Zimbabwe with Ally Coucke

Dates

Jun 1–8, 2024

Group Size

12–18 Travelers

Duration

8 days, 7 nights

Activity Level

Exploration

About This Trip

Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime! Travel to the heart of Africa for eight days of incredible experiences at the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, the world’s largest waterfall. Explore the falls from above and below, then travel to Botswana and back for magical wildlife experiences on safaris in two national parks.
$3,195USD
$3,195USD
Jun 1–8, 2024
8 days
Trip Closed

Meet Your Host

Ally Coucke
Ally Coucke

Ally Coucke is an author, creator, and traveler. After selling her own business in the Pacific Northwest, Ally made her home in Denver with her dogs, Bailey and the well-known, Loki the Wolfdog. Ally's passion for travel has taken her all over North America, to Asia, and Africa. Writing and photographing every experience along the way, she cannot wait to share and create new memories with you!

View Full Profile

Trip Activities

  • Zambezi River Sunset Dinner Cruise

  • Batoka Gorge Walk and Ndebele Homestead

  • Guided Tour of Victoria Falls National Park

  • Adventure Jet Boat Beneath the Falls

  • Chobe National Park Wildlife Safari

  • Chobe River Boat Cruise

  • Hwange National Park Big-5 Safari Drive

  • Hwange National Park Big-5 Safari Drive II

  • Farewell Boma Dinner and Drum Show

Included in Your Trip

  • Double occupancy in 3-star hotels

  • Local Guide throughout trip

  • All city transfers

  • Arrival airport transfer (until 5 pm on first day)

  • Departure airport transfer (morning of last day)

Not Included

  • International flights

  • Food and alcohol (except as noted)

  • Visas and travel insurance

  • Airport transfers outside of designated times

  • Tips for Guides

Itinerary

*All durations are approximate

Day 1

Info

Welcome to Zimbabwe and Victoria Falls, the largest waterfall in the world! Transfer from the airport and freshen up at the hotel before meeting your group for a welcome dinner on a river boat.

Airport Transfer

1 Hour

Zambezi River Sunset Dinner Cruise

2 Hours

Mosi-oa-Tunya - "The Smoke that Thunders." You'll see first-hand how Victoria Falls got its name when you meet your group for a sunset dinner cruise on the upper Zambezi river above the roaring waterfall. In peak flow season, the thundering falls sends up a billowing cloud of soaking mist, which is visible for miles.

dinner

Enjoy a welcome dinner with your group on the sunset river cruise.

Shearwater Explorers Village (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/2

Overnight in Victoria Falls.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 2

Info

Experience an entirely different point of view when you head out on an early morning walk beside the Batoka Gorge, with the mighty Zambezi below. Afterwards you’ll visit a nearby village for brunch. Later that afternoon, set off on a guided tour of Victoria Falls! You’ll explore the impressive sight and the power of the cascade from Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls National Park.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Batoka Gorge Walk and Ndebele Homestead

1 Hour

Get an early start this morning as you travel by car to the Batoka Gorge, further down the Zambezi. Start the walk along the river and continue onwards beside the deep gorge. Afterwords you'll visit a local Ndebele village, where you'll meet the headman and enjoy a delicious brunch.

lunch

Meal at the Ndebele Homestead is included.

Guided Tour of Victoria Falls National Park

1 Hour

Your Guide will take you and your fellow Travelers to the many breathtaking viewpoints along the ridge of the falls. The Zimbabwe side covers three quarters of the falls and depending on the water levels, you’ll be sprayed by the fine mist for most of its length.

Shearwater Explorers Village (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/2

Overnight in Victoria Falls.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 3

Info

This morning there will be more time for another adventure at the falls, before heading to Botswana for your first wildlife safari in the Chobe National Park. You'll hop on a jet boat for an adventurous ride through the rapids beneath the falls, feeling the spray from the thundering 300 foot wall of water above.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Adventure Jet Boat Beneath the Falls

1 Hour

In the high water season, the falls will be thundering down, which makes for the perfect white water adventure below. You'll set off in a jet boat and experience the might of the largest falls as they meet the lower Zambezi. Bring a bathing suit! You won't be getting in the water, but with the mist all around you, you're sure to get wet!

Afternoon Transfer to Botswana

1 Hour

Have your passport ready, you'll be driving across the border to the town of Kasane on the Chobe River, the gateway to Chobe National Park.

Thebe River Lodge (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/2

Overnight in Kasane, Botswana.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 4

Info

You've got a full day today to explore the natural beauty and African wildlife from the land and the water. In the morning you'll leave Kasane and drive into Chobe National Park. After lunch, you'll head out onto the river for an afternoon boat cruise, to spot wildlife on the banks and in the water.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Chobe National Park Wildlife Safari

1 Hour

Known as the Land of Giants and for the largest concentration of elephants in the world (over 150,000 during peak season), you're sure to see some impressive wildlife on your safari. Keep your eyes peeled for predators, including lions, leopards, cheetahs and wild dogs. You’ll also see herds of zebras, giraffes and antelope.

