Tracing the Zambezi through Africa's national parks
Embark on an unforgettable 13-day adventure through the heart of Southern Africa on the Grand Zambezi safari. Begin in Livingstone, where the mighty Victoria Falls thunders over basalt cliffs and the Zambezi River sets the stage for a sunset cruise. Journey into Botswana’s famed Chobe region, home to vast elephant herds and dramatic riverfront game viewing.
From there, venture into Zimbabwe’s renowned Hwange National Park, where golden savannahs and acacia woodlands shelter lions, buffalo, and countless bird species. Explore the park on immersive game drives, then retreat to the serenity of a riverside lodge in the Batoka Gorge. Here, you’ll enjoy birding, fishing, and another magical sunset cruise.
Conclude your safari in Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe side), where optional adrenaline activities and awe-inspiring views await. This journey captures the essence of Africa, blending iconic landscapes, rich wildlife encounters, and the power of the Zambezi River into a single, soul-stirring itinerary.
You will love
- Tranquil river cruising
- Unique perspectives
- Personalised service
- Sublime game viewing
- The majestic Victoria Falls
13 MAGICAL DAYS
DAY 1 | LIVINGSTONE | 2 NIGHTS
On arrival at Livingstone International Airport, you’ll be met and transferred to your lodge. Settle in and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
DAY 2 | LIVINGSTONE
Today you’ll visit the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, referred to by the Kololo tribe as Mosi oa Tunya, or “the Smoke that thunders,” while taking in breath-taking views from the Zambian side. In the evening, unwind with a serene sunset cruise along the Zambezi River, basking in the day’s afterglow.
DAY 3 | CHOBE NATIONAL PARK | 2 NIGHTS
After a hearty breakfast, you’ll begin the next leg of your journey, crossing the border into Botswana via the town of Kasane and travelling to your lodge in the Greater Chobe region – one of the most wildlife-rich areas in Africa. After settling in, you have the option to head out on a sunset game drive, with a chance to see elephants, lions, giraffes and more.
DAY 4 | CHOBE NATIONAL PARK
Spend the morning on the private concession in search of African wildlife. In the afternoon enjoy a relaxing sunset cruise on the Chobe River where you may spot elephants bathing, predators hunting, and an array of birdlife – all with expert guides to enrich the experience.
DAY 5 | HWANGE NATIONAL PARK | 4 NIGHTS
Today you’ll cross the border into Zimbabwe and travel to Bumbusi Wilderness Camp, located in a unique corner of Hwange National Park. Spend the afternoon relaxing or take an optional half-day game drive (at additional cost).
DAY 6 | HWANGE NATIONAL PARK
Enjoy a full-day game drive in Hwange National Park, home to massive herds of elephant, buffalo, zebra, and giraffe, along with predators, endangered species, and over 400 species of birds. This day may also include a visit to the Painted Dogs Conservation Centre, offering you a deeper look into Hwange’s wildlife and conservation efforts.
DAY 7 | HWANGE NATIONAL PARK
Make an early start for a full-day game drive through the park as you travel to your next accommodation – Nantwich Lodge.
DAY 8 | HWANGE NATIONAL PARK
Head out on a morning game drive to continue your exploration of the African bush, with time to relax at the lodge afterwards or enjoy other optional activities.
DAY 9 | ZAMBEZI RIVER | 2 NIGHTS
After breakfast, set off on a scenic journey to your next lodge, nestled on the banks of the Zambezi River. In the afternoon, experience an unforgettable sunset pontoon cruise along the river, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
DAY 10 | ZAMBEZI RIVER
Today you’ll enjoy guided game drives on the nearby concession, located just 30km from the lodge. Birders can look out for vibrant species, and keen anglers can try their luck with the elusive tiger fish. End the day with another peaceful pontoon cruise on the Zambezi.
DAY 11 | VICTORIA FALLS | 2 NIGHTS
Begin your journey back towards Victoria Falls and spend a leisurely afternoon at Ilala Lodge or enjoying one of the many optional activities on offer in town. Later, take a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River – a perfect way to unwind after a day of adventure.
DAY 12 | VICTORIA FALLS
See Victoria Falls from a new perspective today, as you take a guided tour from the Zimbabwean side. With more optional activities available (everything from high tea to bungee jumping – please enquire), this final full day offers the chance to make the most of your time in this iconic setting.
DAY 13 | VICTORIA FALLS | DEPARTURE
Savour a final breakfast before transferring to Victoria Falls Airport where your ‘Grand Zambezi’ tour will end.
