7 night victoria falls, hwange national park & kariba gold (b) safari · 2017-07-11 · this...
TRANSCRIPT
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7 NIGHT VICTORIA FALLS, HWANGE NATIONAL PARK & KARIBA GOLD (B) SAFARI 2 Nights Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
3 Nights Hwange National Park
2 Night Lake Kariba
8 Days / 7 Nights
Reference: IG-7B
Start Victoria Falls Airport / End Victoria Falls Airport
Total Price 7 Nights: US$ 4125 (high season) / US$ 2992 (low season) per person sharing
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Overview Victoria Falls, Hwange and Kariba, often referred to as the golden triangle, offer a perfect combination of game
viewing, leisure and excitement. Starting with 2 nights at the upmarket Ilala Lodge allows you to see the
magnificent Falls and enjoy some of the exciting activities on offer. Followed by 3 nights at Somalisa, which is
situated on a premier wildlife concession deep within the Hwange National park, offering outstanding game
viewing opportunities. Finally wind down and relax at Bumi Hills Safari lodge on Lake Kariba with views that will
take your breath away along with some land and water based activities. Charter flights are included throughout.
This classic Zimbabwe safari will without doubt leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Inspired Journey Overview
Accommodation
Night 1 & 2 Deluxe room at Ilala Lodge
Night 3, 4 & 5 Luxury tented room at Somalisa Camp
Night 6 & 7 Standard room at Bumi Hills Safari Lodge
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Transfers Included
Day 1 Road Transfer: Victoria Falls Airport to Ilala Lodge (30 mins)
Day 3 Road Transfer: Ilala Lodge to Victoria Falls Airport (30 mins)
Day 3 Road Transfer: Hwange airstrip to Somalisa Camp (30 mins)
Day 6 Road Transfer: Somalisa Camp to Hwange airstrip (30 mins)
Day 6 Road Transfer: Bumi airstrip to Bumi Hills Safari Lodge (20 mins)
Day 8 Road Transfer: Bumi Hills Safari Lodge to Bumi airstrip (20 mins)
Flights Included
Day 3 Victoria Falls Airport to Hwange airstrip (50 mins)
Day 6 Hwange airstrip to Bumi airstrip (1 hr)
Day 8 Bumi airstrip to Victoria Falls Airport (1 hr 30mins)
Highlights
View the spectacular and mighty Victoria Falls
Partake in the multitude of activities available at Victoria Falls from sedate sunset cruises to adrenaline crazy bungee jumping and everything in between
Outstanding and personalised game viewng on a private concession in Hwange National Park
Beautiful spacious en-suite tents with comfortably furnished private decks, overlooking Somalisa‘s waterhole
Fantastic relaxing getaway on Lake Kariba, with breath-taking views of the lake
Various activities while at Bumi Hills including game viewing, fishing, and cultural tours
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Day 1 – 2
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
One of the original natural wonders of the world, the Victoria Falls is a World Heritage Site and an extremely
popular tourism attraction. Known locally as ‘The Smoke that Thunders’, this spectacle is accessible from both
Zambia and Zimbabwe and it is an ideal place to combine a game viewing and water sports. There is excellent
fishing, a terrifying bungee jump and arguably the best commercial white water rafting in the world.
Overnight: Ilala Lodge
The warmest of welcomes awaits you at Ilala Lodge Hotel. A gracefully distinguished ambiance. Attentive yet
discrete service that always comes with a smile. The sublime surroundings of this boutique hotel will reawaken
your senses while the power of the majestic Victoria Falls renews your spirit.
Relax in luxurious style. Listen to the meditative rhythm of the great Zambezi as you drift off to sleep. As
morning comes, gently awake and lift your head to see the spray of the majestic Victoria Falls across the
unspoiled horizon – and let your soul sigh.
Feel at ease in the elegant and spacious rooms with African Teak furniture, soft, crisp linen – all
en-suite facilities, bathroom with separate shower, air conditioning, overhead fan, satellite TV, hair dryer, tea &
coffee making facilities, free Wi-Fi and a safe.
