Zimbabwe Luxury Safari: Our Hwange National Park Adventure with Imvelo Safaris
A Bucket List Trip Come True
Our safari adventure began in the most unforgettable way. My husband, his grandmother, and I set off on what was truly a bucket list trip for her, and I feel so grateful to have shared this experience with them.
After spending time in Cape Town, we caught a short 2.5-hour flight to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, where our safari officially began. From there, we boarded a small bush plane that would take us deep into Hwange National Park. The plane made a few short stops to drop other travelers at their camps, and although each flight was only about 15 minutes, I’ll admit, if you get motion sickness, take medication beforehand. I didn’t, and it was rough!
Arriving at Camelthorn Camp with Imvelo Safaris
Once we landed near Hwange, we were greeted by the wonderful staff from Imvelo Safaris, our safari company for the week. They picked us up in their safari vehicle and drove us to Camelthorn Camp, one of their five eco-luxury camps located across Hwange National Park.
We stayed at Camelthorn for four nights, and it was absolutely incredible. Calling it “glamping” doesn’t do it justice. Each guest stays in a private villa made from natural stone, designed to stay cool during the day. The villas are surrounded by acacia trees and spaced apart for complete privacy, so you feel truly immersed in nature.
One of the things that drew us to Imvelo Safaris is their deep commitment to eco-tourism. Camelthorn Camp is built on community land in partnership with local villages, and a portion of the proceeds from every guest stay goes directly toward conservation and community development. Imvelo helps fund nearby schools, health clinics, and water projects, while employing and training many people from the surrounding communities. Their model ensures that both people and wildlife benefit from tourism — something I really admire.
A Day in the Life on Safari
Every day at Camelthorn followed a peaceful rhythm that quickly became one of my favorite parts of the trip. Here’s what a typical day looked like for us:
5:00 AM: A gentle knock on the door for your wake-up call, with hot water delivered so you can make coffee or tea.
6:00 AM: Breakfast in the main lodge area.
6:30 AM: Depart for your morning game drive through Hwange National Park.
10:00 AM: Stop in the bush for muffins, coffee, and a quick stretch (and yes, your bathroom stop is behind a tree!).
11:30 AM: Return to camp for lunch.
12:30–3:30 PM: Siesta time — perfect for reading, journaling, or relaxing in the shade with a cool drink.
4:00 PM: Afternoon tea with snacks and sweets.
4:30 PM: Head back out for an evening game drive.
6:00 PM: Stop for sundowners and snacks while watching the sunset over Hwange. The sky glows in shades of gold and orange — it’s absolutely breathtaking.
7:00 PM: Dinner back at camp, followed by drinks by the fire or stargazing before bed.
Our First Game Drive: An Unforgettable Welcome to the Wild
Within just five minutes of our very first game drive, we came across something straight out of a nature documentary, a pride of lions feeding on a water buffalo. We sat quietly for nearly an hour and a half, completely in awe. For the first 45 minutes, we were the only ones there.
That’s something I loved about Zimbabwe. Hwange National Park isn’t overcrowded like some other safari destinations. You don’t see dozens of vehicles crowding around animals. It’s peaceful, respectful, and intimate. Imvelo’s guides are incredible about ensuring guests remain quiet and maintain a safe, respectful distance. It truly feels like you’re a visitor in their world.
We also came just before the busy season in May, which meant we had our own vehicle for most drives, such a luxury!
Wildlife Encounters in Hwange National Park
During our time in Hwange, we saw elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, kudu, baboons, and countless bird species. But the lions completely stole my heart. We followed a pride of four lionesses and about twelve cubs over several days, watching them play, hunt, and rest.
Seeing wildlife in their natural habitat is life-changing. You can feel their energy and freedom, something you simply can’t experience in a zoo. Looking into a lion’s eyes, you understand that this is their land, and you’re lucky just to witness it.
Imvelo’s Eco-Tourism Philosophy
One of the reasons I can’t recommend Imvelo Safaris enough is because of their dedication to sustainable travel and conservation. Imvelo’s philosophy is built on the idea that “it’s not just about seeing the wildlife, it’s about protecting it.”
They invest in programs that directly benefit both the environment and the people who live alongside the park. This includes maintaining solar-powered water pumps for animals during dry months, supporting anti-poaching initiatives, and helping fund schools and clinics for local communities.
By staying at their lodges, guests directly contribute to these efforts. It’s travel with purpose, where your experience helps make a positive difference.
Final Thoughts
Our time at Camelthorn Camp in Hwange National Park was nothing short of magical. Every sunrise, every game drive, every shared meal told a story of connection, to nature, to people, and to something bigger than ourselves.
If you’re dreaming of a luxury African safari that balances adventure, comfort, and purpose, I can’t recommend Imvelo Safaris in Zimbabwe enough. From the wildlife encounters to the eco-conscious mission behind every detail, it’s an experience that stays with you forever.
