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Matetsi River Lodge
Matetsi River Lodge
Matetsi River Lodge
Matetsi River Lodge
Matetsi River Lodge

Matetsi River Lodge


17°51’53.7"S 25°30’3.1"E

About Matetsi River Lodge

Major refurbishments on Matetsi River Lodge have given this classic old Zimbabwean property a new lease of life.

Re-opened in August 2016, the lodge is set within the 500km2 Matetsi Private Game Reserve on the bank of the Zambezi River, offering a safari-style experience just 45km from Victoria Falls.

From the vantage point of its own private reserve, Matetsi River Lodge allows guests to combine the tranquillity of the Zambezi River with relatively easy access to Victoria Falls. The game viewing here isn’t as prolific as in Zimbabwe’s larger national parks, but for those looking to combine luxury, safari and the Falls, Matetsi is a fantastic option.

Our view

From the vantage point of its own private reserve, Matetsi River Lodge allows guests to combine the tranquillity of the Zambezi River with relatively easy access to Victoria Falls. The game viewing here isn’t as prolific as in Zimbabwe’s larger national parks, but for those looking to combine luxury, safari and the Falls, Matetsi is a fantastic option.

Chris McIntyre

Chris McIntyre

Zimbabwe expert

Accommodation

18 Suites, 1 Private House

Children

Best for 14+

Open

All year

Activities

4WD Safari

4WD Safari

Birdwatching

Birdwatching

Boat trip

Boat trip

Canoeing

Canoeing

Cultural excursion

Cultural excursion

Elephant encounter

Elephant encounter

Guided walking safari

Guided walking safari

Helicopter

Helicopter

Kayaking

Kayaking

Microlight

Microlight

Private activities

Private activities

White-water rafting

White-water rafting

Traveller reviews of Matetsi River Lodge

1 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.


100%
1 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
1
Good
0
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Africa loverfromRye

Arrived 3 Nov 2017, 2 nights

"Luxury lodge, still needs to find it's feet"

"The rooms are beautifully updated …" Read Africa lover’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Matetsi River Lodge reviews

Matetsi River Lodge: Our full report

Major refurbishments on Matetsi River Lodge have given this classic old Zimbabwean property a new lease of life.

Re-opened in August 2016, the lodge is set within the 500km2 Matetsi Private Game Reserve on the bank of the Zambezi River, offering a safari-style experience just 45km from Victoria Falls.

Matetsi has 18 river-facing suites, but to retain personal levels of service these are divided into east and west, creating two camps of nine suites. Each has its own main area, staff and management, and operates entirely independently. That said, both camps and the central private house share some central facilities.

The front of every suite is predominantly of glass, making the most of the river views. Inside, they are spacious and luxuriously adorned, their décor combining traditional materials with modern style: sandy/earthy tones, a cowskin rug, coffee tables made of tree trunks and plenty of wood. Along with a queen-size bed surrounded by a mosquito net, each has a small lounge area with a writing desk, a tea and coffee station, well-stocked mini fridge, wardrobe and electronic safe. All of the suites are air conditioned and come with ceiling fans.

In the en-suite bathroom you’ll find his and hers basins, both indoor and outdoor showers, a deep round bath with views of the river and a separate toilet.

Facing the river outside the suite is a private, covered viewing deck, its shade enhanced by the surrounding trees. Large sofas make this an inviting place to relax with a book or a drink, and if the heat of the day becomes too much you can cool off in your own private plunge pool.

Each of the camps also has a family suite with an additional children’s rooms linked to the main bedroom by a passageway.

Matetsi River House lies between the east and west camps. The house was designed and built in the same style as the River Lodge, with the same sandy tones, lots of wood and plenty of stylish copper highlights. It incorporates four bedrooms with a maximum occupancy of eight guests, making it ideal for families or small groups. All are en-suite and two share an interleading door, clearly hinting at the family-friendly design of the property.

The River House bedrooms are set up with two on each side of an indoor dining area and lounge. These are comfortable places to relax, with picturesque views of the river – though on our most recent visit, in December 2016, we thought that weather permitting, guests will spend most of their time outside, either by the private infinity pool, around the firepit, or enjoying a meal in the outdoor dining area.

