Overview
Explore Zimbabwe from the thundering Victoria Falls to the game-rich Hwange National Parks, immerse yourself in a country that has pioneered some of the most successful sustainable wildlife programs in Africa. End in the remote and beautiful Mana Pools National Park, a World Heritage Site, where exploring on foot, canoes and vehicles is the order of the day. You will return with a better understanding of the wildlife/tourism balance and a sense of accomplishment knowing that you played your small part in the protection of Africa's wildlife.
LOW IMPACT ECO-SAFARI
Purpose Built Camps that offer all the comfort without the unnecessary cost and frills for a more sustainable and affordable safari without compromising, in fact improving, the safari experience. What does this mean?
Camps that combine the authenticity of the past, the comforts of today and a future-thinking Eco-awareness that is essential in today's modern safari environment.
Camps that feature iconic canvas tents, cooling plunge pools and communal bars and dining areas and reading nooks.
Camps that consciously forgo certain conveniences like hairdryers and air-conditioning, and rely on alternative energy such as solar to lighten our load on the planet.
Low energy consuming appliances and lights.
No permanent fixtures so a camp's footprint can be rehabilitated in as little as 18 months if necessary.
Quick Summary
Day 1
Hwange National Park
You are met at your airstrip and taken to your camp. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife en route!
Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe
Discover the untamed beauty of a renowned national park in Zimbabwe, where vast plains and diverse wildlife await. Embark on thrilling game drives to witness majestic elephants, lions, and more in their natural habitat. Immerse yourself in the heart of the African wilderness as you stay in luxurious accommodations surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature. Experience the magic of a sunset over the savannah and create unforgettable memories in this iconic destination. Join us for an unforgettable adventure in Hwange National Park.
Daily Summary
Flight Victoria Falls to Deteema Springs
Shared light aircraft flight from Victoria Falls Airport to Robins Camp Airstrip. Flying time approximately 20 minutes.
Please note: a USD15.00 per person Departure Tax is payable locally in cash and is subject to change without prior warning. Maximum luggage allowance including hand bags and camera equipment is 20kgs/44lbs per person in soft bags with no rigid frames. Checked luggage mustn't exceed 30cm/12in wide x 35cm/14in high x 70cm/28in long. Passengers weighing over 115kg/253lbs may have to purchase an extra seat, please inform us prior to travel. Operating as a shuttle service flight times and routes vary and, although unlikely, there may be up to 4 stops en-route to/from camps
Please note: a USD15.00 per person Departure Tax is payable locally in cash and is subject to change without prior warning. Maximum luggage allowance including hand bags and camera equipment is 20kgs/44lbs per person in soft bags with no rigid frames. Checked luggage mustn't exceed 30cm/12in wide x 35cm/14in high x 70cm/28in long. Passengers weighing over 115kg/253lbs may have to purchase an extra seat, please inform us prior to travel. Operating as a shuttle service flight times and routes vary and, although unlikely, there may be up to 4 stops en-route to/from camps
Day 2
Hwange National Park
On safari in the Hwange National Park
Game drives are conducted by experienced guides in open safari vehicles. On your morning game drives pause to enjoy tea, coffee and biscuits and in the afternoons cool drinks and cooked snacks will be provided. Game walks are an exciting option for photography of big game on foot. They are usually undertaken in the mornings and are conducted by a fully licensed and highly experienced armed professional guide. In this remote and wild area every walk provides fascinating insights into Hwange’s circle of life; watch Hwange’s elephants shake acacia trees to loosen and then eat the pods while on a smaller scale dung beetles roll up the elephant dung containing acacia seeds into balls. Dung beetles bury these balls and the acacia seed is now ready to germinate and grow into a new tree! Night game drives open up the unusual nocturnal world - often seen are ant bears, porcupines, genets, springhares, lesser bushbabies and pennant winged nightjars.
Daily Summary
Day 3
Hwange National Park
Today you depart with a picnic lunch on a scenic safari drive to your next camp.
