Arrival in Matobo National Park, Rhino Tracking, Hwange and Victoria Falls
Day 1: Big Cave Camp, Matobo National Park
On arrival at Bulawayo Airport, you will be met and transferred to your accommodation, where you will spend the next two nights. The rest of the day will be at your leisure, allowing time to relax beside the pool or participate in some of the optional activities available.
Idyllically located in the spectacular Matobo Hills, the renowned Matobo National Park is known for its rich human history, remarkably diverse flora and fauna, and magnificent rugged terrain. This unspoiled natural wilderness features massive red-tinged granite boulders interspersed with gorgeous wooded valleys, making it a dream destination for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers alike. The reserve is compact and easily accessible, and is home to an impressive range of African wildlife including the highly endangered black and white rhinoceros, zebra, wildebeest, giraffe, cheetah, hippo, warthog, and crocodile, as well as Africa's largest concentration of leopard and black eagles. This unforgettable national park serves as an ideal stopover for travellers heading to Hwange and the majestic Victoria Falls.
Overnight: Big Cave Camp
Big Cave Camp reposes atop an enormous granite whaleback, commanding inspirational views across the famous Matobo National Park. Sophisticated African architecture incorporates colossal boulders into a comfortably appointed thatched lodge positioned amidst ancient Khoisan rock art. At the end of the day, retire to the natural rock pool and sundeck, the Leopard's Lair lounge and bar, a cave-style boma for pre-dinner drinks, or the popular lodge library. The seven thatched A-frame cottages, each with an en-suite bathroom and private balcony, resonate with African creative flair. Find solitude within an intimate retreat as secluded as the original Kalanga grain bins that nestle amongst the rocks.
Day 2: Big Cave Camp, Matobo National Park
Activities
Visit the world-famous tomb of Cecil John Rhodes Drive through the granite hills in the footsteps of Cecil John Rhodes and visit his world-famous tomb known as "View of the World". It is a historical experience not to be forgotten. Leander Starr Jameson is also buried here and, together with the spirits of soldiers killed in battle by Matabele warriors, they gather around at sunset, giving the place a definite spiritual presence. This "dwala" is known as "the dwelling place of spirits", or rather "Amalindidzimu", and the view will leave you breathless...
Rhino Tracking The Matobo Hills are one of the last bastions of both black and white rhino in Africa. The most unforgettable safari experience will be an approach to this endangered species, offered within the skills and knowledge of experienced guides.
Please note: For rhino tracking on foot, guests will need to hire national parks scouts - rates available upon request.
Day 3: The Hide, Hwange National Park
As you make your way to Hwange National Park, the largest national park in Zimbabwe, covering an area of approximately 14,650 km2, you can expect to see the best the park has to offer. Named after a local chief, Hwange is situated in the northwest corner of the country, about one hour south of Victoria Falls. Hwange boasts an incredible biodiversity of flora and fauna, and a plethora of African wildlife. There are over 100 species of mammals, and the elephant population in Hwange is considered world famous, as it is one of the largest in the world. Once settled in, you will experience parts of this national park on an afternoon game drive and discover a variety of animals, including some predators.
Overnight: The Hide, Hwange
Located in a prime position in Hwange National Park, The Hide offers a life-enriching safari experience for its guests, from fantastic game viewing right on your doorstep to a variety of daily activities to suit everyone, along with warm and welcoming staff who make you feel like family from the minute you arrive. Guests are accommodated in 10 beautifully furnished deluxe tents, all boasting en-suite bathrooms and private verandas overlooking the busy waterhole, as well as 2 exclusive-use options for private groups or families. Keep your binoculars on hand, as elephant, lion, and buffalo can often be seen satisfying their thirst. Adventures include day and night game drives, guided bush walks, and exceptional game viewing in the seclusion of the camp's unique underground hides. For those who are a little more adventurous, The Dove's Nest Treehouse is available at no extra charge. Located 10 minutes away from camp, this rustic gem sleep-out has the perfect vantage point from which to view wildlife safely and quietly. After an exhilarating day of game viewing, guests can retreat to the cool refuge of the camp's swimming pool and enjoy delectable meals savoured al fresco or in the elegant dining room.
Activities
Afternoon Game Drive Morning and afternoon game drives, as well as night drives with a spotlight, are offered at The Hide Safari Camp. Days can be spent further afield on game drives in search of predators and prey alike. Sundowners are an important part of the experience, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty with a cold drink in hand. The guides at The Hide are very much part of the family and have been with the camp for many years.
They have undergone some of the most rigorous training in Africa, and their passion for and knowledge of the bush is often what makes a safari so special.