In addition to exclusive use of all the facilities at Matetsi River House, guests here have their own private chef, vehicle, guide and hosting team..

A series of winding sandy walkways links Matetsi’s suites and house to the main area – with a walk of up to 500m from the furthest suites. When we visited in December 2016 we noticed that the outside areas of the suite closest to the main area, including its plunge pool, were easily visible, somewhat compromising its privacy.

The main area itself is an open-sided structure clad in wood but with a modern feel. The style is open plan with the small lounge area, indoor and outdoor dining areas and a gleaming, highly polished, all-copper bar all running seamlessly together.

In addition to this, the two camps and Matetsi River House share perhaps the best-stocked and most impressive wine cellar we have seen in Africa – not to mention one that boasts an unexpected but extensive collection of diecast toys. For special occasions, private dinners can be arranged here.

Guests also share the 25m infinity pool overlooking the river, as well as a fitness centre, an on-site spa and a curio shop.

Activities from Matetsi focus on both the reserve and the river.

The reserve is home to many species, including elephant, buffalo, sable antelope, lion, hyena and leopard. You can take advantage of the resident guiding team at the lodge and search out game either on foot or by 4WD.

On the river, there are options for sundowner cruises, canoeing (over 16s only) and fishing.

And for something a little different guests can take advantage of a guided tour of the Victoria Falls, followed by high tea at the Victoria Falls Hotel.

Matetsi can also arrange some of the more extreme/once-in-a-lifetime experiences on offer in Victoria Falls, such as whitewater rafting, bungee jumps or helicopter flights, but these will be charged separately.

Geographics

Location
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Ideal length of stay
Matetsi River Lodge has a remote location, so it takes longer to get to than most of the other options in the Victoria Falls area. Because of this, we would recommend a stay of three nights here, giving guests a full day to visit the Falls, as well as plenty of time to relax at the lodge, and take advantage of the included activities.
Directions
Guests will arrive at camp by road, usually following a flight into Victoria Falls Airport. The first quarter of the journey is on tarmac roads, after which you’ll be travelling on dirt roads through the wildlife reserve. The drive from the airport takes approximately one hour 40 minutes.
Accessible by
Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Full Board & Activities
Food quality
We have not yet stayed at Matetsi, but on our visit in December 2016 we were lucky enough to have lunch, here. Based on that, and our experience of other &Beyond properties, we would expect a high standard of service and quality.

Although our lunch took a while to arrive, we enjoyed some hearty gastropub classics in the form of a burger and fish and chips. Both were excellent choices from the à la carte lunch menu and the chef personally came to see that everything was to our liking.
Dining style
Individual Tables
Dining locations
Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service
Private dinners can be arranged in the wine cellar on request.
Drinks included
All drinks are included during your stay here, with the exception of some imported and premium brands.

The tap water is extensively filtered, making it fit to drink, but bottled water is also provided.

Special interests

Honeymoons
Matetsi River Lodge is a luxurious out-of-town lodge with relatively easy access to one of the world’s natural wonders, Victoria Falls. A stay here on a honeymoon in Zimbabwe would be a great way to spoil yourself.
See ideas for Honeymoons in Zimbabwe
Wellbeing
With a fitness centre, 25m infinity pool and on-site spa, Matetsi River Lodge is the perfect place to soak in the wilderness and treat yourself to a spot of pampering in Zimbabwe.
See ideas for Wellbeing in Zimbabwe
Luxury
Matetsi River Lodge offers a luxury safari in a setting of contemporary style with convenient access to the great spectacle of the Victoria Falls. After a day of safari beside the Zambezi River, indulge at the spa and enjoy wines from the impressive cellar with dinner.
See ideas for Luxury in Zimbabwe

Children

Attitude towards children
Children are welcome at Matetsi River Lodge
Property’s age restrictions
There is no age restriction here although some of the activities are not suitable for children.
Special activities & services
Matetsi offers children the opportunity to participate in special child-friendly activities as a part of their WILDChild programme.
Equipment
Cots and highchairs can be provided on request.
Generally recommended for children
Matetsi River Lodge has a luxurious and adult feel, and we believe that young children would feel out of place here.
Notes
There are no fences around the plunge pools, the camp or along the river, there are open fires at night, so children should be supervised at all times.

