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A Zimbabwe Safari, with its rich wildlife, stunning landscapes, and welcoming culture, offers an incredible range of safari experiences, from budget-friendly options to ultra-luxurious lodges. Whether you’re exploring the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mana Pools, the famous Hwange National Park, or the majestic Victoria Falls, we ensure our safari packages cater to all budgets while promoting responsible tourism practices.
Key Factors for Setting Your Budget on a safari in Zimbabwe
Transparent Pricing:
The cost of your Zimbabwe safari will depend on your chosen destination, type of accommodation, group size, and the season in which you travel. We offer clear and upfront pricing with no hidden fees, allowing you to plan your adventure with confidence and peace of mind.
Inclusive Estimates:
Our Safari Cost Estimator provides an all-inclusive pricing model for Zimbabwe safaris, covering park fees, conservation levies, and other necessary costs. This ensures there are no surprises during your trip, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the wonders of Zimbabwe.
Expert Guidance:
Our team of seasoned safari specialists is on hand to tailor your Zimbabwe safari experience to your exact needs. We collaborate with top-tier lodges and camps to ensure that your journey is both luxurious and sustainable.
Exclusive Experience:
Beyond just booking your safari zimbabwe, we craft a complete experience that aligns with your budget and preferences. From walking safaris in Mana Pools to sunset cruises on the Zambezi River, we help you make the most of your time in Zimbabwe.
What Factors Determine the Cost of a Zimbabwe Safari?
Destination:
Zimbabwe’s safari destinations vary in cost due to factors like accessibility, popularity, and exclusivity. For example, safaris in Mana Pools, known for its bush walking safaris and canoeing on the Zambezi, tend to be more exclusive and therefore more expensive than in the more accessible Hwange National Park. However, Hwange offers extensive wildlife viewing and excellent value for money.
Accommodation:
Like most destinations in Africa, Zimbabwe is multifaceted. Lodges in and around the iconic natural attraction of Vic Falls are more affordable from $150 per person per night. Travelling further afield to Hwange or Mana Pools sees high-end lodges ranging from $600 to $1800t during peak season.
Time of Year:
The cost of a Zimbabwe safari is influenced by the time of year. The dry season (May to October) is the peak travel period due to the best wildlife viewing conditions, leading to higher prices.
However, travelling in the green season (November to April) can offer more affordable rates, fewer tourists, and lush landscapes, although wildlife may be more dispersed. Travelling in the rainy season between December to March could also see more affordable rates, but with less favourable weather and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Duration:
The length of your safari will directly impact your budget. A typical 7 to 10-day safari in Zimbabwe might range from $5000 to $8,000 per person, depending on your accommodation choices and level of luxury. Longer safaris provide a deeper immersion into Zimbabwe’s diverse ecosystems but will increase the overall cost.
Group Size:
Taking a multi-gen trip or choosing to travel with a small group of friends can help reduce per-person costs due to shared expenses. Group safaris in Zimbabwe might start at around $250 per person per day, while private safaris offer a more personalised experience at a higher cost, ranging from $400 to $700 per person per day, depending on the level of exclusivity and service.
Type of Safari:
Zimbabwe offers various safari types from Scheduled group safaris, private and fly-in safaris that can affect your budget differently. Guided safaris, which include a knowledgeable guide and often more luxurious accommodations, can range from $400 to $18000 per person per day. Our experts can help guide you through the choice that’s right for you.
Activities and Excursions:
Your Zimbabwe safari should come standard with activities such as daily game drives, guided walking safaris, or canoeing on the Zambezi, or visiting Victoria Falls. You could choose to arrange a private vehicle for a game drive at Hwange or Mana Pool from $300-600 per day depending on the lodge for a more intimate and thrilling wildlife viewing encounter.
Park Fees and Permits:
Park fees in Zimbabwe are relatively affordable, making it an excellent value safari destination. Entry fees for national parks like Hwange or Mana Pools are around $20 per person per day. These fees contribute to the conservation of Zimbabwe’s unique wildlife and habitats.
Keep in mind that some outfitters add their own conservation and community levies, which will be in addition to the quoted price, depending on the camp. These fees are compulsory and are added directly.
Travel and Transfers:
Internal flights or road transfers may be necessary to reach the destination of your choice in Zimbabwe.
Domestic flights between Harare and Victoria Falls, or to safari lodges, typically cost between $200 and $400 per person each way.
Meals and Drinks:
Most safari lodges in Zimbabwe offer full-board options, including all meals. However, it’s important to confirm what’s included to avoid additional costs, especially for drinks. Luxury lodges often include a selection of beverages, while mid-range accommodations might charge extra for alcohol and premium services.
Travel Insurance:
Comprehensive travel insurance is essential for your Zimbabwe safari, covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events. Insurance costs typically range from $75 to $250, depending on the coverage level and duration of your stay.
Tipping and Gratuities:
While not compulsory, tipping in Zimbabwe is voluntary and should depend on the quality of the service. We encourage guests to see this as a way to show appreciation and support for the community. Our guidelines suggest $10 to $20 per person per day for guides and about US$5 to 10 per guest per day for the general staff (tips are usually split amongst the staff).
Most places have a ‘tip box’ for staff (excluding guides), allowing you to leave a collective tip and tip your guide separately. Tip once at the end of your stay at each lodge or camp.
Visas and Vaccinations:
Ensure you budget for visa fees, which are approximately $30 to $75 depending on your nationality.
Zimbabwe is a malaria-endemic area, so it’s advisable to take necessary precautions and factor in the cost of malaria prophylaxis and any other recommended vaccinations, which might range from $50 to $150 per person.
Personal Expenses:
Set aside a budget for personal expenses, including souvenirs, additional activities, and incidental costs. This could range from $100 to $500 depending on your preferences and planned activities, allowing you to bring home memories and mementos of your Zimbabwean adventure.
