Zimbabwe Safari Costs

Types Of Safaris In Zimbabwe & Their Cost

With so many potential draw cards from the likes of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World, Victoria Falls, it's no wonder Zimbabwe has become a famed safari destination. But what truly makes a safari in Zimbabwe exceptional is its diversity – from water-based activities, adrenaline-inducing adventures, lauded safari destinations, and even hidden gems tucked away in the wilderness.

Explore Zimbabwe's flagship reserve, Hwange National Park, popular Mana Pools National Park, and encounter elephants at Chobe National Park for the safari side of things. As far as adventures go, Victoria Falls has you covered, or the wonderful Lake Kariba, where relaxation and tranquillity beckon. But before you start planning your greatest adventure, let's break down what a safari in Zimbabwe might look like and the costs associated with it:

Zimbabwe Safaris: What Are Your Options?

Zimbabwe is full of wonderful safari excursions, all of which vary in cost. Fortunately, with a great array of options, there is something for both first-time and returning travellers. The cost of your safari will very much depend on the type of accommodation booked, activities, and also transport choices. Make a selection from the best places to visit in Zimbabwe and decide what type of safari you're interested in – here are a few options:

Fly-in Safaris & Charters: If you're looking to explore more than one safari destination in Zimbabwe, it's worth noting that not all are located close together – Mana Pools and Hwange as an example – meaning charter flights may be the best and easiest mode of transport. However, they also come with a higher price than road transfers.
Self-drives: A self-drive safari is definitely possible in Zimbabwe in the right locations. The country has areas of more and less well-maintained roads, so choosing the correct destinations, routes, and vehicle will be paramount.
Classic Safaris: Picturing the ‘classic' safari entails twice daily game drives, quintessential sundowners, and the knowledge and experience of trackers and guides during drives. These are typical of an activity inclusive accommodation, though excursions such as helicopter flips, hot air balloon safaris, and such are typically excluded. Private vehicles are sometimes available and ideal for families, groups, and multi-generational adventures.
Adrenaline Adventures: Given its landscapes, the presence of Vic Falls, and the Zambezi River, to name a few, Zimbabwe is the ultimate adrenaline adventure destination. Between a swim at Devil's Pool (seasonal), white water rafting, bungee jumping, zip lining, and so much more, there is an activity suited to every adventurous traveller who craves a little spike in heart rate.
Hidden Gem Safaris: Zimbabwe is home to several hidden gem destinations, places found a little off the beaten track but steeped in wonder and exuding exceptional beauty. Discover the likes of Gonarezhou National Park & Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve, or even Matusadona National Park. With a more remote locale comes additional transport, which can end up ramping up the cost of any safari if left unchecked – be sure of travel options in terms of whether road transfers are available (and the comfort levels of these) or if charter flights are a must, which will push up the price immediately.

How Much Does A Safari Cost In Zimbabwe?

As with any holiday, what you choose to do and where you go will impact the general cost of your safari. The table below breaks down costs for Zimbabwe safaris calculated per person per night, sharing in both low and high season:

Mid-Range		Luxury		5-Star
Low	High	Low	High	Low	High
$1,000 pps*	$1,500 pps*	$1,000 pps*	$1,700 pps*	$1,700 pps*	$2,000 pps*

* Please note: all the costs are guidelines only and an average for per person, per night, sharing a room in High and Low Season. They exclude international flights, visas and optional activities. Note that conservation fees, levies and permits are all subject to change. Peak or High Season generally runs over Christmas and New Year, and from about July to October.

The-Hide-Game-Drive---Callum-Gerrish — Game drive in Hwange National Park | The Hide

Zimbabwe Accommodation Costs

As with most safari destinations, Zimbabwe accommodation varies from comfortable camps and lodges to more premium and exclusive options. What you choose, and how accessible it is, will have an impact on the cost associated with your overall safari. Have a look at the table below for costs calculated per person per night, sharing during both high and low season.

Zimbabwe Accommodation Prices

4-star comfort		4-star luxury		5-star luxury
Low	High	Low	High	Low	High
$550 pps*	$850 pps*	$800 pps*	$1,200 pps*	$1,500 pps*	$2,000 pps*

* Please note: all the costs are guidelines only and an average for per person, per night, sharing a room in High and Low Season. They exclude international flights, visas and optional activities. Note that conservation fees, levies and permits are all subject to change. Peak or High Season generally runs over Christmas and New Year, and from about July to October.

How Does The Time Of Year Affect The Cost Of A Zimbabwe Safari?

While the usual phrasing talks to location, safaris are all about timing, timing, timing. When you choose to visit Zimbabwe will dictate the final cost of your holiday. The good news is that Zimbabwe’s variety of beautiful landscapes makes it a fantastic year-round destination.

May to October is considered the best time to visit Zimbabwe. Being the country’s peak season, also known as the dry winter season, the milder temperatures, rain-free conditions, and low malaria risk make it ideal for a safari filled with exceptional game viewing. With peak season, however, comes a higher price tag as there’s an increase in demand and more footfall, with accommodations and flights selling out in advance.

Zimbabwe’s green season, or wet season, typically runs from November to March and brings with it a lush, vibrant landscape, dense vegetation, and lots of rain! Because of the season’s less-desirable weather, this period of travel is not as favoured by visitors, causing costs to drop, resulting in fewer crowds, special deals on accommodation and flights, and value-adds (free nights, discounts, and upgrades).

If you’re hoping to visit Victoria Falls, in particular, then April and May are your best bets. The Falls are in full flood and offer the most spectacular views.

Additional Costs

It's important to note that ‘all-inclusive' may not be as comprehensive as you first expect. In Africa, and on safaris, that can mean a range of things, and it's always worth clarifying what is not included. One of the first things to do is consult our blog on visa-free African countries for US citizens, as that may tick off one of the boxes regarding associated costs already. What possible additional costs could you come across? Have a look at our list below:

International flights / getting to the country – as a rule of thumb, consider this excluded.
Getting from place to place – internal transfers may be included with some accommodations, however, some others may be at your own cost. Charter flights are popular in Zimbabwe, but road transfers are also available in most cases.
Vaccinations – certain destinations require vaccinations prior to arrival. These are excluded, and you will need to contact your healthcare professional to ensure the requirements are met.
Tipping is always optional but highly recommended. It's always worth carrying cash during your travels as it's the easiest way to go about this. Consult our tipping guide for more information.
Personal and travel insurance.
Additional activities – anything over and above the included activity offerings at an accommodation, which typically extends to hot air balloon safaris and helicopter flips or sometimes even cultural excursions.
The exchange rate – international card payments will likely incur a small fee for paying in a different currency. Zimbabwe's national currency is the Zimbabwean Dollar, but other currencies, such as the US dollar, are sometimes accepted.

Should you wish to plan your next great adventure with the help and guidance of one of our Africa Safari Experts, they will be able to advise you on all of the above and ensure each of your transfers is organised ahead of time and occurs as seamlessly as possible – just remember, in travelling, anything can happen and sometimes delays are unavoidable.

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