Ameliya's Itineraries
7 Days in Remote Zimbabwe | 6N/7D
Explore Zimbabwe’s most breathtaking landscapes on this 7-night safari, from the legendary Victoria Falls to the untamed wilderness of Hwange National Park and Mana Pools.
Arrive at Wilderness Little Makalolo for three nights under the African sky. Sleep in an elevated Star Bed, witness lions, cheetahs, and wild dogs on thrilling game drives, and enjoy up-close encounters at the log-pile hide. Engage with local communities and support vital conservation efforts with the Scorpions Anti-Poaching Unit.
Next, fly to Wilderness Little Ruckomechi, where the wild beauty of Mana Pools unfolds before you. Spend three nights in a classic safari setting, shaded by ana trees, overlooking the Zambezi River. Experience game drives, tranquil boat safaris, and guided nature walks, bringing you face-to-face with Africa’s most iconic wildlife.
A journey crafted for those who seek extraordinary wilderness, seamless luxury, and true adventure.
AMELIYA SIGNATURE SAFARI EXPERIENCE:
- 7 Nights | 2 Camps
- All meals & select beverages
- Professionally guided game drives & nature walks
- Conservation & community experiences
- Seamless transfers & scenic flights
- National park fees & expert-guided safaris
Per Person Sharing: $ 7,500
Inclusions
- Accommodation, all meals, drinks, laundry and wifi
- Domestic beer & wine and select liquor, safari sundowners, bush breakfasts.
- Park Conservancy fees, morning and evening game drives in a shared vehicle, and bush walks.
- Activities as indicated on the itinerary
- Scheduled air charter transfers to and from the camp
Exclusions
- Goods & Services Taxes as applicable
- Any changes in park fees, or taxes have to be borne by guests
- Tips, personal items, travel or medical insurance.
- Exclusive Vehicle: $550 per day
- All other expenses not mentioned in the “inclusions” above will have to be borne as additional expenses by the guest
Payment Terms
- All tours operate on 100% advance payment.
- 50% need to be paid at the time of booking, 25% is due 120 days prior to the trip start date and 25% 90 days prior.
- The preferred mode of payment is Bank Wire. All card transactions will incur a 3.5% service fee.
- Rates are subject to change and are not applicable for Christmas/New Years. Rates are valid for 2024 only. Rates for 2025 will incur a 10% hike.
- Any changes in government taxes and park/conservancy fees have to be borne by the guests.
- We reserve the right to revise any published costs without prior notice. However, confirmed bookings will be honoured.
Cancellation Policy
- 50% is non-refundable once the payment is done.
- The remaining amount will be refunded if cancellation is done 120 days prior to the tour start dates. Between 90-120 days, 35% is refunded.
- No refund if cancellation is done between 0 – 90 days of the trip start date. Amendment in dates within 90 days from arrival is treated as a cancellation.
- Please note that the date of written communication (e-mail) of intent to cancel will be the date considered for the calculation of the cancellation fees.
- The cancellation amount is calculated as per the total booking amount and not as per the advance deposited.
- No refunds in case of refusal to use a service/activity mentioned in the itinerary.
- All refunds are processed minus bank charges.
Upon arrival at Victoria Falls Airport, after clearing customs and immigration, a Wilderness representative will assist you with your onward light aircraft transfer to Wilderness Little Makalolo.
Important Note: Departure taxes are not included and must be paid in cash (small denominations preferred). Credit cards and Travellers Cheques are not accepted.
Domestic Passenger Tax: US$15 per person (subject to change).
Day 1-4:
Under the African Stars & Into the Wild
Spend a magical night in the elevated Star Bed at Madison Pan, surrounded by nature’s sounds. Refresh under an open-air shower, relax by the fire-deck, or unwind at the raised pool, watching wildlife at the waterhole.
Experience thrilling game drives with lions, cheetahs, and wild dogs, or slow down for a nature walk. Visit local communities, explore the log-pile hide for close-up wildlife encounters, and support conservation efforts with the Scorpions Anti-Poaching Unit.
Insider’s Tip: The log-pile hide offers unforgettable elephant sightings—keep your camera ready!
Stay: 3 Nights | Tented Room
Includes: Includes: All meals, selected alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, scheduled shared safari activities and daily laundry.
Excludes: Premium imported beverage brands and champagne.
You will be taken by light aircraft from Wilderness Little Makalolo to Wilderness Little Ruckomechi Departure Taxes are not included and must be paid directly, in cash, preferably in small denominations. Travellers Cheques and credit card payments are not accepted for this purpose. Domestic passenger tax: US$15 per person – subject to change.
