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A proud WINNER of the Zimbabwe Achievers Tourism Award!
We promote travel opportunities to the wild areas of the Zambezi Valley
WILD ZAMBEZI invites you to a world of nature where the pace is slow, the sun is warm, the sky is huge and the people are friendly.  Our travel promotion focus is the Zambezi River and its iconic wildernesses, including the Victoria Falls & Zambezi National Parks, Lake Kariba, Matusadona National Park and Mana Pools National Park & World Heritage Site .  We provide web-based, up-to-date information on operators, activities, accommodation choices, tours and services in this magnificent area, and offer a reliable, independent travel advisory service.

WILD ZAMBEZI NEWS - SEPT-OCT 2016

Explore our travel listings & share your own experiences on our website Wild Zambezi.com

PLEASE FORWARD THIS E-NEWSLETTER!
NEWS HEADLINES - SEPT-OCT 2016
- Zimbabwe travel industry votes for top achievers
-  Wild Zambezi winners at St John's Spring Fair
- Travel advice for motorists visiting Zimbabwe
- Latest addition to the HAC aircraft fleet
- Latest Travel Reviews on WildZambezi.com
- Travel Specials on WildZambezi.com
KARIBA
- It's Tiger Time! 
- Marineland - keeping track of lake levels
- Hornbill Lodge offers self-catering for the festive season
- New website for Changa Safari Camp
ZAMBEZI RIVER
- Wild Zambezi welcomes Andrew Smith Safaris
- African Bush Camps:  new "Super Sensory Safari"
- A River Adventure with Natureways - guest Blog
- Bushlife Safaris - passionately protecting Mana Pools
- Tiger Safaris - excited about new developments
VICTORIA FALLS
- Air Zimbabwe and the new Vic Falls airport
- A new Lake Kariba Cruise treat out of Victoria Falls
- Key selling points:  Gorges Lodge and Zambezi Sands River Camp
- Golf Day raises US$26300 to fight poaching in Vic Falls
- Tail Ender - the camera reveals all!

ZIMBABWE TRAVEL INDUSTRY VOTES FOR TOP ACHIEVERS 

Wild Zambezi is proud to report that many of the winners in this year's 2016 Association of Zimbabwe Travel Agents (AZTA) Awards presented at the Meikles Hotel, Harare on Saturday 17th September, are companies that are part of our Zambezi-focused travel network!

Top congratulations must go to Africa Albida Tourism's  flagship property, Victoria Falls Safari Lodge,  which has been voted the Best Resort Hotel in Zimbabwe for the past 20 consecutive years!

The Annual AZTA Awards recognise excellence of service by airlines, lodges, agents and companies as voted by the Zimbabwe travel industry.   

Africa Albida Tourism (AAT) (pictured above) excelled themselves this year, walking away with several other accolades at the event:-
Lokuthula Lodges won the Best Self-Catering category, while Victoria Falls Safari Club took the prize for Best Boutique Hotel and AAT marketing executive Wendy Bourne (pictured above left) won the Most Outstanding Voluntary Service to Travel Agents award!

Other Wild Zambezi network partners were also winners:-
Wild Horizons won the Best Ground Handler award, with Wilderness Safaris as the 2nd Runner-Up in this category.
Premier Travel won Best Travel Agent,  with their Nimisha Benatar being voted as Most Improved Travel Consultant.   Premier Holidays tied Runner Up for Best Tour Operator.

Natureways were winners of the Best Mobile Safari Operator category, with Hornbill Lodge in Kariba as 2nd Runner Up of Best B&B/Guest House.   Wild Heritage Lodges in Charara, Kariba won 1st Runner Up in the Best Self-Catering category, while Changa Safari Camp on Lake Kariba were 2nd Runner Up for Best Tented Safari Camp.   (It's nice to see Kariba tourism featuring in these awards!).

Congratulations to all the winners!  Wild Zambezi is proud to have you as part of our network and hopes you go from strength to strength!

CONGRATULATIONS TO WILD ZAMBEZI WINNERS AT ST JOHN'S SPRING FAIR!

Wild Zambezi had its own exhibition stand to showcase the Zambezi's wonderful, wild, travel opportunities to local Zimbabwe residents at the St John's Spring Fair on Sunday 2nd October  on a beautiful, sunny and festive day.  

Thanks to the generosity of our network partners, we had a HUGE array of wonderful travel prizes to give away, with all proceeds from our Prize Draw and Lucky Dip, going to The Zambezi Elephant Fund.  We are delighted to report that we raised US$924 for the Fund! 

