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Zimbabwe Safari & Hiking Tour

Zimbabwe Safari & Hiking Tour

Discover the diverse landscapes of Zimbabwe, Africa's most understated gem and be in awe of one of the natural wonders of the world, Victoria Falls.

Home to the Big 5, quiet national parks and gigantic waterfalls, Zimbabwe is becoming a must-visit destination for travellers heading to Africa. Victoria falls is officially the largest waterfall on the planet and in its peak, around 625 million litres of water flow over the edge every minute, which is how it got the name Mosi oa-Tunya (the smoke that thunders). With one of the seven natural wonders of the world, a long list of interesting wildlife and vast dreamy landscapes, you'll be spoilt for choice in this epic part of the world.

Zimbabwe Trips

Why Choose Active Adventures

Do It Yourself
With Active Adventures
Hours of research to plan
Expertly planned by professional adventurers
Which accommodations to book?
Premium accommodation booked for you
Which trails to explore? How to book?
Iconic & lesser-known trails booked for you
Which restaurants to suit all?
All meals included: delicious & to suit all
Unguided; reliance on impersonal travel books
Caring guides; passionate about what they do

What Our Guests Think of Their Trip

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Mighty Five Adventure - September 2023

Hiking the Mighty 5 National Parks from St George to Moab, Utah

"My wife Robin and I just finished a 9 day adventure of the Mighty 5… read more

"My wife Robin and I just finished a 9 day adventure of the Mighty 5 National parks in Utah with Austin Adventures. We had a fantastic time.
Our Guides (Steve and Bryson) were the best!! They took us on wonderful hikes in all the parks averaging 6-8 miles/day. The hotels and food were great. The trip was exciting and something I will remember the rest of my life. "Kudos" Austin Adventures for a job well done. Thank you for the experience of a lifetime. We plan to book another trip in the future. read less

5 Stars (63 reviews)

John,

Mighty Five Adventure - September 2023

The Amazing Mighty Five Adventure!!

"WOW! Every aspect of this trip was amazing! It far exceeded my expectations. … read more

"WOW! Every aspect of this trip was amazing! It far exceeded my expectations. The National Parks were absolutely gorgeous; the guides were knowledgeable, friendly, helpful, and FUN! Their personalized touch for each and every one of the travelers was spot on! The hotels, restaurants and food were also perfect for each location. Every aspect of this tour was well planned and thought out. Each hike or activity (canyoning) was well done! Steve and Bryson are wonderful guides! I hope to book another trip soon. read less

5 Stars (63 reviews)

Nadine,

Dolomites Adventure - September 2023

Best guides ever

"A fantastic itinerary! read more

"A fantastic itinerary! read less

5 Stars (95 reviews)

Kitty,

San Juan Islands Adventure - September 2023

Beautiful destination, great guides, and new friends

"San Juan Islands offered amazing vistas, enjoyable itinerary, and the chance to meet new friends.… read more

"San Juan Islands offered amazing vistas, enjoyable itinerary, and the chance to meet new friends. Our friendly guides, Jayson and Steve, were very organized and did an excellent job planning our meals and activities. read less

4 Stars (92 reviews)

Stuart,

Classic Iceland Adventure - September 2023

Don from Canada

"A great trip. Very well organized , great sights, excellent guide.

Great job! read more

"A great trip. Very well organized , great sights, excellent guide.

Great job! read less

5 Stars (17 reviews)

Don,

British Columbia Hut to Hut Adventure - September 2023

The Hut to Hut hike is amazing.

"The Hut to Hut hike is amazing. The scenery is some of the best… read more

"The Hut to Hut hike is amazing. The scenery is some of the best I've ever seen! I was impressed with the guides. Will, Sydney, and Keenan were very knowledgeable regarding the structure of the mountains, the rocks and rock formations, and the foliage in the area. The watched us carefully to make sure we stayed hydrated and ate appropriately. They were fun to be around, and made the hike even more enjoyable. read less

5 Stars (15 reviews)

Deborah,

Yellowstone Adventure - September 2023

Yellowstone awe

"Our Yellowstone Adventure exceeded our expectations and ranks at the top of travel experiences. Our… read more

"Our Yellowstone Adventure exceeded our expectations and ranks at the top of travel experiences. Our guides, Jamie and Zach, treated us like royalty and were very responsive to our needs. The meals they prepared and served were excellent. Having a room with a view of Old Faithful was so unexpected and very cool. The hikes were very manageable, even for seniors like us. Our guides provided lots of encouragement for activities that might have been out of our comfort zones. read less

