I felt the call of the wild and swapped emails for elephants and spreadsheets for sunsets. My 11-day familiarisation trip across Zimbabwe with Hideaways began with the cooling spray of Victoria Falls on my cheeks and ended with legendary animal encounters in Mana Pools.
In between, I ticked off my safari sighting checklist, laughed until my cheeks hurt with both lodge staff and guides, and came face-to-face with some of the best of what Zimbabwe has to offer.
This wasn’t just a trip. It was a reminder of why I love what I do, and how these raw and wild experiences will shape the way we design our future tours.
Victoria Falls
Day 1
Fresh out of the office, I needed to be awoken again, and what better way than with the thunder of Victoria Falls? Standing in the gorge below, I felt that humbling reminder of nature’s power. It’s the kind of place that resets you instantly.
After a quick stop at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, I boarded a Ra-Ikane boat cruise along the Zambezi, excited for my first chance to encounter wildlife on this trip. I spent my first night the right way with riverside dining at the Palm River Hotel.
As the sunset marked the end of the first day, I felt that calm anticipation settle, knowing the real adventure was just beginning.
Hideaways Bumbusi Wilderness Camp
Day 2-4
One charter flight and a drive later, we arrived at Hideaways Bumbusi Wilderness Camp. Tucked away in a remote corner of Hwange National Park, the camp is surrounded by incredible rock formations and ancient ruins.
Each day was filled with game drives and walks, reminding me why Hwange is unique with its wide-open landscapes, diverse wildlife, and the thrill of not knowing what’s around the next bend.
Back at camp, evenings were spent around the fire, swapping stories and learning from both the guides and staff. There’s a warmth and authenticity to Bumbusi that makes it feel like home, or as close to it as you can get with elephants and lions casually strolling around.
Hideaways Nantwich Lodge
Day 5-7
What was at the top and only thing on my list? Lions.
I think it’s safe to say that box has been checked. I witnessed a male and female lion feasting on a buffalo, lion cubs hiding amongst the leaves, and naps in the sun. Hideaways Nantwich Lodge delivered.
Thanks to sundowners, and both morning and afternoon game drives, I had the chance to spot lions in different moments, each just as memorable as the last.
But what truly stood out to me were the staff. Such a hilarious bunch who really bring the place alive. Leroy, with his infectious laugh, and Nkosi together made the lodge feel like home. I even played a game of Tsoro (a local game) with Leroy and won one round!
I love that the staff are encouraged to be themselves. Nantwich has so much character, it was lively, welcoming, and unforgettable.
One bush breakfast later, we were off to see the wilds of Mana Pools and the legendary animals waiting for us there.
Camp Mana
Day 8
What an educational stop, with afternoon game walks tracking alongside Steve Bolnick. Learning about the different kinds of animal tracks and completely immersing myself in the wild, we came across Boswell.
Known for standing on his hind legs to grab fruit and leaves from the trees, Boswell is a legend around Mana Pools, one of the few elephants who can do this. If you get to see it once, you are lucky. Twice is jaw dropping. Three times, pinch yourself. More than that? Unheard of. And for us, he did it multiple times. He really put on a show. Meeting him was an exceptionally memorable experience.
One evening, as we sat on the couches facing the river, the sun dropped and the stars glittered overhead. With only the moonlight around us, we heard the rustle of leaves and, to my surprise, saw another massive male elephant just two meters away.
As the others ducked behind the couches, I sat still, completely in awe of Tusker standing before me. Having lost a tusk in battle and with his sheer size, he is another well-known legend in Mana Pools. Shocked that we had not heard him sooner, since elephant footsteps are actually very quiet, I stared as the moonlight created a silhouette of this giant before me.
As we said farewell to Steve, Tusker and Boswell, we headed off to our final stop.
Hideaways Mhara River Camp
Day 9-11
Here at Hideaways Mhara River Camp, our animal encounters were taken to the next level as our driver knew no fear, surging the vehicle through water and cutting across the riverbeds. With binoculars in hand, our guides led us on a walking safari past the watering holes. The riverbeds and watering holes were real standouts at this Hideaways lodge.
What makes Mhara so special is the lookout spot, a place where you are hidden from the animals and can watch them up close. At the watering holes, life gathered close, with large males, protective females, and calves bouncing past with their ears flapping. The calves were not the only ones excited to play, as we watched a baboon troop squeal past us, chasing each other.
This was a reminder that the wild is not all dangerous, that these animals all have their own personalities, connections, and unique qualities. And just like us, each comes with its own mischievous side.
Journey Reflections
As the trip came to an end, I knew this experience would directly influence how I approach future tours.
From making sure the guides are engaging, to playing a part in conservation, to highlighting what unique things each destination has to offer. I also gained a deeper understanding of the logistics behind every journey, from driving times and distances to how the time of year affects wildlife sightings.
On this trip, I learnt from everything around me, the surroundings, the camp staff, the guides, and the animals. From the ants below to the gentle giants above, every moment shaped my perspective and deepened my passion for creating meaningful travel experiences.
📸 Images of Jamie Meeting Boswell taken by Philip van Dueren.
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