Hwange Explorer Safari Hwange Zimbabwe Go on a horse riding safari through Hwange National Park, the largest National Park in Zimbabwe. It is home to 400 different species of bird and 107 types of mammals. The region that we ride in is underlain by deep Kalahari sands, the perfect terrain for our barefoot horses. The landscape is predominantly flat with no mountains or kopjes in sight, making for some excellent riding conditions and unimpeded views of the vast amount of wildlife that call this area home. Zambezi Teak and Camelthorn tree woodlands surround a vast number of open waterhole systems, or pans as they are more commonly known. Marvel in the amazing intricate shapes of these grand ancient trees; trees that have shaded and fed thousands upon thousands of animals over the centuries and will also offer you some welcome respite from the African sun when we rest beneath their spreading boughs to enjoy a delicious packed lunch or snack with our noble steeds grazing nearby. Throughout these pan fringe areas numerous mammals roam amongst the wonderful woodlands, in particular elephants and giraffe, and if that isn’t exciting enough there may be the opportunity to sail over a natural jump or two! Other types of habitats that we ride through and explore include Silver Terminalia, Coppiced Teak, Kalahari Apple Leaf, Kalahari Sand Acacia and the more open grasslands near the “pans.” Camping Ride with vehicle support Progressive Ride (no camping) Family Vacation Safari Ride Meeting: Victoria Falls Airport Airport: Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA) Transfer: Victoria Falls Airport Riders: Min 2 riders Max 8 riders Trip Brochure (PDF) Trip Rating

Packages and Options

Click here for updated current rates.

Minimum Deposit: 30 %

 

Rates Note:

Please note we have no control over National Parks fees, camping fees and transfers and as such rates for parks fees, camping fees, air charters and transfers are subject to change

Transfer and Other Charges:

Pick-up/ drop-off from Victoria Falls International airport (VFA).
The Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (CAAZ) is charging a departure tax on all internal and international flights. The cost is 50 USD per person for international flights.

Sample Itinerary - subject to changes

This is representative of what the itinerary will be like. Many factors will influence the day to day order of these rides. Weather conditions (cold, heat, rain, cloud, etc.), wildlife activity and movements, rider abilities and interests, climatic conditions (i.e. good wet season or very dry conditions), logistics, and many other factors will determine how the riding and other activities will be conducted. The guide will always ensure to maximize the wildlife experience.
Chances of rain are highest in December and January therefore riding is according to the weather conditions. Wildlife sightings will be minimal during this period as well.

Being bush camps it is likely to encounter animals such as elephants, buffalo, lion, hyena, baboon, snakes, spiders, scorpions, mosquitoes, flies, and many other types of insects in these natural bush locations. No guest should be surprised that these creatures exist as part of the daily experience of being in the Zimbabwean wilds.

Due to the very hot days during November, guests will be expected to wake up as early as 4:30 am so as to start riding before it becomes too hot.

Day 1: Arrival
Arrival at Victoria Falls Airport, meet and greet by a road transfer company, followed by a two-hour drive to Iganyana Private Tented Camp.
Afternoon high tea, briefing, intro to the horses, and then onto the horses for a short ride. This ride is very important to match you to the correct horse.
Back to fabulous tree camp, sundowners, hot showers, dinner, and peaceful sleep under in the spacious ensuite tents.
Meals included: Afternoon high tea & Dinner
Overnight at Iganyana Private Tented Camp

Day 2: Dete Vlei
Rise and shine with early morning tea and coffee and a light breakfast. Today we will explore the Dete Vlei and surroundings on horseback. More time to adapt to our riding style in the bush, the tack and horses. Any changes required will be done on this day.
We may ride for the whole day or we may ride in the  morning for 3 to 4 hours and again in the afternoon for a shorter ride.
This evening we return to Iganyana Wild for our second night.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Iganyana Private Tented Camp

Day 3: Hwange National Park
Guests early morning wake up, tea and coffee, breakfast and game drive to Main Camp in Hwange National Park. This is only a short drive of half an hour to perhaps an hour depending on sightings of wildlife. Check-in and payments at the Tourism office, then mount up and ride into the park, or game drive deeper into the park, meet the horses and ride to the campsite.
Overnight with sundowners, hot showers, and dining under the stars.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Camp Baikiaea