Day 4-7:
Timeless Safari at Wilderness Little Ruckomechi
Experience the charm of a classic Mana Pools safari at Wilderness Little Ruckomechi, set beneath shady ana trees with stunning views of the Zambezi River and Zambian foothills.
This seasonal camp (winter/dry season only) offers an authentic safari adventure with game drives, boating, and guided nature walks in a truly untouched wilderness.
Insider’s Tip: A guided nature walk is an exhilarating way to explore the bush, often leading to incredible wildlife encounters.
Stay: 3 Nights | Tented Room
Includes: All meals, select beverages, safari activities & daily laundry.
Excludes: Premium imported drinks & champagne.
You will be taken by light aircraft from Wilderness Little Ruckomechi to Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport Departure Taxes are not included and must be paid direct, in cash, preferably in small denominations. Travellers Cheques and credit card payments are not accepted for this purpose. Domestic passenger tax: US$15 per person – subject to change.
Experiences
Game Drives
Rhino Walk
Bush Meals
Night Safaris
Bush Walks
Sundowner
Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe is a land of extraordinary contrasts and natural beauty, where vast savannahs meet ancient ruins, and iconic wildlife roams freely in some of Africa’s most celebrated national parks. Known for its rich history, Zimbabwe is home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the breathtaking Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The country’s diverse landscapes, from the rugged mountains of the Eastern Highlands to the wild, untamed expanses of Hwange and Mana Pools National Parks, offer unparalleled opportunities for adventure and exploration. Despite its challenges, Zimbabwe’s warm, resilient people, vibrant culture, and remarkable natural heritage make it a truly unique destination.
Little Makalolo
Tucked away in the southeast of Hwange, Little Makalolo offers an intimate and remote safari experience. Overlooking a busy waterhole, the camp attracts elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and zebras, with rare sightings of sable, roan, and eland. Guests can enjoy game drives, guided nature walks, and unique experiences like a night under the stars on the Madison Pan star-bed or a surprise bush pizza. The log-pile hide offers unmatched up-close wildlife encounters, making every moment in camp unforgettable.
Amenities
- Pool with View
- Bar Lounge
- Wifi – Connectivity
- Bar/Lounge
- Laundry Service
Little Ruckomechi
Nestled beneath iconic albida trees, Little Ruckomechi offers an intimate escape into the heart of Mana Pools National Park. Located within a private concession, the camp ensures an exclusive safari experience with a variety of ways to explore this wildlife-rich paradise. Built on elevated wooden decks, its elegant en-suite tents reflect the charm of a bygone explorer era. Guests can unwind in the open-air lounge and dining area, take a refreshing dip in the plunge pool, and soak in breathtaking views of the Zambezi River and Zambian foothills.
Amenities
- Pool
- Bar/Lounge
- Wifi – Connectivity
- Laundry
Per Person Sharing: $ 7,500
Inclusions
- Accommodation, all meals, drinks, laundry and wifi
- Domestic beer & wine and select liquor, safari sundowners, bush breakfasts.
- Park Conservancy fees, morning and evening game drives in a shared vehicle, and bush walks.
- Activities as indicated on the itinerary
- Scheduled air charter transfers to and from the camp
Exclusions
- Goods & Services Taxes as applicable
- Any changes in park fees, or taxes have to be borne by guests
- Tips, personal items, travel or medical insurance.
- Exclusive Vehicle: $550 per day
- All other expenses not mentioned in the “inclusions” above will have to be borne as additional expenses by the guest
Payment Terms
- All tours operate on 100% advance payment.
- 50% need to be paid at the time of booking, 25% is due 120 days prior to the trip start date and 25% 90 days prior.
- The preferred mode of payment is Bank Wire. All card transactions will incur a 3.5% service fee.
- Rates are subject to change and are not applicable for Christmas/New Years. Rates are valid for 2024 only. Rates for 2025 will incur a 10% hike.
- Any changes in government taxes and park/conservancy fees have to be borne by the guests.
- We reserve the right to revise any published costs without prior notice. However, confirmed bookings will be honoured.
Cancellation Policy
- 50% is non-refundable once the payment is done.
- The remaining amount will be refunded if cancellation is done 120 days prior to the tour start dates. Between 90-120 days, 35% is refunded.
- No refund if cancellation is done between 0 – 90 days of the trip start date. Amendment in dates within 90 days from arrival is treated as a cancellation.
- Please note that the date of written communication (e-mail) of intent to cancel will be the date considered for the calculation of the cancellation fees.
- The cancellation amount is calculated as per the total booking amount and not as per the advance deposited.
