starstarstarstarstar_half 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor
photo_camera
5 Days Premium Tier

5 Days Luxury Zimbabwe Safari: Victoria Falls & Hwange Tour

5 Days Luxury Zimbabwe Safari: Victoria Falls & Hwange Tour

Discover the very best of Zimbabwe on this unforgettable 5-day luxury safari, combining the awe-inspiring beauty of Victoria Falls with the extraordinary wildlife of Hwange National Park. Begin your journey at the iconic Victoria Falls Hotel, where timeless elegance meets one of the world's greatest natural wonders. Cruise the tranquil Zambezi River at sunset, explore the magnificent Victoria Falls with an expert guide, and immerse yourself in breathtaking scenery before venturing into Zimbabwe's premier safari destination.

Your adventure continues at the exclusive Linkwasha Camp in Hwange National Park, renowned for its exceptional wildlife encounters and luxurious accommodation. Enjoy expertly guided game drives, immersive walking safaris, spectacular sundowners, and thrilling night drives in search of Africa's iconic Big Five and countless other species. Blending refined comfort, authentic wilderness experiences, and world-class hospitality, this carefully curated itinerary offers the perfect introduction to Zimbabwe's remarkable landscapes and wildlife.

map Expedition Route

Expedition Route Map
Route: Victoria Falls → Discover Victoria Falls & Fly into the Wild Heart of Hwange → Full-Day Luxury Safari in Hwange National Park → Walking Safari & Nocturnal Wildlife Encounters

Daily Expedition Log

Day 1

Arrival in Victoria Falls – Sunset on the Mighty Zambezi

Your Zimbabwean adventure begins the moment you arrive at Victoria Falls International Airport, where you will be warmly welcomed and privately transferred to the legendary Victoria Falls Hotel. Revered as one of Africa's most iconic grand hotels, this historic Edwardian masterpiece has been welcoming discerning travelers for over a century, offering timeless elegance, impeccable service, and spectacular views of the distant spray rising from Victoria Falls.
After checking into your beautifully appointed room, take time to relax and settle into your surroundings before embarking on your first unforgettable African experience.
In the late afternoon, you will set out on a leisurely sunset cruise along the majestic Zambezi River. As the boat gently drifts across the calm waters, the river reveals its extraordinary beauty and abundant wildlife. Watch pods of hippos surface beside the boat, crocodiles bask along the riverbanks, and elephants or buffalo wander down for an evening drink. Birdlife is equally spectacular, with fish eagles soaring overhead and vibrant kingfishers darting across the water.
As the African sun slowly sinks beneath the horizon, painting the sky in brilliant shades of gold, amber, and crimson, enjoy premium sundowners accompanied by delicious canapés while soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
Returning to the hotel after sunset, a delightful dinner awaits on the elegant terrace. Surrounded by colonial charm and the soothing sounds of nature, you will retire for the evening, falling asleep to the distant, rhythmic roar of the world's largest curtain of falling water.

restaurant

Meals

Bed and Breakfast

hotel

Lodging

The Victoria Falls Hotel

directions_car

Transport

Private Tourist Vehicle

Day 2

Discover Victoria Falls & Fly into the Wild Heart of Hwange

Wake to a relaxed breakfast before setting off to experience one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

Your guided walking tour of Victoria Falls takes you through the lush rainforest nourished year-round by the perpetual mist rising from the gorge. Accompanied by an experienced local guide, you'll discover the fascinating history, geological formation, and cultural significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site while enjoying breathtaking panoramic viewpoints of the thunderous cascades. The cool mist, vibrant vegetation, and the sheer power of the falls create an unforgettable sensory experience.

Following lunch, your journey continues with a scenic light aircraft transfer into the vast wilderness of Hwange National Park. From above, admire Zimbabwe's changing landscapes as forests, open grasslands, and ancient riverbeds unfold beneath you.

Upon landing at the remote bush airstrip, your safari experience begins immediately. An open 4x4 safari vehicle awaits to transfer you to the exceptional Linkwasha Camp, with your very first game drive taking place en route. Every moment becomes an opportunity to encounter elephants, giraffes, zebras, antelope, or even predators roaming freely through the park.

Arriving at camp, you will be warmly welcomed before settling into your luxurious suite overlooking the renowned private waterhole. As dusk settles over the African bush, gather around the campfire for pre-dinner drinks before enjoying an exquisite gourmet dinner beneath a sky illuminated by countless stars.

restaurant

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

directions_car

Transport

4x4 Safari Jeep

Day 3

Full-Day Luxury Safari in Hwange National Park

The African wilderness awakens long before sunrise, and today begins with an early wake-up call accompanied by freshly brewed coffee or tea before setting out into the cool morning air.