Here's a list of the lucky winners!  
BIG PRIZE DRAW WINNERS:-
LUCKY DIP WINNERS:-
  • WILD DOG TOURS - 2 nights at Palmer House, Kariba (sleeps 10) - winner:  Mary James
  • HORNBILL LODGE, Kariba - 2 nights for 2 - winner:  Graham Leach 
  • BAYETE GUEST LODGE, Victoria Falls - 2 nights for 2 - winner:  Aimee Warner-Pratt 
  • CARIBBEA BAY RESORT, Kariba - 2 nights for 2 - winner:  Brian Beahan
  • WILD HORIZONS Sundowner Cruise for 2 on the Zambezi River at Victoria Falls - winner:  Lynn Beahan
  • BAOBAB BOOKINGS - 2 nights at Plover's Pad/Wild Heritage, Charara, Kariba (sleeps 8) - winner:  Sean Pickworth
  • RHINO SAFARI CAMP, Lake Kariba/Matusadona - 2 nights for 2 - winner:  Kelly Simpson
  • MUSANGO SAFARI CAMP, Lake Kariba - 2 nights for 2 - winner:  Sharon Israel  
  • BAOBAB BOOKINGS - 2 nights at Hornbill's Haunt/Wild Heritage, Charara, Kariba (sleeps 8) - winner:  Phineas Murapa
  • DUNHU RAMAMBO - day trip for 2 at Chengeta Safari Lodge - winner:  Damien Quinche 
  • WILD HORIZONS Canopy Tour for 2 in Victoria Falls - winner: Dawn Pohl  
  • WILD HORIZONS Gorge Swing for 2 in Victoria Falls - winner:  Nathan Stirrup
  • JECHA POINT FISHING LODGE & CAMP - Fishing mugs with various winners
  • EMRAS (Medical rescue) - Hats, Pens & Keyrings to various winners
  • KAVINGA SAFARI CAMP - Caps & T-shirts to various winners
Well done to everyone and thank you to our wonderful travel partners for supporting this event so well!

TRAVEL ADVICE FOR MOTORISTS VISITING ZIMBABWE 

Harare-based Big Sky Supplies, who specialise in outfitting for motoring and outdoor/camping adventures, have produced some very useful, up-to-date guidelines for motorists visiting Zimbabwe.  

Wild Zambezi
invited Big Sky to share these guidelines on our website as a Guest Blog.  There is much useful stuff here, including:-
  • Border information
  • Zimbabwe Police roadside checks and traffic regulations
  • Safety equipment - legal requirements 
  • Vehicle livery
  • Schedule of current fines 
  • Driver Alerts
  • Options available to motorists who feel they have been treated unfairly
  • Useful contact numbers
Read the full Blog (and other useful information in the related links) here:  Travel Advice for Motorists Visiting Zimbabwe (Aug 2016)

LATEST ADDITION TO THE HAC AIRCRAFT FLEET

Here's a sneak peak at the new 4-seater Cessna 206  (Z-JRI), which is the latest addition to the aircraft charter fleet of Halsted's Aviation (HAC).  

These small aircraft are invaluable for short-hop air charters between safari destinations in remote areas (e.g. into the National Parks and Safari Areas of the Zambezi region).

HAC prides itself on providing a superior Air Charter Service in terms of reliability, safety and customer service.  The company's fleet of aircraft includes:
- 19 Seater - Beechcraft King Air 1900
- 11 Seater - Beechcraft King Air 350
-   9 Seater - Beechcraft King Air 200
-   7 Seater - Beechcraft C90
-   4 Seater - Cessna C206

HAC operates in partnership with ACE Air and Ambulance providing Emergency Medical Services and conducting ground and air evacuation, within Zimbabwe and the region. 

For more information and contact details, see HAC
If you have travelled on an air charter with HAC, please tell us about your experience by submitting a Travel Review on WildZambezi.com at the above link.

