How to Choose a Wildlife Safari Tour in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is undoubtedly one of the African countries with a high wildlife population. This country is famous for the Victoria Falls and many national parks.

If you are planning a Zimbabwean safari tour, choosing the places to go and budgeting can be challenging. This is why I am here.

In this article, we will look at how to choose a wildlife safari tour in Zimbabwe.

Why Choose Zimbabwe for a Safari?

There are many reasons why you would want to explore the wildlife in Zimbabwe. The country is mostly savanna, so different animals thrive here.

Here are some reasons to choose Zimbabwe for a safari:

The Big Five and More

Africa is home to the Big Five. These are large land animals that are found throughout some parts of Africa. The animals that make up the big five are lions, leopards, elephants, buffalos, and rhinos.

Zimbabwe is among the places in Africa to see all the animals within the Big Five group.

Aside from the big five, there are many other animals that can be found in Zimbabwe; some of these animals include giraffes, zebras, hippos, and different bird species.

Landscape and Diversity

Zimbabwe is a country with diverse ecosystems, ranging from savannas to wetlands. There are many scenic and rich habitats where wildlife thrives.

The country has two World Heritage Sites, Victoria Falls and Mana Pools.

The Victoria Falls is a beautiful waterfall that is located on the Zambezi River. The falls can also be seen from Zambia.

The Mana Pools are located in northern Zimbabwe. The Mana Pools National Park is known for its diverse wildlife that can be seen beside the river.

These animals include elephants, hippos, and Nile crocodiles in their large numbers.

National Parks and Expert Guides

Zimbabwe has many world-class national parks that are teeming with wildlife. The largest and most famous national park in Zimbabwe is the Hwange National Park.

Other notable national parks are Mana Pools National Park, South Gonarezhou National Park, Nyanga National Park, Matobo National Park, and others.

The best part about visiting wildlife in Zimbabwe is the expert safari guides. These guides have been trained to assist both visitors and wildlife.

Guides also provide information as you see wild animals in their natural environment.

How to Choose a Wildlife Safari Tour in Zimbabwe

Choosing a wildlife safari tour can be stressful and time-consuming. To help you make better decisions and pick a tour you will enjoy, I have compiled a list to guide you through choosing a Wildlife Safari Tour in Zimbabwe.

1. Plan Your Budget

The first thing to consider before planning a wildlife safari tour is your budget. Safaris can range from budget-friendly to ultra-luxurious, so the choice is yours to make.

First, ask yourself, How much am I willing to spend? If you are on a budget, some safaris can offer incredible wildlife encounters on a low budget.

The only difference with paying more is more comfort, better guides, and maybe exclusive experiences.

It can be difficult to give a fixed cost for a safari tour since it might be determined by factors like time of year, duration of stay, and type of accommodation.

A Zimbabwean safari tour can cost from $700 to $5000 depending on the type of tour and the number of days for the tour. This does not include accommodation and meals, which can range from $600 to $3,250 per person sharing per night.

Once you have a good idea about the budget for your tour, you can then proceed to make your choice.

Budget Safaris

If you are on a tight budget, consider joining a group tour. These tours are more budget-friendly and also a great way to meet fellow travellers.

You have the option to stay in basic accommodations like tents, guesthouses, or budget lodges. Even on a budget, the wildlife experiences will be just as thrilling.

Instead of the exclusive or private safari vehicles, you will use either standard 4×4 vehicles, minibuses, or buses.

Mid-Range Safaris

If you prefer a bit more comfort while still trying to save cost, then opt for a mid-range safari. These tours often include stays in comfortable lodges or tented camps with better amenities.

Mid-range safaris also offer semi-private or private tours, which means a more personalised experience.

Luxury Safaris

This option is for people who are ready for a more luxurious experience. This option offers private game drives, gourmet meals, and luxurious lodges with stunning views.

You also get access to private reserves with a private tour guide.

2. Choose Your Destination

Zimbabwe has different safari destinations, so it might be difficult to make up your mind. Here is a quick rundown of the top spots:

Hwange National Park

This is the largest natural reserve in Zimbabwe. If you love elephants, then Hwange is somewhere you want to visit.

Hwange National Park has one of the largest elephant populations in Africa. There are also over 100 mammal and 400 bird species within the park.