Communications

Power supply notes
There is a back-up generator in case of a power failure.
Communications
Free WiFi is available in both the suites and the main area.
TV & radio
None
Water supply
Borehole
Water supply notes
All the suites have hot and cold running water, plumbed showers and flush toilets.

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
Yes
Medical care
The guides and management at Matetsi are first aid trained. The nearest doctor is in Victoria Falls (approx. 45km away).
Dangerous animals
High Risk
Security measures
There are guards on sight 24/7 and guests are escorted to their suites after dark.
Fire safety
Fire extinguishers can be found in each suite.

Activities

  • 4WD Safari

    4WD Safari

  • Birdwatching

    Birdwatching

  • Boat trip

    Boat trip

  • Canoeing

    Canoeing

  • Cultural excursion

    Cultural excursion

  • Elephant encounter

    Elephant encounter

  • Guided walking safari

    Guided walking safari

  • Helicopter

    Helicopter

  • Kayaking

    Kayaking

  • Microlight

    Microlight

  • Private activities

    Private activities

  • White-water rafting

    White-water rafting

Extras

Disabled access
On Request
Laundry facilities
A complimentary laundry service is included.
Money
There are small digital safes in the suites.
Accepted payment on location
Cash payments are accepted in US dollars, and card payments may be made using Visa, Diners, Amex and MasterCard.

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Matetsi River Lodge's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Matetsi River Lodge.


Excursions from Matetsi River Lodge

Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Matetsi River Lodge. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.


Bushtracks Express

Bushtracks Express

Generally four and a half hours

The Bushtracks Express Train starts its journey at Zimbabwe’s iconic Victoria Falls Station before departing on its route through Victoria Falls National Park the Victoria Falls Bridge, where guests enjoy the stunning view of the Falls. Afterwards, the train will depart for a siding out of town, for dinner.

More about Bushtracks Express
Chobe Day Trip

Chobe Day Trip

Full day - typically around 11 hours

For a top safari experience while visiting the Victoria Falls, don’t miss a day trip to Botswana’s Chobe National Park. Easily reachable from Livingstone, Zambia or Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, Chobe boasts some of the best wildlife densities in southern Africa, with exceptional numbers of elephant drawn by the permanent waters of the Chobe River.

More about Chobe Day Trip
100% (1 reviews)
Cookery Course & Activity

Cookery Course & Activity

Six hours - afternoon activity

Make a traditional Southern African ‘potjie dinner’ on the banks of the Zambezi River. You’ll be guided through the preparation process by professional chefs before embarking on an afternoon activity while your dinner cooks. The activity is followed by a 3-course meal, including your self-made Pot as the main course.

More about Cookery Course
Elephant Art Experience

Elephant Art Experience

Three hours

The Wild Horizons Elephant Sanctuary and Art of Africa have teamed up to create a unique experience in the bush, with private tutors running painting workshops and habituated elephants provision impressive models, standing just metres away from your easel.

More about Elephant Art Experience
Elephant Encounter

Elephant Encounter

Three hours

For a very personal encounter with elephants, head to The Elephant Camp near Victoria Falls. From its sanctuary for orphaned elephants, it offers close interaction with one of Africa's most iconic species, including the chance to feed the elephants by hand, and talk to the guides who have raised and trained them.

More about Elephant Encounter
92% (5 reviews)
Guided tour of Victoria Falls

Guided tour of Victoria Falls

Two hours - AM & PM departures

One of the seven Natural Wonders of the World, the mighty Victoria Falls has to be seen to be believed. Why not take an expertly guided trip to learn about the history, geology, flora and fauna of one of Africa's most spectacular sites?

