May 23 – June 2, 2022
Join your family & friends on a departure to discover the wilds of Africa.
May 23, 2022 – You will be transferred by road from Victoria Falls Airport to Ilala Lodge.
Following check-in formalities and a bit of time to settle in you will meet your guide in the lobby for an evening sunset cruise on the Mighty Zambezi River.
Sunset cruise at Ilala Lodge
Ilala Lodge Hotel offers elegant accommodation. The ambiance of this family-run, luxury hotel celebrates a unique African history and the inviting décor of the stylish rooms provides the ultimate in modern comfort.
Outdoors, it’s all about the Falls, and the spray is visible from most places at Ilala Lodge Hotel. The walk to the spectacular Victoria Falls takes just 8 minutes; the town itself is even closer and you will find many entertaining pastimes to enjoy in this dynamic hub of tourism. Ilala Lodge Hotel’s activities desk offers swimming on the edge of the Falls at Devil’s Pools, bungee jumping off the historic Victoria Falls Bridge, white-water rafting down the Zambezi River, walking with lions, taking scenic helicopter flights over the Falls, and enjoying a relaxing Ra-Ikane sunset cruise.
May 24, 2022 – Optional Activities to Enhance Experience *pricing based on final numbers
Ra-Ikane & Zambezi River Dinner
Ra-Ikane sunset cruise includes premium brand drinks, snacks, transfers and river usage fees. The Zambezi riverside dinner includes a buffet barbeque three course meal, transfers, park fees and entertainment with a cash bar. Clients dine out under the stars, listening to hippos snorting in the Zambezi River a dining experience like no other.
The Boma – Dinner & Drum Show
Highlights
- Dine under the African stars and lose yourself in the spectacular entertainment.
- Enjoy delicious Zimbabwean fare. Set in Gusu Bush near the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, this is not just another ethnic restaurant but a rather unique cultural experience. Partially open to the African skies, the restaurants menu specialises in a range of traditional Zimbabwean dishes as well as a barbecue buffet. You will also have the opportunity to try local delicacies such as delicious mopane worms, game stews and traditional beer. All of this is accompanied by entertainment from Shangaan dancers and singers, the Sangoma (story teller) and a local witchdoctor who is available for fortune telling.
Dress is casual. Includes transfers.
Scheduled Tour of Victoria Falls Zimbabwean Side
Highlights
- Explore the rainforests of the Victoria Falls with its abundance of birdlife.
- Learn about the geographical formation of the Falls.
- Amble along the scenic pathway, stopping at spectacular vantage points along the way.
The Victoria Falls is one of the seven natural wonders of the world. David Livingstone was the first European to visit the Falls, and named it after Queen Victoria. To the locals, it is known as Mosi-oa-Tunya The Smoke that Thunders an accurate description of what happens when the waters of the Zambezi River plunge over the 1700 metre wide and 100-metre deep chasm, creating a shower of spray and a deafening noise. From February to May each year, the Victoria Falls are in full flood and 500 million litres of water tumble over the edge into a series of gorges each minute! After a briefing and explanation of the Falls, your guide accompanies you along the 1.7 kilometre scenic pathways of the rainforest, stopping at numerous viewpoints to gaze at the Falls.
The tour is approximately 1 ½ – 2 hour. Includes transfers to and from your hotel.
Village Tour
Highlights
- Visit an authentic Zimbabwean village.
- Learn about the local history, tradition and culture and taste the food.
- Purchase curios, for a nominal fee, and support the family.
Mpisi Village is an authentic African homestead in which a typical extended African family lives. During this interactive tour you will learn about the different roles that local women and men play in the homestead, taste some of the traditional food and also take part in the activities on offer. At the end of the tour you can purchase authentic curios made by the family members.
Victoria Falls is home to different tribes that includes Nambya, Dombe, Tonga and Ndebele.
Elephant Encounter Early & Mid Morning & Afternoon
Minimum participants: 2 (Two)
Maximum Participants: 8 (Eight)
Highlights:
- Educational presentation on the sanctuary and the individual elephants, their lifestyle and their future release plans.
- Get up close and personal with these gentle grey giants.
- Great photographic opportunities.
- Conclude the experience with a delicious full English breakfast.
The Wild Horizons Elephant Sanctuary and Orphanage has been a safe haven for a myriad orphaned and injured elephants since its inception in 1992. Whilst hand-rearing the orphans, we have come to understand that the best way to appreciate these magnificent creatures is to observe them living wild and free. At the Elephant Encounter guests have the opportunity to unobtrusively interact with some of the biggest personalities in Africa, in a pristine environment of raw and natural beauty. An open-plan thatched boma offers an uninterrupted view of the beautiful Masuwe River, and against this breathtaking backdrop guests are given an insightful presentation on the sanctuary and the individual elephants, their lifestyle and their future release plans. The sanctuary was founded on the principle of conservation, and one of the most effective ways to evoke a sense of environmental responsibility is to show what stands to be lost. Guests have the opportunity to talk to guides who have journeyed, physically and metaphorically, incredible distances with these elephant, and learn more about the complexities of the individuals and the herd structure. Guests venture out into the bush to spend time with the herd, where unquestionably the up-close-and-personal encounter with these magnificent mammals will be imprinted on everyone’s minds long after they have returned home. Guests witness too, the special relationship staff share with the elephants, and become a part of it themselves. Guests naturally have the opportunity to take photographs with the elephants, while marveling at their size and watching them browse and interact with one another. After the encounter with these amazing creatures a full English breakfast is offered. Thereafter guests are transferred back to their hotel.
