www.nzira.co.zw Issue 39 1Another Day In Africawww.nzira.co.zw Issue 39 | 2025USD 5.00UnravelThe Wildtrak With Ford Zimbabwe
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www.nzira.co.zw Issue 39 5Another Day In AfricaRudo NhamoinesuAs I sit down to write this final editor’s note of the year, the first rumblings of thunder are rolling across the sky and that unmistakable scent of rain is in the air. In much of our region, this is the time when the bush shakes off its dusty winter coat and turns a lush, hopeful green. It feels like the right moment to pause, exhale, and look back on the journeys we’ve taken together this year – and the ones still calling us.Travel has a way of marking time differently. We remember years not only by dates and deadlines, but by road trips, flight paths and the places that changed us. Maybe, for you, it was the first game drive where you sat in complete silence as elephants moved ghostlike through the mopane. Or a long, sun-struck drive where the only soundtrack was old music and laughter from the back seat. Perhaps it was simply rediscovering a destination you thought you already knew.In this issue, we lean into that sense of movement, transformation and renewal.We follow the bush as it shifts from the dry, sculpted tones of winter to the generous greens of the rains in our Dry to Green Season feature – a reminder that every landscape has more than one personality, and every return visit offers a new story. Our Safari Packing Essentials guide is for those of you already counting down the days to your next escape, making sure that what you toss into your bag is both practical and considered (and still leaves room for a book and a bit of indulgence).We spend time at some very special places: the wild elegance of Verneys, the riverine calm of Waterfalls Lodge, the quiet corner of Chamabondo, and the enduring charm of Tiger Bay. Each has its own rhythm and its own relationship with the land and wildlife around it – and each reminds us why this corner of the continent remains such a compelling place to explore.We also get behind the wheel with Ford and hit the road, because sometimes the journey really does matter as much as the destination. And with the Ele Collection, we look at experiences that are not just luxurious, but deeply rooted in conservation and a sense of responsibility to the places we visit.As this year’s final issue goes to print, I find myself especially grateful: to our readers who carry Nzira in their hand luggage, leave it on coffee tables and share stories sparked by its pages; to the lodges, camps, hotels and partners who open their doors and their worlds to us; and to the writers, photographers and behind-the-scenes team who turn ideas into something you can hold.Wherever you are reading this – in the city heat, under a thatched veranda in the valley, or in transit to somewhere new – I hope this issue inspires you to keep exploring. May the year ahead bring you safe travels, unexpected detours, and moments that make you stop and say, quietly to yourself: this is why I came.Until the next journey,[email protected]: 024 2782720EditorRudo [email protected]+263 772 639 304Design and LayoutWilbroad I.B. [email protected]+263 779 540 202PrinterParagon Printing & Packaging17035 Cedora Road,Graniteside, HarareTel: 024-2773021/7E: [email protected] every effort is made to check the content of any article, the directors will not be held responsible for any errors or omissions in such articles. We accept that all articles and photographs sent to us are the sole responsibility of the authors and we do not accept liability for any misrepresentation. Events listed, the dates thereof, and prices are printed using information supplied to us that we are satisfied are correct at the time of printing. Nzira publication is the exclusive property of Postcard.AfricaUse the QR code to visit our website for more articles.Contact us for subscriptions 024 2782720Nzira Cover PhotoInfoNziranziramagazineNziraFord ZimbabweEditors Note Credits