- No refunds in case of refusal to use a service/activity mentioned in the itinerary.
- All refunds are processed minus bank charges.
GENERAL QUERIES
WHAT ARE THE MODES OF PAYMENT?
We accept wire transfers, debit/credit cards, and UPI payments. Please note that a 2% gateway fee is applicable for cards.
Can I customize the experiences I've seen on your website?
Yes, please feel free to reach out to us in case you want to get a customized itinerary according to your preferred destinations, accommodations, interests, and requirements. For e.g. number of days or friends and family members you want to travel with.
How far in advance do I need to book a safari?
While Ameliya’s travel advisors do their best to accommodate our guests’ last-minute needs and requests, we strongly advise booking as far ahead in advance as possible to ensure the availability of accommodations. The best thing to do is to get in touch with us as soon as you think of a safari experience, whether it is this year or the next. Here’s a general advisory that will help you with the decision-making process:
For Indian parks, we recommend at least 4 -12 months notice, especially for a tiger/snow leopard experience, but lower lead times are possible depending on the locations and activities. Parks in India are regulated by the government and each reserve has a cap on the number of vehicles that can enter the park. If tickets are sold out, we are unable to book the safaris.
For Africa, we recommend 6-10 months for the high season (June – October), and 2-4 months for the low season (November – April).
Is it safe to travel to Africa?
Despite most African stereotypes of a warn-torn, poverty-stricken continent, Africa is as safe as any other international travel destination. Just remember that African countries are poorer in contrast to first-world countries and therefore you should be conscious of flashing or leaving money & jewelry lying around.
Guests are advised to leave valuables in a safe or with the camp/lodge manager for safe-keeping. African people are very friendly, warm and hospitable and their guests will always feel safe in the care of the camp/lodge staff.
Their job is to ensure the safety and comfort of their clients at all times. Properties in Africa will always have an emergency/ evacuation plan if anything were to go wrong
Should I purchase travel health insurance?
We strongly recommend that our travellers buy comprehensive travel and health insurance prior to coming on an Ameliya Safari experience. Should you require any assistance with purchasing such policies, our travel advisors will be happy to assist you.
What vaccinations are required?
Certain vaccinations may be required for travel to Africa, for example, often you will need a yellow fever vaccination. To be sure, consult your local Travel Clinic to obtain the latest health travel advisories.
Is there Wi-Fi available?
All of our camps do have basic Wi-Fi available in certain areas.
It is important to note that while wifi is available, it is more than likely not at the same fast speeds that you may be used to, but sufficient for checking emails and keeping in touch with home.
What does a typical day look like on safari?
Your mornings will begin with a wake up call before sunrise – classic for any safari experience. Once you are fresh and ready, you will be met by your guide for a briefing over a hot cup of coffee, and a light breakfast, before you head out. The crisp and cool air of the early morning will flow through you as you drive into the bush, the sun coming up from the horizon, casting a godly glow on the savannah and the everything around you coming to life – Africa in all its glory.
During the safaris, you will learn how to identify and track different species of animals, learn their behavior and best ways to observe/photograph them, conservation communities that live in the area, and much more.
After the morning safari, you have some time to unwind, enjoy the bush library, get a massage, or just take in the sights and smells of Africa from your deck.
In the evening you will head out for another game drive, and have an iconic African sundowner. In most locations, we drive back after the sunset for a night safari experience looking out for nocturnal creatures.
Back at camp, a hot fire awaits along with drinks and a three course meal.
What to pack on safaris in africa
Safari Shirts x 3
T-shirts × 3
Pants x 3
Shorts x 2
Rain Coat x 1
Warm Jacket × 1
Light Sweater × 1
Light Safari Boots x 1
Room Slippers x 1
Undergarments / socks
Cap, Hat, Sunglasses, Sunscreen
Personal Medication & Toiletries
Personal electronics, camera equipment, binoculars etc.
Mornings and evenings can be cold while afternoons will be warm and sometimes rainy. We recommend carrying a comfortable jacket and raincoat.
Please wear neutral colors in the bsuh: black, navy blue, khaki, green, beige, grey etc. Please avoid bright colors. Please also avoid strong perfumes.
Please carry comfortable shoes/boots that you can walk in.
National Parks vs Private game reserves/Concessions/ Conservancies.
- Africa, unlike India, has many great private game reserves and private concessions. Parks in Africa are pretty large so sections of these parks are given to private companies or communities.
- All areas offer good wildlife experiences but private concessions & conservancies offer greater exclusivity, less crowd, off-roading, and even night safaris. For this reason, camps located in these areas are often more costly.