More about Tour of the Falls
100% (5 reviews)
Helicopter Flight - Zimbabwe

Helicopter Flight - Zimbabwe

Shortest flight is 12-25 minutes

While viewing the Victoria Falls from the ground is a stunning experience, seen the world’s largest waterfall from the air allows for a completely different perspective, historically said to have been so beautiful as to have been seen by ‘angels in flight’.

More about Helicopter Flight
96% (9 reviews)
Historical Bridge Tour

Historical Bridge Tour

Two hours - AM & PM departures

A feat of engineering the Victoria Falls Bridge was built in 1905 as part of Cecil Rhodes' vision to link the Cape to Cairo. With an expert guide and the appropriate safety equipment you'll not only discover the wonders of this Victorian marvel but also gain a unique perspective of the Victoria Falls themselves.

More about Bridge Tour
Livingstone Island & Devil's Pool

Livingstone Island & Devil's Pool

Three hours

Victoria Falls is one of the world's natural wonders, and a huge attraction for many visitors to southern Africa. We're often asked if the waterfall is best viewed from the Zambian or Zimbabwean side, but we think the best way to experience the full majesty of the falls is from the middle with a visit to Livingstone Island.

More about Livingstone Island
96% (9 reviews)
Ra-Ikane River Cruise

Ra-Ikane River Cruise

Two hours minimum

Cruising the upper sections of the Zambezi reveals another dimension to the river's beauty, adding a sense of serenity to the thrill of watching it cascade over the Victoria Falls. On a Ra-Ikane river cruise, experience the river’s islands and channels, keeping an eye out for wildlife, and the spray from the Falls.

More about Ra-Ikane River Cruise
95% (40 reviews)
Rhino Walk

Rhino Walk

Around four hours - mornings only

Spend an unforgettable morning on a walking safari tracking Mosi-oa-Tunya’s small population of white rhino, with a strong chance of being able to approach these endangered creatures on foot.

More about Rhino Walk
95% (4 reviews)
Zambezi Explorer River Cruise

Zambezi Explorer River Cruise

Two hours

Watching the sunset from the middle of the Zambezi River, with the spray of the falls behind you, is an incredibly popular activity. A large variety of cruises are on offer, ranging from cheap and boozy directed towards the backpacker crowd, to much more luxurious and serene experiences. A great option for the latter style is the Zambezi Explorer.

More about Zambezi Explorer
100% (4 reviews)

Other lodges in Victoria Falls

Alternative places to stay in this same area.


Ilala Lodge

Ilala Lodge

Exceptionally well located between the Victoria Falls and the town of the same name, Ilala Lodge has comfortable rooms, a friendly atmosphere & great food.


93% (273 reviews)
Victoria Falls Hotel

Victoria Falls Hotel

With its unique setting, authentic style and excellent service, the Victoria Falls is one of the world’s most iconic hotels.


94% (167 reviews)
Batonka Guest Lodge

Batonka Guest Lodge

Small, comfortable and in lovely gardens, Batonka Guest Lodge is a perfect base for exploring the Victoria Falls away from the bustle of the town.


96% (30 reviews)
Victoria Falls Safari Lodge

Victoria Falls Lodge

High on a plateau a short distance outside Victoria Falls Town, the comfortable Victoria Falls Safari Lodge overlooks its own waterhole.


88% (22 reviews)
Sprayview Hotel

Sprayview Hotel

In close proximity to both the town and the Victoria Falls themselves, Sprayview is a value-for-money hotel in a convenient location.


75% (16 reviews)
The Elephant Camp

The Elephant Camp

The Elephant Camp is a luxury tented camp in its own private concession within Victoria Falls National Park, just 15-minute's drive town.


93% (15 reviews)
Old Drift Lodge

Old Drift Lodge

A lovely addition to the options in Victoria Falls, the stylish Old Drift has a great location in Zimbabwe's Zambezi National Park, with a range of activities.


94% (14 reviews)
Palm River Hotel

Palm River

Palm River Hotel offers a high-quality stay in a picturesque location on the banks of the Zambezi, with excellent food and a shuttle to the Victoria Falls.


