ZIMBABWE CALLING

Having explored Zimbabwe numerous times over the years, both for pleasure and professionally, I'm always struck by how this remarkable country continues to surprise even seasoned safari-goers. From the thundering Victoria Falls to the wildlife-rich expanses of Hwange and Mana Pools, Zimbabwe offers authentic experiences that many of Africa's more commercial destinations simply can't match.

The Falls themselves are, of course, spectacular – locally known as 'Mosi-oa-Tunya' or 'The Smoke That Thunders', which perfectly describes the plumes of mist visible from miles away. A little insider tip: make strategic use of the viewing platforms along the walking trail for the best photo opportunities without getting completely drenched (though a rain poncho is still advisable!).

For accommodation, you're spoilt for choice between the colonial grandeur of Victoria Falls Hotel with its Edwardian charm, the more contemporary Victoria Falls Safari Club, or the welcoming Ilala Lodge – all offering their own particular character.

Do treat yourself to a helicopter flight over the Falls – the locals call it "the Flight of Angels" after David Livingstone's famous quote, and it truly is the only way to appreciate the sheer scale and drama of this natural wonder. In the evening, The Boma dinner and drum show provides a delightfully theatrical introduction to local cuisine and culture – yes, it's designed for tourists, but it's enormous fun and the food is excellent.

For the more adventurous, the Outlook Café offers zip-lining and the Flying Fox experience, alongside exceptional views over Batoka Gorge. There's nothing quite like sipping a cold Zambezi lager while watching the sun set over the gorge after an adrenaline-fueled afternoon!

Hwange National Park

Hwange boasts the highest elephant concentration after neighbouring Botswana's Chobe National Park, and the interactions between these family herds are simply fascinating to observe. I've stayed at Verney's, Somalisa and Davison's Camps over the years, each offering a slightly different experience but all providing that perfect mix of comfort and wilderness immersion.

One of my fondest memories is lying in bed at Somalisa, listening to lions calling around the camp – simultaneously terrifying and thrilling! The guides in Hwange are among Africa's best, many having grown up in the area with an intimate knowledge of the landscape and its residents that comes from a lifetime of observation.

Mana Pools National Park

For the more adventurous safari enthusiast, Mana Pools offers Zimbabwe's premier walking safari experience. Nyamatusi and Kanga Camp both provide excellent bases for exploration, with Kanga's waterhole attracting a constant procession of wildlife during the dry season.

Taking a canoe along the Zambezi here is not for the faint-hearted – drifting silently past pods of grunting hippo certainly focuses the mind! But the birdlife is extraordinary, and if you're lucky, you might witness the famous 'ballerina' elephants who have adapted to stand on their hind legs to reach the sweetest leaves at the top of the trees – a behaviour seen nowhere else in Africa.

Spending a few days on a houseboat on Lake Kariba is the perfect way to wind down after the excitement of game viewing. The Karabezi and Big Daddy houseboats offer different levels of luxury, but both provide that magical experience of cruising among the skeletal, partially submerged trees that create such an otherworldly landscape.

Watching the sun set over the lake, turning the sky into a canvas of oranges and pinks while fish eagles call overhead, is simply 'mushi' (as the locals would say – meaning wonderful or excellent in Shona). The fishing is superb for those so inclined, and the game viewing along the shoreline can be remarkable – huge herds of buffalo coming down to drink, elephants swimming between islands, and predators stalking the shallows.

Zimbabwe works well year-round, though May to September offers more moderate temperatures. October through April can be searingly hot (often exceeding 38°C) but brings lush landscapes and newborn animals.

Do pack in layers – early mornings on game drives can be surprisingly chilly even in summer, while afternoons bake. Neutral-coloured clothing is best for wildlife viewing. Don't forget mosquito repellent, a broad-brimmed hat and high-factor sunscreen.

Ensure your passport has at least six months' validity and three blank pages for your Zimbabwe visa, which you'll obtain on arrival. Have your flight details and first accommodation address ready for the immigration forms.

Zimbabwe may have faced its share of challenges over the years, but the warmth of its people, the professionalism of its safari industry, and the raw beauty of its landscapes make it a destination that continues to capture my heart with every visit.

Zimbabwe offers such a genuine safari experience - something increasingly rare in today's world. Having visited multiple times, I'd be delighted to share my insights and help you plan your own adventure to this remarkable country.

Whether you're drawn to Victoria Falls' dramatic power, Hwange's elephant herds, or Mana Pools' walking safaris, I can help craft the perfect itinerary. Please visit me at our Oxted branch, call 01883 714 312, or email oxted@ashdowntravel.co.uk to begin planning your authentic African journey.

Warmest wishes,

Nikky

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