Chobe River Boat Cruise

1 Hour

The Chobe River boat cruise offers an entirely unique experience, where you’ll view wildlife in the water, including elephants, hippopotamus, water buffalo, crocodiles and more! As it is also a haven for birds, you’ll get to see many different species on the river cruise.

Thebe River Lodge (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/2

Overnight in Kasane, Botswana.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 5

Info

Today you'll head back into Zimbabwe and Hwange National Park. The country's largest reserve, Hwange is home to a multitude of wildlife including giraffe, lion, zebra and approximately 40,000 elephants. The park provides a sanctuary for all the country’s endangered species, including a population of wild dogs thought to be the largest surviving group on the continent. The landscape within the park varies from desert dunes to savannah and wooded areas, to rocky outcrops and tall grassy plains, which makes it the ideal environment for the diversity of wildlife and bird species inhabiting the area.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Morning Transfer to Hwange National Park

3 Hours 30 Mins

You'll cross the border once again into Zimbabwe and after lunch, you'll travel into Hwange National Park for your first Big-5 game drive.

Hwange National Park Big-5 Safari Drive

1 Hour

Lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo and elephant. Known collectively as ‘The Big 5’, these were traditionally the most challenging for hunters to take down, but now the only shots you'll be taking are with your camera! Keep your eyes peeled for these and many more wildlife sightings in Zimbabwe's premier safari park.

Hwange Safari Lodge (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/2

Overnight by Hwange National Park.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 6

Info

You’ll spend a full day in Hwange, with another game drive in the park, then later, relax and enjoy the sounds of the African bush.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Hwange National Park Big-5 Safari Drive II

1 Hour

Get your cameras ready and take your second game drive through Hwange National Park.

Hwange Safari Lodge (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/2

Overnight by Hwange National Park.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 7

Info

Head back to Victoria Falls today for another glimpse of the Smoke-that-Thunders. Explore the town or take a self-guided tour of the falls.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Transfer to Victoria Falls

2 Hours 30 Mins

Farewell Boma Dinner and Drum Show

1 Hour

The Dinner and Drum Show, at the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge estate, is a legendary dining and entertainment experience that offers an unforgettable fusion of mouth-watering local cuisine, energetic dance performances, interactive drumming and traditional storytelling.

dinner

Enjoy your included farewell dinner with the group.

Shearwater Explorers Village (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/1

Overnight in Victoria Falls.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 8

Info

All good things must come to an end, until next time! You’ll bid farewell to Zimbabwe and your group.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Airport Transfer

1 Hour

Show DetailsHide Details

Physical Activity Level:Exploration

These trips require some movement, but slow and steady is the name of the game. Maybe a mid-length walking tour or at-your-pace sightseeing. No rush.

Cancellation Policy

We get it—life happens. Here's how cancellations work depending on where you're at in the process:

Spot Pending

100% refundable
Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.

Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip

Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip
You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.

Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip

Non-refundable
At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind

We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events—from illness to emergencies—that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

Join 30,000 Travelers Who've Booked With TrovaTrip

Explore the world with confidence. You're in great company!

Flexible Payment Options

Reserve your spot with just 25% down, pay in full, or apply for a payment plan at booking. Your dream trip, your way.

Trusted Local Experiences

We partner with 50 handpicked Trip Operators worldwide to give you authentic, unforgettable adventures.

Thousands of Reviews

Don't just take our word for it, read what real Travelers are saying on Trova, Trustpilot, and Google.

Here When You Need Us

Questions? We're just a tap away. Get support via Chat or our Help Center.

FAQ

Traveling with TrovaTrip

What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?

Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.

What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your experience to life:

  • The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
  • The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?

First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:

    • Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
    • Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
    • Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
    • Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
    • We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.

We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!”

Can I book solo?

Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.

What if I need to cancel?

We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:

  • Spot pending100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
  • Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your tripPartially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment. 
  • Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your tripNon-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

What's included in the trip cost?

Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.

Will I have free time?

Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.

What do the activity levels mean?

Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:

  • Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
  • Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
  • Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
  • Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
  • Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)

You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.

Who can I contact with more questions?

Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!

Accommodations

What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?

When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.

Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?

Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.

Trip Operations & Compliance

Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?

Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.

Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?

If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.

General Travel Questions

Do I need any documentation to travel?

It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise. 

Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.

Do I need any vaccines?

It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!

Are flights included in the trip cost?

Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.

Can you accommodate my dietary needs?

We’ll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.