Since the late 1800s, Zimbabwe was known as the “Jewel of Africa”– a reflection of its remarkable prosperity. The country’s amazingly diversity of habitats provided the basis for a flourishing safari industry and spawned the development of what are generally recognized as the best safari guides in Africa.
The pace of our safari is relaxed, with a three night stay at each of our destinations. And, to ease the logistical challenges of traveling in Zimbabwe, we have chartered our own aircraft throughout our journey.
Our exploration begins with the chartered flight from Harare to Chilo Gorge. The Gonarezhou National Park draws us here. Gonarezhou is home to over 11,000 elephants, along with large herds of other game species.
Due to its isolated location, a visit to Gonarezhou is like stepping back in time when few travelers ventured into the African bush. And an overnight stay at their small tented camp within the Park recalls the simpler style of classic safari life.
Our second adventure takes us to the Matobo Hills— a land of large granite domes and castle kopjes. The Stead family will welcome us to temporary home, Amalinda Lodge. Tucked within a large kopje, this is one of the most scenic lodges we’ve ever visited.
Our chartered flight delivers us to Zimbabwe’s largest and most famous national park, Hwange. We loved the small herds of sable antelope that come to the water hole here. But the painted dogs draw us here, with a visit to the headquarters of Painted Dog Conservation. We will be hosted by the Stead family at Khulu Bush Camp.
We will board our chartered aircraft and turn north to Mana Polls National Park. Situated on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, Mana Pools is home to some of the best guides in Zimbabwe. And those guides take us on exciting walking safaris through the African bush. It is a truly stunning experience to track elephants and painted dogs through the forested regions of Mana Pools. Our accommodations are at John’s Camp.
Leaving the beauty of Mana Pools, our chartered aircraft returns us to Harare in time for most departing international flights.
We invite you to join Tom LaRock and James Ward on this return to Zimbabwe— The Jewel of Africa!