Day 4: Hwange National Park
Another early morning start – of which time does vary according to the seasons. Onto the horses and out to explore the area again. There are no set routes and the ride is conducted according to what sounds were heard during the night, animal tracks, weather conditions, and many other factors.
The day may be a half-day or a full day out with a picnic lunch near a waterhole for wildlife viewing. If lunch is at camp, then it is also an opportunity in the afternoon to do a safari walk or drive.
There are a few other waterholes that are worth visiting if guests have good cameras and lenses or are interested in birding. Also, the guide may decide that an early morning walk or drive is going to be better and may then switch the order
of the day to a non-riding activity in the morning and a ride in the afternoon. This also depends on the need for horses to rest before a long day tomorrow.
Whatever happens, there will be cold drinks around the campfire and a hearty dinner in camp.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Camp Baikiaea

Day 5: Ride to Kennedy Camp
Today we ride for a full day out to Kennedy Camp. This is a ride of approximately 30-40 or so km. It will be through the Zambezi teak and acacia woodlands, passing waterholes which may or may not have water in, with a picnic lunch on route.
Arrive late afternoon to Kennedy Camp, settle in with sundowners, and welcome hot showers followed by yet again a delicious dinner.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Kennedy Camp

Day 6: Kennedy Vlei
This day will be spent in the Kennedy 2 area of the Park in some very beautiful Acacia groves. The camp is set along the Kennedy Vlei which is a renowned area for wildlife viewing.
Options here are riding, walking, or a safari drive in the morning. Much will again be dependent on possible wildlife sightings and activity and time of year as to what riding we will do.
A good option is to take a drive to the Ngweshla area not far from camp as it is generally a very productive wildlife area where often a resident pride of lions takes charge.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Kennedy Camp

Day 7: Last Ride
Final early morning wake up to enjoy the dawn in the African bush around the fire.
After a light breakfast, onto the horses for a 15 to 25km ride (dependent on the time of year and early morning wildlife activity) to a point where the horse truck will meet us.
There we will end the ride, load the horses, and have a safari drive out of the Park back to Iganyana Wild for the night.
Sundowners will be a special affair reminiscing upon the past few days of being in the real African bush on fine steads enjoying the wildlife and big spaces.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Iganyana Private Tented Camp

Day 8: Departure
Depending on departure times, the last morning may include a very short walk out to stretch the legs before a sumptuous breakfast and departure on the transfer vehicle back to Victoria Falls Airport (or wherever the next destination is.)
Meals included: Breakfast

Non-Riders
Non riding companions are welcome to join this trip (same rates as riders). Please inquire for non-riding activities.

                                            Victoria Falls area

Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Average High Temperature (°F)	86	86	86	85	82	78	77	83	90	93	91	87
Average Low Temperature (°F)	66	66	64	58	51	45	44	50	58	65	66	66
Average High Temperature (°C)	30	30	30	30	28	25	25	28	32	34	33	31
Average Low Temperature (°C)	19	19	18	15	10	7	7	10	14	18	19	19
Average Precipitation (days of rain)	11	10	6	2	0	0	0	0	0	3	7	11

Source: NOAA
 
 
Seasons
There are 3 mains seasons in Zimbabwe:
- the Hot and Dry season (September to mid-November)
- the Hot and Wet season (Mid-November through April)
- the Cold and Dry season (May through to end August)

During the Hot and Dry season, temperatures often can go well into the 40’s C / 104+F.
Rain can occur at any time but this is unusual. Often there are the odd early wet season thunderstorms with strong winds, lightning, hail and some rain. These are generally very infrequent precursors to the main rains in December.

During the Hot and Wet season weather is characterized by mostly heavy afternoon showers with lightning. Can at times be raining in the mornings and at times during the night. December through March are when the main rains occur.
This is the main time for BUGS, SPIDERS, SCORPIONS and at times, snakes. These DO occur in Africa!! Even in the dry season there are often bugs and spiders. There is very little to fear from them. Mosquitoes are the main concern in some areas due to malaria, but malaria is not prevalent everywhere.