6 Issue 39 www.nzira.co.zw Nzira Travel CONTENTS08Ford Zimbabwe12ELE-COLLECTION:JOIN THE WAVEBen Norton16OPEN HEART SURGERY AND STENTING AT TRAUMA CENTRE BORROWDALE & CRITICAL CARE HOSPITAL – HARARE, ZIMBABWEWendy OlivierVERNEY’S CAMP, HWANGE: A PRACTICAL, REWARDING SAFARI WITH HEARTRudo Nhamoinesu20Granite, Eagles, and Grit: Exploring Matopo with the Ford Ranger Wildtrak
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 39 7Another Day In AfricaRudo Nhamoinesu24THE WATERFALLS LODGE, VICTORIA FALLS: AN INDULGENT NEW CHAPTER FROM WILD HORIZONSPostcard Africa43GIVE WHERE YOU GO:CONSERVATION AND COMMUNITY CAUSES TO SUPPORT IN ZIMBABWE Rudo Nhamoinesu THIS FESTIVE SEASON29CHAMABONDO TENTED CAMP : ZAMBEZI NATIONAL PARK, VICTORIA FALLSDesmond Tapfuma32TIGER BAY- WHERE THE WILD MEETS THE WATER, AGAIN39. SAFARI PACKING MASTERCLASSTHE ART OF DRESSING FOR THE WILD35. FROM DUST TO EMERALD: THE CHANGE FROM DRY TO GREEN SEASON IN ZIMBABWE AND SOUTHERN AFRICA
8 Issue 39 www.nzira.co.zw Nzira Travel Exploring Matopo with the Ford Ranger WildtrakGranite, Eagles, and GritArticle & Images: Ford Zimbabwe
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 39 9Another Day In Africaatopo National Park (also known as the Matobo Hills), a UNESCO World Heritage Site in southwestern Zimbabwe, is a landscape of sculpted granite kopjes, raptor-filled skies, and ancient rock art. It’s also an ideal place to learn how to use a capable 4x4, such as the Ford Ranger Wildtrak, responsibly and confidently, without disturbing a fragile ecosystem.Why Matobo is the perfect classroom• Granite domes and rock steps reward precise throttle and careful wheel placement.• Gravel and sandy stretches teach momentum management and traction control.• Seasonal stream crossings emphasise wading technique and recovery planning.• Narrow game tracks highlight visibility, approach lines, and patience.Getting there: Bulawayo to MatopoMost trips begin in Bulawayo, with an easy tar run to the park. The Wildtrak is designed to double as a long-distance tourer before it becomes a trail tool:• Smooth, quiet cruising with modern driver-assistance features (availability varies).• Spacious cabin and supportive seating reduce fatigue on the way to the gate.• Infotainment with smartphone integration helps you preload offline maps for patchy signal areas.Tip: Download maps for Bulawayo–Matopo and carry cash or a card for ZimParks fees at the gate.How to set up the Wildtrak for MatopoBecause equipment can differ by year and trim, think in terms of functions rather than buttons.• 4H for gravel and light sand: Improves stability and reduces wheelspin.• 4L for technical rock sections: Provides controlled crawl and better torque multiplication.• Rear differential lock (if fitted): Helps when a wheel is light or losing traction.• Drive/terrain modes (if equipped): Choose programs aligned to gravel, mud/ruts, or sand to refine throttle, shifting, and traction control behaviour.Before leaving the tar:Reduce tyre pressures slightly for gravel comfort and grip; reinflate before your return to tar.Secure cargo in the load bed; use tie-down points and keep recovery gear accessible.Sample day route: Maleme, caves, and World’s ViewPark entry to Maleme area (gravel): Set 4H. Keep speeds moderate to avoid corrugation-induced loss of control.Pomongwe or Nswatugi Caves (mixed gravel/rock): For steeper, uneven approaches, select 4L and engage the rear locker if needed. Walk tricky lines first.World’s View (Malindidzimu): Park at the designated area and hike to the top. The final ascent is on foot—please keep to marked paths and respect cultural sites.Wildlife note: Matopo is known for raptors (including black eagles) and white rhino. Share the track, keep distance, and follow ranger guidance if you book a guided walk. M
