This 7 Days Safari in Zimbabwe and South Africa combines the thundering spectacle of Victoria Falls with the pristine wilderness of Mana Pools and the cosmopolitan charm of Cape Town and Kruger National Park. Your Zimbabwe and South Africa journey begins at the majestic "Mosi-oa-Tunya" (The Smoke That Thunders) before venturing into one of Africa's most remote wildlife sanctuaries along the Zambezi River. The experience concludes with South Africa's diverse landscapes, from the scenic beauty of the Mother City to the legendary Big Five territory of Kruger National Park.
This meticulously crafted Zimbabwe and South Africa itinerary showcases the diverse ecosystems and wildlife experiences that define southern African safari excellence. From walking safaris in Mana's ancient floodplains to game drives through Kruger's vast savannas, each destination offers unique encounters with Africa's magnificent fauna. The journey seamlessly blends Zimbabwe's raw wilderness with South Africa's world-class infrastructure and renowned hospitality.
Your Zimbabwe and South Africa adventure is enhanced by expert local guides who share their intimate knowledge of each region's ecology, history, and conservation efforts. This cross-border expedition offers unparalleled diversity, combining thundering waterfalls, pristine wilderness areas, vibrant urban culture, and world-renowned wine regions. The carefully planned logistics ensure smooth transitions between countries while maximizing your wildlife viewing and cultural experiences.
Day 1: Pick Up from Victoria Falls International Airport and Transfer to the Hotel
Day 2: Transfer to Mana Pools National Park for Wilderness Experience
Day 3: Continue with Walking Safaris and Canoe Excursions in Mana Pools
Day 4: Proceed to Harare and Fly to Cape Town for City Exploration
Day 5: Transfer to Cape Peninsula for Scenic Wine Country Tour
Day 6: Continue to Kruger National Park for Big Five Safari Experience
Day 7: Proceed to Final Departure from Johannesburg International Airport
Your Zimbabwe and South Africa safari adventure begins with arrival at Victoria Falls International Airport, where you'll be met by your expert guide for the 25-minute transfer to your luxury accommodation. This exciting Zimbabwe and South Africa experience starts with an afternoon guided tour of Victoria Falls National Park, exploring the rainforest trails and viewpoints overlooking the 108-meter cascade known locally as "Mosi-oa-Tunya." Your first day of this Zimbabwe and South Africa journey concludes with a spectacular sunset cruise on the Zambezi River, offering opportunities to spot hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife while enjoying traditional sundowners as the African sun sets over the mighty river.
After an early breakfast, your Zimbabwe and South Africa safari continues with a scenic 6-hour drive (approximately 380 kilometers) southeast to Mana Pools National Park, passing through rural Zimbabwe and the dramatic Zambezi Valley escarpment. This remote phase of your Zimbabwe and South Africa adventure takes you to one of Africa's most pristine wilderness areas, where you'll arrive at your exclusive tented camp situated along the famous Long Pool in the area known locally as "Mana Hupenyu" (Four Pools of Life). Your Zimbabwe and South Africa experience includes an afternoon game drive through the park's diverse ecosystems, from riverine forests to inland mopane woodlands, with excellent opportunities to encounter elephants, buffalo, and various antelope species in their natural habitat.
Dawn breaks on your Zimbabwe and South Africa safari with the sounds of the African wilderness as you embark on a guided walking safari through Mana's famous floodplains, covering approximately 8-10 kilometers over 4 hours. This immersive Zimbabwe and South Africa experience allows intimate encounters with wildlife on foot, including opportunities to observe the park's famous "standing" elephants feeding on Ana tree pods in the area known as "Nyamepi." Your Zimbabwe and South Africa adventure continues in the afternoon with a peaceful canoe excursion along the Zambezi River, paddling approximately 15 kilometers downstream while spotting hippos, crocodiles, and an incredible variety of waterbirds in their natural riverine environment.
Your Zimbabwe and South Africa journey transitions today with an early morning 6-hour drive (380 kilometers) back to Harare, Zimbabwe's capital city, for your connecting flight to Cape Town, South Africa's legislative capital. This exciting phase of your Zimbabwe and South Africa adventure begins with arrival at Cape Town International Airport and a 45-minute transfer to your hotel in the vibrant V&A Waterfront area, overlooking Table Mountain known locally as "Hoerikwaggo" (Mountain in the Sea). Your Zimbabwe and South Africa experience continues with an afternoon exploration of Cape Town's historic city center, including visits to the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood and the bustling Greenmarket Square, followed by a cable car ascent of Table Mountain for panoramic views of the city and coastline.
Today your Zimbabwe and South Africa safari ventures into the spectacular Cape Peninsula region with a full-day scenic drive covering approximately 150 kilometers of some of the world's most beautiful coastal landscapes. This memorable Zimbabwe and South Africa experience includes visits to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, where you'll stand at the southwestern tip of Africa, and a stop at Boulders Beach to observe the endemic African penguin colony in the charming seaside town of Simon's Town. Your Zimbabwe and South Africa adventure continues with a wine tasting experience in the historic Constantia wine region, established in 1685, where you'll sample world-renowned wines while enjoying views of the Constantiaberg Mountains and False Bay.
Your Zimbabwe and South Africa safari takes an exciting turn with an early morning flight from Cape Town to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport, followed by a 1.5-hour transfer to your luxury safari lodge in the greater Kruger area. This thrilling Zimbabwe and South Africa experience begins immediately with an afternoon game drive in the world-famous Kruger National Park, covering approximately 60 kilometers through diverse habitats in search of the Big Five and other iconic African wildlife. Your Zimbabwe and South Africa adventure continues into the evening with a traditional bush dinner under the stars, accompanied by the sounds of the African night and sharing stories of wildlife encounters with fellow travelers and your expert safari guide.
The final day of your Zimbabwe and South Africa safari begins with an early morning game drive offering last opportunities to encounter any wildlife you may have missed during your Kruger experience. This concluding Zimbabwe and South Africa experience includes a leisurely breakfast at your safari lodge before the 1.5-hour transfer back to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport for your connecting flight to O.R. Tambo Johannesburg International Airport. Your unforgettable Zimbabwe and South Africa journey comes to an end as you reflect on seven days of diverse experiences, from thundering waterfalls and pristine wilderness to vibrant cities and world-class wine regions, carrying home memories that will last a lifetime.