Zimbabwe remains one of Africa’s most underrated safari destinations. Vast wilderness areas, low tourist numbers, and genuinely wild landscapes combine to create a safari experience that feels exclusive, uncrowded and deeply immersive.
This itinerary connects some of the country’s most iconic regions into a seamless safari circuit. There’s no backtracking, no wasted travel days, just a natural flow from one landscape to the next. Whether you’re planning a first-time African safari, a hunting trip, or a mixed-activity adventure with non-hunters, this route delivers both variety and depth. The journey can be done in either direction, depending on flight availability and personal preference.
Access is straightforward. International flights route into Bulawayo via Johannesburg or Addis Ababa, arriving into Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport.
A short transfer brings you to Matopos Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site defined by dramatic rock formations and an atmosphere that feels both ancient and untouched. This is one of Zimbabwe’s most visually striking regions and offers a completely different safari experience. Activities here are immersive and active, tracking rhino on foot, hiking through the hills, exploring San rock art sites and taking in expansive views across a rugged, sculpted landscape. Accommodation is thoughtfully designed, built into the natural rock formations, creating a strong sense of place.
From Matobo, the route continues through Bulawayo, Zimbabwe’s second city known locally as the City of Kings, and out the other side to Rosslyn Safaris where the focus is on a personalized, small-group experience. For hunters, this is an opportunity to engage in a plains-game safari in a free-ranging environment. For non-hunters, the experience is equally compelling – horseback safaris, game viewing and time spent soaking in the bush. This balance makes the itinerary particularly well suited to mixed groups.
From here, the circuit offers flexibility. If time allows, continue north to Hwange National Park, known for its large elephant herds and strong population of lions and buffalo. The scale of the Park and the low visitor density means sightings are often exclusive. Time here adds a classic photographic safari element that contrasts well with the active experiences either side.
For those working on tighter schedules, the itinerary can move directly from Rosslyn to Victoria Falls.
Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the world, is the natural finale to the circuit. Beyond the spectacular curtain of thundering, falling water, the destination offers a wide range of activities. You can take it slow with sunset cruises on the Zambezi River or get the adrenaline going with white-water rafting, gorge swings or bungee jumping.
What makes this Zimbabwe safari itinerary stand out is its diversity and ease. Within a single journey, you move from ancient granite hills to private wilderness, from active exploration to classic game viewing, and finally to one of the world’s most iconic natural landmarks. The transitions are seamless, the experiences varied, and the pace entirely your own. It’s a journey that lends itself well to careful planning, and one we’re always happy to help shape around your timing, interests and travel style.