Book affordable 5-day Zimbabwe safaris from $300–$350/day. Hwange National Park, Victoria Falls, and wildlife viewing included. Best May–August. SafariFind verified operators.
British travellers do not normally need a yellow fever certificate based on nationality alone, but Zimbabwe requires proof if you arrive from a yellow-fever-risk country or transit there for more than 12 hours. Hepatitis A, typhoid and up-to-date routine vaccinations are the main travel-health considerations, while malaria prevention depends on your itinerary.
Discover Madagascar Safari Cost 2026: 7-Day Budgets by Travel Style - Expert guide to safari tourism and wildlife destinations.
Last updated: July 2026
Zimbabwe's 5-day safaris cost $300–$350 per person per day, totaling $1,500–$1,750 for budget-friendly packages in 2026. The best time to visit is May to August when wildlife gathers at watering holes. Book through verified operators on SafariFind to find packages combining Hwange National Park and Victoria Falls with authentic traveler reviews.
Zimbabwe safari holidays under $1,500 combine world-class wildlife viewing with affordable lodging and guided experiences. A typical 5-day package includes 3–4 nights in Hwange National Park plus 1–2 nights near Victoria Falls, with all meals and game drives included. [1] These itineraries offer excellent value compared to other southern African destinations while delivering authentic safari experiences.
Mid-range lodges in Zimbabwe charge $325–$350 per person daily, making 5-day trips accessible to budget-conscious travelers. [2] The packages feature shared game drives with small groups (usually 6–7 people per vehicle), professional guides, and comfortable accommodations. You'll see major wildlife including elephants, giraffes, antelope, and lions without overpaying for luxury amenities.
Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe's largest game reserve, covering vast areas where wildlife concentrates during dry months. [3] Victoria Falls, known as "Smoke That Thunders," adds adventure and natural wonder to your safari. Combined, these destinations create a complete 5-day experience that balances wildlife and scenery.
Zimbabwe offers better value than South Africa's Kruger National Park or Tanzania's Serengeti. Daily costs in Zimbabwe run $300–$350 per person, while comparable experiences in neighboring countries cost $400–$600 daily. [7] You get the same wildlife quality and professional guides at significantly lower prices.
The country's infrastructure supports small-group safaris efficiently. Roads connect Hwange and Victoria Falls easily, reducing transfer costs. Local operators know seasonal patterns intimately, timing game drives for peak wildlife activity. This expertise helps you maximize wildlife sightings without expensive private guides.
Currency advantages also matter. In 2026, Zimbabwe's pricing remains competitive for international visitors, making budget itineraries genuinely achievable. You can experience Africa's most iconic wildlife and landscapes without draining your savings.
Every quality 5-day package includes non-negotiable elements. Morning and afternoon game drives cover 4–6 hours daily, maximizing wildlife viewing during peak activity times. All meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—arrive at your lodge, eliminating surprise food costs.
Accommodations range from simple but clean mid-range lodges to comfortable safari camps. Rooms typically include ensuite bathrooms, fans or AC, and basic furnishings. Shared facilities mean lower costs than private cabins. Many lodges offer observation decks where you can watch wildlife from your room.
Professional guides lead all activities. They speak English, know animal behavior intimately, and navigate safely. Most packages include park fees, vehicle use, and fuel. Some add activities like Victoria Falls walks or canoe trips on the Zambezi River.
The dry season (May–August) is Zimbabwe's best safari period. Animals gather at remaining watering holes, making wildlife viewing easier and more reliable. [8] Temperatures stay comfortable (60–75°F mornings, 75–85°F afternoons), and rain stays minimal. Book your 5-day trip during these months for peak experiences.
May marks the start of Zimbabwe's dry season. Vegetation thins, making animals easier to spot. Water becomes scarce, so wildlife concentrates near permanent water sources. Game drives become predictable—you know where animals will be. Prices remain reasonable in May, before peak tourist season hits in June.
June through August represents peak season. Thousands of tourists visit, but wildlife viewing remains excellent. Prices rise slightly during July-August school holidays when families travel. Early morning and late afternoon game drives offer cool temperatures and dramatic lighting for wildlife photography.
September marks the transition month. Temperatures rise (80–95°F), and water scarcity intensifies. Wildlife viewing stays strong, but heat becomes uncomfortable. September 2026 Zimbabwe Safari: Peak Wildlife & Real Costs provides detailed pricing and conditions for this shoulder season.
