Unique Safari Game Drives in Zambezi National Park, 4 Options

Planning a safari near Victoria Falls? You’ll find that the Zambezi National Park offers four distinct safari game drive options designed to cater to different interests and tastes. From private high tea safaris in vintage-style settings to traditional barbecue meals in the bush, these experiences promise a chance to see the park’s iconic wildlife in a relaxed, authentic atmosphere. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who are experts in spotting the big five and sharing fascinating insights about the park’s ecosystem.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the close proximity to Victoria Falls, meaning minimal travel time to get into the wilderness. Second, flexibility in options—whether you prefer a gourmet high tea, a hearty braii, or a simple game drive, there’s a tailored experience for you. Third, the consistent high ratings—a perfect 5.0 from 39 reviews, with visitors praising the guides, food, and overall quality. The only consideration might be the price point of $125 per person, which, given the quality and inclusions, offers good value for a memorable wildlife encounter. This tour is ideal for those who love nature, good food, and a personalized touch during their safari adventure.

Key Points

• Variety of experiences: Four options including private high tea, barbecue, and standard game drives.
• Prime location: Only 10 minutes from Victoria Falls, making it convenient and time-efficient.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable and attentive guides enhance wildlife spotting and storytelling.
• Excellent food offerings: From light breakfasts with coffee to snacks, soft drinks, and beers, plus gourmet options.
• Small group size: Max 10 guests, ensuring a personalized experience.
• All about wildlife: Expect to see giraffes, buffalo, hippos, elephants, and hopefully lions and other cats.

What to Expect from the Safari Game Drive Experience

The core of this tour is the three-hour game drive in a classic open four-wheel-drive vehicle, which provides an unobstructed view of the wilderness. The itinerary is flexible**—you can choose early morning, mid-morning, or afternoon safaris. Each time slot offers different opportunities: early morning safaris tend to be the best for spotting elusive animals like lions, while afternoon drives may reward you with calmer wildlife and beautiful sunset views.

The Safari Itinerary: An Authentic Bush Experience

The safari begins at the park, which is just a short hop from Victoria Falls, reducing the hassle of long transfers. During the drive, your guide will scan the landscape for wildlife, sharing insights about animal behavior, plant life, and the park’s ecosystem. Guests often comment on how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are, with some reviews highlighting guides like Savannah Adventures’ team as “excellent,” making the experience not just about spotting animals but also about learning.

Expect to see giraffes, buffalo, hippos, elephants, and antelopes. Reviewers mention the thrill of spotting lions and other big cats, though of course, wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed. The drive itself is a chance to appreciate the vast, untouched wilderness, with some areas offering sweeping views of the savannah and river.

Food and Refreshments: The Real Bonus

One thing that stands out from reviews is the quality of the food and drinks offered, which elevates the safari from a simple wildlife tour to a true culinary experience. Morning safaris include coffee, tea, and a light breakfast, perfect to start the day energized. For afternoon safaris, soft drinks, beers, and small snacks are provided, allowing you to relax and chat about the sightings in comfort.

The private high tea safari or barbecue options add a layer of luxury and fun. The high tea, set in the savannah with vintage-style tableware, is a favorite among those looking for a more refined, intimate experience. Conversely, the barbecue (braii) is perfect for those who want a more traditional African bush meal, with reviewers praising the delicious, hearty food that surpasses expectations.

Small Groups, Personal Touches

With a maximum of 10 travelers, this safari maintains an intimate atmosphere. Many reviews mention how guides tailor the experience to suit the group, creating a friendly and relaxed environment. This small group approach means fewer crowds and more personalized attention, which is especially valuable when wildlife suddenly appears or questions arise.

The Value of the Experience

At $125 per person, this tour offers a lot of value, particularly because of the inclusions like refreshments, snacks, and the expert guiding. The proximity to Victoria Falls means less time spent in transit, maximizing your time in the wild. Plus, the option to choose between different experiences—private or group, high tea or braii—means you can pick what best suits your mood and budget.

Compared to larger, less personalized safaris, this experience stands out for its quality, attention to detail, and authentic environment. As one reviewer put it, “The quality of food was much better than other safaris we’ve had,” highlighting the care taken to ensure guests are well-fed and comfortable.

Who Will Love This Safari?

This experience is perfect for travelers who value personalized service and great wildlife sightings without the crowds. It suits those interested in combining a wildlife adventure with culinary pleasures, whether that’s a refined high tea in the bush or a traditional barbecue. It’s equally suitable for first-time safari goers wanting a safe, guided introduction or seasoned wildlife enthusiasts seeking a relaxed, intimate outing.

Practical Details and Tips

• Booking well in advance is advised, as most trips are booked around 72 days ahead.
• The minimum group size is two, with a maximum of ten guests, ensuring a cozy experience.
• The tour includes pick-up options and comes with a mobile ticket, making it convenient to plan.
• Park entrance fee is not included, so budget accordingly.
• Timing options include early morning at 6:00 am, mid-morning, or afternoon—choose based on your wildlife interests and weather preferences.
• Cancellation is free if done more than 24 hours in advance, giving some flexibility in case of weather changes or schedule shifts.

For anyone dreaming of a flexible, high-quality safari experience with great food, this tour ticks all the boxes. The knowledgeable guides and small group size combine to create an engaging, intimate wildlife encounter. The variety of options—whether you prefer a private high tea, a traditional braii, or a standard game drive—means you can tailor your safari to your mood and appetite.

If you’re after a closer look at Zimbabwe’s wildlife without sacrificing comfort or personal attention, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a good story, stunning scenery, and delicious food amid the wilderness.

Are transfers included?
Pick-up is offered as part of the experience, making it easy to start your safari without extra arrangements.

How long does the safari last?
The core experience lasts approximately 3 hours, giving ample time to see wildlife and enjoy the surroundings.

What wildlife might I see?
Visitors frequently spot giraffes, buffalo, hippos, elephants, and antelopes. Lions and other cats are possible but not guaranteed.

Is food included?
Yes. Morning safaris include coffee/tea and a light breakfast, while afternoon trips feature soft drinks, beers, and snacks. Special meal options like high tea or braii are available.

How many people are in each group?
A maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, neutral-colored clothing suitable for outdoor conditions. Bring sun protection and binoculars if you have them.

Is this suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, though the tour is best suited for those who enjoy wildlife watching and outdoor activities.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews highlight guides as “excellent,” with many sharing insightful stories about the animals and environment.

Can I combine this with other activities?
Yes, many travelers pair this safari with visits to Victoria Falls or other local excursions.

Whether you’re after a quick wildlife fix, an elegant high tea in the bush, or a hearty barbecue feast, these safari game drives in Zambezi National Park are a superb choice. Small groups, expert guides, and delicious food create a well-rounded, memorable experience for nature lovers and foodies alike.