(I ask sheepishly)

Craig, I've researched the companies you suggested. They all seem quite lux; that's just not our style. I've been in touch with some outfits and even the "low end" quotes they can give me on basic itineraries seem quite high.

Is Zim possible to do on a budget, while still being independent? Or is most of what's available at the luxury/high end?

If not, we might need to rethink where we go on our next trip to Africa.