April and September offer compromises. Prices drop 15–20% below peak season rates. Wildlife viewing remains good, though less concentrated than June-August. April has occasional rain showers, which can make roads muddy but refresh the landscape beautifully.
September brings heat but fewer crowds. Prices dip as families avoid school holiday travel. If you prefer solitude and don't mind warm afternoons, September works well. You might negotiate discounts with operators during these months.
Rainy season (November–March) offers advantages if you're flexible. Prices drop 30–40% below dry season rates. Vegetation explodes with green growth, attracting different bird species and creating lush scenery. However, heavy rains can make roads impassable and reduce wildlife visibility.
Most safari operators offer reduced services during rainy months. Some lodges close temporarily. Game drives become challenging when water pools everywhere and vegetation hides animals. Unless you're specifically interested in birdwatching or photography with green backdrops, avoid November–March for your 5-day safari.
A typical 5-day Zimbabwe safari follows this pattern: Day 1 involves travel from Harare to Hwange. Days 2–4 feature intensive game drives in Hwange. Day 5 shifts to Victoria Falls activities before your return journey. This structure balances wildlife viewing with natural wonder.
You'll arrive at Robert Mugabe International Airport in Harare, Zimbabwe's capital. A driver meets you and transfers you to Hwange National Park (about 2–3 hours by road). The drive passes through rural Zimbabwe, giving you landscape context. You'll reach your lodge by afternoon, settle in, and enjoy your first dinner overlooking the bush.
Check-in includes a safety briefing and park orientation. Your guide explains wildlife behavior and daily routines. Many lodges offer evening wildlife talks or nature walks. You might spot animals from your lodge's observation deck as sunset approaches.
Each day starts before dawn. You'll meet your guide at 5:30 AM for a 2–3 hour morning drive. Hwange National Park covers vast areas where elephants, giraffes, lions, and antelope roam freely. [1] Morning drives catch animals drinking and feeding during cool hours.
You'll return to lodge by 8:30 AM for breakfast and rest. Afternoons feature another 2–3 hour drive starting around 3:30 PM, catching evening activity as temperatures cool. Professional guides position vehicles for optimal wildlife viewing without disturbing animals.
Each drive offers different experiences. One day might focus on elephants near water holes. Another explores giraffe and antelope herds in open plains. A third ventures to areas where lions hunt or rest. Guides adjust routes based on recent animal sightings, maximizing your chances of seeing diverse species.
On Day 5, you transfer to Victoria Falls (about 4 hours from Hwange). The famous waterfall spans the Zimbabwe-Zambia border, offering breathtaking views year-round. In dry season, the falls' volume decreases but mist still rises dramatically. You'll spend the day exploring viewpoints, walking trails, and absorbing the natural wonder.
Some packages include optional activities like helicopter tours, white-water rafting, or canoe trips on the Zambezi River. These activities cost extra ($50–$150 each) but create unforgettable memories. That evening, you'll either return to Harare or extend your trip in Victoria Falls.
A real example: the 5-Day Hwange Safari Experience costs $1,340–$1,430 per person and includes all meals, all game drives, and lodge accommodation. [3] Another option, the 3-Day Hwange National Park-Robins Camp Experience offered by Cheneso Safaris, costs $1,320–$1,650 per person. [4] These prices fall within the under-$1,500 range, making them accessible for budget-conscious travelers.
Compare these real packages on SafariFind. Zimbabwe Safari Cost 2026: Daily Rates by Park & Season breaks down exact pricing by location and season, helping you understand value. You can request quotes from verified operators and read authentic reviews from past travelers.
Booking a Zimbabwe safari under $1,500 requires comparing operators, understanding inclusions, and timing your reservation strategically. Start by researching verified operators with genuine traveler reviews. SafariFind lists established companies with proven track records and transparent pricing.
Zimbabwe has many safari companies, but quality varies significantly. Look for operators with 50+ reviews and ratings above 4.5 stars. Read reviews mentioning guide quality, wildlife sightings, and food quality. Avoid companies with few reviews or primarily negative feedback.
Zimbabwe Safari Companies: Top 10 Operators Ranked 2026 ranks the most reliable operators with verified customer experiences. This guide helps you identify established companies offering genuine value.
Email 3–5 operators with your dates and budget. Ask specifically about package inclusions: Do prices cover park fees? All meals? Drinks? Airport transfers? Clarifying details prevents hidden costs. Request itemized quotes showing each component's price.