Duration: Approximately 2 ½ – 3 hours
Transfers: Included to / from Victoria Falls Town / Hotels
May 25, 2022 – Transfer to Victoria Falls airport for your departure to Vundu Camp in Mana Pools
Situated in the heart of Mana Pools National Park in a private concession is our little piece of paradise, Vundu Camp. It is a permanent tented camp situated underneath a shady forest of riverine trees on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, giving guests beautiful sweeping views of the floodplains.
Vundu Camp, Mana Pools
May 25 – May 28, 2022 – Days at Safari at Vundu Camp
Game Drives
Mana Pools National Park is just over 200 square kilometres and life here is governed by the rhythm of its seasons. During a game drive, you will have a chance to see a variety of terrain and wildlife – an ever-changing feast for the eyes, and food for the soul! We also offer night game drives within our own private Vundu concession.
Vehicles are open-aired, which allow for comfortable photography and game viewing. Private vehicles can be arranged when making your booking.
Walking Safari
One of the best ways to see Mana Pools is not by a vehicle as you would assume, but by taking a walk on the wide side instead with a walking safari.
It’s the slow and natural pace of a walk that connects you to the ground; it’s the sounds of the bush as you pause and listen; it’s the ability to stop at a moment’s notice and look at a footprint and decide what animal left it there and where it was heading. It also enables a photographer the opportunity for some incredible close encounters with rare animals that haven’t been scared away by the sound of vehicles.
The Bushlife Safaris Team won Best Walking Safari in 2019 in Zimbabwe. In essence, there’s simply no better way to see the wilds of Africa like you can on foot with our team!
Canoe Safari
Canoeing down the Zambezi River offers a wonderful rare opportunity to experience game viewing from a different perspective. A truly memorable chance to slow down, enjoy the wide-open spaces of Mana Pools and appreciate the beauty of the wildlife that lives there. Our guests often comment canoeing is one of their most favourite activities with us.
Game Viewing
Mana Pools is one of a kind. It has a distinctive landscape of floodplains, acacia forests, islands, pans and pools on the south banks of the Zambezi River. Mana means “four” in Shona – the local dialect in Zimbabwe – for the four permanent pools in the Lower Zambezi Valley.
Game viewing is, of course, one of the main reasons for visiting this paradise – often termed as Magical Mana for good reason. Hippos splashing and snort in the rivers, elephants stand on their hind legs to reach branches, zebra and large herds of buffalo drink at waterholes and predators are many – leopard, lion and of course Africa’s most efficient hunters – the painted wolf. Mana Pools is home to the famous painted wolf packs of the BBC Earth Dynasties Painted Wolf series, on which Nick Murray was the lead guide. A truly extraordinary destination with plentiful game viewing every day!
Bird watching
With almost 400 bird species recorded, Mana Pools is any birder’s dream destination. The range of habitats includes woodland, riverine and savannah. There are many predatory birds, as well as an abundance of waterbirds that can be found along the shore of the Zambezi River.
Fishing
Fishing on the Zambezi River is fun! You can look forward to catching chessa, tilapia, catfish and nkupi. Of course, there is the legendary Tiger Fish too – it is an excellent sports fish that puts up a great fight and makes for memorable stories if you are lucky enough to land one. We have a catch and release policy.
May 28, 2022 – Transfer to Kariba Safari Lodge
Situated on a mountain side with panoramic views over the vast waters of Lake Kariba, this safari lodge encompasses a very special and unique Zimbabwean experience. Set amidst 33 acres of forest hillside with a beach area below, Kariba Safari Lodge offers encounters with uncharted wild waters, fringed in luxury.
Kariba Safari Lodge was built with the vision of providing a holistic African experience, with the dramatic backdrop of the lake itself, a panoramic vista from each room. Being set above Lake Kariba on a forested hillside, the views are spectacular from the 9 open-fronted en suite rooms, as well as from the private patios of our 8 suites. Private, spacious and scenic, our rooms encourage distant daydreaming, witnessing the wild while encased in comfort.
The main lodge area boasts a panoramic view of the lake. An open aired dining area invites meals beneath the African sky, with an enclosed option for rainy season. A large swimming pool encourages time out on the loungers as well as a dip in the cool waters as a reprieve from the Kariba heat. A fire pit with cushioned seats is the perfect spot to sit and reflect on the adventures of the day.
