5 Day Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park Accommodated Safari Tour

Travelers looking to experience the grandeur of Africa’s natural beauty often start with Victoria Falls and Zimbabwe’s iconic Hwange National Park. This 5-day guided safari offers a well-rounded taste of these spectacular destinations, balancing breathtaking scenery with incredible wildlife encounters. While it’s designed as an accommodated tour, it’s also a manageable length that suits those with limited time but a big love for nature and adventure.

From the moment you set foot in Victoria Falls to your days spent in Hwange, this tour packs in memorable moments. We love how it combines adventure activities like sunset cruises and iconic viewpoints with immersive game drives in one of Africa’s largest parks. Plus, the emphasis on knowledgeable guides ensures that you’ll learn about the environment and animals in a way that’s engaging and authentic.

One thing to keep in mind is that the itinerary is quite packed, so a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended—especially for game drives and walking in the parks. It’s also worth noting that the tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate a mix of comfort, adventure, and wildlife spotting, rather than those seeking luxury-only experiences.

If you’re after a balanced, value-rich safari that offers plenty of wildlife while allowing you to soak in the natural wonders of the region, this tour should be very appealing. Now, let’s unpack what makes it tick and what you can expect along the way.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary: Combines Victoria Falls’ stunning vistas with Hwange’s wildlife-rich environment.
• Value for money: At $1,800 per person, it offers a lot of highlights for a relatively short trip.
• Expert guides: Guides like Simon have received praise for making the experience smooth and informative.
• Authentic wildlife encounters: Day drives and game safaris provide chances to see lions, elephants, giraffes, and more.
• Impressive views: Sunset cruises on the Zambezi River and the iconic Victoria Falls viewpoint are standout moments.
• Moderate fitness needed: Activities involve walking and game drives, suitable for most travelers with average fitness.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect Day-by-Day

Day 1: Sunset on the Zambezi River

Your adventure kicks off with a two-hour sunset cruise on the upper Zambezi River. This is more than just a boat ride—it’s an opportunity to see some of Zimbabwe’s most iconic wildlife from the water, including elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and warthogs.

Travelers often mention how peaceful and scenic these cruises are, and many note that drinks and snacks are included, making it a relaxed start to your trip. The gentle bobbing on the river, combined with the sunset backdrop, makes for a perfect way to unwind after your journey and get your first taste of the area’s wildlife. Reviewers highlight that guides like Simon ensure a smooth, informative experience, making sure no animal or bird escapes your notice.

Day 2: Victoria Falls Viewpoint

Next, you visit the magnificent Victoria Falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. This stop is all about awe-inspiring views. Depending on the weather, you’ll get the chance to see the massive curtain of water thundering down and feel the spray on your face. Many visitors mention how stunning the falls look from different viewpoints, and some add that no photo quite captures the roar and power of the cascade.

This day isn’t just about sightseeing—some tours include optional activities like helicopter flights, but for this trip, the focus is on appreciating the sheer scale and beauty of Victoria Falls. The guides excel at sharing interesting facts and pointing out lesser-known details, adding depth to your visit.

Days 3 & 4: Into the Heart of Hwange National Park

The real wildlife magic starts on these days with full-day game drives in Hwange National Park—Zimbabwe’s largest park, comparable in size to Belgium. You’ll likely wake up early for the best light and animal activity, then set out on guided drives that expose you to a vast array of animals. Expect to see elephants in large herds, lions lounging in the shade, zebras, kudus, giraffes, buffalos, and many bird species.

Travelers often appreciate the expertise of guides like Simon, who know the park well and are adept at tracking animals. The park’s sheer size means that wildlife is abundant and often undisturbed, making it a prime spot for spotting the “Big Five” (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino). Reviewers mention the wildlife density makes for thrilling sightings, with some describing Hwange as “the best park in Africa” to observe elephants and predators.

Day 5: Final Wildlife Viewing and Reflection

On your last day, you enjoy another three hours in Hwange, taking in the peacefulness of the park before concluding your safari. Many guests remark that this quiet, undisturbed environment feels like a true sanctuary—perfect for quietly absorbing the beauty of nature and contemplating your trip.

Practical Details: What This Tour Means for You

Transportation and Group Size

With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour maintains a small-group feel, ensuring you get personalized attention from guides. Pickup is offered, which simplifies logistics, and the tour runs daily within the specified dates. The mobile ticket format means you can keep your plans flexible, though confirmation is received at booking, and the tour is available seven days a week.

Cost and Value

Priced at $1,800 per person, this tour delivers a substantial amount of experience for its price. When you factor in guided game drives, park entrance fees, sunset cruises, and accommodation, it provides good value—especially considering the knowledgeable guides and well-organized itinerary. Reviewers emphasize that Simon and his team are dedicated to making the trip smooth and cost-effective, often helping travelers save on excursions.

Tour Duration and Physical Activity

While the overall trip is just five days, some activities involve walking (like viewing points and park drives), and game drives can be bumpy. A moderate fitness level is recommended to fully enjoy the experience without fatigue. The itinerary allows for rest and downtime, but be prepared for early mornings and outdoor activity.

Best Suited For

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive yet manageable safari experience. It’s perfect if you love wildlife, scenery, and a bit of adventure without the hassle of planning every detail. The presence of expert guides means it’s suitable for first-timers as well as seasoned safari-goers wanting a reliable, authentic experience.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Many reviewers have highlighted the quality of the guides, with Simon standing out for his reliability and friendliness. One review states, “Simon made sure we had a top-notch experience,” emphasizing how guides can make or break the journey. Others appreciated the stunning views and abundant wildlife, often mentioning that Hwange’s large size means spotting animals is generally excellent.

A recurring theme is the value for money—most travelers feel that the experience surpasses expectations for the price, especially with the included park fees and activities like sunset cruises. Several reviews praise the tour’s organization and note how guides like Simon ensure a hustle-free, relaxed trip.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This 5-day safari package offers a well-rounded introduction to Zimbabwe’s natural beauty, blending world-famous waterfalls with some of Africa’s best game viewing. Its focus on experienced guides, authentic wildlife encounters, and scenic highlights makes it a compelling choice for those seeking a memorable, value-driven adventure.

If you’re after a trip that combines iconic sights with genuine wildlife experiences, and you’re comfortable with moderate outdoor activity, this tour could be perfect. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate good organization, expert guiding, and a mix of adventure and relaxation. For wildlife lovers and first-time visitors eager to tick Zimbabwe’s top destinations off their bucket list, this experience stands out as a solid, reliable choice.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The $1,800 fee covers guided game drives in Hwange, park entrance fees, sunset river cruise, accommodation, and some meals. It offers good value considering these inclusions and the expertise provided.

Are transfers provided?
Yes, pickup is offered, making it easier to start your adventure without logistics worries.

How many travelers will be on this tour?
A maximum of 15 travelers ensures a small-group experience, ideal for personalized attention and easier wildlife spotting.

What is the physical fitness level required?
A moderate fitness level is recommended due to walking and outdoor activities, including game drives that can involve bumpy rides.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The itinerary is generally fixed, but guides like Simon are known for being flexible and attentive to guest preferences when possible.

What is the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 67 days in advance, so planning ahead ensures availability, especially during peak seasons.

Is this tour suitable for seniors or children?
The tour is generally suitable for most adults with moderate fitness. Specific age restrictions are not mentioned, but travel with children should consider activity levels.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

In summary, this safari offers a fantastic blend of scenery, wildlife, and cultural highlights, all delivered through expert guides who make the journey enjoyable and educational. It’s a smart choice for those wanting a genuine taste of Zimbabwe’s treasures without overcomplicating their travel plans.