Budget packages ($1,320–$1,500) typically include lodging, all meals, game drives, and park fees. They usually exclude alcohol, international flights, visa fees, and optional activities. Some packages charge extra for airport transfers or activities like Victoria Falls tours.
Ask about alcohol policies. Many mid-range lodges offer beer and soft drinks included, while wine and spirits cost extra. Food quality varies—confirm that meals feature fresh, prepared food rather than basic rationing. Ask if vegetarian or dietary-specific meals are available.
Optional activities can add $100–$300 to your total cost. Victoria Falls helicopter tours cost $150–$200 per person. White-water rafting runs $80–$120. Canoe trips on the Zambezi cost $60–$100. Budget these separately if interested.
Peak season (June–August) fills quickly. Booking 2–3 months ahead secures your preferred dates and sometimes unlocks early-bird discounts. Operators often offer 5–10% discounts for advance bookings, potentially saving you $70–$150.
Mid-season (April–May, September) requires less advance booking. You can often reserve 4–6 weeks ahead. Off-season (November–March) allows booking just 2–3 weeks before travel, but services are limited and some lodges close.
Once you've chosen an operator, get everything in writing. Your confirmation should specify dates, lodging, included activities, meals, transportation, payment schedule, and cancellation policies. Don't rely on email conversations—request a formal itinerary document.
Confirm your arrival date and time. Ask how the operator handles delays. Request your guide's name and background if possible. Clarify what to bring, what the lodge provides, and what activities happen daily.
Reputable operators accept multiple payment methods: credit cards, bank transfers, or deposit + final payment schedules. Never pay your full amount upfront to unknown companies. Typical terms are 30% deposit to secure dates, final payment 30 days before travel.
Use SafariFind to verify operator legitimacy. The platform vets companies and publishes real traveler reviews. This reduces scam risk significantly. If an operator seems too cheap or refuses to provide references, look elsewhere.
Zimbabwe offers excellent value compared to Botswana, South Africa, and Zambia. Daily costs run $300–$350 per person in Zimbabwe, while Botswana's Chobe National Park costs $400–$600 daily. [7] South Africa's Kruger charges $150–$300 daily but requires self-driving or expensive private guides. Zimbabwe balances affordability with guided expertise.
Botswana offers stunning wildlife but at premium prices. Victoria Falls is shared with Zimbabwe—Chobe National Park sits just 2 hours from Victoria Falls. However, Botswana packages run 20–30% higher than Zimbabwe's. Zimbabwe Safari vs Botswana 2026: Wildlife, Cost & Which Wins provides detailed comparisons helping you choose between these neighbors.
Choose Zimbabwe if budget matters most. Choose Botswana if you want luxury amenities and don't mind premium pricing. Most travelers combine both—a budget safari in Zimbabwe plus optional Botswana extension.
South Africa's Kruger National Park costs less daily ($150–$300) but requires either self-driving or private guides. Self-drive safaris demand a rental car and fuel, adding $50–$100 daily. Private guides in Kruger cost $200–$400 daily, exceeding Zimbabwe's total package prices.
Zimbabwe's advantage: guided group safaris include everything for one price. South Africa's advantage: Kruger has more Big Five sightings, though Zimbabwe's wildlife is equally impressive. For first-timers, Zimbabwe's all-inclusive approach reduces stress and hidden costs.
Zambia's South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi offer excellent safaris at similar prices to Zimbabwe. Many travelers combine Zimbabwe and Zambia since Victoria Falls sits on their border. Some packages include both countries in 7–10 days. This combination maximizes wildlife viewing while keeping daily costs around $350–$400 per person.
Zimbabwe's advantage: Victoria Falls and Hwange are easily combined in 5 days. Zambia's advantage: more remote, less-crowded parks. The best choice depends on whether you prioritize convenience (Zimbabwe) or solitude (Zambia).
Packing correctly ensures comfort and safety on your 5-day safari. Zimbabwe's dry season requires sun protection, comfortable clothing, and quality binoculars. Lodges provide basic amenities, but bringing specific items improves your experience.
Wear neutral colors: khaki, tan, green, and gray. Avoid bright colors and white, which attract insects and stand out to animals. Pack lightweight, breathable fabrics for warm days and a warm layer for cool mornings. Game drives start before sunrise when temperatures drop to 55–65°F.
