ZIMBABWE

Hwange National Park, formerly known rather inauspiciously as “Wankie Park’, is Zimabwe’s largest national park and it sits on the Western cusp of the country along the border with Botswana. Encompassing almost 15,000 km², the area is diverse and includes a number of distinctive biospheres including semi desert scrub and mope woodlands. There is a large elephant population. The close proximity to Victoria Falls makes it a great de4stination to pair with Africa’s largest waterfall.

There are a number of excellent camps in Hwange park, all of which are perfect for single travelers.

When to visit Hwange? The dry season running from July to October is considered the best time of year to visit owing to cooler temperatures and a drier climate. the drier climate means there are less leaves on trees which makes game viewing and easier task.

For bird enthusiasts, the summer months running from November through to April are recommendable with a number of migrating birds arriving for the summer.

Known as Mosi a Tunya, or “Smoke that Thunders”, Victoria Falls is one of the most iconic destinations in Africa. It is a wonder to behold, and is the kind of place that leaves travelers continually marvelling. The falls themselves sit between Zambia and Zimbabwe with Victoria Falls town on the Zimbabwean side and Livingstone on the Zambian side. There is often a debate over which side is better to visit, and the answer is invariably both – because why not.

The area has gone through somewhat of a renaissance since 2015 with improved infrastructure and government policies bringing in greater number of tourists. There are now also a larger number of incredible activities wot enjoy while in the area ranging from helicopter flights over the falls, traditional train dinners, eating with elephants, and of course swinging out to the edge of the falls at Devil Pools.

Malaria has been largely eliminated from the area (but not completely) making this a more worthwhile destination than ever before.

This is a great single traveler destination as there are a number of group activities and excellent lodges all close to the falls. You’re given the space to be alone when you want, but are always invited to share and participate which is great for any solo traveler.

When to visit Victoria Falls? The best time of the year to visit Victoria Falls is right after the heavy summer rains. Starting in February, the quantity of water that rushes over the falls increases dramatically as does the famous mist that shrouds the surrounding area.

Mana Pools
Located to the north east of Lake Kariba, and the northern most point of Zimbabwe lies Mana Pools national Park. This area, which marks the beginning of the Great Rift Valley, is traditionally considered to the the best safari destination within Zimbabwe owing to its lush wildlife, striking landscape, and excellent lodges. There are healthy populations of Wild Dogs, as well as numerous cats to be spotted in the area.

Owing to the poor network of roads leading into and around Mana Pools, it is recommended to fly into the lodges in light aircraft either from Harare or Victoria Falls. Owing to the political climate in Zimbabwe, Mana Pools is seldom busy. This makes it easy to get a space in any lodge, but single travelers to the area are advised to visit at busier times in order to have company at this destination.

When to visit Mana Pools? The busiest time of the year is between July to September when it is drier. Check with us in order to ensure what bookings are like and whether you might be the sole visitor to a camp at any point.

November to April are wetter months. There is a malaria risk in Mana Pools with a higher incidence rate in summer. Also, the rainy season makes many of the roads unusable during this period.

Located right beneath the upper stretch of Lake Kariba, Matusadaona National Park was opened in the 50s after the Lake area was flooded. With the flooding of the area, a great deal of game was drawn to this area and with it, a number of exclusive lodges began to sprout up in and around the area. What is cool about Matusadona, is that it allows visitors to combine the safari element of a trip (game viewing etc) with lake activities such as fishing. It is also possible to stay in a houseboat on the lake and explore the game reserve on vehicle during the day.

Malaria is prevalent in the area and visitors are advised to take precautionary measures when visiting the area.

When to visit Matusadona? The best time of the year to visit Matusadona is during the drier months as there are less mosquitos and a greater opportunity to view game.