During the Cold and Dry season Hwange National Park often goes well below Zero Celsius / 32F. Early morning temperatures in May, June, July and early August can get to 0°C. Midday temperatures at those times are very comfortable and may reach high 20’s by end of August.


The ideal time to visit is from April through to end of November.
Due to wet season there are no safaris in February. March is possible but wet for riding.

Please bring sufficient batteries and mobile charging equipment for your cameras for the 5 day mobile component as there will be no access to mains electricity during this time.
There is 220V AC electricity provided by solar and generator at Iganyana but not on the mobile section. Charging of gadgets and cameras will be through a 12V DC vehicle inverter or accessory plug. Guests need to confirm with us about what charging plugs they need to bring. Iganyana has both 16Amp round pin South African plug sockets, and multi-socket adaptors for UK, European and USA plugs. There are also standard USB ports in the main living area of Iganyana.

It is very wise to bring a couple of good interesting paper novels to read or a Kindle for those moments of peace and quiet time or if there is rain or one just wants to take some time out in the camp.

A small torch such as a Petzel/LedLenser style head torch is an absolute must for the bush camping and indeed any accommodation in Zimbabwe.

Note that the safaris are done in remote bush locations and access to health and medical facilities can be some hours away. All medicines required by guests MUST be brought that will cover the entire stay.
This is also why health insurance and emergency medical evacuation insurance cover is a pre-travel requirement.

Below is a list of recommended items (not all items are needed and some items are seasonal requirements).

• torch/headlight and fresh batteries
• binoculars – lightweight and strong
• camera and batteries/flashcards
• sarong/shorts – for relaxing in camp
• buff for dust
• riding boots with a suitable walking sole.
• sandals/sneakers – good for in camp
• walking boots/track shoes (a comfortable pair of hiking shoes for those on a walking safari)
• sun hat or cap – broad brim hat ideal (not white!)
• sunblock
• lip balm
• sore cream
• hand sanitizer
• mosquito/bug repellent
• anti-malaria tablets (consult your doctor)
• personal medications
• swimsuit / costume / bathers – for camps with pools
• books/magazines…. for quiet time in camp. Wi-fi is not always available in some bush locations.
• personal toiletries
• small backpack or suitable bag for carrying cameras, personal items, etc.
• sunglasses with string attached
• from May to August warm clothes/beanie for evenings and early mornings
• always have a jacket/fleece on hand for any time of year in Africa
• wind breaker
• bush-colored clothes, not bright colored nor whites for bush activities (browns, beige, bush greens, darker greys, darker reds and purples are ok for walking)
• laundry – can be done free of charge in most camps/lodges. Some camps charge a small fee.
• in the interest of being eco-friendly and COVID-19 compliant please bring your own water bottles or hydration packs as we avoid using plastic water bottles. We have pouches on the horses that hold bottles. 750ml is ideal.
• phones and gadgets – mains electricity is not available everywhere so advisable to bring battery backup or solar chargers. All power here is 220 – 240 volts with most places using square 3-pin UK 13amp plugs, and around Bulawayo, it is mostly 3-pin round 16amp plugs. Universal adaptors are useful. USB car chargers using the 12-volt ports are very useful.
• US$ cash for National Parks Fees, safari activity add-ons, incidentals, bars/restaurants. ATM is available but could incur additional charge. Some local ATMs sometimes are out of cash. It is advisable to bring smaller denominations as change is rarely available.
• cash for gratuities is advisable
• money belt or compact belt bag

This list is only a guideline for you

Travel documents and Voucher

Flight tickets

Passport

**Important: Visa (check with your consulate for entry requirements, you may need to obtain your Visa prior to arrival**)

RIDING GEAR

Long trousers/jeans/jodphurs.

