Safari in Victoria Falls and Zambezi National Park

Discover the Wild: Safari in Victoria Falls and Zambezi National Park

If you’re looking to combine the thrill of an African safari with the iconic backdrop of Victoria Falls, the Savannah Adventures Signature Safari Game Drive offers a compelling option. This tour promises an authentic bush experience just a short drive from the town, with knowledgeable guides and opportunities to spot larger mammals like elephants, lions, and buffalos.

What we love about this experience are three key aspects: its proximity to Victoria Falls, the chance to see a variety of iconic wildlife in their natural habitat, and the personalized attention from experienced guides. Plus, the scenic stop for refreshments adds a relaxing touch. However, one thing to consider is that the park isn’t fenced, so animal sightings depend on timing and luck—a typical aspect of real wilderness adventures.

This tour suits travelers who want more than just a quick safari, those eager to learn from expert guides, and anyone wanting to experience the true essence of African wildlife without breaking the bank. If you’re after a balanced mix of adventure, education, and stunning scenery, this tour could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Authentic Safari Experience: Explore Zambezi National Park in a genuine, unfenced wilderness.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Taf enhance the experience with insights and responsiveness.
• Wildlife Sightings: Expect to see elephants, lions, buffalos, leopards, and plains game, with the possibility of catching predators on the prowl.
• Convenient Location: Just 10 minutes from Victoria Falls town, minimizing travel time.
• Refreshments & Scenic Break: Enjoy high tea, fruits, and snacks at a scenic, safe spot in the park.
• Value for Money: At $119 per person, the experience offers a lot of wildlife viewing in a small-group setting.

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup & Introduction

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel or lodge in Victoria Falls, making it a hassle-free start. The guide, often someone like Taf, introduces what to expect and shares local knowledge, setting the tone for an engaging morning or afternoon in the bush.

First Stop: Exploring the Wilderness

Within about 30 minutes, you’ll arrive at the gates of Zambezi National Park or Chamabondo Park. Here, the open four-wheel-drive game viewer awaits—your window on Zimbabwe’s wild side. The guide will point out various animals and share interesting facts, making this a highly educational experience.

The Wildlife Drive

The drive typically lasts around 2 hours, covering a sizable area where animals are always on the move, so sightings depend on timing and luck. Reviewers mention spotting elephants feeding on branches and observing herds of buffalo and antelopes. Lions and leopards are often hoped for, but as with any safari, they’re never guaranteed.

We loved the way guides read the terrain and animal signs, which increased our chances of spotting the big cats. One reviewer noted, “The driver pointed out a lot of things including birds, trees, animals, and landscapes,” making it clear that the guides are attentive and well-informed.

Scenic Stop & Refreshments

After the drive, you’ll pause at a safe, scenic location for a short break. Here, guests can enjoy high tea, fruits, and light snacks while soaking in the views. The review mentioning elephants feeding off branches close by underscores how close to nature you can get during this pause.

Wrap-up & Drop-off

The tour ends with a return to your accommodation, typically within a day’s half or full day of activity, depending on the timing you choose (early morning, mid-morning, or afternoon). The small group size (up to 10 travelers) ensures a personalized and relaxed experience.

What Makes This Safari Stand Out?

Proximity & Convenience

Being only a 10-minute drive from Victoria Falls means you won’t spend hours in transit, allowing more time for wildlife viewing. This is especially valuable for travelers with limited time or those on a packed schedule.

Authentic Wilderness Experience

Unlike fenced or zoo-like safaris, this experience is in an unfenced park, where animals roam freely. As one reviewer pointed out, “It’s not a zoo,” and sightings are based on animal movement and timing, reflecting true wilderness conditions.

Knowledgeable & Responsive Guides

Guests consistently praise the guides, like Taf, for their responsiveness, calm demeanor, and in-depth knowledge. Their ability to spot and explain details about birds, trees, and animal behavior enhances the overall value.

Scenic & Relaxing Breaks

The stop for refreshments isn’t just a break—it’s an opportunity to relax amidst nature, enjoy some light snacks, and contemplate the wild landscape. The views during this pause often provide memorable photo opportunities.

Cost & Value

At $119 per person, this safari provides a relatively affordable way to get close to Zimbabwe’s wildlife. The inclusion of coffee or tea, plus the scenic stop, makes it feel well-rounded for the price.

Practical Tips for Your Safari Experience

• Arrive early or choose the early morning option for the best chance at animal sightings, especially predators like lions, which are often more active in the cooler parts of the day.
• Bring a camera with a good zoom lens—the scenery and wildlife are camera-worthy.
• Dress appropriately: neutral colors, hats, and sun protection will make your time more comfortable.
• Be prepared for variable weather—the drive is outdoors, and conditions can change quickly.
• Respect wildlife and follow guide instructions to ensure a safe and respectful experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This safari is ideal for travelers who want an authentic wildlife adventure close to Victoria Falls without the need for an all-day commitment. It’s perfect for those who value guided expertise and are interested in learning about the animals and landscape from locals who know the terrain well.

It’s also suitable for families, small groups, or solo travelers looking for a manageable, intimate safari experience with a focus on wildlife observation and scenic relaxation.

The Sum Up: Making the Most of Your Safari Adventure

This 3-hour safari with Savannah Adventures offers an engaging and authentic peek into Zimbabwe’s wildlife, set against the stunning backdrop of Victoria Falls. The proximity of the park means minimal transit time, allowing you to maximize your wildlife sightings and scenic moments.

The guides, like Taf, provide genuine insights that deepen your understanding of the bush, making this experience both fun and educational. The chance to see elephants, buffalos, and perhaps lions in their natural habitat makes it a memorable outing—especially when paired with relaxing breaks amid nature.

While animal sightings depend on timing, the knowledgeable guides and scenic stops ensure that visitors walk away with plenty to talk about and photos to cherish. If you’re after a value-packed, genuine bush experience with expert guidance, this safari fits the bill beautifully.

This tour suits travelers craving an authentic, small-group adventure that balances wildlife encounters, scenic beauty, and local expertise—all within a short drive from the iconic Victoria Falls.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel or lodge pickup in Victoria Falls, making it easy to start your safari stress-free.

How long does the safari last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, with about 30 minutes for pickup and the rest for the game drive, refreshment stop, and return.

What animals might I see during the drive?
You can expect to see elephants, lions, buffalos, leopards, giraffes, antelopes, hippos, and other plains game. Sightings depend on animal movement.

Is there an extra fee I should be aware of?
Yes, there’s a park fee of $20 USD that isn’t included in the $119 price. Be sure to bring cash for this.

What’s the best time of day to do this safari?
Early morning or mid-morning safaris are ideal for wildlife activity, though afternoon options are available.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and small groups ensure a family-friendly atmosphere, but check with the provider if you have specific age considerations.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, binoculars, sun protection, and comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if you notify at least 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

Whether you’re a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned wildlife enthusiast, this tour provides a genuine taste of Zimbabwe’s wilderness in a convenient, engaging format. The experienced guides, scenic stops, and chance to see iconic animals make it a worthwhile addition to your Victoria Falls visit.