5 Stars (136 reviews)

Kathleen,

Yellowstone Adventure - September 2023

Yellowstone Adventure

"This was a beyond amazing adventure. I was looking forward to hiking in Yellowstone,… read more

"This was a beyond amazing adventure. I was looking forward to hiking in Yellowstone, but had reservations about zip lining, whitewater rafting and horseback riding. I did them all despite them being outside my comfort zone!!
Staying at the historic Old Faithful Inn and having a room that looked out on Old Faithful was a fantastic beginning to the trip. The meals Zach and Jamie fixed while on the trip were delicious and their knowledge of the area added to the enjoyment. Our last night in Chico was sad because our adventure was over, but also a celebration of the time we’d had together and the memories we made read less

5 Stars (136 reviews)

Louise,

San Juan Islands Adventure - September 2023

Suzanne M Kujat

"The trip was wonderful & the guides excellent & so much fun to be around.… read more

"The trip was wonderful & the guides excellent & so much fun to be around. They were organized (& had Plan B's when needed), helpful, friendly, fun, knowledgeable & very interested in each person on the tour. read less

4 Stars (92 reviews)

Suzanne,

San Juan Islands Adventure - September 2023

Island hopping

"I had a great time in a place I knew nothing about. Jayson and Steve… read more

"I had a great time in a place I knew nothing about. Jayson and Steve did a great job educating us on the history of the SJI and taking us out to do an abundance of activities and keeping us well fed. My husband and I came on this trip because it worked out with another activity scheduled nearby so we had no prior knowledge of the area. We came to find out our group was mostly repeat guests who had taken the Mighty 5 trip during a different week then us; but had the same former guides. We had some fast bonding and we had a great time with this group of people and I hope our guides also enjoyed their week. read less

5 Stars (92 reviews)

katelyn,

British Columbia Hut to Hut Adventure - September 2023

Hiking at it's best

"I have to say we were not prepared for the wonders of the Canadian Rockies.… read more

"I have to say we were not prepared for the wonders of the Canadian Rockies. Simply put, we were blown away by the landscape and our guides who were totally devoted to making our trip one we will always remember. They were knowledgeable, friendly, and open, making us feel like part of their family as they showed us their back yard. And what a back yard it is. Living in a city, the isolation in this vast wide open world of the Rockies was a welcome relief from the rush and crush of urban living. And the skies at night, unfettered by city lights, were out of this world. This trip ranks right up there with our trip to Everest Base Camp a few years ago. If you go, be prepared not only to be wowed, but also be fit. This is not a walk in the park. It will test you, but at the end of each day, you will feel like Hillary on top of the world. read less

5 Stars (15 reviews)

Ronald,

Camino de Santiago Adventure - September 2023

Jill

"I’ve experienced an Active Adventures trip before which was amazing but this was next level!… read more

"I’ve experienced an Active Adventures trip before which was amazing but this was next level! So well organised, amazing guide, fantastic accomodation and food everywhere, and a great group of like minded travellers that we shared it with. And Spain and the Camino - words just don’t describe how good it is . This really is a trip not to be missed! read less

5 Stars (14 reviews)

jill,

Banff & Jasper Adventure - September 2023

Banff/Jaspar Adult Hiking Trip

"To say I was emotionally overwhelmed is an understatement. I have been to a lot… read more

"To say I was emotionally overwhelmed is an understatement. I have been to a lot of beautiful places but this place brought tears. Even with three -maybe four - days of rain, this still was an amazing trip. The glory of the Rockies, the colors of the waters, the simple calmness of the place was a welcome respite from my concrete city life. read less

5 Stars (117 reviews)

Allison,

Machu Picchu & Amazon Adventure - September 2023

Amazing Macchu Picchu & Amazon Experience

"This trip was absolutely amazing. The Inca Trail was mind blowing. Zach was a wonderful… read more

"This trip was absolutely amazing. The Inca Trail was mind blowing. Zach was a wonderful guide on the Trail, full of warmth, knowledge and very funny.
Jessica was an excellent trip leader who made the trip so special for all of us. And the food especially on the trail was beyond extraordinary, as was the hard work of the local porters etc read less

5 Stars (109 reviews)

Friederike,

Banff & Jasper Adventure - September 2023

Banff and Jasper

"It was an excellent trip. Our two guides, Sydney and Santana were fantastic. We had… read more

"It was an excellent trip. Our two guides, Sydney and Santana were fantastic. We had some rain on two of the days and they were flexible in finding alternatives to our plans so that we could still hike but not be out in the elements too much. The accommodations were fine. The lunches that were prepared were great. The hikes were stunning. read less

5 Stars (117 reviews)

Zell,

Austin PIF 2

Take 10% off the trip price when you book a trip and pay in full.

