Victoria Falls: Zimbabwean Resident Special Only

Planning a safari in Zimbabwe often means weighing options that balance adventure, authenticity, and value. The Victoria Falls Zimbabwean Resident Special offers a unique opportunity to explore the wilds of Zambezi National Park at an incredible price—just $99 per person. We’ve taken a close look at what makes this tour stand out, from its early starts to its open-air game drives, and how it delivers on the promise of an authentic bush experience.

What’s immediately clear is that this tour is designed for those who crave close encounters with wildlife without the hefty price tag. The fact that it’s tailored for Zimbabwean residents makes it an accessible and appealing option for locals, while visitors from afar can still find value through local agencies. We love the focus on early morning and late afternoon drives, which tend to boost wildlife sightings, and the chance to explore the vast Zambezi River ecosystem.

However, a key consideration is the weather dependency—heavy rains during the rainy season (November to April) can impact road conditions and wildlife visibility. This means timing your visit is important if you want the best chances of wildlife encounters. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a photographer, or simply someone wanting a genuine safari experience, this tour might just be a perfect fit.

This experience suits those looking for an affordable, authentic safari, especially if they’re keen on exploring Zimbabwe’s natural beauty without the crowds or high costs of luxury safaris. It’s ideal for travellers who enjoy early mornings, open vehicle adventures, and a chance to see the bush in its rawest form.

Key Points

• Affordable price point with a focus on Zimbabwean residents at just $99
• Early morning game drive offers a better chance to see wildlife
• Focus on wildlife and river views — elephants, lions, buffalo, and more
• Guided experience with a private licensed safari guide
• Snacks and refreshments included during drives, with different offerings for morning and afternoon
• Weather considerations might influence visibility and road conditions during rainy season

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary and Timing

The tour kicks off bright and early at 6:00 am — an ideal time to beat the crowds and catch wildlife when they’re most active. You’ll be picked up from your hotel, adding convenience and comfort, and transported in a 4×4 open vehicle that ensures unobstructed views of the plains and animals. The tour is scheduled to leave 30 minutes before other safari operators—a strategic move to maximize wildlife sightings.

Come morning, a light breakfast of muffins, fruits, hard-boiled eggs, tea or coffee, and mineral water sets you up for the drive. The focus is on experiencing the bush in a peaceful, uncrowded environment, with fewer vehicles around. This quiet start lets you really take in the sounds and sights of the African wilderness.

The drive lasts between three and four hours, covering two main sections of Zambezi National Park, which together span 56,000 hectares. The roads are in reasonable condition but note that heavy rains can sometimes close park access or make driving trickier. The drive upstream along the Zambezi River adds a scenic element, with 25 designated riverbank sites where you can pause, stretch, and enjoy snacks while overlooking the water.

In the afternoon, around 3:00 pm, the tour resumes with a second game drive, focusing on different wildlife and possibly different behaviors. The late afternoon is another prime time for spotting game—animals tend to be more active as the day cools. Refreshments such as soft drinks, beer, and a snack platter are provided at one of the riverbank sites, giving you a chance to relax and soak in the views.

Wildlife and Landscape

The main attraction of this safari is the chance to observe large mammals like elephants, lions, buffalo, and leopards. The guides, who are licensed and well-trained, help spot and interpret animal behaviors, making the experience both educational and exciting.

The park isn’t fenced, so animal movement is unpredictable. As one reviewer mentioned, “It’s not a zoo but a game of luck,” meaning you might not see everything you hope for, but the chances are good with an early start and expert guidance. Besides the mammals, the Zambezi River itself teems with over 75 fish species, including bream and tiger fish—perfect for anglers or those interested in aquatic life.

Unique Aspects and Highlights

• The early departure is a real advantage, helping you avoid the larger crowds and increasing your chances to spot elusive animals.
• The openness of the 4×4 vehicles allows for perfect photography opportunities and a visceral experience of the bush.
• The river drive section offers tranquil moments, with sites on the riverbank ideal for a break and taking in nature’s beauty.
• The cost of $15 for international guests and only $5 for Zimbabweans makes this a budget-friendly option with good value when considering the included snacks, guide, and transportation.

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Potential Drawbacks

While the experience is largely positive, weather can influence the quality of the game viewing. Heavy rains during the rainy season might disrupt road conditions or cause animals to disperse, reducing sightings. Also, because the park is not fenced, animal movement can be unpredictable, so sightings aren’t guaranteed every time.

What You Can Expect: Practical Details

• Transport: Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel, using an open 4×4 vehicle tailored for game viewing.
• Duration: About 6-8 hours total, including breaks and meal/snack stops.
• Guides: Private, licensed, and knowledgeable, providing insights into animal behavior and park ecology.
• Meals: Light breakfast in the morning, snacks during the drive, and refreshments in the afternoon.
• Cost: $99 per person, with additional park entry fees payable locally (for foreigners, $15; locals pay $5).
• Timing: Morning drive starts at 6:00 am, with the afternoon session at 3:00 pm.
• Weather: Tour goes rain or shine—be prepared for seasonal weather variations.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are hotel transfers, a licensed guide, and snacks or meals. Not included are park entry fees, which are paid separately at the entrance. It’s worth considering this extra cost when budgeting, but overall, the package offers solid value given the comprehensive experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari appeals most to wildlife enthusiasts on a budget, locals seeking an authentic bush experience, and early risers eager for prime wildlife viewing. If you’re visiting Victoria Falls and want a taste of the African wilderness without the expense of luxury safaris, this tour offers an excellent balance of value and adventure.

It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate guided expertise, early morning tranquility, and open vehicle safaris—perfect for photographers aiming for clear shots of animals and landscapes.

The Sum Up

The Victoria Falls Zimbabwean Resident Special offers a genuinely affordable and rewarding safari experience. With early starts, expert guides, and the chance to explore the diverse wildlife and scenic river landscapes, it’s well-suited for travelers who value authenticity over luxury. The focus on unspoiled wilderness and small-group encounters creates a more intimate, memorable adventure.

While weather conditions can influence game sightings, the overall package strikes a great balance of cost, comfort, and adventure. If you’re looking to see elephants, lions, and other iconic animals without overspending, this tour is a fantastic choice.

For those who want to connect with Zimbabwe’s natural landscapes in a straightforward, well-organized way, this safari hits all the right notes. Just remember to dress for the weather and bring your camera—those moments on the riverbank or the open plains are worth capturing.

FAQ

Who is this tour suitable for?
It’s best for wildlife lovers, locals, or budget travelers who want an authentic safari experience with guided support, early mornings, and scenic river views.

What is the starting time?
The morning safari departs at 6:00 am, with a second session at 3:00 pm in the afternoon.

What’s included in the price?
Hotel pickup and drop-off, a private licensed guide, and light meals or snacks during the drive are included. Park entry fees are extra.

How long does the safari last?
The game drives typically last between three and four hours, with total tour time around 6-8 hours including breaks and meals.

Are the roads accessible year-round?
The roads are in reasonable condition most of the year, but during heavy rains, park access can close or become difficult.

What wildlife might I see?
You could spot elephants, lions, buffalo, leopards, and a variety of antelopes, as well as diverse fish species in the Zambezi River.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, adding flexibility to your travel plans.

This safari provides a genuine taste of Zimbabwe’s wilderness, blending affordability, guided expertise, and stunning landscape views. Whether you’re after your first wildlife experience or simply want to enjoy Zimbabwe’s natural charms, this tour is a strong contender.

You can check availability for your dates here: