What to do in Zimbabwe

It's safe to say the Zambezi River needs little introduction...And what better way to experience the crocodile-steeped waters, incredible birdlife and animals lining the banks in their hundreds than from the river itself? Swap your 4x4 for something slightly more mellow and float down the Zambezi by boat. By day, motor between the tiny islands and keep your eyes peeled for splashing elephant, snorting hippo and colourful waterbirds. By night, mix G&Ts with a pastel-hued sunset and you’ve got the ultimate sunset river cruise. With most lodges offering trips on the water, this is an essential part of any Mana Pools safari.

Set out from your lodge as dawn breaks (with breakfast on the go or when you return) or after the heat of midday to explore one of the smallest parks of Zimbabwe. With your in-the-know guide leading you, enjoy wildlife spotting to your heart's content. From your seat in a 4x4, gaze out over massive herds of elephant who gather down by the river along with throngs of buffalo, zebra and wildebeest. Not to mention, the big cats! Finish the afternoon with snacks and drinks under an acacia, before heading back for evening festivities.

Water is a source of life and beauty, and no place is this more apparent than in the remote tranquility of the African bush. Drop in a lure and see what bounty the day will bring, while your guide and tracker show you how the locals catch fish using plants found in the area.

A tiny park in Zimbabwe's south, Matobo may not have appeared on your radar before, but it happens to be one of the last bastions of wild black and white rhino. With an armed guide to lead the way, you'll set out by foot or 4x4 to explore the lush, forested landscape of Matobo Hills where rhino roam amongst the trees and craggy sentinels. Whether it's an hour or four, it's worth spending the time to find these tough-skinned creatures and watching as they enjoy their protected home. It's not every day you have the chance to get this close to a rhino!