Before we jump into the final leg of my experience, click here to catch up on Part 1 and Part 2 of my Botswana and Hwange journeys to see how it all started and where it led me!
Day 12: Victoria Falls
Day 12: Exploring Victoria Falls
After a morning game drive from Bumbusi followed by a road transfer, I found myself in Victoria Falls. This was my first time seeing this natural wonder, and the experience was worth every moment. Before checking into my accommodation, I toured the falls. The timing was perfect—parts of the falls were flowing heavily, but the spray was gentle enough to allow a clear view.
That evening, I joined a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. The experience was stunning, and I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Victoria Falls. Whether you’re a solo traveler, in a group, or a couple, the cruise offers a wonderful experience. The crew was fantastic, making everyone feel welcome and ensuring we all had a great time.
After a delightful dinner, I called it an early night, eager for the next morning’s charter flight to Mana Pools.
Day 13-14: Camp Mana
Day 13: From The Falls to Mana Pools
My day started with an early wake-up call for a charter flight to Mana West. The plane was the smallest I’ve ever been on, and as a nervous flyer, I was quite uneasy. However, the pilot, Barn, was very friendly. He even offered me the co-pilot seat, which was an incredible opportunity to take in the views of Lake Kariba.
Upon landing at Mana West, Frank from Camp Mana picked me up for a game drive transfer to the camp. The camp’s unique, rustic charm was a refreshing change, ideal for anyone seeking a digital detox. During my stay, I connected with fellow travelers, including a group of Australians and a couple from England who, coincidentally, own a home in my home province, KZN.
Highlights at Camp Mana
A highlight of my stay was seeing Boswell, the famous Mana Pools elephant, standing on his hind legs to reach tree branches. It was a sight I’ll never forget. Another memorable moment was the guided walk with Steve Bolnick the next morning. I felt completely safe and learned a lot about the wilderness.
Day 14-16: Hideaways Mhara River Camp
Day 14: Experiencing Hideaways Mhara River Camp
Today, I transferred to Hideaways Mhara River Camp, Hideaways’ newest addition. I felt fortunate to be one of the first to experience this stunning camp. After a warm welcome from the team and some time to settle in, I joined Derek, the director, and Mark, our guide, for a late afternoon game drive in the riverbed. The landscape was breathtaking, with baobabs, cliffs, and an elephant meandering through the riverbed.
A Sunset to Remember
The drive ended with a spectacular sunset at Observation Point, where we enjoyed sundowners and great conversation. We followed up with a short night drive, trying our luck at spotting some nocturnal animals. Dinner around the bonfire was the perfect way to end the day. However, by day 14, another early night was calling.
Day 15: Thrills at Hideaways Mhara River Camp
This morning started with a buzz of excitement. Over coffee, I learned from Liam and Nikki, the senior guide and hostess, that lions had been in the camp last night. They were not just in the camp but right outside their tent! It was both thrilling and a little unnerving.
Morning Walk to Chitake Gorge
Afterward, Liam, Derek, Mark, and I headed to the Chitake Gorge for a short morning walk. We saw countless dassies hopping among the rocks. Although wildlife sightings were few, the unique beauty of the scenery made it worthwhile. A morning bush coffee in the shade rounded off the walk before we headed back to camp.
The Hunt for Lions and Elephants
We were determined to find the lions from the night before and set off on another game drive. We didn’t find the lions but encountered two large elephants at the River Lychee Pan, drinking and taking a dust bath. Watching how the team interacted with these animals was fascinating, especially since they weren’t yet accustomed to vehicles.
Sundowners with Elephants
After lunch and a siesta, we headed out again for sundowners. We passed by the camp’s hide, filled with elephants and buffalo—a lucky sighting for the guests inside. We continued to the River Lychee Pan, where Mark set up chairs just 10 meters from the water. As the sun began to set, an elephant approached the pan, followed by an influx of others.
Sitting there, with about 25 elephants just meters away, was a surreal experience. They drank, bathed, played, and even trumpeted as they occasionally locked eyes with us. The connection to nature in that moment was indescribable. The best way to capture it is to say, “This is True Africa.” The elephants came to us, almost as if they accepted us into their space.
Reflecting on the Journey
This incredible experience marked the perfect end to my trip. As I prepared to leave, all I could think was, “When can I go back?”