By paying in full we are able to pass on savings to our guests, but please note that by opting for this payment plan, your booking becomes non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-changeable. 

We highly recommend that you purchase Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. Please note CFAR insurance can only be purchased within 14 days of booking. We recommend Redpoint Insurance – you can find details here.

T+Cs Apply.

BOOKING CONDITIONS

FAQs About Visiting Zimbabwe

How safe is it to visit Botswana & Zimbabwe?

Visitors to Botswana & Zimbabwe are held in high regard so you can expect the warmest of welcomes. This also means that Botswana & Zimbabwe are both safe places to travel and the crime rate is low. The only real concern to a traveler is petty theft. We recommend taking the same common sense precautions you would anywhere else – just to be on the safe side! Don’t bring valuable things with you unless they are necessary for your trip. Keep your money and other valuables in a money belt or pouch under your clothes. Lock your bags and luggage, and leave valuable items you don’t need for the day (e.g. passports and credit cards) in the hotel safe. It’s also a good idea to take a taxi after dark rather than walking.

Do I need a visa to visit Botswana?

It is your responsibility stay up to date on the latest visa and entry requirements for your destination. Please use the CIBT entry tracker on our website as a guideline or visit the relevant immigration webpage for more information regarding this.

Do I need a visa to visit Zimbabwe?

It is your responsibility stay up to date on the latest visa and entry requirements for your destination. Please use the CIBT entry tracker on our website as a guideline or visit the relevant immigration webpage for more information regarding this.

Do I need vaccinations to visit Botswana & Zimbabwe?

For the most up-to-date recommendations please check with your doctor or travel clinic, and always go with their recommendations, as these can often change. We strongly recommend that you see a doctor, preferably one with experience in travel medicine, at least 8 weeks before your trip starts to discuss appropriate vaccinations.

Do you recommend buying travel insurance?

As an Active Adventures traveller, It’s essential you take out travel insurance to cover the likes of personal injury, medical expenses, trip cancellation for your travel with us. Please head to our Travel Insurance page for more in-depth information and insurance provider options. It’s also important to check your insurance covers all the activities you’ll be partaking in, in case you’re travelling to altitude or looking at extreme sports.

Can you help me find international flights to Botswana & Zimbabwe?

Our preferred Travel Partner Fuzion Travel can assist with you with flights and other travel arrangements. Let them know your preferred travel plans, including any stopovers or extra nights’ accommodation, and they’ll put everything in place for you. They offer a total travel solution and five star service that you’ll want to tell your friends about!

Can I have my own room on your Botswana & Zimbabwe trips?

If you’d prefer not to share a room, we have a single supplement option for an additional fare. If you purchase a single supplement, we’ll arrange for you to have your own room throughout the trip, except when you’re tenting in the Kopano Conservation Area and the price of the single supplement takes this into account.

What kind of clothing should I be packing?

Once you've booked your trip, you'll have access to a gear list in your portal on exactly what to bring along. The gear list is carefully thought out to provide you with everything you need to be warm and happy, or cool and relaxed, whatever the weather! So it is best to bring everything we recommend along, if you don't bring everything you need, we can't guarantee your comfort.

Do I need hiking boots or are hiking sneakers okay?

If you have good ankles that will be able to cope pretty well with varied terrain, then good hiking shoes or sneakers should be fine, but if not then hiking boots will give you better support.

Can I drink the water in Botswana & Zimbabwe?

Being in a tropical environment and not treated by the government, the water in Botswana & Zimbabwe contains different bacteria to what we’re used to at home. So we ask you not to drink it or use it for brushing teeth - use treated water at all times. Bottled water is recommended and the safari lodges will provide refillable drinking bottles too.

What is the food like in Botswana & Zimbabwe?

Botswana’s safari lodges & camps serve excellent international-style cuisine that incorporates local influences such as game meat, traditional maize (porridge) or sorghum-based Botswana staples.
In Zimbabwe, the local diet includes tasty peanut-based stews, wild mushroom soup, and starchy staples. You’ll also enjoy sumptuous fruit, especially papaya, and plenty of locally grown vegetables.

