8 Days Zimbabwe Safari in Mana Pools and Chitake Springs
This 8 Days Zimbabwe Safari in Mana Pools and Chitake Springs is the most authentic Mana experience available. This is a 4x4 Drive to Mana Pools and Chitake Spring. Raw Africa unlike anywhere else, does Mana the way we locals do. Ideal for families with children over 11. Rate includes 4x4 Rental, Accommodation & Transfers. Excluded are Food, Fuel, & Ranger fees. We live in Zimbabwe and we love it here, we operate our 4x4s, with fuel & currency solutions. We take care of all of Zim's little idiosyncrasies so all you have to do is Arrive & Drive.
Your Zimbabwe Safari journey begins in the capital city of Harare before venturing into the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mana Pools, where ancient floodplains and towering mahogany forests create a haven for diverse wildlife. The freedom to explore on foot sets this Zimbabwe Safari apart, allowing for intimate encounters with elephants, lions, and countless other species.
This unique Zimbabwe Safari continues to the remote Chitake Springs, where a natural spring creates an oasis in the dry season, attracting a remarkable concentration of wildlife. From comfortable lodging in Harare to wild camping under African skies, this journey offers the perfect blend of adventure and authentic wilderness experience.
Tour highlights
Exclusive drive 4x4 adventure through Zimbabwe's wilderness
Guided walking safaris in Mana Pools with professional rangers
Wild camping along the Zambezi River floodplains
Close encounters with elephants and big cats
Two nights at the dramatic Chitake Springs
Stunning views of the Zambezi Escarpment
Authentic bush camping experience
Professional vehicle briefing and support
Price Includes:
- National Park fees and camping fees
- 4x4 vehicle rental with full camping equipment
- Support and instruction from professional guides
- Bottled water during transfers
- Accommodation as specified in the itinerary
- Vehicle insurance and recovery service
- Emergency satellite communication
- All mentioned activities excluding optional experiences
Price Excludes:
- Zimbabwe Visa fees
- International and domestic flights
- Personal expenses and gratuities
- Optional activities and excursions
- Laundry services
- Travel Insurance
- Additional beverages
- Tips for staff and guides
Itinary in details
- Day1Fly into Harare
Your Zimbabwe Safari begins with your arrival at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport in Harare. The Zimbabwe Safari experience starts with a comfortable 30-minute transfer to Sunbird Guest House, your eco-friendly base in the capital. Your Zimbabwe Safari orientation includes a briefing about the adventure ahead while you relax in modern African comfort.
- Day2Drive to Mana Pools National Park
Your Zimbabwe Safari adventure begins with an early morning vehicle orientation at a Guest House. The Zimbabwe Safari journey continues with a scenic 5-hour drive north through the Great Dyke region to Mana Pools, covering approximately 380km. This segment of your Zimbabwe Safari includes descending the dramatic Zambezi
- Day3Safari in Mana Pools
Today your Zimbabwe Safari immerses you in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mana Pools, known as "Mana Dziba" in Shona. Your Zimbabwe Safari experience features guided walks along the Zambezi floodplains, where ancient mahogany and acacia trees create perfect hunting grounds for predators. The afternoon Zimbabwe Safari activity allows you to witness the famous "standing elephants" of Mana Pools as they stretch to reach albida pods.
- Day4Another Safari in Mana Pools
Your Zimbabwe Safari continues with a dawn exploration of Mana's diverse habitats, including the famous Long Pool (Dziba Rengona). The Zimbabwe Safari Day includes tracking wild dogs and lions with expert rangers through the Jesse bush and Mopane woodlands. As part of your Zimbabwe Safari experience, enjoy close encounters with wildlife visiting your campsite during the heat of the day.
- Day5Drive to Chitake Springs
This Zimbabwe Safari Day transitions to the remote Chitake Springs, a 60km journey inland from the Zambezi River. Your Zimbabwe Safari adventure takes you through changing landscapes to this legendary water source, known locally as "Dziva reChinzwa." The evening Zimbabwe Safari activities focus on observing predators gathering at the springs, offering unprecedented wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Day6Chitake Springs Tour
Immerse yourself in a full day of Zimbabwe Safari activities around the life-giving waters of Chitake Springs. Your Zimbabwe Safari experience includes guided walks along the spring line, where wildlife congregates in increasing numbers as the day progresses. The evening Zimbabwe Safari session provides front-row seats to dramatic predator-prey interactions from your strategic campsite location.
- Day7Break Camp and Drive to Harare
Your Zimbabwe Safari begins its conclusion with a final morning game walk at Chitake Springs. The Zimbabwe Safari journey back to civilization takes you through the Zambezi Valley, with stops at historic Chinhoyi Caves. Your final Zimbabwe Safari evening includes a celebratory dinner at Sunbird Guest House, reflecting on your wilderness adventure.
- Day8Fly Home from Harare
The final day of your Zimbabwe Safari starts with a leisurely breakfast at the Guest House. Your transformative Zimbabwe Safari experience comes to an end with a transfer to Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport. As your incredible Zimbabwe Safari concludes, the memories of wild Mana Pools and Chitake Springs will surely draw you back to this remarkable country.