Morning offers some of the finest wildlife viewing opportunities, as predators complete their nightly hunts while herbivores emerge to graze across Hwange's expansive plains. Accompanied by your expert guide and tracker, you'll search for the park's famous elephant herds among the largest concentrations in Africa as well as lions, leopards, wild dogs, buffalo, giraffes, and numerous species of antelope.

Returning to camp later in the morning, enjoy a leisurely gourmet brunch before embracing the slower rhythm of safari life. Spend the afternoon unwinding in your luxurious suite, cooling off in the swimming pool, indulging in a quiet read, or simply watching wildlife gather around Linkwasha's celebrated multi-tiered waterhole, where animals frequently arrive throughout the day.

As temperatures begin to cool, another exhilarating afternoon game drive awaits. The changing golden light transforms the landscape into a photographer's dream while wildlife becomes increasingly active once again.

Before sunset, pause at a scenic location for the timeless African safari tradition of sundowners. Sip your favorite refreshment while watching the horizon glow with spectacular colors before continuing your drive back to camp beneath an extraordinary canopy of stars.

A beautifully prepared gourmet dinner and fireside conversations provide the perfect conclusion to another unforgettable day in the wilderness.

restaurant

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

directions_car

Transport

4x4 Safari Jeep

Day 4

Walking Safari & Nocturnal Wildlife Encounters

Today offers a deeper connection with the African wilderness as you leave the vehicle behind and experience the bush from an entirely different perspective.

Accompanied by a highly experienced armed professional guide, your morning walking safari reveals the intricate details often missed from a vehicle. Learn how to identify animal tracks, interpret subtle signs left behind by wildlife, recognize medicinal plants, and appreciate the remarkable interconnectedness of the ecosystem. Every footprint, bird call, tree, and scent tells a story, making this an intimate and enriching safari experience.

Following your walk, return to camp for a delicious brunch before enjoying a peaceful afternoon at leisure. Relax on your private deck overlooking the waterhole, enjoy the exceptional hospitality of the camp, or simply absorb the tranquility that defines Hwange's untouched wilderness.

As evening approaches, venture out once more on a game drive that gradually transitions into an exciting night safari. Equipped with specialized spotlights, your expert tracker scans the darkness in search of the park's elusive nocturnal inhabitants. Bushbabies leap between branches, civets and genets quietly emerge, while hyenas begin their nightly patrols. With a little luck, you may even encounter lions or leopards becoming active under the cover of darkness, offering an entirely different perspective of life in the African bush.

Return to camp for another exceptional dinner under the stars, where the sounds of the wilderness provide the evening's unforgettable soundtrack.

restaurant

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

directions_car

Transport

4x4 Safari Jeep

Day 5

Farewell Safari & Departure

Your final morning begins with one last opportunity to immerse yourself in the remarkable landscapes of Hwange National Park.

After an early game drive through the awakening wilderness, savor the peaceful atmosphere as the African bush comes alive with birdsong and the first golden rays of sunlight. It is a wonderful chance to enjoy a few final wildlife encounters and capture lasting memories before your safari draws to a close.

Returning to camp, enjoy a leisurely breakfast before bidding farewell to the attentive team who have made your stay so memorable.

You will then transfer to the bush airstrip for your scheduled light aircraft flight or comfortable road transfer back to Victoria Falls. Upon arrival, you will be assisted with your onward international departure, bringing your extraordinary five-day luxury Zimbabwe experience to a close.

Though your journey ends today, the unforgettable sights, sounds, and spirit of Africa will remain with you long after you return home.

restaurant

Meals

Breakfast

directions_car

Transport

Domestic Flight

Proposed Accommodations

4 Nights Accommodation

The Victoria Falls Hotel
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

The Victoria Falls Hotel

1Night Accommodation

Lodging Option
Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

Lodging Option

3 Nights Accommodation

Inclusions & Essentials

check_circle What's Included

  • done Private airport transfers throughout the itinerary
  • done 1 night accommodation at The Victoria Falls Hotel
  • done 3 nights accommodation at Linkwasha Camp
  • done Daily breakfast, lunch, dinner, and selected beverages as specified by the lodges
  • done Sunset cruise on the Zambezi River with drinks and canapés
  • done Guided tour of Victoria Falls
  • done Scheduled light aircraft transfer between Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park (or road transfer where applicable)
  • done Shared scheduled game drives in Hwange National Park
  • done Guided walking safari
  • done Night game drive with professional guides
  • done Experienced Professional English-speaking safari guides
  • done National Park entrance fees
  • done Government taxes and tourism levies

cancel Not Included

  • close International and regional flights
  • close Zimbabwe entry visa fees (where applicable)
  • close Comprehensive travel insurance
  • close Premium alcoholic beverages and champagne
  • close Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
  • close Spa treatments and personal wellness services
  • close Personal expenses such as souvenirs and gratuities
  • close Meals not specified in the itinerary
  • close Any increase in park fees, government taxes, or fuel surcharges imposed after booking
  • close Anything not specifically mentioned under Inclusions.