LATEST TRAVEL REVIEWS ON WILDZAMBEZI.COM 
Sept-Oct 2016  

Read what people are saying about their travel experiences in the latest Travel Review postings on WildZambezi.com.    Follow the links below:-
Baobab Bookings – agency for accommodation, houseboats, transfers and activities throughout Zimbabwe, Lake Kariba specialists.
Bayete Guest Lodge - 25-room family-run lodge in a quiet suburb of  Victoria Falls. 
Wild Horizons - Lookout Cafe - restaurant overlooking the Gorges and the Bridge below the Victoria Falls


Have something to say about a place you have visited or a service you have experienced?  Tell others about it by submitting a Travel Review on the relevant page on Wild Zambezi.com.
TRAVEL SPECIALS ON WILDZAMBEZI.COM 
There is a fantastic array of great SPECIALS currently on offer from some of Wild Zambezi’s network partners.  
Check them out on each of these page links (scroll down and to the right):-
African Bush Camps (Kanga & Zambezi Expeditions, Mana Pools):  LAST MINUTE 10% OFF RACK RATE - for new bookings in the High Season (travel until 31st October 2016). This reduction can be used in combination with all African Bush  Camps packages and specials.   MANA MADNESS SPECIAL – stay min 3 nights at one of these properties (6 nights altogether at African Bush Camps facilities) and get FREE flights in and out of Mana Pools. (Valid November 2016 and 1 April - 30 June 2017)    LONG STAY SPECIAL – at any combo of African Bush Camps – 5% discount for 6+ nights; 10% discount for 9+ nights.  LOVEBIRD SPECIAL - spend your honeymoon at any African Bush Camps properties and get 1 Night FREE when you spend 6 nights or more.
Caribbea Bay Resort (Kariba):  SCHOOLKIDS SPECIAL - Educational School trips and Grade 7 Leavers Parties.  US$40 per kid sharing rate includes B&B accommodation and lots of activities. 
Changa Safari Camp (Lake Kariba/Matusadona):   EARLY BIRD BOOKING SPECIAL - new bookings made and confirmed up to Dec 2016 for travel dates throughout 2017 will receive a 10% discount;   WILD LOVERS SPECIAL – couples who stay 4 nights or more will both receive one night free! Valid for the whole of 2017; COMBO SPECIAL with The Hide (Hwange) - stay 6 nights (3 in each camp) and pay for 5.   ZIMBABWE RESIDENTS SPECIALS special rates available on request. YOGA RETREAT:  28th - 30th Oct - Full Moon!); SUMMER SPECIAL (Oct  - Dec 2016); BUDDY MOON GROUP PACKAGE: Special rates for groups of 12 people or more staying for 2 nights or more.
Elephant Camp (Wild Horizons) (Victoria Falls):  ZIMBABWE RESIDENTS SPECIALS: special rates available on request: 2 nights at The Elephant Camp; 5 night combo safari - 2 nights at Imbabala Zambezi Safari Lodge + 3 nights at The Elephant Camp . Valid until 31 December 2016.
Gorges Lodge & Little Gorges (Imvelo Safari Lodges) (Outside Victoria Falls):  Green Season Safari Special - Stay 3 nights, pay 2 (All inclusive rate only)  Valid 1 Dec 2016 - 28 Feb 2017.
Imbabala Zambezi Safari Lodge (Wild Horizons) (Zambezi River upstream from Victoria Falls):  COMBO SPECIAL.  3 nights Imbabala, 1 night The Elephant Camp. Includes tour of Vic Falls.   ZIMBABWE RESIDENTS SPECIALS: (rates available on request):2 nights at Imbabala; 5 night safari - 2 nights Imbabala + 3 nights Ursula's Camp; 5 night safari - 2 nights Imbabala + 3 nights Stanley & Livingstone Safari Lodge; 5 night safari - 2 nights Imbabala + 3 nights The Elephant Camp.   Valid until 31 December 2016.
Musango Island Safari Camp (Lake Kariba):  Cool Waters Package (Vic Falls/Kariba/Mana Pools) and Get a Night on Us (Stay for 4 nights, pay for 3)
Victoria Falls River Lodge (Zambezi National Park/Victoria Falls):  FAMILY VALUE SPECIAL  Share a Family Suite with 2 or more children (4-17 years) and the youngest child stays for FREE. In the case of a twin or a triplet, 1 x child stays for free. (Valid between 1 Nov & 20 Dec 2016 and 7 Jan - 31 March 2017.)
Wild Horizons (Victoria Falls environs):  ZIMBABWE RESIDENTS LODGE SPECIALS for 2 night stays at Imbabala Zambezi Safari Lodge; Ursula Camp; Stanley & Livingstone Safari lodge; or The Elephant Camp.  Also 5 night safari - 2 nights Imbabala + 3 nights Ursula's Camp (or  +Stanley & Livingstone Safari Lodge or +The Elephant Camp.)   Special rates available on request.  Valid until 31 December 2016.
Zambezi Sands River Camp (Imvelo Safari Lodges) (Upstream of Victoria Falls): Stay 3 nights, pay 2  (all inclusive).  Valid until 31 Dec 2016.

KARIBA
IT'S TIGER TIME! - TIGHT LINES TO EVERYONE TAKING PART THIS YEAR! 
Wild Zambezi wishes all the participants, organisers and sponsors of this year's KITFT (Kariba Invitation Tiger Fishing Tournament)  the very best for the upcoming event  to be held at Charara, Kariba on 26th, 27th & 28th October.

For those less familiar with the focus of this annual event, here is some interesting information about the Zambezi Tigerfish (courtesy of the KITFT website).

The Tigerfish, Hydrocynus vittatus, is probably Africa’s finest and most flamboyant game fish. For sheer aggression, pound for pound, it must rank as one of the worlds most powerful freshwater species. There are several members of the tigerfish family found throughout the continent. The most notable being that of the Goliath (H.Goliath) found in the Congo (Zaire) system.

From an angling point of view, only in the last few years has our local strain been recognised by IGFA (International Game Fish Association). In the past, this has clearly put anglers in the southern hemisphere at a disadvantage, as the Goliath is believed to exceed 45kgs (100lbs) whereas H.Vittatus only averages between 6-8kgs. The current Zimbabwean record of 16.1Kgs was caught in Kariba in 2001.

Being a river species, the advent of Lake Kariba in the 1960s created an unnatural environment for this predatory fish. Also the introduction of the Tanganyika sardine or kapenta has had a huge influence on the dietary preferences of the tiger. The dominant role played by the smaller bream species and barbels as forage has fallen away as shoals of tiger now cruise the lake's waters following the vast shoals of kapenta.

The fish is clearly distinguished from our other species. The tiger possesses a ferocious set of razor sharp teeth enclosed by a bony head, black/blue lateral tiger stripes and bright yellow to red caudal fin completes the picture. Females are larger than their male counterparts.

In Zimbabwe, the tigerfish has a wide distribution throughout Lake Kariba, the Zambezi and it’s larger tributaries. They are found in both Lake Manyame and Chivero and also present in the Limpopo, Nuanetsi, Bubye and Umzingwani systems.

The primary food of the tigerfish is bream, catfish, squeakers and even tigerfish up to 40% of their own body weight. For this reason shoals of fish contain individuals of generally the same size. Kapenta, which was introduced in the late 60’s has become a prime food source.

During the height of the rainy season, when the tributaries of the lake are in full spate, the tiger migrate upstream to breed at their spawning sites. They are also believed to breed in flooded areas of the lake shore. Once hatched, the juveniles are carried by the receding water to the main water body. They remain in the marginal areas with protective cover. When they are approximately 10cm in length they move out into open water, feeding on zooplankton and small invertebrates. Slowly they progress to larger food, insects and small fish and eventually are sustained entirely on a fish diet. Males mature at between 2-3 years and females a little older and bigger.
MARINELAND - KEEPING TRACK OF LAKE LEVELS

As usual, thanks to Marineland Harbour in Kariba, for providing regular updates on the water levels of the lake.   In last year's dry season, the levels dropped to alarming lows due to poor rainfall inputs and lack of sufficient control of hydro-electricity generation.

This year, we all hope for early and heavy rains to fill the lake by year end.

Here are Marineland's statistics for September 2016:-
Lake level on 14th Sept 2016  - 479.35m
Lake level on 14th Sept 2015  - 479.66m
Difference, with same time last year - lower 0.31m
Kariba lowest level allowing for power generation is 475.50m
Remaining water to reach end of generation capacity 4.35m
Lowest level reached this year was on 22/02/2016 477.12m

Meanwhile, Marineland report that, as the waters recede, they have already had to move their launching ramp from the inner harbour concrete ramp to the alternative gravel launching ramp on the west side of the harbour.   The addition of a new tractor will now assist in avoiding any delays launching boats due to this
increased launching distance. 

A reminder that the annual Tiger Tournament  is taking place on 26th – 28th October.  Houseboats for this period may be booked through Marineland, and drinks and ice ordered in advance from their offices.   

Meanwhile, houseboat crew and visitors are reporting seeing a large herd of buffalo on the shores of the Matusadona National Park.    This has attracted the attention of a pride of eight lion which is following them, providing many houseboats with excellent lion and buffalo sightings.  

This is positive news, and one of the advantages of the low lake level which increases the expanses of lakeshore grassland  for grazers.  It must also be mentioned that wildlife around Lake Kariba has seen increased protection as a result of the sterling efforts of anti-poaching groups such as MAPP and KAWFT

For more information and contact details, see Marineland

If you would like to tell us about your experience of the services offered by Marineland in Kariba, please submit at  Travel Review on WildZambezi.com at the above link (scroll down to Reviews). 

HORNBILL LODGE, KARIBA: SELF-CATERING FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON 

The delightful, intimate 12-bedded Hornbill Lodge in Kariba is offering a self-catering option during this year's festive season for US300 (6 guests), plus US$40 per person for more than 6 people.

Everything is provided - all you need to do is bring your drinks and food.  A cook is on hand at an extra cost of US$20 per day. 

For more information and contact details, see Hornbill Lodge

If you have stayed at this lodge and would like to tell us about your experience, please submit a Travel Review on WildZambezi.com at the above link (scroll down to Reviews).


NEW WEBSITE FOR CHANGA SAFARI CAMP, LAKE KARIBA

Check out the beautiful new website that Changa Safari Camp, have created to entice you to their little piece of unspoilt paradise!
You can find a link to it on their WildZambezi.com listings page  at Changa Safari Camp
 
This delightful, upmarket camp  is situated on the shores of Lake Kariba, in the Matusadona National Park.  It sleeps up to 20 in six double/twin deluxe tents and two family deluxe tents. The central guest area of lounge / library, dining room, bar, swimming pool and deck, all face onto a natural sandy beach, with the mountains of the Zambezi escarpment across the lake in the background.  Activities include game drives and guided walks, birding, fishing, boat cruises and Sanyati Gorge trips.


If you have stayed at Changa Safari Camp and would like to tell us about your experience, submit at Travel Review on WildZambezi.com at the listings page link above.

ZAMBEZI VALLEY

WILD ZAMBEZI WELCOMES ANDREW SMITH SAFARIS TO OUR NETWORK!

This month, Wild Zambezi is delighted to welcome a new partner to our travel network.  Andrew Smith Safaris offer privately-guided, environmentally-ethical, photographic adventures in the African wilderness.  

Andrew (pictured at right) is a fully qualified professional guide, working as a team with his wife Clea, who is based in Harare and organises the logistical and accommodation side of their tailormade operations.  

Andrew leads canoe and vehicle safaris,  but prefers to explore wilderness areas closer to nature on foot with a knowledgeable enthusiasm which is addictive.  

He specialises in photography, birding and lion-tracking, based out of a variety of tented camps and safari lodges carefully chosen to meet the needs of his guests.

For more information and contact details, see Andrew Smith Safaris

If you have enjoyed a safari experience with Andrew & Clea, please tell us about it by writing a Travel Review on WildZambezi.com at the above link (scroll down to the Review section). 

AFRICAN BUSH CAMPS: NEW "SUPER SENSORY SAFARI" - MANA POOLS 2017

A new and exciting safari product is launching in Mana Pools National Park  in April-May 2017.   African Bush Camps are calling it a "Super Sensory Safari" experience.  
This is a pioneering, experiential safari concept following a set departure itinerary.  The package consists of 6 nights - combining 3 nights at African Bush Camps' Kanga Camp, (pictured left) which overlooks a pan in the interior of Mana Pools, followed by 3 nights at Zambezi Expeditions tented camp (pictured right) set on the banks of the Zambezi River in this magnificent World Heritage Site area.  The trip ends with a flight out of Mana Pools on Safari Logistics, African Bush Camps' sister company.

The Super Sensory Safari concept is groundbreaking in that it not only includes specific sense-stimulating activities (walking safaris, bush cuisine, night vision game drives, etc.) with the African Bush Camps' Professional Guiding team, but also features the inclusion of in-depth approaches to studying natural systems and processes.  This is done through the lens of Biomimicry (the inspiring practice of learning from and emulating nature's genius) with specialist guide Rob Janisch (below left) and the team at Imaginature, as well as the high tech equipment and concept of 'Soundscape Safaris', with Derek Solomon (below right). 

There are two set departure dates for these first Super Sensory Safaris:-
Departure 1:  25-28 April - 3 nights at Kanga Camp 
28 April - 1 May - 3 nights at Zambezi Expeditions
Departure 2:  28 April - 1 May - 3 nights at Kanga Camp 
1 May - 4 May - 3 nights at Zambezi Expeditions.  

For more information, contact details, and a video about this exciting new safari concept, see African Bush Camps 

Be the first person to tell us about what  this new concept is like after experiencing it next year- write a Travel Review on WildZambezi.com at the above link.

"A RIVER ADVENTURE WITH NATUREWAYS" -  GUEST BLOG  


"As a five year old growing up in Zimbabwe, I remember my parents showing me photo-slides from their amazing experiences canoeing with friends along the Zambezi River. I decided then, that one day when I was older I would jump into a canoe and do just that.... 22 years later, after countless memories seeing the great Zambezi from the banks of Zimbabwe and watching with envy as safari canoes drifted serenely past, I decided it was time!... ... This was going to be the most awesome adventure we’ve ever had!"   

Australian, Melissa Wynn, who grew up in Zimbabwe, has written a Guest Travel Blog on WildZambezi.com, sharing the experience of her wonderful canoeing adventure on the Zambezi River with Natureways Safaris in August this year.  

...."We paddled slowly alongside a sand bank towering in reeds, watching tiny but extraordinarily beautiful malachite king fishers darting in and out, blurs of blue and orange hovering and diving delicately into the shallows in search of tiny fish, before watching in shock as they smacked them brutally against a branch and swallowed them whole!

.....A rustle in the reeds ahead made us start.... A shadow appeared above a small sand cliff, a flap of an ear, a swish of a tail.... a rustle of reeds and a young elephant bull (our first!) burst out ceremoniously from behind the reeds, trunk swishing, ears flapping in surprise as he saw us floating past a few mere feet away. "

Read the full blog HERE 
For more information and contact details see Natureways Safaris

If you have enjoyed a canoe experience with Natureways, please submit a Travel Review on WildZambezi.com at the above link (scroll down to Reviews).


BUSHLIFE SAFARIS - PASSIONATELY PROTECTING MANA POOLS

Bushlife Safaris, who operate in Mana Pools National Park have a portfolio of different safari experiences to offer their guests.   But protecting the magnificent wildlife resources of Mana Pools into the future lies at the core of  their tourism operation, and visitors are invited to help them achieve this.   
The company is run by professional guiding couple Nick and Desiree Murray who, together have vast experience, and close-up encounters with elephants, lions and wild dogs are key highlights of their safaris.   

Guests can choose to stay at Vundu Camp, which offers luxury en-suite accommodation overlooking the Zambezi River, or at the more intimate tented camp, Little Vundu, a few kilometres upstream.  The Ruwezi Canoe Trail is ideal for adventurous travellers, as is the tented bush camp set in the wild Chitake springs area.

Underlying all of these operations is the Bushlife Support Unit, newly created to unite operators, guides and conservation groups in Mana Pools to work with the authorities in stopping the poaching of wildlife and protecting this wonderful National Park and World Heritage Site for future generations.

For more information and contact details (including a link to their wonderful new website) see:-
Bushlife Safaris
Vundu Camp & Little Vundu

If you have enjoyed a safari with Bushlife Safaris, please tell us about it in a Wild Zambezi Travel Review.  You can submit this online at either of the above links (scroll down to the Reviews section).

TIGER SAFARIS - EXCITED ABOUT NEW DEVELOPMENTS
Tiger Safaris, the popular self-catering family fishing camp on the Zambezi River nearest to the border town of Chirundu, report daily visits by the resident wildlife.  Elephants enjoy the camp's green lawns (see below left), there have been several visits from bushbuck,  evidence of leopard near Chalet 1, nightly visits from the hippos, and a lone buffalo who visits the watering hole every second evening for his mud bath!  The beautiful Carmine Bee-Eaters have arrived and the camp is full of other birdlife.

The management are excited to report that their long-awaited lease renewal has finally come through, enabling them to start a new 3-phase refurbishment at the camp.

They have already started on phase 1 of the plans which entailed building a new kitchen to help them cater for large groups, weddings and fishing competitions. Now, they are in full swing building a bar / restaurant (pictured centre) and a new chalet which will be available on a fully-catered basis.

They are hoping these will be finished by the end of 2016, and then they will start a much-needed refurbishment of the Tiger Safaris self-catering chalets.   So far, new mattresses have been provided for the extra (3rd) bed in each chalet, and new veranda furniture has been added. 

The tiger-fishing on the river is now improving with higher water temperatures.  Australian guests visiting in September caught some excellent-sized fish (pictured right). 

For more information and contact details, see Tiger Safaris.


If you have visited this camp and would like to share your experience on WildZambezi.com, submit a Travel Review at the above link (scroll down to the Reviews section). 

VICTORIA FALLS
AIR ZIMBABWE FLIES WILD ZAMBEZI TO VICTORIA FALLS
Here's what we thought of the flight and the new airport

Wild Zambezi was a guest of Air Zimbabwe in September on board their MA60 aircraft for a return flight between Harare and Victoria Falls.  We would like to thank them for hosting us, and have written a short blog telling our readers about the flight experience and giving our personal impressions (with pictures) about the new Victoria Falls Airport.
Read it here -  Air Zimbabwe flies Wild Zambezi to Victoria Falls - our impressions of the flight and the airport
A NEW LAKE KARIBA CRUISE TREAT OUT OF VICTORIA FALLS... 
It has long been a frustration for those of us promoting The Zambezi’s wonderful wild areas, that access between Victoria Falls and the wilderness of Lake Kariba is not easy.  This means that many visitors simply miss out on Zimbabwe’s magnificent “inland sea”.  Well... at last there is a solution!

Zambezi Cruise Safaris have just launched luxury cruises on Lake Kariba based out of the little tourist town of Binga, which lies at the western (Victoria Falls) end of the lake.  

Visitors can choose from two options:-
BINGA CRUISE:  A 2 night Cruise up the Sengwe River, departing and returning to Binga, with return road transfers between Victoria Falls and Binga included.

FULL LAKE CRUISE:   A 2 night Cruise the length of Lake Kariba between Binga and Kariba Town via Matusadona National Park) (or vice versa, starting in Kariba and disembarking in Binga).   Road transfers from Selous/Harare to Kariba, and from Binga to Victoria Falls (or vice versa) are included.   This trip offers add-on options of transferring on to Mana Pools or to Pamuzinda Safari Lodge, Selous, near Harare)

Wild Zambezi was fortunate to be invited to sample the Binga Cruise to the Sengwe River and back.
Read about our experience of this brand new product on our Blog Page at this link:  Cruising Lake Kariba out of Victoria Falls

KEY SELLING POINTS:  GORGES LODGE AND ZAMBEZI SANDS RIVER CAMP 
In order to ensure that tourism agents and operators have all the important information about Imvelo Safari Lodges' properties at their fingertips, the company has produced some useful online documents providing "key selling points" for all their Lodges.

These list all the features that make each lodge distinctive and unique.  Gorges and Little Gorges Tented Lodge and Zambezi Sands River Camp fall within Wild Zambezi's area of focus, and so we have included below the "Key  Selling Points" for both these properties:-

Gorges & Little Gorges Tented Lodge
  • Built 200 metres above the Zambezi River on the edge of the Batoka Gorge, with spectacular views. 
  • 30 minutes outside of Victoria Falls town so close enough to get into town to visit the almighty Victoria Falls and participate in various Falls activities but away from the hustle and bustle.  It is the perfect spot for enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings after the adventure activities in town. 
  • Abundance of raptors and birdlife nest in the gorge, a particular highlight being the Verreaux eagles. 
  • The lodge was the first community-based tourism project in Zimbabwe. The lodge is built on community land. Staying at Gorges means a direct benefit goes to the local communities and we offer village and school visits to see the huge involvement Imvelo has with local communities in the area.
  • Authentic traditional dancing displays in the evenings.
  •  2 types of accommodation style on offer – Ten chalets and five luxury tents, all with breathtaking views from private decks overlooking the Batoka Gorge.
  • Swimming pool in the indigenous garden and Wi-Fi is available in the main guest areas.
  • Lush indigenous gardens provide the ideal environment to relax, unwind and enjoy the surrounding nature.
  • Green Season Safari Special - Stay 3 nights, pay 2 (All inclusive rate only)  Valid 1 Dec 2016 - end Feb 2017.