100% (10 reviews)
Victoria Falls Safari Club

Victoria Falls Club

Just outside of Victoria Falls Town, Victoria Falls Safari Club offers an exclusive, relaxing and luxurious base to explore the area.


94% (10 reviews)
Pioneers

Pioneers

Located a five-minute drive from the buzz of Victoria Falls town, the mid-size Pioneers offers a relaxing stay in one of Zimbabwe's most iconic destinations.


98% (8 reviews)
Gorges Lodge

Gorges Lodge

Gorges Lodge has spectacular views from its perch on the edge of the Batoka Gorge. Although it is out of town it isn't too far from the main attractions.


98% (8 reviews)
Zambezi Sands

Zambezi Sands

Zambezi Sands is a stylish new camp with a range of activities on a remote stretch of the Zambezi River.


100% (3 reviews)
528 Victoria Falls

528 Victoria Falls

528 Victoria Falls is a charming, owner-run, boutique B&B in a leafy suburb of Victoria Falls town, offering an oasis of calm in an often-busy location.


80% (1 review)
Victoria Falls Safari Suites

Victoria Falls Suites

Just out of the town, Victoria Falls Safari Suites offers an exclusive, relaxing and luxurious base from which to explore.


100% (1 review)
Mpala Jena

Mpala Jena

In Zambezi National Park, Mpala Jena offers a luxurious but eco-friendly experience, within easy access of the Victoria Falls.


No reviews yet

When to go to Victoria Falls

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Matetsi River Lodge in Victoria Falls


Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Zimbabwe in January

January falls in the middle of Zimbabwe’s rainy season and is the wettest month of the year. Heavy rainfall occurs most days, flooding seasonal rivers and waterholes, with the occasional sunny spell.
With the high levels of precipitation the wildlife in the national parks becomes widely dispersed, taking advantage of the abundance of food and water, and is easily hidden by the thick, green bush.

While sightings of larger animals are possible, and many species drop their young at this time, game viewing is often sparse. However, many migratory species of bird arrive in Zimbabwe making it a peak month for birding.

The rains create incredibly sticky mud in Mana Pools National Park, preventing access and causing camps to close for the season. The majority of the camps in other parks remain open, with low rates attracting a smattering of visitors.

  • Peak of the rainy season: hot & humid with heavy rain most days
  • Bush exceptionally thick and green, with poor game viewing
  • Species such as impala drop their young
  • All camps in Mana Pools closed
  • Very few visitors, and low rates at open camps

Our view

A time to avoid if possible

Weather in January

Zimbabwe in February

February remains well within Zimbabwe’s rainy season. Although total rainfall drops, relatively short thunderstorms can still be expected most afternoons. On the plus side, there is a greater chance of some sunshine in-between.

Much of the country remains waterlogged, closing access to Mana Pools and severely restricting walking safaris in other parks. While game drives and canoeing remain an option, the abundance of water disperses animals, and thick grass can make it difficult to spot larger species, but birding remains excellent. Conversely, this is a great time of year to view the landscape, and is excellent for photographers. Sporadic cloud cover and clear air can make for some spectacular sunsets too, particularly over Lake Kariba and the Zambezi River where the reflections off the water add to the beauty.

  • Generally wet with frequent thunderstorms & hot humid days
  • Poor wildlife viewing due to dispersed animals & thick bush
  • Clear air, green landscapes & exceptional sunsets
  • All camps in Mana Pools closed
  • Very few visitors & low rates at camps that are open

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in February

Zimbabwe in March

March is the final month of Zimbabwe’s rainy season, when the rains start to trail off and sunny days become the norm. However, some days the clouds can still build, breaking into thunderstorms in the afternoon.

Mana Pools remains closed throughout the month but the majority of camps in Hwange, Matusadona and Gonarezhou remain open. Here, the landscape is green and alive, with migrant species of birds taking advantage of the abundant insect life. Larger animals remain elusive though, and walking safaris remain restricted.

By this time of year, the rains have normally trickled down to the Zambezi River and the flow of water over the Victoria Falls starts to increase, but without kicking up too much spray to obscure the views.