Bring comfortable walking shoes with good grip for lodge grounds. Pack sturdy hiking boots if you plan Victoria Falls trails. Sandals work for evenings around the lodge. A wide-brimmed hat protects your face during drives. Sunglasses reduce glare and protect eyes.
High-SPF sunscreen (50+) is essential. Apply every two hours, especially during game drives when you're exposed. Bring lip balm with SPF. Insect repellent with DEET (20–30%) prevents mosquito bites. Apply to exposed skin, especially ankles and wrists. Malaria risk exists in Zimbabwe—consult your doctor about prophylaxis before traveling.
A lightweight rain jacket fits in your bag for unexpected showers in shoulder seasons. Moisture-wicking socks keep feet dry during warm days. A scarf or buff protects your neck and can cover your mouth during dusty drives.
Binoculars transform your safari. Bring 8x42 or 10x42 binoculars for clear, bright images. Quality binoculars cost $300–$800 but dramatically improve wildlife viewing. If you don't own binoculars, many lodges rent them cheaply ($5–$10 daily).
Cameras should have a telephoto lens (200mm minimum, 400mm ideal) for wildlife photography. Bring extra batteries and memory cards—wildlife moments won't wait. A tripod helps stabilize shots during vehicle movement. If you prefer simplicity, modern smartphones with zoom capability work surprisingly well.
Check vaccination requirements for Zimbabwe. Yellow fever vaccination is recommended if you're coming from certain countries. Malaria prophylaxis is strongly advised—discuss options with your doctor. Pack antimalarial medication if prescribed.
Bring copies of your passport, travel insurance, and vaccination records. Travel insurance should cover medical evacuation—remote safaris can mean long distances to hospitals. Keep medications in original containers with prescriptions available.
Pack a basic first-aid kit: pain relievers, antihistamines, antidiarrheal medication, adhesive bandages, and antibiotic ointment. Lodges have first aid supplies, but self-sufficiency helps. Bring any prescription medications you need.
Authentic reviews reveal what 5-day Zimbabwe safaris actually deliver. SafariFind publishes verified traveler experiences, helping you make informed decisions. Real feedback shows that budget packages consistently satisfy travelers when operators are chosen carefully.
Travelers consistently praise professional guides who spot wildlife reliably. Reviews mention guides positioning vehicles perfectly and explaining animal behavior engagingly. Quality of food surprises many visitors positively—lodges serve better meals than expected at these prices. Comfortable lodges with good amenities make budget packages feel premium.
Common praise highlights: "Elephant encounters were incredible," "The guide knew every animal sound," "Victoria Falls exceeded expectations," and "Excellent value for money." Travelers appreciate that shared game drives create community—you make friends with other visitors, sharing excitement during wildlife sightings.
Occasional complaints mention: uncomfortable vehicle seats on long drives, limited hot water at budget lodges, and occasional mosquitoes despite repellent. These are minor annoyances in budget safaris. Overall ratings average 4.5–4.8 stars for established operators offering 5-day packages.
Browse authentic reviews on SafariFind before booking. Filter by package type, dates, and operator to find experiences matching your preferences. Reading multiple reviews reveals patterns—consistent praise suggests quality, while scattered complaints are normal.
A 5-day Zimbabwe safari costs $1,320–$1,650 per person in 2026, averaging $300–$350 daily. [4] This includes lodging, all meals, professional guides, and game drives. Optional activities like Victoria Falls tours or helicopter rides cost $50–$200 extra. Budget airlines and advance booking can reduce overall trip costs by 10–20%.
May through August is Zimbabwe's best safari season. Dry conditions concentrate wildlife at watering holes, guaranteeing sightings. Temperatures stay comfortable (60–85°F), and rain is minimal. [8] Prices peak July–August when families travel, but May–June offer excellent wildlife viewing with slightly lower rates. September brings heat and price discounts but remains viable if you don't mind warmth.
You'll likely see elephants, giraffes, antelope, and lions in Hwange National Park. The Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, rhino) are challenging—Zimbabwe has fewer rhinos and leopards than other African countries. Hwange focuses on elephants and predators rather than all Big Five species. Set realistic expectations: excellent wildlife viewing rather than guaranteed Big Five sightings.
Yes, Zimbabwe is safe for tourists in established safari areas. Hwange National Park and Victoria Falls are well-developed tourist destinations with professional security. Avoid Harare's downtown after dark and don't display valuables. Most safari operators provide secure transportation and accommodations. Travel insurance and vaccinations (yellow fever, malaria prophylaxis) are recommended precautions.
Included: lodging, all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), professional guide, all game drives, vehicle, and park fees. [3] Not included: alcohol, international flights, visas, travel insurance, tips, and optional activities. Confirm exact inclusions with your operator before booking. Some packages add airport transfers or Victoria Falls activities—ask during the quote process.
Use SafariFind to browse verified operators with authentic traveler reviews. Filter by budget, destination, and season. Read 10+ reviews focusing on guide quality, wildlife sightings, and food. Request quotes from 3–5 operators comparing prices and inclusions. Confirm everything in writing before paying your deposit. Avoid operators without reviews or those unwilling to provide references.
Yes, many travelers combine Zimbabwe with Zambia (South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi) or Botswana (Chobe) since they share borders. Victoria Falls sits on the Zimbabwe-Zambia border, making combination trips convenient. A 7–10 day trip combining Zimbabwe and Zambia costs $2,100–$3,500 total, extending your experience without excessive cost increases. SafariFind lists combination packages if you're interested in exploring multiple countries.
Zimbabwe safari holidays under $1,500 deliver authentic African wildlife experiences at exceptional value. A 5-day package combining Hwange National Park and Victoria Falls costs $1,320–$1,650 per person in 2026, including all meals, professional guides, and game drives. [4] The dry season (May–August) offers peak wildlife viewing when animals gather at watering holes, guaranteeing daily sightings of elephants, giraffes, lions, and antelope.
Success depends on choosing verified operators with strong traveler reviews. Professional guides transform your safari—they position vehicles perfectly, explain animal behavior engagingly, and navigate safely through remote areas. SafariFind lists established companies with proven track records, helping you avoid scams and mediocre experiences.
Book 2–3 months in advance to secure peak season dates and unlock early-bird discounts. Packing correctly—neutral clothing, quality binoculars, high-SPF sunscreen, and malaria prophylaxis—ensures comfort and safety. Combine Hwange's wildlife with Victoria Falls' natural wonder for a complete 5-day experience that balances adventure with relaxation.
Compare verified 5-day Zimbabwe safari packages on SafariFind to find your perfect match. Read authentic reviews from travelers who've experienced these packages firsthand. Request quotes from multiple operators and ask detailed questions about inclusions, guide quality, and wildlife guarantees. Your dream African safari awaits—and in 2026, you can afford it without compromising quality.
These recommendations use real data from SafariFind, where you can compare operators, browse packages, and read verified traveler reviews before you book.
Escape To Adventure Safaris - Zimbabwe • 228 reviews • Verified operator
Cultural Vibes Travel & tours - Zimbabwe • 158 reviews • Verified operator
Victoria Falls Serious Fun Travel - Zimbabwe • Verified operator
CUSTOMISE TRAVEL & TOURS - Zimbabwe • Verified operator
5★ - "Cultural Vibes Travel and Tours has proved to be excellent yet again as this is now the third time, we have used them and a much-needed break after almost 3 years with the Covid pandemic. Tongesai is extremely reliable, " - Charles Kinnaird • Verified review
"Cultural Vibes Travel and Tours has proved to be excellent yet again as this is now the third time, we have used them and a much-needed break after almost 3 years with the Covid pandemic. Tongesai is extremely reliable, professional, knowledgeable and does everything to make your trip a memorable experience. Compared to local larger companies, Tongesai’s individual package rates are more reasonable and come with a customized touch. We felt that our holiday with Tongesai was much better and suited us more so than if we had booked through a larger company. His individual tailoring, personal involvement and attention to detail pays off in the smooth running of your trip. Our visits to the Victoria Falls, both sides from Zimbabwe and Zambia were magnificent and never cease to amaze us. On this trip Tongesai arranged for a private sunset cruise on the Zambezi just for our family of four instead of on the larger vessels, which was a very pleasant alternative. The boat trip in Chobe is magical and a must if you venture into Botswana. Wildlife was in abundance, including lion, elephant, wildebeest, buffalo, puku, kudu, bushbuck, waterbuck, impala, gemsbok, steenbok, sable and roan antelope, etc. We even saw a relative of Cecil, the famous black-maned lion, ‘once a true king of Hwange National Park’. I have no hesitation in recommending the company for arranging tours in Zimbabwe, Zambia and Botswana - we will definitely be seeing him again. He is currently setting up arrangements with colleagues in Kruger National Park to venture into South Africa and I wish him every success with that."