Takkies/trainers or riding boots – hiking boots will be too hot + Minichaps

Riding helmet  (best to bring your own)

Riding gloves

Hat (with chin strip) for sun protection

PERSONAL CLOTHING

Jacket or sweater for cool evenings

Dull-coloured clothing; no white or bright colours

Jeans

Shorts

Underwear and socks

Sleepwear

Bag for dirty clothes

Trekking boots/ comfortable shoes

Swimsuit

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO BRING

Personal Toiletries

Insect protection

Personal medications

Sore cream (for an emergency)

Sewing kit

Handkerchiefs

Adapter for electric appliances

Small automatic cameras only (extra batteries/film)

Address book and pen (for postcards!)

Sun glasses with strap

Sun tan lotion and lip balm

** No trip reports found with the tour ID you provided.

Accommodations
This is a progressive ride so nights are spent in different locations.

Description
Hwange National Park is a protected area and therefore the bush camps where we stay here have no electricity, no plumbing, and no permanent structures.
There are no fences or barriers at most of the camps (Hwange National Park is home to a healthy lion population so security is provided by a working electric fence surrounding the encampment at night) as these are wildlife zones so any wildlife can be moving through. A safety briefing will be done by the Professional Guide at the camps.

There is limited WiFi at Iganyana and none at all in the National Park, nor any mobile-phone service in the Park.

We are limited with transport options and thus must reduce the amount of kit we carry. Therefore please note that guests will use shared long drop toilets and hot bucket showers.

Accommodation Itinerary - subject to changes based on availability
Night 1-2: Iganyana Private Tented Camp
Night 3-4: Camp Baikiaea in Hwange National Park
Night 5-6: Camp Kennedy in Hwange National Park
Night 7: Iganyana Private Tented Camp



Iganyana Private Tented Camp
This is a private bush camp lies on the border of Hwange National Park. The 15 guest tents form an arc, each tent with a view over an ancient, long-dry riverbed. The large tented rooms are elegantly furnished with lovingly restored antiques and locally crafted wooden furniture. All rooms accommodate king or twin bed configuration. Each tent features en-suite bathroom with shower and toilet, separate dressing area, a mini-lounge and a tea-coffee station. Glass sliding doors lead from the bedroom onto a private veranda. Air-conditioning and electricity ensure your room is always bright, cool and comfortable.
On an elevated wooden deck, you will find an outdoor pool overlooking the waterhole just a stone's throw away.

Room Occupancy
Single supplement is mandatory in case we are unable to find you a roommate (only applies during high season).



Meals
All meals are included in your program.

Water at camps is borehole water that is filtered and very clean and safe to drink.


Dietary Restrictions
Vegetarians, vegans, gluten/lactose intolerant, celiac disease, etc. can be catered for IF all information about the diets and needs are received in time. Please, note that not all highly specific foods for these very specific diets are available in Zimbabwe so it is VERY important to be notified very well in advance (i.e. at least a couple of months) about any dietary requirements of food allergies.
It is easy to prepare meals without certain foods i.e. red meat, chicken, tomatoes, onions, peanuts, shellfish, etc., but not always easy to supplement with highly specific items found in many specialist food stores in Developed countries.

This trip includes some wine with dinner and can accommodate special dietary requests.

Tack:		English Trail Saddles & Australian Stock Saddles
Horses:		Boerpeds, Shire X, Friesian X and Thoroughbreds. Heights range from 15-16.3 hh.
Pace:		| Walk | Trot | Canter | Gallop | Jumps |
Level:		(4 to 5 out of 5)    Strong Intermediate to Advanced
Age:		Min 14
Weight:		Max 200 lbs / 90 kg
Riders:		Min 2 riders	Max 8 riders

Riding Level
Strong intermediate to advanced riding skill required. Being a confident rider with being riding fit is a big advantage.
This ride is for experienced riders that are comfortable at all paces as we will be riding in a Big Game Area, logs to jump (nothing serious) rough ground to navigate and trees to avoid!

Weight Limit
Our normal weight limit is 90kg. However, we might be able to accommodate experienced riders up to 95kg - please enquire.

Age Restriction
The minimum age to join this safari is 14 years old. Younger competent riders traveling with family might be able to join (please enquire).

Staff
Each riding safari is led by a Professional Guide and supported by a Learner Guide/Back up Rider/guide. In Mana there will also be a professional guide. First Aid Kit and Satellite Phone carried at all times.

