Zimbabwe Family Safari

The striking scenery of Matobo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is dominated by the park’s iconic granite kopjes, shaped nearly two billion years ago, which stand as silent guardians over the landscape.

Named by King Mzilikazi of the Ndebele people, ‘Matobo’ translates to ‘bald heads’ and aptly describes the region’s arresting backdrop. Beyond its scenic beauty, Matobo is an exceptional site for rare wildlife encounters, including captivating sightings of reintroduced black and white rhinos in their natural habitat.

The park’s rich history is etched into its landscape. Its caves and hills have provided shelter for human settlement for thousands of years and as a result the region has dozens of ancient rock art sites created by the San people.

Families on safari in Matobo will find a blend of adventure and cultural immersion. Activities include guided rhino tracking, rock art tours, and hikes through surreal landscapes, making it a memorable and enriching experience on a luxury Zimbabwe safari.

Hwange National Park has become synonymous with Zimbabwe safari and is a must-see for families seeking thrilling Big Five encounters.

As the country’s oldest and largest game reserve, this iconic park spans over 14,650 square kilometres, stretching along Zimbabwe’s western border with Botswana. This vast expanse is home to an incredible range of natural habitats, from the semi-arid scrubland near the Kalahari Desert to rolling valleys filled with mopane woodlands in the northern regions.

Known as the world’s largest waterfall thanks to its 108 m height combined with a vast 1708 m width, Victoria Falls deserves its reputation as a globally iconic destination.

At its peak, approximately 5 million cubic tonnes of water cascade over the falls every minute, creating a rising mist and resounding roar that can be seen and heard for miles around.

Commonly referred to by their Lozi name of ‘Mosi-oa-Tunya’ meaning ‘The Smoke That Thunders”, Victoria Falls is a bucket list destination for many and the ideal start or end to a Southern-Africa itinerary.

As well as exploring the falls, you can canoe along the Zambezi, go white water-rafting or explore the abundant wildlife on a game drive or walking safari.

Built within an ancient bushman shelter, Amalinda Lodge is a truly unique retreat where families can immerse themselves in the rich heritage of Matobo Hills.

The lodge’s design seamlessly integrates the huge granite boulders into the camp, creating an atmospheric blend of luxury and nature.

Families will love the Amalinda Home-Stead, a private haven with three bedrooms, a personal guide, and a dedicated game-drive vehicle. Unfenced and surrounded by wilderness, it offers the perfect space to reconnect with nature and each other.

Activities such as trekking with some of Africa’s last remaining white rhinos, hiking to nearby San rock paintings, and cultural tours of local Ndebele villages bring the area’s natural and historical wonders to life, while the infinity rock pool and safari spa provide essential moments of relaxation during your family safari.

Sable Valley is one of the most celebrated luxury safari destinations in Hwange National Park, with a legacy that includes a visit by Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip in 1992. 

Operating for over 40 years, it is one of the longest-running camps in the park. Families will appreciate the intimate charm of the camp, where traditional thatched rondavels offer sweeping views of the Dete Vlei, a prime wildlife viewing area frequented by elephants, buffalo, and rare sable antelope.

The camp’s 15,000-acre private concession provides a blend of thrilling wildlife encounters and conservation-driven activities. Families can embark on guided walking safaris with expert Zimbabwean guides, encountering many of the Big Five on foot while learning about the park’s ecosystem. Day and night game drives are also available, with morning drives offering the best chances to spot predators and evening drives showcasing large herds of elephants and buffalo at sunset.

For those interested in conservation, a visit to the Hwange Research Centre offers insight into the park’s vital role as a stronghold for the rare African painted dog. Back at camp, the sunken hide and treetop viewing platform provide close encounters, allowing young explorers to watch wildlife from the comfort of a beanbag.

Batonka Guest Lodge is a family-friendly and intimate lodge situated within walking distance of the Victoria Falls National Park.

A tranquil haven away from the bustle of town, Batonka is the ideal place for families wanting to unwind from a long day of activities. Roam Batonka’s rolling gardens, take a quick dip in the pool or cool down with a cold drink on the main lodge’s breezy verandah. Perfect for a family trip to this iconic destination, eight of the well-appointed guest rooms have interleading doors and a dedicated family-suite features a cosy children’s bedroom.

Once refreshed, you can explore the huge variety of activities on offer in Vic Falls. If you’re feeling adventurous you can take a half-day canoeing safari on the Zambezi River or traverse the historic Victoria Falls bridge – 128 metres above the crashing water below.

Amalinda Lodge offers an incredible range of immersive cultural activities in the heart of Matobo National Park.

Explore some of the over 2000 ancient San rock art sites, where paintings tell stories of Zimbabwe’s earliest inhabitants.

Visit nearby villages to experience local traditions and gain insight into the Matabele people’s way of life. Take a tour of their ‘pole and dagga’ huts and visit the local healer to learn about the holistic medical treatments they use to this day.

Guests can also join guided tours to historical sites such as Cecil Rhodes’ burial place at ‘World’s View’, located on top of a spiritual granite hill of the Ndebele people.

The park is a stronghold for the iconic Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—making it one of Africa’s most rewarding destinations for big game viewing.

Hwange National Park is particularly famous for its massive herds of elephants, offering some of Africa’s most memorable sightings as they migrate annually from Botswana across the park’s plains. It also boasts Africa’s largest population of the critically endangered African wild dog – with over 150 individuals in 10 packs – providing a rare opportunity to see these fascinating animals hunt in their natural habitat.

Embark on boat safaris along the Zambezi River for a unique perspective from which to enjoy Vic Falls and the surrounding wildlife.

Glide through calm waters surrounded by forested riverbanks, where hippos and crocodiles wallow and herds of ele’s come to drink.

Sunset cruises offer breathtaking views as the sky transforms with golden hues, a perfect way to end an adventurous day.