Immerse yourself in Amanda’s journey through Zimbabwe 🇿🇼 – from walking alongside rhino in Matopos, to the wildlife-rich plains of Hwange, and the awe-inspiring power of Victoria Falls. A destination that delivers depth, diversity, and truly unforgettable moments.
Day 1 – 2 | Matopos National Park – Amalinda Lodge
The journey began before sunrise, fuelled by excitement and zero sleep. After transiting through OR Tambo, we flew into Bulawayo – immediately met by heat, dry landscapes, and a very different pace. Security was tight, luggage took a beating (tip: wrap your suitcase), but spirits were high.
A scenic drive led us to Amalinda Lodge, a luxury property built into ancient rock formations. Wildlife greeted us on arrival, including a zebra–donkey hybrid (“zonkey”). The lodge is intimate, earthy, and deeply African, though not mobility-friendly due to stairs throughout.
Rooms are unique cave-style sanctuaries with outdoor-feel bathrooms and serene garden spaces. Lunch by the iconic rock pool, a site inspection (highlight: honeymoon suite with outdoor shower & outdoor viewing deck), and an afternoon at leisure set the tone. Evenings were spent around the fire with exceptional food and heartfelt hospitality.
Day two delivered a standout experience: rhino tracking on foot. We encountered three rhinos at close range during a territorial confrontation – raw, intense, and unforgettable. This was followed by visits to Rhodes’ Tomb, historic monuments, and ancient rock art paintings, offering powerful insight into Zimbabwe’s layered history, indigenous knowledge, and spirituality. A fitting farewell dinner ended our time in the mountains.
Day 3 – 4 | Hwange National Park – Amalinda Concession
A scenic road transfer took us to Hwange National Park. Along the way, we inspected Ivory Lodge (family-friendly tents overlooking a waterhole) and Tuskers Camp (unfenced Big Five camping). Both offer strong alternatives for different client profiles.
We settled into Sable Valley, an elegant yet relaxed safari lodge with stunning waterhole views. Lunch was hosted at Khulu Bush Camp, where warm, passionate staff and intimate rooms, including a tree-built suite, left a lasting impression.
Game drives in Hwange were exceptional: large elephant herds, massive buffalo numbers, abundant birdlife, and glowing sunsets. The bush was green, alive, and generous. Day four slowed the pace with a gentle morning drive, site inspection, hide time, cocktails, and uninterrupted wildlife viewing.
That evening, we were surprised with a private wilderness boma hosted by the lodge owners. With lions nearby, elephants grazing close, and baboons calling as the sun set, it was thrilling and unforgettable. The night ended with a farewell boma dinner, traditional dancing, drumming, and storytelling – a perfect last night in Hwange.
Day 5 – 6 | Victoria Falls – Safari Lodge
Our journey to Victoria Falls was blessed with a final Hwange gift: wild dogs – a rare and spectacular sighting. Arrival at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge Estate introduced us to multiple properties, including The Club (modern, elegant), Lokuthula (self-catering, budget-friendly), and Safari Lodge itself – mature, classic, and wildlife-focused.
A sunset Zambezi River cruise followed, offering views of Zambia, distant falls mist, wildlife along the banks, and vibrant skies. The drinks impressed more than the food, but the experience remained memorable.
Day six was packed with highlights. A guided tour of Victoria Falls exceeded all expectations – powerful, immersive, and humbling. We embraced the spray, explored viewpoints in reverse to avoid crowds, and soaked in the magnitude of Mosi-oa-Tunya.
A Safari Spa treatment provided much-needed relaxation before heading to the Vulture Culture Experience – a conservation-focused, eye-opening insight into the critical role vultures play in ecosystems. Lunch followed (excellent, as always), capped with yet another wild dog sighting.
That evening, the iconic Boma Dinner & Drum Show delivered a vibrant cultural farewell – singing, dancing, traditional food, Mopane worms (certificate earned!), and deeply personal moments as my clan names were sung. It is ideal for first-time visitors seeking culture, rhythm, and connection.
Day 7 | Departure
Our final morning included a debrief with Zotara and the Victoria Falls Safari Collection – an open, constructive exchange of feedback and insights. Transfers to the airport followed, with heartfelt goodbyes and reflection.
Despite delayed flights, frantic airport sprints, and turbulence, perspective prevailed. This was an educational of a lifetime — professionally enriching, culturally grounding, and deeply affirming.
I returned home exhausted, fulfilled, and grateful.
Zimbabwe owes me nothing. What an experience.
thompsonsafricadbn 