Day 4: The Hide, Hwange, Hwange National Park
Today you will have the opportunity to continue your search for African wildlife, with the option of enjoying an early morning bush walk or a game drive. The park has protected viewing areas, usually located near waterholes, which allow visitors the chance to safely observe animals up close. You will learn interesting details about the wildlife in this area, which boasts large herds of elephant and buffalo and over 400 bird species, making it a "photographer's paradise". Later, why not savour an afternoon game drive, where you'll witness the breathtaking African sunset? You can also opt for a complimentary sleep-out experience at The Dove's Nest on a first come, first served basis. It offers a fairy-tale-like setup, allowing you to sleep under the stars with a 180-degree view of the delightful African skies.
Activities
Morning and Afternoon Game Drives As previously described.
Guided Walks
Morning and afternoon guided walks are offered at The Hide Safari Camp. The camp is fortunate to have the best of both worlds. While located within Hwange National Park, it is also surrounded by a private concession, which allows activities not otherwise permitted. Hwange is a vast playground worth exploring, so you do not have to worry about being bored. Early morning walks are there for the thrill of encountering wildlife on its own terms and exploring the little surprises of the bush.
The Dove's Nest Treehouse
Our little secret, the Dove's Nest, is just about the best way to get away from it all. There are few things more exciting than spending a night out in a tree house. Overlooking the open tree-lined vlei and pan, this rustic gem is a perfect vantage point from which to view wildlife safely and quietly - just the two of you. Kept simple, as a tree house should be, the bedroom of the Dove's Nest is reached by a wooden stairway and has a closeable door. You will not have to forego your hot shower and warm bed, and the location is second to none.
Day 5: The Hide, Hwange, Hwange National Park
Exploring the wilderness through game drives offers the ultimate wildlife experience. Conclude your park visit by embarking on exciting safaris, encountering a diverse array of species, and immersing yourself in the pristine landscape of the park before journeying to the magnificent Victoria Falls.
Activities
Day and Night Game Drives As previously described.
The Underground Hide and Wine Cellar
You're sitting on the deck at The Hide A-frame. The sun has just set, its residual warmth a soft tinge of pink in the sky. Just then, a family of elephants strolls into the scene and up to the waterhole. You watch, fascinated by their interactions. Now, here's where you jump into action. Without the need for a guide or host, you can go directly from the deck into the underground hide and observe the elephant family from up close. Just step off the deck and slip down the steps into a whole new world. Along a tunnel, you'll walk for about 10 metres under the surface of the earth and then emerge into a "window on the waterhole", where you can sit quietly, the unobserved observing. It's a special addition and makes the experience of game viewing more intense and personal. Along the same tunnel, guests are delighted to find, hidden away in the wall, a real wine cellar. Perfectly cooled at a steady 17 degrees Celsius, ambient-lit, and stocked with a small selection of fine wines from around the world, this is a welcome addition to an already all-sensory experience at The Hide. Guests are invited to choose the wine they'd like with dinner, or suggestions are made based on wine pairing experts' recommendations.
Day 6: Ilala Lodge, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
We leave the beauty of Hwange National Park behind and head to Victoria Falls, where we explore the mighty Victoria Falls on a guided tour. Thereafter, you will be transferred to your lodge to enjoy a relaxing afternoon at leisure.
Overnight: Ilala Lodge
The warmest of welcomes awaits you at Ilala Lodge Hotel. A gracefully distinguished ambiance and attentive yet discreet service always come with a smile. The sublime surroundings of this boutique hotel will reawaken your senses, while the power of the majestic Victoria Falls renews your spirit. Relax in luxurious style and listen to the meditative rhythm of the great Zambezi as you drift off to sleep. As morning comes, gently awake and lift your head to see the spray of the majestic Victoria Falls across the unspoiled horizon - and let your soul sigh. Feel at ease in elegant and spacious rooms with African teak furniture, soft crisp linen, all en-suite facilities, a bathroom with separate shower, air conditioning, overhead fan, satellite TV, hair dryer, tea and coffee-making facilities, free Wi-Fi, and a safe. There are 56 rooms in total, including 2 Executive Suites, 2 Standard Suites, 20 Deluxe Rooms, and 32 Standard Rooms. The view from your room looks across the lawns to the National Parks, where elephant, warthog, impala, or the occasional buffalo might be passing by or simply grazing on the lawn or in the tree line. Experience new tastes, indulge in unusual flavours, and enjoy delectable dishes at the award-winning restaurant "The Palm", dining in view of the spray of the majestic Victoria Falls. The lodge also has a tours desk where you can book activities, as well as a spa where you can spoil yourself after that long safari.
Activities
Victoria Falls Guided Tour A view of Victoria Falls is something you will never forget, and the best way to see them is on a guided tour. Discover how the Falls were formed and what local customs and traditions surround them. These tours are extremely informative and end with a visit to the local art and crafts centre.
Day 7: End of Itinerary
After breakfast, your tour comes to an end. You will be transferred to Victoria Falls Airport in time for your departure flight. We hope to welcome you again one day on another of our African adventures.
