areas; Zambia is generally low-risk. Compare plans from World Nomads, IMG Global, or Allianz Travel before booking.
Smart booking strategies can save you 15–30% on your Zambia safari. These tips help you maximize value without sacrificing quality.
Shoulder season (November–April) offers 15–25% savings compared to peak season. April is ideal: weather is cooling, wildlife is still visible, and prices drop. You'll encounter fewer tourists and get better guide attention.
Combining parks saves money compared to booking each separately. A 10-day package covering South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi might cost $2,500–$3,500, while booking each park separately could reach $3,500–$4,500. Multi-park packages include transport between parks.
Group discounts are common. Two people booking together might save $100–$200 per person compared to solo travelers. Four people might save $200–$400 each. Ask operators for group rates when requesting quotes.
Early bookings (6–9 months ahead) lock in lower rates before peak-season price increases. Operators often offer 5–15% discounts for early bookings. You also get first choice of lodges and dates.
Don't accept the first quote. Contact multiple operators and use their quotes to negotiate. Saying "Operator A quoted $2,800 for these dates" often prompts operators to offer better prices or added value (extra activities, upgrades).
Peak weeks (Christmas, New Year, Easter holidays) cost 20–30% more than adjacent dates. Booking a week before or after peak holidays saves significantly without sacrificing wildlife viewing.
Flights often cost more through tour operators than booking independently. Use Skyscanner, Google Flights, or Kayak to find cheap flights. Booking flights separately sometimes saves $200–$500 per person.
A 7-day Zambia safari costs $2,000–$5,000 per person in 2026, depending on your tier. [1] Budget safaris run $1,050–$1,750 (7 days × $150–$250 daily). Mid-range safaris cost $1,750–$2,800 (7 days × $250–$400 daily). Luxury safaris exceed $2,800 (7 days × $400–$700+ daily). Prices include accommodation, meals, park fees, and game drives but not flights or tips.
Green season (November–March) offers the cheapest rates, with prices 30–40% lower than peak season. Budget operators drop from $200 daily to $140–$160. Mid-range drops from $300 to $210–$240. However, expect rain, humidity, and reduced wildlife visibility. April is a better compromise: prices drop 15–20%, weather improves, and wildlife is still visible.
Yes, Zambia is generally 20–30% cheaper than Kenya or Tanzania. Zambia's South Luangwa park offers walking safaris at $150–$200 daily, while Kenya's Masai Mara costs $250–$350 daily for similar experiences. Zambia attracts fewer international tourists, keeping prices lower. Additionally, Zambian parks are less crowded, offering better wildlife viewing at lower costs.
Safari packages include accommodation, all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), national park entrance fees, and guided game drives (typically twice daily). What's NOT included: international flights ($800–$1,500), tips for guides ($5–$10 daily), tips for lodge staff ($2–$3 daily), alcoholic drinks, premium activities (walking safaris, helicopter tours), visas ($50), vaccinations ($100–$300), and travel insurance ($50–$150).
Choose budget if you're cost-conscious, don't mind group travel, and want to meet other travelers. Choose mid-range if you want comfort and flexibility without extreme costs—most first-time safari-goers find this tier perfect. Choose luxury if you value privacy, exclusivity, and personalized service. Read reviews on SafariFind to see what previous travelers experienced at each tier before deciding.
Book peak-season safaris (May–October) 6–9 months ahead to secure your preferred lodge and lock in rates. Shoulder season (November–April) requires 3–4 months advance booking. Green season can be booked 4–8 weeks ahead. Early bookings often qualify for 5–15% discounts. Last-minute deals are rare in Zambia, so advance planning saves money and stress.
SafariFind lists verified Zambia safari packages from trusted operators with authentic reviews from real travelers. You can filter by price, duration, park, and traveler type. Compare ratings, read detailed reviews, and request quotes directly from operators. SafariFind helps you avoid overpriced packages and find the best value for your budget.
Zambia safari costs in 2026 range from $2,000–$5,000 per person for 7–8 days, offering exceptional value for African wildlife experiences. [1] Your cost covers accommodation, meals, national park fees, and guided game drives. Budget safaris start at $150–$200 daily, mid-range options run $250–$400 daily, and luxury packages exceed $500 daily.
The best strategy is to match your budget tier to your expectations. Budget safaris work well for backpackers and cost-conscious travelers. Mid-range safaris suit families and couples wanting comfort without luxury prices. Luxury safaris appeal to honeymooners and photographers seeking exclusive experiences.
Timing matters significantly. Peak season (May–October) offers the best wildlife viewing but costs 20–30% more. Shoulder season (November–April) provides good value and decent wildlife viewing. Green season (November–March) offers the cheapest rates but challenging weather.
South Luangwa specializes in walking safaris at reasonable prices. Lower Zambezi offers river experiences. Kafue provides remote wilderness. Each park has different pricing and appeal. Choose based on your interests and budget.
Book 6–9 months ahead for peak season to secure lodges and lock in rates. Negotiate with multiple operators to get the best prices. Use SafariFind to compare verified operators, read authentic reviews, and find packages matching your budget and preferences. Compare verified Zambia safari packages on SafariFind today to start planning your African adventure in 2026.
These recommendations use real data from SafariFind, where you can compare operators, browse packages, and read verified traveler reviews before you book.
Expert Safari Services LTD - Zambia • Verified operator
Bundu Safaris Ltd - Zambia • Verified operator
3-Day Chobe National Park Camping Safari Tour • $650 • 3 days • by Cultural Vibes Travel & tours

