The Ultimate Zimbabwe Circuit: Lakes, Highlands & Falls

This round trip from Lusaka, Zambia, through Zimbabwe covers key destinations: Kariba, Chinhoyi, Mutare (Eastern Highlands), Masvingo, Bulawayo, Victoria Falls, Livingstone, and back to Lusaka. Here is an ideal itinerary:

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Day 1: Lusaka to Kariba (Approx. 4-5 hours, 230 km)

– Route: Lusaka → Siavonga → Kariba
– Activities:
– Kariba Dam: Visit one of the world’s largest man-made lakes.
– Sunset Cruise: Enjoy a relaxing sunset cruise on Lake Kariba.
– Fishing & Wildlife: Explore fishing spots and spot wildlife such as hippos and crocodiles.

Overnight: Stay at a lodge near the lake.

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Day 2: Kariba to Chinhoyi (Approx. 2-3 hours, 150 km)

– Route: Kariba → Chinhoyi
– Activities:
– Chinhoyi Caves: Explore these mystical limestone and dolomite caves with the famed “Sleeping Pool” (a crystal-clear blue pool).
– Photography & Exploration: Capture the beauty of the caves and explore the surrounding wildlife areas.

Overnight: Stay at Chinhoyi Caves Motel or other local lodges.

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Day 3-4: Chinhoyi to Mutare (Approx. 5-6 hours, 360 km)

– Route: Chinhoyi → Harare (brief stop) → Mutare
– Activities in Mutare (Eastern Highlands):
– Nyanga National Park: Visit the Nyangani Mountain and Mutarazi Falls, Zimbabwe’s highest waterfall.
– Scenic Views: Explore the Eastern Highlands, famous for its tea plantations, misty mountains, and temperate climate.
– Vumba Botanical Gardens: A relaxing day enjoying nature in the peaceful gardens.

Overnight: Lodges or hotels in Nyanga or Mutare.

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Day 5: Mutare to Masvingo (Approx. 4-5 hours, 300 km)

– Route: Mutare → Masvingo
– Activities:
– Great Zimbabwe Ruins: Discover the ancient stone city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and learn about the history of the Shona civilization.
– Cultural Exploration: Visit the Great Zimbabwe Museum for insight into the region’s history.

Overnight: Stay in Masvingo at Great Zimbabwe Hotel or local accommodations.

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Day 6: Masvingo to Bulawayo (Approx. 3-4 hours, 290 km)

– Route: Masvingo → Bulawayo
– Activities:
– Matobo National Park: Explore the ancient granite hills and visit Cecil Rhodes’ grave.
– Rock Paintings & Game Drives: See ancient San rock paintings and take a game drive to spot rhinos.
– City Tour: Visit the Natural History Museum of Zimbabwe and experience Bulawayo’s colonial charm.

Overnight: Lodges in Bulawayo.

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Day 7-8: Bulawayo to Victoria Falls (Approx. 4-5 hours, 440 km)

– Route: Bulawayo → Victoria Falls
– Activities:
– Victoria Falls Tour: Marvel at one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
– Adventure Activities: Try bungee jumping, white-water rafting, or zip-lining across the Zambezi.
– Zambezi River Sunset Cruise: A peaceful way to experience the Zambezi River and spot wildlife.

Overnight: Stay at lodges or hotels with views of the Falls.

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Day 9: Victoria Falls to Livingstone (Approx. 30 mins – 1 hour, 15 km)

– Route: Victoria Falls → Livingstone (cross the border back into Zambia)
– Activities:
– Livingstone Island & Devil’s Pool: Visit the island for a swim in the daring Devil’s Pool right on the edge of the falls.
– Victoria Falls Bridge: Walk the famous bridge and visit the Victoria Falls Bridge Museum.
– Mukuni Village: Experience local Zambian culture with a guided tour of Mukuni Village.

Overnight: Stay in Livingstone.

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Day 10: Livingstone to Lusaka (Approx. 6-7 hours, 480 km)

– Route: Livingstone → Lusaka
– Activities:
– Optional Stops: Along the way, stop at Kafue National Park for a brief wildlife encounter.
– Return to Lusaka: End the trip with a return to Zambia’s capital.

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Estimated Total Duration: 10 Days

Total Distance: Approx. 2,300 km

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Highlights:

– Diverse Experiences: From wildlife and natural wonders like Victoria Falls and Lake Kariba to historical and cultural explorations in Masvingo and Bulawayo.
– Adventures & Relaxation: Activities range from extreme sports in Victoria Falls to relaxing cruises on Lake Kariba.
– Scenic Drives: Beautiful landscapes throughout, from misty Eastern Highlands to the rugged Matobo Hills.