What if I need a special diet?

We are accustomed to catering to the following special diets:

  • vegan (no meat or animal products)
  • vegetarian (no meat products)
  • fishatarian (vegetarian, and eat fish)
  • no red meat (eat chicken & fish)
  • gluten intolerant (no wheat, rye, barley or oats)
  • lactose intolerant (no dairy products)

You will get the opportunity to specify your particular requirements when you fill in our pre-trip questionnaire. If you have any other dietary requirements please let us know well in advance, via email or the online questionnaire.

What is the currency in Botswana & Zimbabwe?

The currency in Botswana is the Botswana pula and Zimbabwe does not have a local currency (demonetised in 2015). Both countries use USD so it’s not necessary to exchange money into any local currency.

How much spending money should I bring and where do I get local currencies?

Our trips include all transportation, guiding, meals and activities (except where indicated on the itinerary). As far as spending money, you may want to bring some spending money to buy a souvenir or two, try a local activity or restaurant, or buy a round of drinks.

Usually the easiest thing to do is use your credit or debit card to withdraw money directly from your home account, in local currency. There are plenty of ATM's and banks in larger towns in Africa, and ATM's will accept all major credit cards and many debit cards. Cash advances are the most convenient way to get cash.

What time zones are Botswana & Zimbabwe in?

Central Africa Time (CAT) is the time zone for Botswana & Victoria Falls, it’s 2 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

What type of plugs and voltage do you use in Botswana & Zimbabwe?

Botswana & Zimbabwe operate on a 220 volt system, 50Hz and the 3-pin (Type M) is the most common, though nothing is guaranteed, a plug type can be different, even in the same rooms! Electricity will only be available while staying at the accommodations in Maun and Victoria Falls, though charging points will be available for your cameras and phones while on the safari.

Will I have access to internet/WiFi?

WiFi will only be available when you’re staying at the accommodations in Maun and Zimbabwe on your trip, though it could be sporadic. If you have WiFi, then you’ll be able to use your cell phone about 60% of the time during your trip, and 3G/4G is available too for accessing the internet from a smartphone or tablet.

How safe is it to go on a safari?

From a wildlife persepctive, it’s important to follow the below guidelines as you’re likely to encounter animals on foot or in water:

  • On all game activities (game drives, mokoro, boating and on foot) follow the instructions of the guides at all times.
  • Being quiet is not only important from a safety point ofview, but also to have the best possible experience for all guests.
  • The camps are unfenced meaning that animals might walk through at any time (especially at night) so guests to be aware and take caution.
  • In the camps the guides will always accompany guests to their tents/rooms after dark.
  • Never approach any animal and should you encounter one, stand your ground and never run

What is the weather like in Botswana & Zimbabwe?

Botswana & Zimbabwe can be divided into two main seasons. You’ll spend most of your time in the Okavango where the winter (June/July/August) mornings can be very cold however they warm up to nice sunny winter mornings from mid morning onwards.
In spring (Sep/Oct), it’s very dry therefore the day temperature can rise rapidly and it can be very hot around midday. The temperatures are mostly pleasant, with nighttime temperatures dropping down to 4-9°C (40-50°F) and daytime temperatures occasionally reaching up to 24- 27°C (75-80°F)

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Why Travel With Us

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Experience adventure the way you want

You’ll be inspired and exhilarated, enjoying mind-blowing scenery on foot, in a sea kayak, or by bike - all at your own pace.

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Crafting award-winning trips for decades - the Kiwi way

We're proud of our Kiwi roots and you’ll love our professional and warm style of hosting. We’re always here to help with planning... even hiking boot recommendations!

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Every detail covered, to maximise your time

We've got everything covered – top-notch meals, comfortable transport, superb accommodation, amazing guides and INCREDIBLE service.

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Group travel for those who aren’t ‘group travelers’

With an average of 12 guests per departure and an industry-leading 6:1 guest-to-guide ratio, you'll get to know your fellow travelers and have the flexibility to go at your own pace.

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Explore hidden gems through our expert local guides

All our carefully selected guides are highly experienced and have deep personal connections to nature and culture. You’ll enjoy an authentic local experience.

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4.85 out of 5 from 6576 reviews. That’s pretty solid.

We could hang around all day telling you how wonderful our trips are... but the best people to hear it from are our guests themselves.