by Cultural Vibes Travel & tours • 3 Days
15-Day Liuwa Camping Safari • $3,870 • 15 days • by Bundu Safaris Ltd

by Bundu Safaris Ltd • 15 Days
7-Day Zambia, Botswana & Victoria Falls Safari • $4,185 • 7 days • by Cultural Vibes Travel & tours

by Cultural Vibes Travel & tours • 7 Days
4-Day Victoria Falls safari tour • $2,200 • 4 days • by Cultural Vibes Travel & tours

by Cultural Vibes Travel & tours • 4 Days
8-Day Victoria Falls, Chobe & Okavango Delta Safari • $11,430 • 8 days • by Expert Safari Services LTD

by Expert Safari Services LTD • 8 Days
6-Day 6-Day South Luangwa Walking Safari & Chinzombo Luxury Experience • $8,910 • 6 days • by Expert Safari Services LTD

by Expert Safari Services LTD • 6 Days
5-Day Kafue Fly Fishing Safari Zambia • $5,582 • 5 days • by Expert Safari Services LTD

by Expert Safari Services LTD • 5 Days
4-Day Lower Zambezi Fly Fishing Safari in Zambia • $3,670 • 4 days • by Expert Safari Services LTD

by Expert Safari Services LTD • 4 Days
4★ - "On 10.9. until 1.10. In 2023, I went on a trip to Botswana, Zimbabwe and a short visit to Zambia with my clients - friends. I carefully prepared the trip in cooperation with the manager of Cultural Vibes Travel & Tours, " - Viktor Chrást • Verified review
"On 10.9. until 1.10. In 2023, I went on a trip to Botswana, Zimbabwe and a short visit to Zambia with my clients - friends. I carefully prepared the trip in cooperation with the manager of Cultural Vibes Travel & Tours, Mr. Tongesai Mutematsaka. After arriving in Gaborone we organized a short tour of the city ourselves and met Tongesai in Maun. Tongesai was our driver and guide practically the whole way. We visited the Okavango River Delta and its surroundings (Moremi Reserve, Mokoro boat cruise, flight over the Okavango Delta. This was followed by a visit to the Makgadikgadi Salt Flats, then the Elephant Sands area and in Botswana Chobe National Park with a cruise on the Chobe River. Then we crossed to Zimbabwe, which was the main part of our journey. In the Victoria Falls area, we visited the Monde settlement, took a helicopter flight over Victoria Falls, followed by a cruise on the Zambezi River as part of a visit to the national park of the same name. We also walked past Victoria Falls on the Zimbabwean side and had a Boma dinner in the evening (too much of a "tourist thing"). On the Zambian side of the falls we saw white rhinos in Mosi - oa - Tunya National Park, then visited the museum in Livingstone and walked the Zambian side of the falls. From Victoria Falls, we headed to Hwange National Park, where we had a beautiful program - a safari, and after Hwange, there was also a very interesting program in Matobo National Park (there, among other things, white rhinos (a mother with her little daughter), beautiful rock formations and prehistoric cave drawings. The next place visited was Khami with very interesting buildings, and then we visited the ruins of Great Zimbabwe, which are among the most important world monuments. This was followed by a visit to the Chinhoya Karst and finally the gallery in Harare. I would also like to comment on the provision of services: Accommodation in the hotels was at the standard, expected level, only the service at the Great Zimbabwe Hotel was rather lazy. Accommodation in lodges - very good and the best accommodation was in Iganyana tented camp in Hwange National Park, mainly due to the extraordinary professionalism and very