TheBeerHunter

Any recommendations on operators who specialize in Zimbabwe? We are looking to spend 10+ days there next May but would prefer to work with an outfit who really know the country.

LongingForORD

Just got back from Zimbabwe last week. After many trips to Africa, this was my first visit to Zim. I highly reccomend it. Had an amazing stay on Mobile safari in Hwange National Park, then spent a couple of days in Vic Falls. We enjoyed both for different reasons, and were sorry we did not get up to Mana Pools.

We were on photographic safari and had the entire 3 week custom trip (South Africa, Botswana and Zim) booked by a great agent in FL. He is an expert in Southern Africa travel. He has booked several trip for us. One of the Zim safari guides, who we did not use but met in the bush, knew him personally.

If you are interested in his company, please PM me.

Not sure from your name if you are looking for a hunting safari, I do not believe he will book these, only vacations and photo safaris.

edit: I now see you are the BEER hunter not BEAR hunter, so not sure if the above paragraph applies to you or not!

TheBeerHunter

PM sent. Thanks!

Philatravelgirl

Am going there next month using Rhino Africa based in Capetown working w/Niki planned bespoke itinerary

TheBeerHunter

Thanks for the recommendation. I'd really love it if you'd provide a trip report back when you return.

Philatravelgirl

No problem, will update you and add trip report for all areas visited -cheers!

mcbg1

I'm going to Zimbabwe next week. Visiting Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park. Will also visit Chobe in Botswana for 3 nights. Can't wait!

LongingForORD

Enjoy! I know it will be a great trip and you will love all 3 places.

Botswana is one of the most beautiful places on earth. Be sure to see a sunrise, a sunset and spend at least a few minutes looking at the stars at night (somehow they seem bigger, brighter and more stars in Botswana!!)

quitecontrary

I haven't been to Zimbabwe but knowing how the current economic etc. conditions are affecting the general population there I suggest you use locally owned (not government ) as much as possible. Also when going to countries where there is such poverty we bring a couple of extra suitcases full of clothing, bedding and towels that we no longer need to donate to local charities and even give some to the hotel workers where we stay.

TheBeerHunter

I'd appreciate it if you'd post back as well, I'd be interested in hearing about your trip. We are sort of considering tacking on some time in Botswana as well...

SafariCraig

BeerHunter,

I see you are in the Bay Area. David Tett owns Bushtracks safaris in San Francisco. He is from Zimbabwe and his brother Chris owns a company that trades under the same name in Victoria Falls and Livingstone. You could meet him face to face and plan a great trip to Zimbabwe.

I am not sure why LongingForORD would not just name his/her really good agent in FL but I also know two really good Zimbabwe agents in Florida. It seems odd to me that he/she asked for a PM instead of just giving the agent some free marketing. Ryan Hilton, owner of Admiral Travel/Authentiscapes and Mark Nolting, owner of Africa Adventure Company are both in FL. Ryan is from Zimbabwe and Mark’s wife Alison is from Zimbabwe. All three of them (Ryan, Mark, Alison) specialize in Zimbabwe and can easily assist you. They contract directly with just about every lodge in the country. Mark is the author of Africa’s Top Wildlife countries which is sold at Barnes and Nobles. Mark & Ryan are both Conde Nast gold list agents for Africa.

I hope this helps.

Craig Beal – owner – Travel Beyond
Travel & Leisure A-List agent for Zimbabwe

LongingForORD

Because I am not trying to sell anything or anyone, only help fellow travelers. Clearly you are not "just" a fellow traveler, but one who makes their living on selling travel service. Flyer talk is an open forum, not a place for "free marketing".

SafariCraig

I suppose we have different opinions on who can/should use the forums. As long as we all follow to rules then I am sure people can figure out who is who and filter any advice given with the appropriate lens.

Craig Beal

TheBeerHunter

Thanks for the recommendations! I appreciate it.

TheBeerHunter

(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.