6 Days – Hwange & Mana Pools Safari

Day 1: Arrival – Into Hwange National Park

Arrival at Victoria Falls Airport followed by light aircraft or road transfer into Hwange National Park. As you enter the park, open teak forests and grassland plains define the landscape.

After settling into your lodge, head out for an afternoon game drive. Hwange supports one of Africa’s largest elephant populations, often seen congregating around pumped waterholes. Buffalo herds, giraffe, and zebra move across open areas, while lions frequently patrol near water sources.

Sunset over Hwange’s plains marks the beginning of your safari immersion.

Overnight Stay: Somalisa Camp / The Hide Safari Camp
Meal Plan: Full Board

Day 2: Full Day Safari in Hwange

An early morning departure maximizes wildlife activity. Lions are often encountered resting near waterholes after nocturnal hunts. Hwange is also known for strong populations of wild dog, particularly in certain concessions.

The park’s varied terrain — from open plains to mopane woodland — creates diverse game viewing conditions. Large elephant herds dominate the landscape, particularly in dry months when water sources become focal points.

Afternoon drives continue into golden light as animals return to drink.

Overnight Stay: Somalisa Camp / The Hide Safari Camp
Meal Plan: Full Board

Day 3: Morning Safari – Fly to Mana Pools

Enjoy a final morning drive in Hwange before transferring to the airstrip for your light aircraft flight to Mana Pools National Park.

Upon arrival in Mana Pools, the scenery shifts dramatically. The Zambezi River forms the northern boundary, with floodplains shaded by albida trees. Wildlife moves freely between riverbank and woodland.

An afternoon game drive or river-edge exploration introduces Mana Pools’ unique wilderness character.

Overnight Stay: Ruckomechi Camp / Nyamatusi Camp
Meal Plan: Full Board

Day 4: Walking Safari & Zambezi River Exploration

Mana Pools is globally respected for its walking safari tradition. Accompanied by professional guides and armed scouts, you explore designated areas on foot. Elephant encounters are common, and large bulls are often seen standing upright to feed from albida trees.

Later, enjoy a canoe safari along a calmer stretch of the Zambezi River. Paddling quietly past hippos and crocodiles offers a different wildlife perspective compared to vehicle-based drives.

The combination of walking and canoeing defines Mana Pools’ immersive experience.

Overnight Stay: Ruckomechi Camp / Nyamatusi Camp
Meal Plan: Full Board

Day 5: Full Day in Mana Pools – Predator Territory

Early morning game drives focus on lion and wild dog activity before temperatures rise. Mana Pools’ open floodplains provide excellent visibility for predator tracking.

Midday relaxation at camp allows wildlife viewing directly from the riverbank. Elephants frequently cross between islands, and buffalo gather along water edges.

Afternoon activities may include another walk or boat safari depending on water levels.

Overnight Stay: Ruckomechi Camp / Nyamatusi Camp
Meal Plan: Full Board

Day 6: Morning Activity – Departure

Your final morning includes a short game drive or river excursion before breakfast.

Transfer to the airstrip for your scheduled flight to Harare or Victoria Falls, concluding your 6 Days Hwange & Mana Pools Safari.

Overnight Stay: Not applicable
Meal Plan: Breakfast