  • Last month of the rainy season: hot, humid days with occasional storms
  • Lush vegetation means good birding, but poor game viewing
  • Views of the Victoria Falls improve
  • All camps in Mana Pools closed
  • Open camps have few visitors & low rates

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in March

Zimbabwe in April

April marks the end of Zimbabwe’s rainy season and the end of summer. Clear skies are the norm, with just the occasional shower. Temperatures start to drop, failing to reach 30ºC most days and dropping down to around 10ºC at night.

As the rain fades the landscape starts to dry out. While the vegetation remains thick and green, the soil in Mana Pools dries enough for camps to open, and the only camps to remain closed are the most remote bushcamps in Hwange. Although viewing of larger animals remains tricky, the improved weather starts to draw back visitors, as do prices significantly below those in the peak season.

The Zambezi River and flow of water over the Victoria Falls is at its highest, although large amounts of spray diminish views of the waterfall itself.

  • Transitional period, with much lower rainfall & falling temperatures
  • Wildlife is still dispersed & hard to see, but sightings improving
  • Views of the Victoria Falls often obscured by spray
  • Camps in Mana Pools open
  • Visitors start to return & camps increase their rates

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in April

Zimbabwe in May

The first month in the dry season, May is also Zimbabwe’s first month of winter. If the rains are particularly late in a given year, you may catch the odd shower, but you can expect clear and sunny days the majority of the time. While it’s warm in the daytime, temperatures drop to single digits at night, so bring a warm jumper and gloves for early morning drives.

With the rain having cleared the air, the sky is bright blue, and it’s the best time of year for photography.

Even the most remote camps in Zimbabwe are now open. With the lack of rainfall, vegetation dies back significantly, and seasonal rivers return to sand. Not only does this open up the possibility of walking safaris, but wildlife viewing becomes much more reliable.

  • Start of the dry season, with milder days and cold nights
  • Game viewing significantly improves as vegetation dies back
  • Vegetation starts to turn from green to brown
  • Best time for photography with crystal clear air
  • Visitors start to return; all camps open & rates increasing

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in May

Zimbabwe in June

During June you can virtually be guaranteed of dry and sunny days, although temperatures continue to drop, and can get close to freezing at night in Hwange National Park. Jumpers, jackets and gloves are strongly recommended for early mornings and evenings.

The opportunities for wildlife viewing improve throughout the month as the landscape rapidly dries, and the animals start to gather on the banks of the Zambezi River and around Hwange’s waterholes.

Water levels in the Zambezi River start to drop, reducing the amount of spray kicked up at the Victoria Falls and greatly improving visibility, but still allowing a full curtain of water to cascade over the edge.

  • Middle of winter, with night-time temperatures close to freezing
  • Game viewing significantly improves throughout the month
  • Views of the Victoria Falls are at their best
  • Noticeable increase in visitor numbers
  • Camps considerably more expensive

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in June

Zimbabwe in July

July sits in the middle of Zimbabwe’s dry season. Although it’s warm at midday, temperatures are generally cold and in Hwange it’s been known to drop below freezing at night, with the lower-altitude Mana Pools feeling a bit warmer.

With wildlife clustering around the few remaining waterholes, sparse vegetation, and some of the best views of the Victoria Falls, this is one of the most popular times to travel, with camps charging peak season rates to reflect this. That said, visitor numbers to the country in general remain low, and outside of the Victoria Falls it’s rare for any areas to feel crowded.

  • Middle of the dry season with almost no chance of rain
  • Clear sunny days, but very cold nights
  • Wildlife viewing good; game drives and walking safaris unrestricted
  • Views of the Victoria Falls at their best
  • Camps charging peak season rates

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in July

Zimbabwe in August

While August is the end of winter and temperatures are starting to creep up, mornings and nights are still cold, and game drives in open vehicles can feel particularly chilly. Well into the dry season, the landscapes will have mostly transformed from green to brown and wildlife viewing in Zimbabwe’s national parks is approaching its best. Due to dust kicked up into the atmosphere and smoke from bush fires you may start to notice a haze on the horizon, but this doesn’t significantly impact photography.

