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Copyright Africa Inside Out 2008
Copyright Africa Inside Out 2008
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Copyright Africa Inside Out 2008
Copyright Africa Inside Out 2008
Explore....
Zimbabwe.
The Victoria Falls and Zambezi National Parks are both located in and around the town of Victoria Falls itself, a border town in the northwest of Zimbabwe. The town and all its commercial interests are built around the two parks.
Victoria Falls National Park. The Victoria Falls, 1.7 kilometres wide and pouring nearly 550 million litres of water, 70 to 108 meters into the gorge below, every minute, during its peak flow, was gazed upon by David Livingstone (the first western explorer) in 1855, inspiring him to write "Scenes so lovely must have been gazed on by angels in their flight" aptly describes this truly magnificent spectacle.
ONE OF THE SEVEN WONDERS OF THE WORLD
Locals named it Mosi oa Tunya - "The Smoke that Thunders." A must see for any visitor to Zimbabwe.
Zambezi National Park. The Northern border of the park is formed by the majestic Zambezi River, Zimbabwe's border with Zambia. Covering an area of nearly 50,000 hectares, the park is host to a wide variety of larger mammals including the "Big Five" - elephant, lion, buffalo, leopard and white rhinoceros.
The park has two main game viewing sections, those being the Zambezi River game drive, with its extensive road network and the Chamabonda game drive in the southern part of the park.
National Parks operate self-contained lodges at Zambezi Camp, perfectly located on the river bank and only some 6 kilometres upstream from the falls. The lodges have two bedrooms (maximum 5 persons), a kitchen and living room and are fully equipped.
There are a number of basic fishing camps, campsites and designated picnic areas conveniently situated throughout the park.
About Kariba
The cry of the Fish Eagle, beautiful sunsets, ice-cold refreshments and balmy evenings create the magical atmosphere of Kariba. Escape from stresses and strains of the modern world and experience a corner of unspoiled Africa. See water birds about their busy lives, be surprised by the silent arrival of an elephant, witness a pride of lion surrounding its prey for a kill.
The Lake and its shores constitute Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority Recreational Park. Charara in the Charara Safari Area is base for the annual world renowned Kariba International Tiger Fishing Tournament.
Accommodation in Kariba town and along the Lakeshore varies from safari lodges to fishing camps, some in Safari Areas, others in Communal Lands. Alternatively head onto the water in a houseboat. Wherever you stay, a guaranteed unforgettable experience awaits you.
Mana Pools
Possibly the wildest and most beautiful part of the country, Mana Pools is located on Zimbabwe's border with Zambia and is a wildlife paradise. Winding its way between the two countries, and forming an integral part of the park is the mighty Zambezi River. Third only in size to Gonarezhou and Hwange National Parks it covers some 220 000 hectares. This beautiful remote and rugged area is home to over 350 species of birds and most of the region's larger species of mammal, including the "big five".
Mana Pools (meaning four pools) are small lakes, remnants of the changing of course of the Zambezi River from ages past. Refilled by the swelling of the river during the rainy season these lakes have become home to large numbers of crocodiles and hippopotamus. They also serve as an attractive drinking spot for numerous herds of game. The largest of these lakes, Long Pool, is an idyllic location to while away ones time and patiently observe the happenings of nature as they unfold.
Walking in the park is allowed, but never forget, Mana is wild and so are the animals. Exercise caution and common sense and you will be amazed at what you will see. Enjoy the animals for what they are and for the pleasure of watching their natural behaviour. Sit on the banks of the Zambezi and witness some of the most magnificent sunsets the world has to offer.
There are two large and two small lodges upstream from Nyamepi Camp offering basic but comfortable serviced accommodation. These lodges are very much in demand and bookings must be made well in advance. Nyamepi Camp is the largest of some five other campsites having thirty sites. The camp is equipped with communal ablution blocks with toilets and hot showers. The smaller sites are Mucheni, Chessa, Nkupe, Ndunga and Gwaya which offer basic facilities.
There are some private, more luxurious safari lodges located in the park. Information on these can be obtained from your travel agent, should you not wish to rough it and be one with nature.
There are no shops, restaurants or garage services within the park and visitors staying in the National Parks facilities must bring all necessary provisions.