Verney's Camp
3 Nights Tent - Fully Inclusive
Extras included 2 x Community Levy Adult 30.00
Includes: accommodation, all meals, local brand beverages, return Manga airstrip or Hwange Main Camp road transfers, two scheduled safari activities daily, laundry and limited Wi-Fi Lodge activities include: morning and late afternoon game drives, walking and a half day visit to a local community (70kms) with a stop over at the Wild Dog Research Centre
Please note: Community & Conservation Levy is subject to change without prior warning.
Daily Summary
Days 4 - 5
Hwange National Park
Full Days on Safari in Hwange National Park
Hwange is a blend of semi-desert, forest and savanna and is home to great herds of elephants, big cats and a myriad of plains game. Join your expert guides as you further explore this remarkable reserve.
Daily Summary
Day 6
Victoria Falls
Time permitting you will enjoy a morning game viewing activity followed by breakfast before being transferred to the airstrip in time for your flight.
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
When you wander through the lush rainforests above the Victoria Falls, newly baptised in the mist, your ears holding the echo of thundering waters, it isn't hard to imagine that this is where it all began. Eden. As the land cuts away beneath the ancient Zambezi River, the waters plummet dramatically into the Batoka Gorge, over 100 metres below. The angrily churned up spray shoots skyward, painting the landscape in billowing clouds. This striking "smoke that thunders" can be seen for miles, a geographic pointer summoning visitors into its presence.
The vibrant town of Victoria Falls is known as the adventure capital of the world, and if your eyes light up at the thought of conquering the "Stairway to Heaven" or "The Terminator" in a raft, then this is the place for you. While the notorious Nyaminyami (Zambezi River God) watches from its mythical depths, and the majestic basalt cliffs allow your passage through the canyon's exquisite landscape, adventure seekers are assured of a good time. From Grade 5 white-water rafting,bungee jumping and abseiling the amusement never ends.
What makes this destination so memorable is the fact that it is perfectly combined with warmly hospitable people, exquisite scenery and an array of accommodation. Excellent game,historic ruins, fishing and luxury train travel are easily accessible from Victoria Falls, as are the neighbouring countries which border this fascinating town.
Daily Summary
Flight Hwange to Victoria Falls
Seat in Plane: Manga airstrip to Victoria Falls Airport - Flight time approx. 45 min
Please note: maximum luggage allowance including hand bags and camera equipment is 20kgs/44lbs per person in soft bags with no rigid frames. Checked luggage mustn't exceed 30cm/12in wide x 35cm/14in high x 70cm/28in long. Passengers weighing over 115kg/253lbs may have to purchase an extra seat, please inform us prior to travel. Operating as a shuttle service flight times and routes vary and, although unlikely, there may be up to 4 stops en-route to/from camps
Please note: maximum luggage allowance including hand bags and camera equipment is 20kgs/44lbs per person in soft bags with no rigid frames. Checked luggage mustn't exceed 30cm/12in wide x 35cm/14in high x 70cm/28in long. Passengers weighing over 115kg/253lbs may have to purchase an extra seat, please inform us prior to travel. Operating as a shuttle service flight times and routes vary and, although unlikely, there may be up to 4 stops en-route to/from camps
Day 7
Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls Guided Tour
Your guide will meet you at your hotel. The Victoria Falls is a truly awe-inspiring experience - the sight, the sound, the smell; the humbling feeling that here indeed is Nature's Supreme Masterpiece. No photograph can begin to depict the reality…and nothing prepares you for your first sight. Guests are accompanied through the Rainforest by a qualified guide who gives a brief history of the Falls as well as detailing the flora, fauna, bird and wildlife and other points of interest. En-route, pass the ‘Big Tree' where you stop for photos. Raincoats are provided when needed.
