Many safari experts consider Zimbabwe one of Africa’s finest destinations, thanks to its outstanding guiding standards and emphasis on walking safaris.
For seasoned travellers, September in Mana Pools and August–September in Hwange rank among the continent’s very best safari experiences. Combining both parks on a single itinerary offers a superb contrast: Hwange’s remarkable concentration of wildlife alongside Mana Pools’ unique river-based wilderness.
Hwange National Park
Hwange is famous for its enormous elephant population, often estimated in the tens of thousands. By August and September, natural water sources have dried up, drawing wildlife to pumped waterholes in extraordinary numbers. Hundreds of elephants may be seen in a single day, with large breeding herds becoming a common sight near Machaba’s Deteema Springs Camp and Verney’s prolific waterhole. Sundowners take place at this iconic dam when staying at Deteema Springs, while armchair safaris at Verney’s can easily rival a traditional vehicle-based game drive.
Mana Pools National Park
Combine Hwange with Mana Pools—renowned as one of Africa’s greatest walking safari destinations—and you have an exceptional itinerary for the seasoned safari-goer.
Located along the Zambezi River, Mana Pools offers floodplains, river channels, ancient forests, and spectacular scenery. The park is celebrated for its guided walking safaris, canoe excursions, intimate wildlife encounters, and a true wilderness atmosphere that many consider among Africa’s most authentic safari experiences.
Machaba Mana River Camp takes full advantage of this setting, with tents positioned directly on the riverbanks for an immersive back-to-nature experience. Ingwe Pan Camp, meanwhile, sits beneath the shade of ancient baobab trees overlooking a pan that draws predators to drink.
The dry season brings lions along the floodplains, leopards through riverine forest, wild dogs hunting across open areas, and hyenas prowling near the water. June through September offers ideal conditions for canoeing, with stable river levels and comfortable temperatures.
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