Zambezi Sands River Camp
  • Situated inside Zambezi National Park, upstream of the Falls.
  • Built right on the edge of the Zambezi River, all tents have stunning river views.
  • Great combination of game viewing activities (drives and walks) and water-based activities, a particular highlight being guided morning and afternoon canoeing trips on the Zambezi, using our own fleet of inflatable canoes.
  • Close enough to the Falls for guests to do a day trip (1 hour road transfer) to view the Falls. One free return shuttle to town per stay is included in the price.
  • Best for those guests who prefer an exclusive and serene retreat away from the hustle and bustle of Victoria Falls town.
  • Eight Bedouin-style tents with bedroom, indoor lounge, ensuite bathroom, outside shower and a large and luxurious private deck with splash pool and outdoor seating area.
  • Exceptional birdlife (over 350 recorded species).
  • Wi-Fi in the main guest areas.
  • Stay for 3 pay for 2 special until end 2016.
For more information and contact details, see:-
Gorges Lodge and Little Gorges
Zambezi Sands River Camp

If you have stayed at either of these two places, please share your experience on WildZambezi.com by submitting a Travel Review at the above links.

GOLF DAY RAISES US$26 300 TO FIGHT POACHING IN VICTORIA FALLS
A substantial sum of US$26300 was raised in aid of the Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit (VFAPU) at this year's (16th) fundraising Golf Day held at Borrowdale Brooke Golf Club, Harare, on 16th September, and coordinated and hosted by Africa Albida Tourism (AAT). 

 A total of 132 players, making up 33 teams took part, including the Zimbabwe Special Olympics golfers sponsored by Delta Airlines.  The winners, Sanjay Babbar and Tom Austin each took home a voucher for two nights in a three-bedroom Victoria Falls Safari Suite, valued at $2,400.
Second and third prizes were two-nights for two (bed & breakfast), at Victoria Falls Safari Club and Victoria Falls Safari Lodge respectively.

Various other items and travel packages were auctioned to raise funds for VFAPU,  and goods such as 17 two-plate gas stoves and cylinders, and engine oil, were donated.

In this challenging economic environment with so many demands on business and community, we are overwhelmed by this show of care, concern and shared commitment to anti-poaching and conservation,”  said Africa Albida Tourism chief executive Ross Kennedy. 

VFAPU head of operations, Charles Brightman, (pictured at right here with some of his team) thanked everyone involved and explained that the funds raised will go towards the operational costs of the unit, which at $7,500 a month include salaries, fuel and vehicle maintenance.  

VFAPU’s 17 scouts, who tackle all forms of poaching in the Victoria Falls region, have arrested nearly 700 hardened poachers since the unit was established in 1999 by Mr Brightman, a local safari operator and conservationist (see Discover Victoria Falls) , and Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, AAT’s flagship property.

The unit, which works closely with the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority and the Zimbabwe Republic Police, has also removed more than 22 000 wire snares from its operational area, and rescued 183 injured mammals from snares.

TAIL ENDER.....the camera reveals all!
A picture with an interesting tale (tail) ......
September 2017:  Sengwe River, near Binga, Lake Kariba.  
This mother hippo and her tiny baby were spotted up a quiet backwater of the beautiful Sengwe River, near Binga, on Lake Kariba, by a group of visitors on board a small tenderboat taking an early morning "river cruise" away from the mother vessel, Umbohza, flagship of  the Zambezi Cruise Safaris fleet.  (Wild Zambezi was on board with this group - see Cruising Lake Kariba out of Victoria Falls ).    
The animals were separated from the rest of the hippo group, and a host of large crocodiles lurked close in near the shore, obviously waiting to grab this tasty little morsel when his Mum wasn't looking.  

Poor Mummy Hippo, disturbed by the sudden arrival of humans AS WELL AS crocodiles, took to the land and crossed a muddy patch before re-entering the water.  We watched her poor little baby struggle valiantly after her, slipping and sliding and falling on his face in the mud.  It was apparent that he could hardly walk, and obvious that he was very young indeed.  However, he eventually he made it and joined his mother safely in the water, much to the relief of everyone on board the boat, who was taking photos madly. 

It was only much later, when we studied our images closely, that we realised what we had just witnessed!  This tiny baby hippo had JUST BEEN BORN!  In the photograph above, the afterbirth is clearly to be seen protruding from the "tail-end" of  the mother hippo as she enters the water!  We had rounded the bend of the river in our little tenderboat craft just minutes after this tiny little bundle of hippo mass had been born in the shallow upper reaches of the river!

An incredible wildlife sighting indeed!  
What a pity that we were oblivious to the significance of it at the time! 
I am pleased to report that on returning to the same spot a little while later, we found Mum and baby both intact, and more relaxed.  

A cuter little pink  "chipolata" you could not imagine!
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