Excursions in Southern Africa

We’ll journey out on a safari to discover the area around Matusadona National Park. Bordered by the Sanyati and Ume Rivers, this 1,400km²/540 sq mi-large untouched area is home to numerous animal species such as elephants, hippos, crocodiles, buffalos as well as thousands of birds. We might be lucky enough to cross paths with a big cat or two! The history of the park is closely linked with that of the lake: during the construction of the dam, the rising floodwaters affected the native wildlife although the damage was mitigated by Operation Noah, an initiative which saved the lives of over 6,000 animals. This rescue operation allowed for large mammals, big cats, impalas and more to be moved to Matusadona where hunting is strictly prohibited.

PLEASE NOTE

• Times are approximate and the order of the visits can change. 

We’ll set out to discover the gigantic Kariba Dam which was created in 1955 to form Lake Kariba. Today, the dam serves as a source of electric power for 70% of Zimbabwe. You’ll get to discover the story and legends surrounding the creation of the lake, including the tale of NyamiNyami, the river god. Reaching over 140mi/200km in length and spanning a distance of approximately 25mi/40km at its widest point, the lake flooded flatlands, hills and forests alike, creating unique and emblematic landscapes where drowned trees reach skywards from the depths of the reflecting water.

PLEASE NOTE

• Times are approximate and the order of the visits can change. 

Victoria Falls were discovered by David Livingstone in 1855 and named in honor of Queen Victoria of Britain, but the indigenous Tonga name--"The Smoke That Thunders"--continues in common usage and suits the falls well: we’ll leave for a guided tour on foot along a path from where the views are among the most exceptional in the world, namely where the Zambezi River plunges over the cliff to become the widest waterfall in the world. The changing viewpoints and the grandeur of this natural spectacle will unfold as we walk along.

PLEASE NOTE

• Times are approximate and the order of the visits can change. 

We've specially booked small private planes to access Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe where you'll be boarding the ship. Each flight lasts for about 1 hour and 40 minutes and is a true opportunity to admire stunning panoramas over the lake and its numerous islets as well as the changing landscapes of the wilderness from above.

PLEASE NOTE

• Times are approximate and the order of the visits can change.

We’ll set out on a small private boat to discover the small waterways going into the Matusadona National Park and their unique wildlife. Gliding along their meanders, large bends and small, unspoiled inlets, you’ll be amazed by the magical atmosphere all around.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

Soar over Victoria Falls in a helicopter for spectacular views over this true wonder of nature known as the "Smoke That Thunders". You'll also get to see from above where the Zambezi River plunges over the cliff to become the widest waterfall in the world, as well as the city of Victoria Falls and the surrounding nature.

PLEASE NOTE

• The flight lasts for about 12 minutes.
• Times are approximate and the order of the visits can change. 

Embark on a safari in the Stanley and Livingstone Private Game Reserve, located on the edge of the Zambezi National Park, in the heart of a protected area. Explore vast and breathtaking landscapes made up of open grasslands, pristine waterways, and the iconic African Big Five.

This reserve is one of the few sanctuaries where you can observe the endangered black rhinoceros, as well as large herds of elephants and buffalo roaming freely.

Aboard your 4x4, enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view and marvel at the extraordinary wildlife and flora that make this destination truly unique.

PLEASE NOTE

• Transfer included from/to your hotel.
• Our local guide is present to translate the ranger’s commentary.
• Compatible with the Victoria Falls helicopter flight (both activities take place one after the other).
• The excursion runs approximately from 3:30 PM to 7:00 PM.
• The safari is offered as a private experience for CroisiEurope passengers from 6 participants. Below this number, they can join with other guests. In both cases, our local guide will be there to accompany them.
  
• Times are approximate and the order of the visits can change.