Itinerary

Full Zimbabwe Circle Wilderness Camping

21 days / 20 nights Zimbabwe Wilderness Self-Drive Safari

This journey forms a true loop through the country, linking iconic highlights with seldom-visited wild spaces. From the floodplains of Mana Pools and the vast waters of Lake Kariba to the power of Victoria Falls, the open plains of Hwange, the granite hills of Matobo, and the remote landscapes of Gonarezhou, it offers unmatched variety. Designed for experienced safari travellers, Full Zimbabwe Circle is a deep, immersive exploration of Zimbabwe in its entirety—raw, authentic, and profoundly rewarding.

All itineraries

Starting from

Suzuki Jimny (5-door) / Toyota Land Cruiser · 2 pax per Jimny / 4 pax per Land Cruiser 3,250 USD per Person

Toyota Land Cruiser · 2 pax per vehicle 4,700 USD per Person

Indicative per-person rates, dependent on season, party size and vehicle. Park fees, accommodation and vehicle are included as specified in your written offer; international flights are not.

Full Zimbabwe Circle Wilderness Camping safari itinerary

Route map for Full Zimbabwe Circle Wilderness Camping — The route

Day by day

7 stages across 21 days / 20 nights. This is the route as it stands. Nights can be added in one place or a leg dropped entirely.

Stage 1 of 7

DAYS 1 & 19 – HARARE – ARRIVAL AND RETURN

The journey begins and ends in Harare, creating a natural circle through the country. Comfortable lodge stays offer an easy transition into and out of the wilderness, allowing time to prepare, rest, and reflect on the journey’s full scope before departure.
Stage 2 of 7

DAYS 2–5 – MANA POOLS – RAW FLOODPLAINS AND INTIMACY

Mana Pools delivers one of Africa’s most immersive safari experiences. Camps are set in open, unfenced locations where wildlife moves freely through the landscape. Elephants browse nearby, lions are often heard after dark, and mornings begin with birdsong and soft light filtering through ancient trees. The simplicity of camp life enhances the sense of connection to the environment, allowing nature to dictate the rhythm of each day.
Stage 3 of 7

DAYS 6–7 – LAKE KARIBA & FERRY CROSSING – WATER AND ADVENTURE

The route opens onto the immense expanse of Lake Kariba, where still waters and distant horizons define the setting. Camps along the shoreline offer peaceful evenings and dramatic sunsets. The ferry crossing itself is a highlight—vehicles, passengers, and supplies slowly making their way across the lake. As land fades into water and reappears hours later, the journey takes on a distinctly exploratory character rarely experienced on modern safaris.
Stage 4 of 7

DAYS 8–9 – VICTORIA FALLS – WATER AND WONDER

A brief stay near Victoria Falls offers a change of pace and scenery. The thunder of falling water, rising mist, and lush riverine forest create a powerful contrast to the dry wilderness regions. It is a moment to slow down, explore on foot, and absorb one of Africa’s most iconic natural spectacles.
Stage 5 of 7

DAYS 10–13 – HWANGE – SCALE AND WILDLIFE DENSITY

Hwange’s vast open plains and woodland systems deliver classic big-game safari experiences. Camps are positioned in exclusive areas near productive waterholes, drawing elephants, buffalo, and predators throughout the day. Evenings are defined by distant calls and movement in the darkness, while mornings often reveal fresh tracks crossing camp. The scale and wildlife diversity here are among the strongest in Zimbabwe.
Stage 6 of 7

DAYS 14–15 – MATOBO – GRANITE HILLS AND ANCIENT LANDSCAPES

The journey shifts south into a landscape shaped by massive granite domes and rocky outcrops. Camps are tucked into boulder-strewn hills, offering quiet evenings and sweeping views. This region feels timeless and contemplative, with opportunities to experience Zimbabwe’s geological and cultural depth alongside its wildlife.
Stage 7 of 7

DAYS 16–19 – GONAREZHOU & LAKE KYLE – REMOTE AND UNTAMED

The final wilderness chapter unfolds in Zimbabwe’s far southeast. Remote campsites place you deep within rugged landscapes defined by sandstone cliffs, river systems, and vast solitude. Wildlife encounters feel raw and unfiltered, with a strong sense of isolation and scale. A final stop near Lake Kyle offers a gentle transition out of the wild—quiet waters, open skies, and time to reflect before returning to Harare.