The view from your room looks across the lawns to the National Parks where elephant, warthog, impala or the
occasional buffalo might be passing by or simply grazing on the lawn or in the tree line.
Experience new tastes, indulge in unusual flavours and enjoy delectable dishes at our award winning restaurant
"The Palm”; dine in view of the spray of the majestic Victoria Falls! Lodge also has a spa, where you can spoil
yourself after a long day!
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Notes: Day 1, 2
DAY 1 You will be met at Victoria Falls airport by one of our representatives and transferred by air-conditioned minibus
to Ilala Lodge arriving by mid-afternoon. This gives you time to settle in and relax or we recommend a sunset
cruise or helicopter flight on this first afternoon. Dinner can either be at the Ilala’s palm restaurant, which is
excellent or we can recommend other options in and around town. Although activities are not included in the
package price, please let us help you to arrange an itinerary of activities suitable for you. Have a look at this page
Victoria Falls activities to see what is on offer.
DAY 2 You have 1 full day to soak up the wonderful atmosphere of Victoria Falls. It is the adventure capital of Africa and
there are activities on offer to cater for everyone’s needs. View the mighty Falls, partake in the many activities
on offer or wander around the streets to do a bit of curio shopping, then finish off at a café for refreshments and
a bite to eat. Please have a look at the available Victoria Falls Activities and contact us to arrange a suitable
itinerary just for you.
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Day 3 – 5
Hwange National Park
Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe’s biggest reserve, home to a profusion of wildlife, including giraffe, lion,
zebra and approximately 40 000 elephants. It provides sanctuary for all the country’s endangered species,
including a population of wild dogs thought to be among the most sizeable surviving groups on the continent.
Terrain ranges from desert dunes and savannah lands to rocky outcrops and sparse forests.
Overnight: Somalisa Camp
Somalisa Camp is set in the heart of Hwange National Park, and is known as the land of the giants for its big
elephant herds. Nestled in a stunning location tucked away on an acacia island along the edge of an ancient
seasonal flood plain, Somalisa provides guests with breath-taking views of the savannah plains across the
famous Kennedy Vlei line. Recently re-built, Somalisa Camp has upgraded its level of accommodation to that of
complete comfort and luxury whilst still maintaining its focus on the guiding and hosting of guests to ensure the
ultimate guest experience.
Consisting of seven elegantly furnished Sail Tents with gauze sliding doors, a glass wood-burner fireplace for the
cold winter nights, and an overhead fan for the hot summer days, each tent has en-suite bathroom facilities
including flush toilets, an indoor and outdoor shower, as well as a copper slipper-style bathtub. The main decking
area includes split level decking with a separate lounge and dining area, as well as a small splash pool for guests
overlooking the “Elephant Pool” and a natural waterhole where herds of game congregate to drink and where
guests can relax whilst soaking in the African bush.
Activities include guided walks lead by qualified and passionate guides who will share their knowledge and love
of the bush with you, game drives and night drives. Wildlife sightings include elephant, kudu, sable antelope,
zebra, wildebeest, gemsbok, the rare and endangered roan antelope, buffalo, giraffe, lion, leopard, hyena, and
many other wildlife species.
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Notes: Day 3, 4, 5
DAY 3 Today, you will be picked up after breakfast for your charter flight to Hwange. Your flight takes about 50
minutes, then it is a 30-minute game drive to Somalisa Camp. After lunch it’s siesta time during the heat of the
day, so take time to relax in your room or the main lodge area and watch animals as they come down to drink at
the waterhole. Then it’s your chance to see some fantastic wildlife on an afternoon and evening game drive with
your experienced guide. Return to the lodge after sunset, freshen up and enjoy a delicious dinner and evening
around the campfire, recounting stories of the afternoons wildlife sightings.
DAY 4 No two days are the same at Somalisa, game viewing experiences are tailor-made to guest’s preferences, please
see details below of the activities available and arrange these with the lodge managers onsite to suit your
individual needs. Whether you choose to track a herd of elephant on foot with your highly trained guide at dawn
or spend the afternoon relaxing overlooking the waterhole on the deck by the pool, this wild and unspoilt bush
paradise will guarantee you leave with memories to last a lifetime!
