Fully guided Mana Pools and Victoria Falls - AUG25

Welcome to the Heart of Africa

This is the moment you’ve been waiting for—a chance to sync with the unique rhythm of Africa. Rise early to witness the sun gently peeking over the Zambezi, lighting up your tent. If you prefer, wake a little earlier and join the rest of the team in the Bedouin-style mess tent for a fresh coffee and light snack as you welcome the sunrise together. After this daily ritual, it's time to embark on your morning safari adventure.

The camp is ideally situated, with a diverse range of ecologies within easy reach: riverfront floodplains, permanent and seasonal lakes, expansive plains, albida woodlands, and mopane forests, to name a few. You’ll have the chance to explore these unique habitats from the comfort of an open game-viewing vehicle.

Camp Mana is renowned for its walking safaris—an experience that has become rare, requiring the expertise of highly trained guides like Steve Bolnick, the camp's owner. Here, walking safaris are a staple, and while participation is optional, most guests find themselves eager to experience more.

After your morning adventure, we return to camp just in time for a delicious brunch.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy. You might dive into a book, catch up on your journal, or simply relax in front of your tent, gazing out over the Zambezi. Time here is the ultimate luxury—so take it all in.

As the day continues, you have a variety of options for your afternoon activity. Perhaps you'll opt for another game drive, or take a safari walk. For a more serene experience, why not paddle quietly down the Zambezi in a canoe?

Then comes the cherished "sundowner" tradition—a time to find a beautiful spot, enjoy a drink, and bid farewell to the day as the sun dips below the horizon.

Back at camp, dinner awaits, followed by stories and a nightcap around the fire with old friends and new.

Journey to Victoria Falls

After a peaceful morning at Camp Mana, it’s time to embark on a scenic journey through the heart of the National Park. Enjoy a leisurely drive as we wind our way from camp to the nearby airstrip, allowing us to savor the final moments of Mana Pools' stunning landscapes. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife along the way—you never know what you might encounter as the bush comes to life in the early hours of the day.

Once at the airstrip, we board a charter flight bound for one of the most iconic natural wonders of the world: Victoria Falls. As the plane ascends, you'll see the vast wilderness of the Zambezi Valley unfold beneath you, a perfect bird’s-eye view of this beautiful, remote region. The short flight offers breathtaking views of the landscape, eventually revealing the mighty Zambezi River as it cascades over the edge of Victoria Falls in a breathtaking plume of mist.

Upon arrival at the Victoria Falls airport, a comfortable road transfer will take you to the Palm River Hotel, your serene oasis along the Zambezi. This boutique hotel combines modern elegance with the timeless beauty of Africa, nestled under the shade of palm trees just a short distance from the Falls themselves.

Once settled in, you’ll have the rest of the day to relax. Take a refreshing dip in the hotel’s pool or enjoy a cool drink on the terrace overlooking the tranquil river. The Palm River Hotel offers a peaceful retreat, perfect for unwinding after the wild adventures of Mana Pools. If you're feeling more energetic, take a stroll around the lush gardens or simply take in the stunning views of the river.

The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure—perhaps indulge in a fine meal at the hotel’s restaurant, or simply let the sounds of the Zambezi lull you into a state of pure relaxation as you prepare for the next leg of your journey.

Recommended itinerary (costs not included in the Price)

Day 1: Exploring the Natural Wonders of Victoria Falls

Morning: Guided Tour of Victoria Falls Start your day with one of the highlights of the trip—a guided tour of Victoria Falls, also known locally as "Mosi-oa-Tunya," or "The Smoke that Thunders." As you approach, the sheer power of the falls becomes apparent, with the sound of crashing water growing louder. Your guide will lead you through lush rainforest paths, stopping at various viewpoints along the way, where you'll witness the full majesty of the falls from different angles. The mist rising from the falls creates rainbows that add to the magic of this natural wonder. The tour provides fascinating insights into the geological and cultural history of the falls, giving you a deeper appreciation of the site.

Midday: Lunch Overlooking the Zambezi After an awe-inspiring morning, enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the restaurants overlooking the Zambezi River. The scenic views and the sound of the river flowing by create a serene ambiance, allowing you to relax and take in your surroundings.

Afternoon: Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi River In the late afternoon, embark on a tranquil sunset cruise along the Zambezi River. As the boat drifts downstream, you’ll have the chance to spot wildlife such as elephants, hippos, and crocodiles along the riverbanks. Sip on refreshments and watch the sky transform into vibrant hues of orange, pink, and gold as the sun sets over the African landscape. This is a perfect time to unwind and reflect on the beauty of the day, with the peaceful rhythm of the river setting the tone for a memorable evening.

Evening: Dinner at the Palm River Hotel End the day with a delicious dinner at the Palm River Hotel. The hotel’s restaurant offers a variety of fine dishes, blending local flavors with international cuisine. Whether dining indoors or under the stars, this evening promises a perfect close to your first full day in Victoria Falls.

Day 2: Adventure and Culture in Victoria Falls

Morning: Adventure Activities (Choose Your Thrill!) Victoria Falls is known for its adventurous side, and today is your chance to dive into some of the exhilarating activities available:

• White Water Rafting: If you’re up for some thrilling river action, embark on a white-water rafting adventure along the Zambezi. Renowned for its exciting rapids, this stretch of river offers both heart-pounding excitement and breathtaking scenery.
• Flight of Angels Helicopter Ride: For a different perspective, take to the skies with a helicopter ride over the falls. Known as the "Flight of Angels," this ride offers stunning aerial views of the falls and the surrounding landscapes, giving you a sense of the scale and beauty of the area.

Midday: Lunch in Victoria Falls Town After a morning filled with adventure, refuel with lunch in Victoria Falls Town. There are several charming cafés and restaurants offering a range of options, from local Zambian cuisine to international favorites. This is also a great opportunity to explore the town, visit craft markets, and pick up unique souvenirs.

Afternoon: Visit to a Local Village or the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the local culture or engage with wildlife conservation efforts:

• Cultural Village Tour: Take a guided tour of a local village, where you can meet the residents, learn about their daily life, and experience their traditions. This enriching experience gives you an authentic glimpse into Zambian culture, with opportunities to interact with villagers, see traditional homes, and even participate in activities such as weaving or cooking.
• Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust: If you’re passionate about wildlife conservation, visit the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust. This center focuses on the rehabilitation and protection of local wildlife, offering insights into the ongoing efforts to conserve endangered species in the region. You may have the chance to see rescued animals and learn about the important work being done to protect Africa's wildlife.

Evening: Boma Dinner & Drum Show Wrap up your stay in Victoria Falls with a unique cultural experience—a traditional Boma dinner and drum show. Held at the famous Boma restaurant, this evening is a vibrant celebration of African culture. You’ll be treated to a feast of local dishes, including game meats and Zambian delicacies. As you dine, enjoy live performances by traditional dancers and drummers, and even take part in the drumming session yourself. It’s a lively and festive way to end your time in Victoria Falls, filled with music, dancing, and delicious food.