Game Drives

Trying to spot the Big Five in Africa often feels like a lottery, but this 3-hour game drive in Zambezi National Park offers a well-balanced taste of wildlife close to Victoria Falls. Whether you’re a seasoned safari enthusiast or a first-timer eager for your first sighting of elephants and giraffes, this tour packs enough action into a manageable half-day adventure.

What sets this experience apart? First, the small-group format ensures a more intimate and comfortable outing. Second, the guides — especially the well-reviewed Aaron — are known for their extensive knowledge and friendly attitude, making wildlife sightings both educational and fun. Lastly, the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off simplifies planning, so you can focus on the thrill of seeing animals in their natural environment.

That said, it’s worth noting that wildlife sightings depend heavily on luck, and some visitors have been disappointed with how few animals they encountered. If you’re expecting a guaranteed wildlife spectacle, this might not always meet that ideal, but the chances are quite good given the park’s diversity.

This tour is perfect for nature lovers looking for a short but authentic safari experience, travelers with limited time in Victoria Falls, or those wanting a guided, informative adventure without the expense of longer or more rugged safaris.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Small groups mean better chances for personalized attention and fewer vehicles chasing animals.
• Convenient & Comfortable: Hotel pickup and drop-off included, plus options for card payment making it hassle-free.
• Wildlife Variety: Expect elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffalos, and possibly some of the rarer big cats if luck is on your side.
• Guided Expertise: Guides like Aaron are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to spot animals others might miss.
• Cost & Value: At around $102.57, it’s a relatively affordable way to experience the park’s wildlife without the expense of longer safaris.
• Weather & Wildlife: Like all safaris, sightings are weather and luck-dependent, with some reviews indicating less-than-stellar animal encounters.

What to Expect from the Tour

This small-group game drive begins with a hotel pickup in Victoria Falls, easing logistical worries and letting you relax before the adventure. Once in Zambezi National Park, you’ll hop into a four-wheel-drive vehicle designed for game viewing, giving you a clear view of the wildlife and landscape.

The park itself covers about 40 km of Zambezi River frontage and features a mix of woodland and savannah — ideal habitats for a wide range of animals. The park is renowned for its herds of sable, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and buffalos, with occasional sightings of lions, leopards, and cheetahs. However, as one review pointed out, rhinoceros are only seen in parks where they are permitted, so don’t hold your breath if you’re after the Big Five.

Throughout the drive, your guide will be on the lookout for animals, often pointing out species that might be hidden or difficult to spot. Reviewers consistently mention guides like Aaron as a highlight — “very kind, accommodating, and knowledgeable,” able to teach about animal behaviors and park ecology while keeping the atmosphere light and fun.

Wildlife Sightings

Most visitors come away with sightings of elephants, giraffes, zebras, impalas, and buffalos, often in large herds. One review recounts an “absolutely amazing” experience with herds of elephants, buffalos, and giraffes in the open, thanks to a guide who knew how to get close without disturbing the animals. Another reviewer noted that their guide, Mr. Aaron, even provided snacks and blankets during the chilly morning drive, making the experience more comfortable.

Some reviews, however, highlight that sightings can be unpredictable. One visitor lamented only seeing a single elephant and a few warthogs, feeling the overall wildlife experience was underwhelming. This is the nature of game drives — luck plays a big role, and no guide can control animal movement.

Timing & Duration

The tour lasts about three hours, making it a perfect half-day activity that leaves plenty of time for other pursuits like visiting Victoria Falls or relaxing at your lodge. The morning is typically the best time to see active wildlife, before the heat of midday causes animals to retreat into shaded areas.

Lunch, Water & Extras

Included in the price are bottled water and a light lunch, adding to the value and convenience. These amenities help keep you refreshed during the drive, especially in warmer months. Remember, all park fees and taxes are not included in the cost, so budget accordingly if you’d like the full experience.

Group Size & Booking

With a maximum of nine travelers per tour, the group size is kept small, fostering a more personal feel. The tour is popular, often booked 24 days in advance, so planning ahead is wise, especially during peak seasons.

The Value in Wildlife Watching

For just over $100, this tour offers an accessible way to encounter some of Africa’s iconic animals without the expense and effort of longer safaris. The inclusion of hotel pickup, water, and lunch significantly enhances the overall experience, making it a straightforward option for travelers who want a taste of the wild.

However, it’s essential to maintain realistic expectations. Wildlife viewing is inherently unpredictable, and while guides are skilled at locating animals, sightings can vary day-to-day. Some visitors, like those on a sunset cruise instead, noted they saw more wildlife in other experiences, underscoring that no safari guarantees a full wildlife show.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This game drive is ideal for travelers wanting a short, guided, and comfortable wildlife experience. It suits those with limited time, families, or anyone keen to see the animals of Zambezi National Park without venturing into more rugged or expensive safaris. Nature lovers who appreciate a knowledgeable guide and the chance to learn about local flora and fauna will find this especially appealing.

Final Thoughts

This small-group game drive from Victoria Falls offers good value and authentic wildlife encounters, especially thanks to enthusiastic guides like Aaron. While sightings depend on luck, the chances of seeing elephants, giraffes, zebras, and buffalos are high enough to make it worthwhile. The convenience of hotel pickup, combined with a friendly, informative guide, makes this a popular choice for visitors short on time but eager to connect with nature.

If your goal is to tick off wildlife sightings in a relaxed setting without breaking the bank, this tour ticks all the boxes. Just remember to bring your patience and camera — the best moments often come when you least expect them.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off within Victoria Falls, making it hassle-free to start and end your day.

How long does the game drive last?
The drive takes approximately three hours, offering a compact but fulfilling wildlife experience.

What animals might I see?
Most likely, you’ll see elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffalos, and impalas. Sightings of lions, leopards, and cheetahs are possible but less guaranteed.

Are park fees included in the price?
No, all fees and taxes are not included, so you may need to budget for that separately.

What is the group size?
The tour caters to a maximum of nine travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider your children’s comfort with early mornings and vehicle rides.

Can I pay by card?
Yes, there’s an option to pay with a card, adding to the convenience.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, binoculars if you have them, and dress comfortably for the weather, especially considering it can be chilly in the mornings.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If poor weather causes the tour to be canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. The tour is dependent on good weather conditions.

In summary, this game drive from Victoria Falls offers a balanced, accessible introduction to Zambezi National Park’s wildlife. With knowledgeable guides, a small-group setting, and the chance to spot some of Africa’s most iconic animals, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a taste of adventure without the fuss. Just keep in mind the unpredictable nature of wildlife sightings and plan your expectations accordingly.