DAY 5 Another day of game viewing activities at Somalisa, tailor-made to suit your needs and influenced by what the
wildlife at the time of your visit is doing. Hwange offers some of the best wildlife sightings available in Africa
without the congestion of numerous tourists.
Activities Info
Game Drives at Somalisa Camp
Activities include game drives (day and night) by qualified and passionate guides who will share their knowledge
and love of the bush with you.
The open land cruisers will accommodate six passengers on tiered seating so that views are not blocked and
photographic opportunities are enhanced. Each of our vehicles are fitted with permanent canvas roofing to
protect you from the varying weather elements, whilst still allowing an optimised up close and personal
experience of wildlife.
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Walking at Somalisa Camp
Activities include guided walks lead by qualified guides. Because there is much more to an African safari than
being driven around in a vehicle while passively viewing animals, Somalisa combines the ultimate itinerary with
an expert guide, creating the complete journey, where experiences, knowledge and passions are shared and
whereby a standard Safari is transformed into an extra-ordinary one.
Bird Watching at Somalisa Camp
Hwange National Park is known to be one of the highest diversities of wildlife and bird-life species more than any
other National Park in Southern Africa. There are up to over 470 birdlife species in the area.
Evening Drives at Somalisa Camp
Evening Drives on Somalisa’s Private Concession within the Hwange National Park are done in open land cruisers
that will accommodate six passengers on tiered seating so that views are not blocked and photographic
opportunities are enhanced. Each of the vehicles are fitted with permanent canvas roofing to protect you from
the varying weather elements, whilst still allowing an optimised up close and personal experience of wildlife.
Guests who have booked a private vehicle can request for the roofing to be removed in advance of their safari.
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Day 6 – 8
Lake Kariba
The planet’s most voluminous man-made lake, Kariba is a popular tourist destination that was created in the
1950s when the mighty Zambezi was dammed. It stretches for more than 200 kilometres along the border
between Zimbabwe and Zambia, forming a natural boundary between the two countries. The lake’s waters are
home to abundant crocodiles, hippos, fish and aquatic birds, while its shoreline and islands are rich with
terrestrial game such as elephant and buffalo. It has become one of Zimbabwe’s main tourist attractions offering
houseboat holidays, fishing safaris and wonderful game viewing experiences.
Overnight: Bumi Hills Safari Lodge
Bumi Hills Safari Lodge and Spa boasts one of Africa’s finest wilderness locations with an elevated position on a
range of remote hills overlooking the vastness of Lake Kariba. Bumi is easily accessible by light aircraft and boat,
allowing you to be swiftly transported into paradise without the stress of a long journey. Guests are welcomed
into luxurious comfort by a team of staff that are unfailingly passionate and committed to ensuring your stay will
forever be etched in a treasured part of your memory.
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The lodge has a total of 20 rooms, all with views over the lake. Ten of the rooms are premium rooms with
balconies and uninhibited views. The other ten are garden rooms with slated terraces, set a little way back
behind and on a level above the premium rooms. All rooms are air conditioned at night and during the day upon
request.
Taking centre stage is the beautiful infinity pool that seems to blend endlessly into the lake horizon. The pool is
surrounded by intimate wine and dining terraces on different levels. The lodge interiors have been beautifully
finished in a fusion of contemporary western and African styles. At the Spa you will have the opportunity to
indulge yourself with a visual sensory experience like no other - overlooking Lake Kariba.
The Bumi Hills Safari Lodge is situated on an extensive private wildlife conservation area. Bumi Hills is home to
lion, leopard, big herds of elephant and buffalo, as well as a multitude of different plains game. Guests can
indulge in superb fishing in the lake waters surrounding the lodge with bream and the fighting tiger fish in
abundance. Birding and cultural experiences also abound. Bumi Hills is a dream wedding destination - an
incredible setting for a wedding whilst enjoying special time with family and friends surrounded by the lake and a
myriad of wildlife!