Favourite spots within the park include Mtoa Ruins and Pan, Dom Pan, Chivasa Pan, Makololo Pans and Plains, Ngweshla Pan, and others.

Mana Pools National Park

Another top destination for wildlife travellers is the Mana Pools National Park. This destination is ideal for spotting large animals in search of water.

Mana Pools is famous for its walking safaris and canoeing trips on the Zambezi River. At this park, you will see the big four lions, elephants, buffalo, and leopards.

For those who might be wondering, the name “Mana” means “four” in Shona, a local language spoken by the Bantu ethnic group in Zimbabwe. The four pools are Green Pool, Chisasiko, Chine, and Long Pool.

Victoria Falls

The Victoria Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in the world. You get to enjoy the view and also spot wildlife in the surrounding areas.

You can also enjoy activities such as helicopter scenic flights and sunset cruises on the Zambezi River.

3. Decide on Safari Activities

There are different fun activities to do in Zimbabwe. Unless you have enough money and time, it might be difficult to engage in every activity and also visit every destination.

I have put together a list of some popular activities to do in Zimbabwe.

Game Drives

Game drives are the most common safari activity. This involves viewing wildlife on an off-road vehicle that is led by an expert guide.

The 4×4 vehicles used for this experience are designed for a safer trip for tourists. Most guided game drives take place in the early morning and evening when most animals are more active.

Walking Safaris

If you are looking for a more personalised experience, try a walking safari. The difference between game drives and walking safaris is moving through the wild on foot.

Although you will be accompanied by an experienced guide, you get to explore the bush on foot and sometimes come face-to-face with wildlife.

Canoeing Safaris

You can engage in canoe safaris and explore the wild on the water. This is a unique experience, especially if you have not been on a canoe before.

You get to paddle along the Zambezi River, where you will see hippos, crocodiles, and other wildlife.

Night Drives

This is another unique experience to see nocturnal animals like leopards, hyenas, and owls. These night drives are usually conducted in private reserves for a safer experience.

4. Consider the Best Time to Visit

The timing of your safari can greatly impact your experience. The dry season, from May to October, is the best time for wildlife viewing in Zimbabwe.

If you want to also visit Victoria Falls and experience it in its full glory, then from February to May, or summer to late autumn, is the best time to visit.

This is why you need to choose the right time to visit. Water bodies like the Falls depend on rain, while the wildlife safari mostly depends on dry seasons.

The best time to visit Zimbabwe for a wildlife safari and Victoria Falls viewing is May, June, or July. During this time, the Falls are still full and Safari is still in high season.

5. Research Tour Operators

Your safari success depends on the tour operator you choose. Before you embark on your journey first, look for operators with excellent reviews and commitment to tourism.

Here are a few tips to help you make the right choice.

Check Reviews

Reviews determine how good and bad a service is to someone. Make sure to read reviews from some platforms like TripAdvisor and SafariBookings.

Be on the lookout for consistent positive feedback about the guides, accommodations, and experience. If possible, try to ask questions.

Compare Packages

Don’t settle for the first tour you find. It is always good idea to compare different packages. You can also look out for information about activities, accommodation, and guides.

Conclusion

Going on a wildlife safari tour in Zimbabwe is a wonderful experience for individuals and families. In this article, I have provided information on how to choose a wildlife safari tour in Zimbabwe.

Choosing a tour has to do with your budget, preferred destinations, and desired activities. There are safaris for every budget and need.

FAQs

Which season is best for safari in Zimbabwe?

The best time for a safari in Zimbabwe is during the dry season, from May to October. Animals can be seen easily as they gather around water sources.

How much does a safari cost in Zimbabwe?

There is no fixed cost for a safari in Zimbabwe. The costs can range from $325 for a budget safari, $500 for a mid-range safari, and $700 for a luxury safari, per person per day.

Can I combine a visit to Victoria Falls with a safari?

Yes, you can combine a visit to Victoria Falls with a safari. Many tour operators offer packages that include both a visit to Victoria Falls and a safari in nearby national parks.

How do I choose a reputable safari tour operator?

Look for operators with excellent reviews and knowledgeable guides. Compare different packages to find the best fit for your needs.