Into the Bush
Arrive in Bulawayo and transfer to Khami Sanctuary. Settle into the lodge and enjoy a late afternoon walk and sundowner on the deck.
Private Tour 7 days
Big Five Explorer: A Raw Zimbabwean Safari
Track rhinos, scout leopards, and camp among elephants on this wild, budget-friendly camping safari through Zimbabwe’s hidden corners.
Duration7 Days
Regions3
Max guests8
Activity levelModerate
Priced per personFrom $1,200per person
Best monthsJuly to October (peak dry season)
Overview
Designed for the rugged adventurer, the Big Five Explorer is a 7-day safari through Zimbabwe’s most thrilling conservation zones. Starting in Bulawayo, venture into the off-grid wilderness of Khami Sanctuary, where leopard tracking and night drives set the tone. Continue to Hwange National Park for classic big game camping—elephants, lions, and optional walking safaris included. End in Matobo Hills, where granite peaks and ancient trails host the rare white rhino and some of the country’s best hiking. With camping and self-catering flexibility, this trip is pure adrenaline on a budget.
Khami Sanctuary Leopard Tracking
Hwange Big Five Safari
Matobo Rhino On Foot
Why book direct with ZimTravellers?
Owner-plannedYou deal with Josh, directly
Generations deepFive generations in Zimbabwe
Private by defaultYour guide, your vehicle
A direct lineMessages answered by Josh himself
Big Five Explorer: A Raw Zimbabwean SafariThe route, day by day
Itinerary
Day by day.
Designed for the rugged adventurer, the Big Five Explorer is a 7-day safari through Zimbabwe’s most thrilling conservation zones.
KHAMI
HWANGE NATIONAL PARK
Leopards & Night Eyes
Early morning drive searching for elusive leopard. Go for a bush walk or relax by the pool during the day. Evening night drive to track nocturnal predators and experience the bush after dark.
Hwange Bound
Depart Khami and head toward Hwange National Park. Camp setup followed by an afternoon game drive through elephant country.
Big Game Day
Full day game drive in Hwange. Explore deep into lion territory with a bush picnic and sundowners on the savanna.
MATOBO HILLS
Road to Rhinos
Morning drive or optional walking safari. After breakfast, transfer south to Matobo Hills. Relax at the lodge with sunset views over granite kopjes.
White Rhino on Foot
Track white rhino on foot with expert guides in Matobo Hills National Park. Afternoon free for hiking or visiting the caves.
BULAWAYO
Trails & Farewells
Enjoy a final scenic walk to watch the sunrise over the hills before breakfast. Tour ends in Bulawayo with drop-off for onward travel.
Where you will stay
Hand-picked, night by night.
Things to know
Cancellation policy
25% charge (deposit) — 90+ days out.
50% charge — 61–90 days.
75% charge — 31–60 days.
A 25% deposit confirms your itinerary.
Booking basics
Requested and confirmed within one working day.
Prices per person, based on two travelling together.
Private (max 8 guests).
Operated by ZimTravellers / Matobo Hills Lodge (own operation).
Participation & safety
Physical level: Moderate.
Private and tailor-made journey cancellation
- A 25% deposit is required to confirm your itinerary and is non-refundable.
- If we receive your written cancellation more than 90 days before departure, the cancellation charge is 25% of the total booking price.
- For cancellations received 61-90 days before departure, the charge is 50%.
- For cancellations received 31-60 days before departure, the charge is 75%.
- For cancellations received 30 days or fewer before departure, or in the event of a no-show, the charge is 100%.
- Certain camps, lodges, private vehicles, permits and special arrangements may impose earlier or higher non-refundable charges. Any such condition will be itemised and disclosed before you pay your deposit and will apply only to the affected component.
- Changes requested after services have been confirmed are subject to availability, supplier charges and repricing. A reduction in the number of travellers may increase the per-person price for those who continue to travel.
How booking works
- Send your dates and party size — we confirm availability within one working day, usually sooner.
- Nothing is charged until your booking is confirmed.
What’s included
OfferSignature Journeys — ask Josh for details when you enquire.
Included
- All accommodation as specified in the itinerary
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) unless otherwise noted
- Private guide and safari vehicle throughout
- All national park and conservancy entry fees
- Airport/airstrip meet-and-greet and transfers
- All activities and game drives as described
- Mineral water and soft drinks during game drives
- Laundry service at lodges
- Emergency medical evacuation insurance
- Direct WhatsApp line to Josh — before, during and after the tour
Not included
- International and domestic flights (unless specified)
- Visa fees
- Travel and medical insurance
- Premium imported wines and spirits
- Personal expenses, souvenirs, and gratuities
- Optional activities not listed in inclusions
- Items of a personal nature
Practical
Best timeJuly to October (peak dry season)
PaceModerate
StartsBulawayo
EndsBulawayo
Group sizePrivate (max 8 guests)
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