Notes: Day 6, 7, 8
DAY 6 Enjoy another early morning activity, then after breakfast prepare for your transfer out of Hwange National Park.
The flight to Bumi Hills Airstrip takes about 1 hour and then it’s a short 20-minute drive up to the hotel. Check into
your room and then enjoy a lunch on the terrace, the view is breath-taking so just sit back and relax. Cool off in
the infinity pool, or enjoy a spa treatment (optional extra) to wind down the day, or go on a boat cruise on Lake
Kariba where you will spot the various animals that visit the shorelines to quench their thirst. Head back to the
lodge for some drinks and prepare for dinner at the lodge's restaurant.
DAY 7 Go for a morning game drive with an experienced and knowledgeable guide out on the concession in an open
4×4 game viewer where you are likely to spot a wide variety of game, over 300 bird species as well as numerous
insects, reptiles and trees! Return to the hotel for lunch and then if you wish take part in a cultural village tour to
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the sprawling mud-hut Tonga village under Chief Mola. A visit is both humbling and life-enriching to witness how
these friendly, spiritual people survive under such harsh conditions and how they keep their centuries-old
traditions alive along the length of the Zambezi River.
DAY 8 Sadly, this is the last day of your safari. After breakfast you will be transferred to the airstrip for the 1 hour 30-
minute flight back to Victoria Falls airport in time for your onward flight.
Activities Info
Wildlife Game Viewing
Bumi is unique among luxury safari lodges because of
the exquisite added dimension of the water - Kariba is
among the world’s largest man-made lakes and a
genuine African wilderness with far more animals than
people. This allows for glorious game-viewing by boat
as well as the traditional open 4 x 4 vehicles and
walking in the wild with an armed professional guide.
Sailing
Bumi Hills has recently introduced sailing to its list of exciting
activities. The lake waters around Bumi Hills are ideal to
explore from our spacious 30-foot catamaran. Our fully
qualified skipper is on hand to take you on a special cruise
through beautiful archipelagos, bays, creeks and inlets to
discover sandy beaches, birding havens and game rich
ecosystems. As a special treat arrange with our activities
team to take a packed picnic lunch and stop off on an island
for a unique private dining experience.
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Birding at Lake Kariba
The Bumi area offers truly incredible birdlife,
especially water birds, and hundreds of species have
been recorded. It is a thrilling location for
photography of the majestic scenery and wildlife, but
also the prolific bird life for enthusiasts.
Lake Kariba Fishing
Bumi is the prime fishing region of Kariba and is a major attraction that sets it apart from any traditional luxury
safari lodge. Here it is rated one of Africa’s Top 20 adventures. You’ll thrill to catching the razor toothed tiger,
pound-for-pound one of the world’s most powerful freshwater species.
Cultural Excursions
The Bumi Hills Wildlife Area is bordered in the north west by
the Chalala and Mola communities, which are home to the
Tonga, a delightful and very spiritual people who have resided
in this area and along the length of the Zambezi River for
centuries. They have preserved ancient traditions and still live
a largely subsistence lifestyle that is reliant on fishing,
livestock and small scale farming. In the village of Chalala
these customs have melted together with the inevitable
infiltration of modern ways of life. However, the luxuries of a
permanent electricity and water supply to homes are still
absent, leaving the communities still largely reliant on the surrounding environment for their livelihood.
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Platform Sits
Bumi Hills has its own private game area, which extends below the lodge and includes a long stretch of
lakeshore. Note that this is outside Matusadona National Park itself, to the west of it, and is more limited than
the park’s vast area. Guests can use game hides, below the lodge, for closer views of the wildlife.
Price
Total Price for 7 Nights: US$ 4125 (high season) / US$ 2992 (low season) Per person sharing
Included
ILALA LODGE
• Accommodation in a beautiful classy deluxe room.
• Daily breakfast
SOMALISA CAMP
• Accommodation in a large, elegantly furnished tented suite
• All meals and non-premium drinks
• All game viewing activities
• Hwange National Parks Fees
• Laundry
BUMI HILLS SAFARI LODGE
• Accommodation in a standard room
• All meals and non-premium drinks
• Laundry
• Two activities per day: choice of game drive, boat cruise, guided walk, fishing, cultural village tour.