FAQs / Essential Information

Everything you need to know before you go.

What is included in a 5-day luxury Victoria Falls and Hwange safari package?
expand_more

This premium all-inclusive package covers private luxury transfers, a 5-star stay at the historic Victoria Falls Hotel, a light aircraft flight directly into a private airstrip in Hwange National Park, and luxury tented accommodations at Linkwasha Camp. All gourmet meals, premium drinks, daily guided game drives, walking safaris, night drives, and Victoria Falls park entry fees are fully covered.

How do I get from Victoria Falls to Hwange National Park on this tour?
expand_more

Rather than spending hours on bumpy roads, this high-end itinerary utilizes a scenic light aircraft fly-in transfer. On Day 2, you will board a private charter plane directly from Victoria Falls and land on a remote bush airstrip in the heart of Hwange, with your first game drive beginning the moment you touch down.

When is the best time of year to book this Zimbabwe safari package?
expand_more

The ideal time for this specific package is during the dry season (July to October). During these months, Hwange’s famous elephant herds and apex predators gather heavily around the Linkwasha waterholes, offering unparalleled wildlife viewing. If seeing Victoria Falls at maximum thunderous flow is your priority, February to May is peak water season.

Are walking safaris and night drives safe in Hwange National Park?
expand_more

Absolutely. Zimbabwe is globally renowned for having some of the strictest, most rigorous professional guide certification programs in Africa. Your walking safaris and nocturnal spotlight drives are led by highly experienced, armed professional trackers who strictly adhere to strict safety protocols to ensure up-close, safe wildlife encounters.

What kind of wildlife will I see in Hwange and on the Zambezi River?
expand_more

On the Zambezi River cruise, expect large pods of hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife like fish eagles. In Hwange, you are highly likely to encounter massive elephant herds (Hwange is home to over 45,000 elephants), lions, leopards, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and the critically endangered African wild dog.

Do I need a visa to visit Victoria Falls and enter Zimbabwe?
expand_more

Most international travelers (including US, UK, and EU citizens) can conveniently obtain a visa on arrival at Victoria Falls International Airport. If you plan to briefly cross the bridge to view the Zambian side of the falls, we highly recommend purchasing the KAZA UniVisa, which permits seamless multi-entry travel between both nations.

What should I pack for a luxury fly-in safari in Zimbabwe?
expand_more

You should pack "bush casual" clothing in neutral colors (khaki, olive, tan). Avoid bright colors, camouflage patterns, and dark blue/black (which attracts tsetse flies). Because this is a fly-in safari, you must use soft-sided duffel bags due to storage limitations on light aircraft, typically restricted to $15\text{ kg}$ to $20\text{ kg}$ ($33\text{ lbs}$ to $44\text{ lbs}$) per person.

Is Hwange National Park a malaria-risk zone?
expand_more

Yes, both the Victoria Falls and Hwange regions are located in malaria-prone areas. While luxury camps use protective netting and regular insect control, we strongly advise consulting your doctor or a travel clinic before departure to secure recommended malaria prophylactics and up-to-date vaccinations.

Is there Wi-Fi access at the luxury safari lodges?
expand_more

Yes. The Victoria Falls Hotel offers high-speed internet access throughout the property. Even in the remote wilderness at Linkwasha Camp, complimentary Wi-Fi is available in the main guest areas, allowing you to share your safari photos while still unplugging in the heart of the bush.

Can this 5-day itinerary be customized or extended?
expand_more

Yes, this itinerary serves as a perfectly balanced baseline but is entirely customizable. We can easily extend your stay in Hwange, add a water-based safari extension to Lake Kariba or Mana Pools, or arrange a seamless connection to Cape Town or Botswana's Okavango Delta.

Privacy Settings

Manage how we use cookies on this site.

gpp_good
Necessary Cookies

Required for the site to function.

Always On
analytics
Analytics & Marketing

Help us improve our services.

By saving your preferences, you agree to our Cookie Policy.