friendly attitude of the staff there towards us, the visitors. I must also highly praise all the local guides we met everywhere, e.g. in Chobe, Hwange and Matobo National Parks. I want to emphasize that this journey is one of the most interesting that I have made around the world. I believe that my clients - friends were also satisfied with the set. Thanks to the travel agency Cultural Vibes Travel & Tours and Mr. Tongesai Mutematsaka. I recommend Cultural Vibes Travel & Tours to anyone considering a trip to Zimbabwe."
5★ - "Tongesai and his team provided a wonderful itinerary on our recent trip to Victoria Falls with day trips to Zambia and Botswana. They were a thoughtful and knowledgeable team who took great care to tailor the trip to our" - Kara Fraser • Verified review
"Tongesai and his team provided a wonderful itinerary on our recent trip to Victoria Falls with day trips to Zambia and Botswana. They were a thoughtful and knowledgeable team who took great care to tailor the trip to our family's needs."
5★ - "Our guide Tongesai was incredibly respectful, punctual, and friendly. He also helped us with transfers to and from the airport. The experience of visiting Victoria Falls on the Zambia side was amazing. The scenery is won" - Javier Fragozo • Verified review
"Our guide Tongesai was incredibly respectful, punctual, and friendly. He also helped us with transfers to and from the airport. The experience of visiting Victoria Falls on the Zambia side was amazing. The scenery is wonderful!!!"
5★ - "Tongesai was awesome from the start. I knew he was a good tour operator because he answered all of my questions in a timely manner and no question was ever stupid. Everything was just as he said once we arrived and reall" - JS • Verified review
"Tongesai was awesome from the start. I knew he was a good tour operator because he answered all of my questions in a timely manner and no question was ever stupid. Everything was just as he said once we arrived and really it was better. We prepared for about a year in advance for this trip and the tour operator was instrumental and making this trip a success. I highly recommend this tour operator to anyone who wants to visit Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Botswana. Give Tongesai a call or email, and you will 100% not be disappointed. I have a very deep understanding of border crossing and transportation challenges in many African countries at this point because of the efforts of the tour operator. This makes my wife and I have very comfortable to approach another visit or look at visiting a different African country."
5★ - "Cultural Vibes Travel and Tours and Tongesai Mutematsaka come with my highest recommendation!! Our trip to Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Botswana was everything I could have dreamed of. Tongesai was easy to work with, and always" - Kim Amen • Verified review
"Cultural Vibes Travel and Tours and Tongesai Mutematsaka come with my highest recommendation!! Our trip to Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Botswana was everything I could have dreamed of. Tongesai was easy to work with, and always communicated back with me very quickly. I told him what I wanted and he personalized our experience within our budget. He was very flexible when I wanted to make any changes. He took care of every detail so I didn't have to. It was fabulous!! I highly recommend!! You will not be disappointed."