Zambezi River Sunset Cruise
This afternoon you are transferred to the Zambezi River for a memorable and relaxing sunset cruise. The Zambezi River cruise is a superb way to relax and enjoy the beauty of the River. You may have the opportunity to see a variety of game including hippo, crocodile, elephant as well as enjoy the many different bird species. The sunset cruise is very popular and includes finger snacks, beer, wine, local spirits and soft drinks. There are great photo opportunities against often-spectacular African sunsets.
Daily Summary
Day 8
Mana Pools National Park
Today you are transferred to the airport in time for your flight.
You are met at your airstrip and taken to your camp. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife en route!
About Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe
Mana Pools National Park, a World Heritage Site, is pristine wilderness area on the Zambezi River. During the dry season, the dense vegetation and abundant water of Mana Pools attract one of the highest concentrations of game in Africa. Mana means "four" in the local Shona language and refers to four permanent pools that are a mecca for game viewing. Activities are mostly conducted along the river area with some of the best walking in all of Africa. You can get up close to big elephant bulls or even follow African wild dogs on the hunt. Enjoy a slow game drive or take a canoe or boat to see huge pods of hippos, along with a plethora of bird species including the African fish eagle. Fishing is excellent and there is no better place to watch endless wildlife activity while winding down the day with a drink in hand.
Daily Summary
Flight Victoria Falls to Mana Pools
Seat in Plane: Victoria Falls Airport to Mana Pools airstrip - Flight time approx. 135 min
Excludes: $15.00 per person domestic departure tax payable in cash on departure from Victoria Falls Airport. Subject to change without prior warning
Please note: rate is subject to change without prior warning should the cost of fuel and/or Civil Aviation fees increase. Rate excludes any costs relating to diversion or inability to fly due to bad weather or mechanical problems which may affect safety. Baggage allowance is 15kgs (33lbs) per person in a soft bag + 5kgs (11lbs) hand baggage. Passengers weighing more than 100kgs (220lbs) must pay for two seats.
Excludes: $15.00 per person domestic departure tax payable in cash on departure from Victoria Falls Airport. Subject to change without prior warning
Please note: rate is subject to change without prior warning should the cost of fuel and/or Civil Aviation fees increase. Rate excludes any costs relating to diversion or inability to fly due to bad weather or mechanical problems which may affect safety. Baggage allowance is 15kgs (33lbs) per person in a soft bag + 5kgs (11lbs) hand baggage. Passengers weighing more than 100kgs (220lbs) must pay for two seats.
Days 9 - 10
Mana Pools National Park
On safari in Mana Pools National Park
Mana Pools National Park, a World Heritage Site, is perfectly situated in the heart of a natural valley on a unique flood plane, rich and diverse in flora, fauna and wildlife. It is home to an abundance of wildlife, attracted to the permanent waters of the Zambezi River. It’s the only National Park in the world where you are allowed to freely walk with the wild animals and get to experience Africa as it should be - on foot! Your guiding team will customize each day whether its in a vehicle, on foot or on the river.
Daily Summary
Day 11
Depart
Time permitting you will enjoy a morning game viewing activity followed by breakfast before being transferred to the airstrip in time for your flight.
Daily Summary
Light Aircraft transfer Mana Pools to Victoria Falls
Seat in Plane: Mana Pools airstrip to Victoria Falls Airport - Flight time approx. 135 min
Per seat weight limitation is maximum 120kgs. Passengers exceeding the weight limitation are required to purchase an additional seat.
Luggage is strictly restricted to 20 kgs per person, including hand luggage in a soft bag without rigid frames. Luggage dimensions should not exceed 25cm wide x 30cm high x 62cm long.
Per seat weight limitation is maximum 120kgs. Passengers exceeding the weight limitation are required to purchase an additional seat.
Luggage is strictly restricted to 20 kgs per person, including hand luggage in a soft bag without rigid frames. Luggage dimensions should not exceed 25cm wide x 30cm high x 62cm long.