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TRANSFERS
• Air transfers between Victoria Falls, Hwange and Bumi Hills
• All road transfers between lodges and airports/airstrips
Excluded
ILALA LODGE
• Meals and beverages not mentioned
• Activities
SOMALISA CAMP
• Premium and imported brand drinks
• Gratuities and items of a personal nature
• $10 pppn conservation fee
BUMI HILLS
• Premium and imported brand drinks
• Lake fees for water-based activities
• BHAPU fees for land-based activities
• Spa Treatments
Travel Information
A nation of spectacular natural beauty, friendly people and rich culture, Zimbabwe’s status as one of Africa’s
leading safari destinations was dampened for years by its political instability. But now that the country is
transcending its strife and returning to a state of equilibrium, it is once again emerging as a vacation highlight of
the continent. Victoria Falls – known to locals as ‘The Smoke That Thunders’ – is one of the seven natural
wonders of the world and the sheer power of this massive body of water plunging into the Zambezi Gorge is
awe-inspiring and unforgettable. Lake Kariba, with its game-rich shores and islands, is an idyllic safari spot
featuring mind-blowing sunsets; Hwange National Park is known for its huge herds of elephants; and a kayak trip
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down the Zambezi through the Mana Pools National Park will appeal to the intrepid traveller, providing close
encounters with crocodiles, hippos and a host of other wildlife.
Banking and Currency
Currency
Zimbabwe uses US$ as its own unit of currency. South African Rands and Euros are also widely accepted. It is
advised to carry small denominations of change with you. However, it is best to pay for as much as possible
outside of the country. South African Rands work well in supermarkets, while US$ are preferred for curios,
accommodation and activities.
Banking
Banks in Zimbabwe are open for business Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 08h00 to 15h00, on
Wednesdays from 08h00 to 13h00 and Fridays from 08h00 to 11h30. They are closed on Sundays and Public
Holidays.
Travel, Transport and Getting Around
Taxis are safe and reliable, and can be booked through your hotel front desk. Taxis in cities travel within a 40km
radius of the city. Always take a taxi at night.
Major airlines fly into Victoria Falls, Harare and Bulawayo. Charter flights are available to most attractions and
camps.
Zimbabwe has a good road infrastructure, by African standards, although potholed. Between major towns, there
are frequent road blocks. Traffic drives on the left side of the road.
Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice
Zimbabwe's native cuisine is based on sadza, a cooked porridge made from ground maize which is normally be
accompanied by some tasty relish, perhaps made of meat and tomatoes, or dried fish. Safari camps will often
prepare sadza if requested, and it is almost always available in small restaurants in the towns.
Camps, hotels and lodges that cater to overseas typically serve a variety international fare, and the quality of
food prepared in the most remote bush camps is usually excellent. If you are driving yourself around and plan to
cook, then get most of your supplies in main towns.
Water in the main towns is usually purified. The locals drink it, and are used to the relatively innocuous bugs that
it may harbour. If you are in the country for a long time, then it may be worth acclimatising yourself to it.
However, if you are in Zimbabwe for just a short period of time, then try to drink only bottled, boiled, or treated
water available in towns and from all camps, lodges and hotels.
Clothing / Dress Recommendations
When in Zimbabwe the cardinal rule is to wear casual, comfortable clothes during the day as temperatures can
get very hot. It is advisable to wear light loose fitting clothing, such as cotton or linen, as they are cool and easy
to wash. Warmer clothes are advised for the evenings and rainwear for the wet season.
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A brimmed hat and sunglasses are a good idea year round. Long sleeved shirts and long trousers will also guard
against the scorching sun rays. It is recommended you wear light shoes, especially if your itinerary entails a lot of
walking.
For safaris, please remember to wear appropriate clothing and shoes. Earth colour clothes, such as browns,
greens and tans are advisable.
Electricity and Plug Standards
Current is 220/240 volts at 50 cycles per second. Both square and round plugs are used.