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★ - "My travel companions and I chose the 4 day experience. Technically it is really a 3 day experience, because the last day they provide airport transportation. I feel they go above and beyond in making sure they are provid" - Karan thomas • Verified review
"My travel companions and I chose the 4 day experience. Technically it is really a 3 day experience, because the last day they provide airport transportation. I feel they go above and beyond in making sure they are providing their customers with a safe, exciting and exceptional experience. Gari was our driver/guide in Zimbabwe, and was friendly, helpful, and courteous. Gari either made sure we were where we needed to be or provided his own guide trip to the Victoria Falls. He even provided the rain gear, which is most necessary. Gari and his "boss" Mr T. went above and beyond when Delta postponed our flight by a day, by helping to make sure that the connecting airline would change our reservation. They then made sure we got to the airport on time, a day later. They are always willing to provide any additional things that you would like to see and do. If you looking for a guided tour company, this is the one to use, and one that I would have no hesitation in using again."
5★ - "First, Tongesai Mtematsaka was excellent with communications and service. We couldn’t have asked for better. My questions via email were promptly answered. His English was excellent, and better. He was always on time in " - George Wagner • Verified review
"First, Tongesai Mtematsaka was excellent with communications and service. We couldn’t have asked for better. My questions via email were promptly answered. His English was excellent, and better. He was always on time in meeting us, coming and going. Our two hour trips from VIc Falls to the sable sands lodge, and then from the lodge to the Vic Falls airport were a highlight to our entire Africa trip. My wife and I will be discussing various aspects from the discussions with Tongesai for some time to come. By patiently answering my many questions he educated my wife and I about Zimbabwe and the region - culture, practices and assets of the people, typical family life, economy, weather, etc., and possibilities and trends into the future - all believable and detailed. The staff and facilities at the sable sands lodge were all excellent, beginning with Michelle’s clear instructions and cautions. She was a delight. We were asked if we wanted to take a charming hut as close as we could get to the marvelous watering hole there and got it. Incredibly we were greeted by a dust-cloud from a herd of maybe 100 Cape buffalo running to the water - unbelievable! The meals prepared by So and Derik were really good, throughout. MC, our drive guide was excellent and very accommodating to all the guests in the comfortable and safe-feeling, open 4x4. We met some nice co-guests. We saw so many animals on our safari that I will not attempt to recall here. I would just say that the many watering holes in the Hwange park were impressive, As an environmentalist myself I was very impressed with the solar powered system for exploiting the aquifers, and the foresight of the authorities in developing and maintains these. I know the history going back to the 1920’s, but if there wasn’t maintainence and upgrade the animals could not continue, especially with drought effects of climate change. Finally, I must comment on the fact that our first night in our hut was spent listening to the rumblings of the elephant just outside out hut. In the morning the tracks outside our hut showed how close our visitor was. We knew then that Michelle’s cautions were serious. But then more, the second night we had a lioness spend the night outside our hut, perhaps roaring a mating call. At first light MC came by with the truck and asked if we wanted to see the lion. I shot out with my camera. What an experience!! We hope our parting tip to the group of 16 people providing excellent service was meaningful. I will certainly recommend this trip to anyone who will hear me. What a privilege!!!"
5★ - "We booked our Zimbabwe trip with Cultural Vibes Travel & Tours following a recommendation from Nhongo Safaris in South Africa. Tongesai is a great communicator, and the booking process was quick, easy, and well organized" - Emma & Andrew • Verified review
"We booked our Zimbabwe trip with Cultural Vibes Travel & Tours following a recommendation from Nhongo Safaris in South Africa. Tongesai is a great communicator, and the booking process was quick, easy, and well organized. We were happy with the quote provided and were able to easily pay online. Tongesai was waiting for us at Victoria Falls Airport to take us to our accommodation. He has arranged an amazing whirlwind 48 hour visit, that was packed with a sunset cruise on the Zambezi, Morning Game drive, he accompanied us on an amazing walk of the Victoria falls and arranged an African experience dinner in the evening. It was so memorable, and everything we wanted! Overall, it was an fantastic trip, with a great guide, and we would highly recommend it for anyone considering a trip to Victoria Falls. For our next visit, we will definitely be reaching out to Tongesai and thoroughly recommend to all our friends."
