Beyond the Rainbow
Zimbabwe & Victoria Falls
10 days from $11,095 per person
* Based on double occupancy, incl. taxes & fuel surcharges, restrictions apply.
Beyond the magical rainbows of thundering Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe will enthrall you with its warm hospitality and excellent game viewing in pristine Hwange and Mana Pools National Parks.
How Your Trip Matters
Discover the magic of Victoria Falls and the wonders and wildlife of Hwange and Mana Pools National Parks led by experts protecting this great wilderness.
Highlights
Explore the misty trails of UNESCO’s Victoria Falls, the world’s largest falling curtain of water.
Discover the adventure of boating and canoeing on the Zambezi River in UNESCO’s Mana Pools National Park.
Experience the large herds of elephants in remote Hwange National Park.
Enjoy unmatched stargazing and lively storytelling around your campfire.
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences are conscious travel experiences chosen with great care based on the positive social or environmental impact they have both on their communities, and on those who experience them: our guests. You can identify these experiences across our trips by locating the MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience seal.
Accommodations
1. DAVINCI Hotel and Suites
South Africa, Johannesburg
Located on Nelson Mandela Square, the DAVINCI Hotel and Suites offers comfort and convenience in the heart of the Sandton business and shopping district. The luxury hotel rooms with a comfortable open plan design, feature en-suite bathrooms and separate shower, HD LCD televisions, individually controlled air-conditioning, direct dialing telephone, electronic safe, tea and coffee making facilities, and complimentary internet access. Dining options within the hotel and nearby cater to all cravings, from fine cuisine to light casual meals. Take time to dip in the infinity edge swimming pool or sip on a cocktail at the lounge. Start your morning with a good work out at the gym or simply get pampered in the wellness spa.
2. The Palm River Hotel
The Palm River Hotel offers 73 rooms of unparalleled luxury situated along the banks of the iconic Zambezi River, among towering indigenous trees and only 4 kilometres from Africa’s Natural World Wonder, Victoria Falls.
The family-run hotel introduces a new dimension of luxury without compromising a sense of home comfort. Vast and unimpeded views of the Zambezi River are complimented by surrounding indigenous flora that encompasses a tranquil, peaceful, and private sanctuary.
3. Little Makalolo
Zimbabwe, Hwange National Park
Little Makalolo is a small intimate camp in the heart of Hwange National Park. The spacious en-suite tents have both indoor and outdoor showers and is solar powered, ensuring a lighter environmental footprint. Teak walkways lead to the central camp area which includes the dining room, lounge, plunge pool and an open fire pit for evening fireside tales under the stars. During siesta hours, enjoy up-close wildlife viewing from the log pile hide that overlooks the waterhole in front of the camp. Makalolo is one of the best areas for seeing impressive herds of buffalo and elephant as well as lion, leopard, wild dog and cheetah. Bird life in the area is abundant and varied. Activities center on open 4x4 game drives and guided nature walks throughout the Makalolo concession. A visit to a nearby village offers an authentic cultural interaction and a Star Bed on a raised platform overlooking the wildlife-rich Madison Pan completes the experience.
4. Ruckomechi
Zimbabwe, Mana Pools National Park
Ruckomechi lies in the heart of remote Mana Pools National Park on the banks of the Zambezi River, with spectacular views of the mountains of the Rift Valley escarpment. The spacious en-suite tents have both indoor and outdoor showers, heated by solar geysers. The central dining, bar, library and lounge areas are connected to the rest of the camp by low-level walkways that minimize their environmental impact. During siesta hours, cool off in the camp’s infinity pool and in the evening, gather on the star gazing deck for a convivial evening around the fire. Another favorite with guests is the outdoor “bath with a view” in a secluded, scenic spot. Wildlife viewing takes place in open 4x4 vehicles, motorized pontoon boats, in hides, canoes and on guided nature walks led by a professional ranger. A romantic Star Bed, situated near a productive waterhole completes your safari experience.
Itinerary
Day 1. Arrive Johannesburg, South Africa
Arrive in the "City of Gold" where you'll be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel. Relax before tomorrow's flight to Zimbabwe and the start of your safari.
DAVINCI Hotel and Suites
Day 2. Johannesburg / Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Fly to Victoria Falls and melt into the rhythm of Africa as you sip refreshing sundowners aboard a boat cruise on the Zambezi River. Look out for elephants as they make their way to the riverbank for their last drink before settling down for the night. (BD)
Palm River Hotel
Day 3. Victoria Falls
Take a leisurely privately guided tour to learn about the history from an experienced local guide. Marvel at “the smoke that thunders” as you feel the mist of the millions of gallons of water crashing through the channels of Victoria Falls. (BLD)
Palm River Hotel
Day 4. Victoria Falls / Hwange National Park
Fly from the rainbows of Victoria Falls to the "land of the giants," Hwange National Park. Known for its herds of elephants roaming the open grasslands and more than one hundred animal species, Hwange is Zimbabwe's largest game reserve. (BLD)
Little Makalolo
Day 5. Hwange National Park
Start with a game drive to one of the many bustling pans, and photograph families of elephant, zebra and grazing buffalo. Just before the sun sets, head out with your ranger to observe the nocturnal animals - the lesser bush babies, spring hares, spotted hyena and the lioness on the hunt. (BLD)
A visit to the Scorpion Anti-Poaching Unit provides unique insights into conservation projects of Hwange. Depending on the movements of the unit, learn more about the teams and their daily anti-poaching efforts.
Little Makalolo
Day 6. Hwange National Park
Spend the morning in a log-pile hide and watch the parade of animals as they come down to quench their thirst at the waterhole. Sleep under the stars on a star bed for the ultimate wilderness experience. (BLD)
Little Makalolo
Day 7. Hwange National Park / Mana Pools National Park
Follow the elephants and fly to the remote heart of the Zambezi River Valley and Mana Pools National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tucked amid the acacia trees overlooking the Zambezi River, your tented camp has sweeping views of the mountains of the Great Rift Valley. (BLD)
Ruckomechi
Day 8. Mana Pools National Park
Meet your captain and take to the river for a wildlife cruise down the Zambezi River. Looking for more adventure? Paddle your own canoe; your lead ranger will be sure to steer you clear of any hippos along the way. This evening, gather around the campfire with your hosts, and be regaled by Zimbabwe’s treasured tales. (BLD)
Ruckomechi
Day 9. Mana Pools National Park
Savor another full day of game viewing. Take a guided walk In the Footsteps of Giants for a thrilling way of exploring the surrounding bush. Tonight, raise a glass to your adventures. (BLD)
Ruckomechi
Day 10. Mana Pools National Park / Depart
Soak up the peace and calm of your last morning on safari. Transfer to the airstrip for your light aircraft flight to Harare and your onward travel arrangements. (B)
Pricing
Land Arrangements (Price per person)
**Surcharges Apply This itinerary does not operate November - March.
Air Arrangements (Internal Airfare)
Johannesburg - Victoria Falls and Harare - Johannesburg
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