Accommodation
| Accommodation | Location | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Deteema Springs | Hwange, Zimbabwe | |
| Verney's Camp | Hwange, Zimbabwe | |
| Batonka Guest Lodge | Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe | |
| Ingwe Pan | Mana Pools, Zimbabwe |
Hwange, Zimbabwe
Deteema Springs
Deteema Springs is a small concession area in a well-known northern region of the Hwange National Park. Close to the Deteema dam, the camp is perched on a slight rocky rise above permanent water springs, offering magnificent views of large concentrations of animals, including elephants. While night safaris are not allowed due to park regulations, Deteema offers amazing opportunities for walking safaris and viewing wildlife from the comfort of the camp.
Hwange, Zimbabwe
Verney's Camp
The accommodation at Verney’s Camp is a masterful blend of modernity, comfort and exposure to untamed wildlife. The designer tents are inspired by the spirit of safaris of old, with the convenience of running hot and cold water, flush toilets and electricity offering guests the best of both worlds.Situated in a remote southeastern part of the Hwange National Park, the camp is on a private concession that is not open to regular Park visitors. Verney’s Camp is on a large open floodplain surrounded by mopane and teak forests in which Machaba Safaris’ tents are tucked.
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Batonka Guest Lodge
Mana Pools, Zimbabwe
Ingwe Pan
Ingwe Pan Camp nestles alongside a large secluded pan in the pristine Mana Pools National Park, which forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The camp is a 30-minute drive from the famed Mana flood plain and Zambezi River and is known for its excellent walking safaris.
Why Maxim Safaris & Journeys
Uncommon Safaris for Discerning Adventurers
Experience Matters
Since 1993 Maxim Safaris & Journeys’ passion for exotic destinations has made us a highly sought after Boutique Tour Operator for discerning travelers. After three decades we continue to exceed our clients' expectations. Our approach over these many years is simple; offer the very best service and travel experience at the most competitive prices while balancing the importance of sustainable tourism with a high quality travel product.
Premier Guides
Maxim Safaris & Journeys' guides have a reputation for being the best in the business. Experts in their fields, friendly and interesting, a good guide will bring the most out of every excursion while creating lifelong memories.
24/7 Support
At no time during your adventure will you be alone. Our local partners are available 24/7 in the event you need any assistance while traveling. We will monitor your progress and take care of any unexpected developments so that your trip continues unhindered.
Responsible Tourism
Responsible and sustainable tourism should be more than just a phrase - it has to be an ongoing and tangible commitment to balancing tourism with the upliftment of local communities and preservation of the natural environment. Maxim Safaris & Journeys actively supports camps and lodges whose business models reflect this commitment.
About Us
Since 1993, Maxim Safaris & Journeys has been dedicated to creating unforgettable journeys to some of the world's most exotic destinations. Over three decades, we’ve earned a reputation as a trusted boutique tour operator for discerning travelers, with a level of experience and personal service that is unmatched. Proudly rooted in the 21st century yet firmly committed to old-fashioned service values, we still answer the phone when you call and respond to emails without delay. Our philosophy has always been simple: deliver exceptional service and travel experiences at competitive prices, while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainable tourism and high-quality programs.
I'm Paul Webster, the owner of Maxim Safaris & Journeys. Born and raised in Zimbabwe and South Africa, I spent most of my life in Africa and developed a deep passion for its extraordinary landscapes and cultures, a passion that extends to all the destinations we offer. I personally oversee every trip we design, ensuring each journey is as unique as the traveler taking it. I look forward to helping you craft your own “Uncommon Safari.”
Travel Insurance
We highly recommend getting travel insurance upon booking your trip, as unforeseen events can affect even the best-laid travel plans. Travel insurance plans can cover trip cancellation, missed connections and itinerary changes, baggage issues, emergency medical and other issues, and more.
Passport Details
For many of our itineraries (eg. Inca Trail, etc) we require your passport information to be able to complete the booking process. Please check with your travel specialist after purchasing your trip. Most countries require your passport to be valid for at least six month after arrival date.
Medical
Please consult a Travel Doctor or Travel Clinic prior to departure to make sure you receive professional advice about required and recommended shots.