Banded Mongoose Safari: Summary
Banded Mongoose Safari in a nutshell
Begin your adventure in northern Zimbabwe with four nights at Musango Camp on an island at the edge of Lake Kariba, the largest man-made lake in the world that has since become a magnet for wildlife. Musango was founded by the former head warden of neighbouring Matusadona National Park, Steve Edwards, who has an incredible knowledge of the area and long-established links with the local community.
You can explore Matusadona on walking safaris and game drives. While it has struggled with poaching in recent years, under the new guardianship of NGO African Parks we hope it will regain the lion and black rhino it was once famous for. There’s an equal focus on waterborne activities such as birding (we counted 60 species with Steve on a single boat trip) and fishing, as well as fascinating visits to nearby villages and even the palaeontology of the area.
A boat and light aircraft flight hop following Kariba and the Zambezi’s waters brings you to Mana Pools National Park. Spend the next four nights at John’s Camp, a refreshingly pared-back set up of just six traditional tents that’s all about its incredible riverside setting.
You may be lucky enough to be led on game drives and excellent walking safaris by professional guide John Stephens, the camp’s namesake (this can be guaranteed at an extra cost), but his handpicked team are all extremely knowledgeable and experienced. You’re likely to see elephants, buffalo herds and lion wander across the floodplain in front of your tent too. Lunches specially set up in the bush are a real treat, as is a night away from camp on the star-deck or fly camp for an even deeper dive into Mana’s wilderness.
At a glance
| Starts: | Harare International Airport | |
|---|---|---|
| 4 nights | Musango Safari Camp - Matusadona National Park, Zimbabwe | Full Board & Activities |
| 4 nights | John's Camp - Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe | Full Board & Activities |
| Ends: | Harare International Airport |
Musango Safari Camp
Matusadona National Park, Zimbabwe
John's Camp
Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe
Highlights
Our thoughts on five of the top experiences of this Banded Mongoose Safari.
- Experiencing the thrill of walking in Mana Pools
- Gaining an insight into culture around Lake Kariba
- Enjoying a great mix of activities from Musango
- Appreciating John Camp's superb riverside location
- Benefiting from expert and enthusiastic guiding
Activities
Some activities which can be included in the Banded Mongoose Safari: talk to us about those which interest you.
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Fishing
Guided walking safari
Key species to see on the Banded Mongoose Safari
Based on our travellers' observations, we’ve estimated the likelihood of seeing these species during the Banded Mongoose Safari. Click on the animals and our wildlife surveys page for more info.
100% chance
100% chance
100% chance
100% chance
100% chance
100% chance
84% chance
84% chance
60% chance
60% chance
60% chance
60% chance
60% chance
60% chance
0% chance
0% chance
0% chance
Let us help you customise your trip
Like all of our holidays on this site, this is just an idea. All of our trips are tailor-made, so we'll always adapt them to suit you.
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Prepare for your trip
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When you return
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