August is one of the most expensive months, and the pleasant weather and decent game viewing attracts lots of visitors. While the national parks rarely feel crowded, Victoria Falls accommodation can sell out a year in advance.

  • Warm, sunny days but cold mornings & nights; almost no chance of rain
  • Wildlife viewing nearly at its best
  • Landscape turns brown, & an atmospheric haze develops
  • All camps charging peak season rates

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in August

Zimbabwe in September

Temperatures in September rarely drop below 15ºC, but are yet to reach the oppressive highs of summer. It will normally have been five months since the last drop of rain, so antelope and elephants cluster around whatever water remains, with predators never too far away.

The landscape is very brown, and the haze building on the horizon takes some of the colour out of the sky, so while animal subjects are plentiful, the background is not ideal for photography.

The combination of incredible wildlife viewing, hot and sunny weather, and cheaper flights outside of the school holidays make this the most popular time of year to travel, and availability at the camps can become limited up to a year in advance.

  • The best month for weather, with a pleasantly warm temperature range
  • One of the best months for game viewing
  • Victoria Falls starting to dry but still impressive on Zimbabwean side
  • All camps are charging peak season rates
  • Most popular time to travel, & space can be limited

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in September

Zimbabwe in October

October is the last month of the dry season with little chance of rain but building humidity. While the higher elevation of Hwange National Park limits temperatures to the 30s Celsius, they can easily top 40ºC in Mana Pools.

With little vegetation or water, wildlife is drawn to the few remaining water sources and viewing is at its best; visitors who brave the heat can be rewarded with some exceptional sightings, although haze in the air diminishes photos. Maximum visibility and dense wildlife concentrations can also make for very rewarding walking safaris, although the heat can make them uncomfortable.

Water levels in the Zambezi at the Victoria Falls drop significantly, and large stretches of the waterfall are a dry cliff-face – although it never dries completely. Camp rates remain at their peak, but visitor numbers drop as people avoid the heat.

  • Last month of the dry season; very hot with building humidity
  • Wildlife viewing at its very best
  • Dust & smoke in the air diminish photographic opportunities
  • Victoria Falls starting to look very dry
  • Camp rates remain at their peak

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in October

Zimbabwe in November

November is a transitionary period, with high temperatures and humidity. While they can’t be predicted with any precision, the first rains normally arrive halfway through the month, in the form of thunderstorms lasting a few hours each day.

Early November is a popular time to travel as the camps drop their rates, so if you’re lucky you can get peak-season game viewing at low-season rates. This is a gamble though as if the rains do arrive, animals are no longer limited to a few dangerous waterholes and will disperse into the bush. While all the camps in Mana Pools intend to remain open, the rains can make the airstrips unusable so you may find yourself moved to a different park, a risk that increases through the month.

  • Typically the start of the rains in Zimbabwe
  • Temperatures & humidity levels remain high
  • Wildlife viewing rapidly diminishes as the rains arrive
  • Camps remain open, but risk early closure in Mana Pools
  • Much cheaper time to travel as camps drop their rates

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in November

Zimbabwe in December

By December the rainy season has begun in earnest; this is one of the wettest months in Zimbabwe, with heavy thunderstorms most afternoons and occasionally continuous rain for a couple of days. While temperatures start to cool down the high levels of humidity can make the heat feel more oppressive.

With the rains comes an explosion of green growth, and the dust and smoke are washed out of the air. The resulting scenery – with the occasional bright blue skies – can be fantastic for photographers. Thick vegetation and plentiful water makes viewing of larger animals tricky, but with migratory species arriving the birding is at its best.

All camps in Mana Pools and the remote Hwange camps close, with those remaining open charging their lowest rates.

  • One of the wettest months in Zimbabwe
  • High temperatures & levels of humidity
  • Wildlife viewing poor, but birding good
  • Lush green landscapes & clear air; great for landscape photography
  • All camps in Mana Pools closed

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in December

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