WHERE YOU’LL STAY
A selection of the finest safari camps
Ilala Lodge – Victoria Falls
At only a short walking distance away from one of the World's Seven Natural Wonders, Ilalala Lodge provides distinguished yet well priced boutique accommodation in a gracious setting with personalized service and warm hospitality to match. Enjoy Ilala as a warm welcome home away from home. Read More
Nantwich Lodge – Hwange National Park
Located in the remote northern region of Hwange National Park, Nantwich Lodge is an intimate safari escape offering unparalleled wildlife encounters and panoramic views over a vast dam. Renovated from an old ranger outpost, the lodge blends rustic charm with modern comforts, creating a tranquil retreat immersed in nature.Read More
Bumbusi Wilderness Camp – Hwange National Park
Tucked away in a remote corner of Hwange National Park, Hideaways Bumbusi Wilderness Camp offers an exclusive and intimate safari experience. Blending rustic charm with modern comfort, this unfenced camp allows wildlife to roam freely, creating an immersive connection with nature.Read More
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
13 days / 12 nights
13 days / 12 nights
From $6,150 per person
From $6,150 per person
Departure Dates – 2025*
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August 4th – August 12th
-
September 2nd – September 14th
- October 8th – October 20th
- November 16th – October 28th
- December 3rd – December 15th
Departure Dates – 2026*
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May 13th – May 25th
- June 20th – July 2nd
- July 20th – August 1st
- August 3rd – August 15th
- September 2nd – September 14th
- October 9th – October 21st
- November 17th – November 29th
- December 3rd – December 15th
* PLEASE NOTE: All dates are subject to availability & departure may not be guaranteed pending booking numbers. Please contact us for current availability on all itineraries.
Inclusions
- Accommodation
- All Transfers
- Arranged Activities
- Meals
Exclusions
- Flights
- Pre & post tour accommodation
- Optional activities
- All drinks
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses such as telephone calls, curios etc.
- Travel insurance & visas
2
12
FLIGHTS & INSURANCE ON REQUEST
Thank you for putting together the ancestral adventure of a lifetime. I cannot speak highly enough of the trip. The transfers went smoothly, the accommodation was excellent, the drivers were amazing as they manoeuvred through the traffic and every tour guide had a great deal of knowledge and information. Nothing was too much trouble for them. The contrast of poverty and riches of the country was striking, from the beggars in the street and struggles of the poor to the spectacular, impressive sights of the forts and monuments. There were so many highlights. A moment in time that will never happen again.
Jenny KiddExellent and wonderful, reaching way above expectations.
Elizabeth MackintoshWe wanted the opportunity to see as many wildlife parks as possible and the Classic Safari Company provided an action-packed itinerary that included six, with 11 tiger sightings and nine leopard. This was overlaid with an introduction to Jaisalmer, Jaipur and the 'real' India. Pench and Panna were the hidden gems of a really great trip, very well organised, seamless and enjoyable. As a solo traveller I felt incredibly safe at all times. I want to go back!
Mark TaylorJulia you did a fantastic job - everything was first class. Well organised, efficient and stress free. We all agreed it was the best holiday we've ever had. Cant wait to travel with CSC again.
Milford familyWe are so happy we put our trust in CSC, we had an amazing adventure and would recommend them to anyone.
Kim & Brad BalanceThe trip exceeded my expectations and was the best family holiday I have ever had. Our children simply loved it and now I know more about African wildlife than they do about our own farm animals.
Rowntree familyClassic Safari are the people who genuinely know other culture and offer incredible insight to perfectly meet your expectations.
Melanie McMillan & Iain JonesWe loved it all. Our son wants to go back tomorrow. We would ALL go back again!
Laurence & Remi CunninghamAn amazing experience - the best family holiday we have ever had. We were extremely impressed by the meticulous attention to our itinerary. I can't speak highly enough of all the elements of this exciting journey!
Sheryl & Robert TaylorThank you for making our trip to Africa so spectacular. The attention to detail really made it special. It really was the trip of a lifetime.
Paul CozziVery knowledgeable and patient. Our trip was all that we hoped for. Wonderful!
Jane & Robert HappellEverything was perfect! Advice and information on destinations and activities hit everything I had hoped to experience. I contacted the Classic Safari Company upon recommendation and have now, in turn, recommended to others.
Tim BradleyYou can't improve on perfection. I had my best birthday and holiday with my family celebrating my 80th birthday in Africa. Everything that Julia organised was perfect and the whole trip was a highlight!
Buckingham FamilyThe trip of a lifetime, couldn't have dreamt of a better adventure if I tried.
Emma JeffcoatAbsolutely everything was first class & so well organised.
Simon & Jackie AdamsClassic Safari Company has done it again! A unique experience that ticked all the boxes - wildlife, culture and dining experience. A dream come true!
Ros WheelerTheir experience and knowledge of Africa is evident and we couldn't have been happier with the total package. This has given us a taste for Africa - now we are ready for more.
Andrew & Pip StevensIf you want the most sensational experience in Africa let Julia and the staff at Classic Safari Co plan it for you! Their knowledge, expertise and enthusiasm for their job means your every wish will be fulfilled.
Miriam & Joseph HarrisonClassic Safari is the place to go to for "top end" adventure travel.
Ron & Alison GuthrieClassic Safari Company were brilliant - 10/10
Di & Kingsley YatesThe Classic Safari Company is the best I have dealt with. Extremely knowledgeable & professional, friendly, patient & understanding of first timers to Africa.
Annette WhileyIt certainly was the best trip we have EVER had. The experiences were mind blowing. We want everyone we know to experience Africa - the animals, the people - magical.
Jo-anne & Dean MifsudWould do it all again and not change a moment. Best holiday ever!
The McGowan TribeAn absolutely fantastic travel company - every one of the many trips they have organised for us over 22 years have been faultless and fabulous.
Judith & Roger Williamsbegin your journey now
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