Located along a private stretch of the Zambezi River just a 20-minute drive from the majestic Victoria Falls, Matetsi Victoria Falls is a sanctuary of understated elegance. This intimate lodge comprises over 10 river-facing suites, each designed to blur the lines between indoor comfort and the natural world. Interiors are adorned with muted earth tones, polished wood floors, and floor-to-ceiling windows that invite the river’s gentle flow into every room.

What truly sets Matetsi apart is its commitment to immersive wildlife experiences. Guided boating safaris offer a unique vantage point for observing hippos, crocodiles, and an array of birdlife, while early-morning river cruises illuminate the dramatic silhouette of dawn breaking over the water. Back on land, tailored game drives explore Matetsi’s 55,000-hectare private concession, home to resident elephant herds, lion prides, and elusive leopard sightings.

Located away amidst the ancient granite outcrops of the Matobo Hills, Matobo Hills Lodge offers a sanctuary that is as steeped in cultural heritage as it is in natural beauty. The landscape around the lodge is nothing short of mystical; towering rock formations and rolling hills create an otherworldly setting that has enchanted travelers for generations. At Matobo Hills Lodge, each tent and suite is a retreat into comfort, where minimalist design is honored with luxurious fabrics and bespoke furnishings that echo the deep history of the region.

Guided hikes across the hills reveal secret views, hidden waterholes, and sacred sites where ancient traditions remain vividly remembered. The lodge’s emphasis on intimate encounters means that game drives and walking safaris are conducted in small numbers, ensuring that every moment in the wild is personal and profound. Evenings at the lodge feature cozy gatherings where stories of the land are shared by knowledgeable guides, and local cuisine brings forth memories of ancestral feasts. Matobo Hills Lodge is not just a place to rest; it is a place to connect—with the stunning natural environment, with the soulful history of the region, and with the timeless rhythms of life that define the Zimbabwean spirit.

Overlooking the serene waters of Lake Kariba, Bumi Hills Safari Lodge marries panoramic vistas with an inviting ambiance of modern sophistication. This lodge is designed for those who appreciate refined luxury without ever having to sacrifice the feeling of being immersed in nature. The architecture of Bumi Hills reflects a harmony between clean, contemporary lines and natural elements. Each suite and villa is arranged to provide breathtaking views of the lake, ensuring that every window frames a living postcard of Zimbabwe’s storied landscapes.

Bumi Hills Safari Lodge excels in offering a wide array of activities that cater to various interests. Guests can set off on invigorating game drives that reveal intimate encounters with the local wildlife or partake in recreational pursuits such as guided walks along the shores of the lake. For families and groups seeking both adventure and relaxation, the lodge provides unforgettable experiences ranging from private boat tours to cultural excursions that bring you up close with local traditions and crafts.

Located within a concession on the edge of Hwange National Park, Camp Hwange is a ten-suite retreat renowned for its blend of eco-conscious design and intimate wildlife encounters. Each suite is crafted from recycled materials and recycled timber, elevated on stilts to minimize environmental impact and offer unhindered views of the mopane forest.

Game drives from Camp Hwange spotlight the park’s exceptionally high density of elephants. Tracking herds across the vast plains provides an unparalleled safari experience, often culminating in up-close observations at natural waterholes. Night drives, a rarity in Zimbabwe, reveal the park’s nocturnal inhabitants bush babies, leopards on the prowl, and the haunting calls of hyenas.

Meals at Camp Hwange are served in open-air boma settings, featuring grilled meats, fresh salads, and locally brewed beverages. The communal dining environment fosters camaraderie among guests while celebrating Zimbabwe’s rich culinary traditions. For a unique indulgence, the lodge’s bush spa offers massages under the shade of ebony trees, using oils infused with baobab extract.

Set within a private wildlife concession bordering Mana Pools National Park, King’s Pool Camp offers a rare blend of exclusivity and access to one of Zimbabwe’s most remote regions. The camp comprises six tented suites and two family suites, all situated on the banks of the Zambezi River with views into the park.

King’s Pool is revered for its walking safaris, led by Africa’s most experienced guides. Traversing the riverine woodlands on foot brings guests within striking distance of elephants, buffalo, and the legendary Mana Pools lions. Canoeing safaris on the Zambezi add another dimension, allowing silent approaches to awakenings at dawn.

Set in a private concession within Hwange National Park, Somalisa Camp offers an authentic bush experience with a touch of luxury. The camp’s 12 secluded tents open onto vast floodplains, where resident lion prides and large elephant herds can be observed from the comfort of a shaded veranda.

Somalisa’s photography hides are a highlight for lovers. Professionally guided sessions teach composition and lighting techniques, ensuring guests return home with unforgettable images of Zimbabwe’s wildlife. Daytime game drives focus on tailored experiences tracking specific predators or documenting bird migrations while night drives and walking safaris add depth to the bush narrative.

Evenings at Somalisa Camp are relaxed affairs, with dinner served around lantern-lit tables under a vault of stars. The camp’s dedication to community upliftment is evident in its partnerships with local villages, supporting education and healthcare initiatives through a portion of guest contributions.

For travelers seeking the pinnacle of exclusivity and opulence in their Zimbabwe wildlife safari, Singita Pamushana Lodge stands as a true icon of luxurious experience. Located adjacent to Gonarezhou National Park and within the revered Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve, this lodge is synonymous with elegance and conservation. Every detail at Singita Pamushana Lodge is carefully crafted from the impeccably designed suites with private plunge pools to the bespoke service that anticipates your every need. The architecture here is a celebration of modern African design, where local materials and traditional artistry are fused into a contemporary masterpiece that exudes understated luxury.

The best time to embark on such an adventure is during the dry season, which typically spans from May to October. During these months, the weather is more predictable, with minimal rainfall and cooler temperatures, ensuring a more pleasant experience.

The dry season is particularly advantageous for wildlife lovers. As water sources become scarce, animals congregate around rivers and waterholes, making sightings more frequent and predictable. This period also coincides with the peak game-viewing season, offering travelers the chance to witness Zimbabwe's diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, and the elusive leopard, in its natural habitat.

Dav Safaris boasts extensive expertise in organizing luxury safaris, ensuring that every detail is meticulously planned and executed. Their team of experienced guides and staff are well-versed in Zimbabwe's diverse wildlife and landscapes, providing insightful and enriching experiences.