Horses
Our experienced bush savvy well cared for and loved safari horses make the perfect companions for your Zimbabwean Adventure. We prefer cross-breed horses for their stamina and athleticism, and breeds include Boerpeds, Shire X, Friesian X and Thoroughbreds. Heights range from 15-16.3 hh.
Our horses have been specially selected for their job suitability, skills and temperaments to take you on safari. Every horse is very special to us, and they are not only the core aspect of our business but part of our family! We personally train and ride all our horses and they are super-responsive, friendly, obedient, loving and happy animals.
Currently we have a team of 26 horses ranging from experienced bush horses to green-backed youngsters. They are predominantly geldings, with a few foundation mares that we shall breed from in the future.
Our team of grooms have been trained in natural horsemanship methods to develop a rapport with the horses and ensure they are fit and surefooted.

Tack
Tack is of an excellent quality to ensure our clients utmost comfort and include Leon Liversage Trail Master Saddles handmade in South Africa, Australian Stock Saddles and Wintec English Saddles. These trails saddles are very comfortable for most horses backs and also for the riders for long hours in the saddle.
Most horses are ridden in a Snaffle bit.
Water bottle pouches and built in saddle bags on our numnahs provide ample space to carry day kit.

Insurance
It is a requirement and pre-requisite that guests must have purchased fully comprehensive accident and emergency evacuation insurance coverage.

Passports
Passport valid for at least six months beyond date of departure required by all nationals referred to in the chart above. Three blank pages are needed.
Passport Note
All visitors to Zimbabwe must be in possession of return tickets (or funds in lieu) and sufficient funds to support themselves. The granting of a visa is not a guarantee of entry.

Visas
Required by all nationals referred to in the chart except the following:
(a) 1. nationals of Cyprus, Ireland and Malta;
(b) passengers continuing their journey to a third country within 6 hours by the same or connecting flight, provided holding tickets with reserved seats and documents for onward travel and not leaving the transit area.

2. Nationals of the following countries may obtain visas valid for up to 90 days on arrival in Zimbabwe, provided holding tickets and documents for return or onward travel and sufficient funds for their stay: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, UK and USA.
Note: Due to the current political situation and ever changing regulations - we do recommend to aquire a visa in advance - it will save you time at the entry.
Note: Nationals not referred to in the chart are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements (see Contact Addresses).
Types of Visa and Cost
Visa at port of entry: cost dependent on nationality, British nationals £36 or US$55 single-entry, US$70 double-entry; contact consular section at embassy for further details.
Validity
Six months from date of issue.
Applications to:
Embassy; see Contact Addresses. For multiple-entry visas, travellers must apply direct to the Chief Immigration Officer in Harare, Zimbabwe.
Working Days Required
Seven.

Passport Required?
British	Yes
Australian	Yes
Canadian	Yes
USA	Yes
Other EU	Yes
Visa Required?
British	2
Australian	2
Canadian	2
USA	2
Other EU	1/2
Return Ticket Required?
British	Yes
Australian	Yes
Canadian	Yes
USA	Yes
Other EU	Yes

New Zimbabwe Immigration Requirement

To streamline and speed up the immigration process on arrival The Zimbabwe Immigration Department has implemented an online immigration declaration form that ideally, should be completed by all travelers prior to arriving at any Zimbabwean border post, including Victoria Falls Airport.

The intention is to have travelers complete the online form prior to arrival, in the comfort of their homes/office or whilst travelling and therefore speed up the process at the port of entry.  Wi-Fi will be necessary to complete the form.
If travelers are unable to complete the form in advance, they can do so upon arrival -either online (subject to Wi-Fi availability) using their own devices, or Immigration officials will provide access to devices at the port of entry.  Alternatively, guests may fill out the physical version provided by immigration.
If completed electronically prior to arrival, there is no need to complete the physical form on arrival. This new online process will, in time, replace the manual immigration declaration form and is aimed at improving the guest experience at border control.

Click here to access the declaration form: https://evisa.gov.zw/app/index.html

This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult the embassy or consulate for updated info.