May 28 – May 30, 2022
Days at Kariba Lodge
Catamaran Cruise
The catamarans at Kariba Safari Lodge provide an extremely unique and immersive sunset experience. Powered by the wind, with a back up motor for quieter days, sail into the sunset, feasting on the view as well as delicious snacks prepared by the lodge. Dare to take a dip in the safety net attached to the boat, glass of wine and courage in hand as you cool off in Lake Kariba waters.
Kariba town Half Day Excursion
Kariba town is a bustling hub of Zimbabwean arts, culture and history. Taking time to explore the foundations of local people and culture, while learning about the foundations and engineering of the Kariba Dam Wall, a day trip to town fulfills historical curiosity. A tour of the wall itself and the dedicated museum is a journey into the history of its construction as well as the effect on the area, people and wildlife alike.
Hikes & Bush Walks
Allowing guests to get more intimately acquainted with the finer details of the bush. Feet rooted to the earth with eyes to the blue Lake Kariba horizon, a walking expedition in the Kariba surrounds provides a closer look into the ecology and life; the area’s heartbeat. Spend time immersed in the bush, led by a professional guide, learning of the intricacies of life around the lake.
May 30, 2022 – Transfer to Khulu Bush Camp
Transfer by light aircraft from Kariba to Hwange National Park
Khulu Bush Camp is Hwange National Park’s quintessential luxury safari lodge, where the only thing that beats it’s 5-star treatment and accommodation is the remarkable amount of wildlife roaming freely around Khulu’s private concession.
Inspired by the breathtaking splendor of Hwange National Park, Khulu Bush Camp reflects Africa’s timeless wonder and natural beauty, providing you with the ultimate and utterly unforgettable safari experience. Khulu is the smaller, more intimate sister lodge to its neighboring Ivory Lodge; both part of the esteemed Amalinda Safari Collection of Zimbabwe, a family owned and operated business born out of a deep dedication and love for the country’s precious wildlife and unequaled landscapes.
Hwange National Park
Located in western Zimbabwe, Hwange National Park (formerly Wankie Game Reserve) is the largest natural reserve in the country and is famous for its rich diversity of wildlife.
Home to one of the biggest elephant populations in the world, as well as around 100 mammal species, the park is a wonderland for animal lovers
Several protected animals inhabit the awe-inspiring open landscapes, including the endangered wild dog, critically endangered black rhino, and rare roan and sable – along with lion, cheetah, and around 500 bird species.
May 30, 2022 – June 2, 2022 – Days on Safari at Khulu Bush Camp
Game Drives
Morning, afternoon & full day game drives can be arranged on the concession and into the National Park. An abundance of game species can be spotted within the concession and National Park including Elephant, Lion, Giraffe, Cheetah, Zebra, Sable, Wild Dog, Leopard and much more!
Within the concession, evening game drives can be arranged with a sunset stopover for sundowners and your choice of beverage. Returning to the lodge by spotlight to find those elusive night animals & arriving back in camp in time to freshen up for dinner.
Walking Safaris
After a fireside coffee and delicious muffins, journey into the bush on foot with your professional guide on a walking safari. Enjoy the early crisp mornings as you discover the wonders of the African bush and witness its wildlife come to life. Starting time is first light. Walking Safaris are carried out on our private concession of 6000 acres and are weather dependent.
Painted Dog Conservation Centre
Zimbabwe boasts one of the largest populations of this endangered species. A visit to the Hwange Research Centre to learn more about these beautiful painted dogs and the rehabilitation, research and conservation efforts surrounding the centre is highly recommended. There is no entry fee charged but the program kindly asks visitors to either buy something from the curio shop with proceeds going to the program or welcomes any donations.
Culture & Community
Zimbabwe offers a rich, dynamic culture and through the support of our non profit project “The Mother Africa Trust“ we offer visits to local clinics, rural schools and the Dete Old Age Home. A fantastic way to get to know the friendly people and culture of Zimbabwe!
June 2, 2022 – Departure
Depart Hwange for Victoria Falls Airport to begin your travel home, or on to your next adventure!
Cost: $5,000 per person based on shared double or triple occupancy
PLEASE NOTE:
- Founder’s Journey will always be priced at or below published rates, but never higher.
- Travel with like-minded individuals on these exclusive departures.
- Enjoy a welcome cocktail party to meet your fellow travelers.
- A hosted dinner will be offered during one night of the trip with the Hiltons.
- On many occasions, optional shore events are offered as an option that only our group is invited to join.
- Special global relationships that the Hiltons have formed over the years will allow you privileged access opportunities.
- Trips are offered well in advance to give ample time for your future planning.
- Minimum numbers must be met in order for the Hiltons to host the journey.
- The Hiltons reserve the right to adjust the duration of their participation should any schedule conflicts arise.