10 Issue 39 www.nzira.co.zw Nzira Travel 10 Issue 39 www.nzira.co.zw Capability or feature Why it matters in Matopo National Park4x4 with selectable high/low rangeRear differential lock (if equipped)Drive/terrain modes (if equipped)Robust underbody protection and ground clearanceStrong low-rev torque from the diesel powertrainDriver-assist tech and clear lighting (availability varies)Practical load bed with secure storage optionsControl and torque for gravel, rock, and steep climbs/descentsMaintains drive when a wheel lifts or loses gripTailors throttle, shifting, and stability control to the surfaceReduces the risk of contacting granite shelves and rutsSmooth crawling over rocks and confident towing to campBetter visibility on narrow tracks and safer dawn/dusk transitsKeeps recovery gear, fridge, and camera kit organised and safeWhat to practice and why the Wildtrak helps1) Corrugations and loose gravelKeep a light, steady throttle and avoid sudden inputs.The Wildtrak’s chassis and traction systems (as equipped) help the vehicle track straight. Let the suspension work—don’t fight the wheel.2) Rock shelves and step-ups4L, steady crawl, and minimal steering. Use spotters if available.A locking rear diff (if fitted) prevents single-wheel spin. Maintain momentum without “bumping” obstacles.3) Sand patches after rainGentle throttle, keep rolling, avoid sharp steering.If you feel it bog, ease off and back out along your tracks rather than digging in.4) Water and seasonal crossingsWalk unfamiliar crossings first and check entry/exit points.Cross slowly to avoid a large bow wave. After water, lightly apply brakes to dry them.5) DescentsUse low range and engine braking. If your Wildtrak has hill descent control, set a low target speed and steer; avoid riding the brakes.Matopo National Park Etiquette and Safety• Stay on existing tracks. Do not drive on or near rock art sites.• Pay park fees and keep receipts; follow ZimParks instructions.• Pack out all litter. Noise travels far in the kopjes—keep it down.• Seasonal awareness: After storms, granite can be slick and pans muddy. If unsure, turn around.• Communications: Coverage is patchy. Share your route with someone and carry a compressor, tyre repair kit, rated recovery gear, water, and sun protection.What the Ranger Wildtrak brings to the partyTypical capabilities you’ll find on many Wildtrak models (confirm local specification with Croco Motors, Ford Zimbabwe):
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 39 11Another Day In AfricaPractical packing checklistRecovery: Rated strap, soft shackles or rated bow shackles, shovel, traction boards (optional).Tyres: Compressor, gauge, repair plugs, full-size spare.Navigation and comms: Offline maps, charged phone, power bank or 12V inverter.Comfort and safety: Water, hat, sunscreen, basic first aid, headlamp.Respect: Cash for fees, rubbish bags, and a plan to leave no trace.Let’s Move FordwardIf Matopo has you dreaming about your own Ranger Wildtrak, the next step is to experience it from behind the wheel. In Zimbabwe, the Ford Ranger Wildtrak is sold and supported by Ford’s authorised dealer network:Croco Motors– Authorised Ford dealerDuly Motors– Authorised Ford dealerBuying through an authorised Ford dealer in Zimbabwe means:Factory-backed warranty and support Your vehicle is supported locally by Ford Zimbabwe, with access to the latest technical updates and recall campaigns where applicable.Genuine parts and trained techniciansCroco Motors and Duly Motors use genuine Ford parts and have technicians trained specifically on the Ranger range, helping keep your Wildtrak performing as designed.Service history that protectsresale valueA verifiable service record through authorised dealers is a strong plus when it’s time to upgrade or sell.Peace of mind vs. grey importsGrey imports from South Africa may look cheaper upfront, but they often lack local warranty backing, can be harder to support with genuine parts, and may not match Zimbabwe-spec vehicles. An authorised Ford Zimbabwe vehicle is built and supported for our conditions.To book a test drive, confirm current Wildtrak specifications, or discuss finance and service plans, contact:Croco Motors or Duly Motors (authorised Ford dealers)Croco Motors +263 242 771601Dulys Motors +263 242 703 441 ImportantExact features, wading ability, clearances, and driver-assist systems vary by model year and market. Please verify local specification with Croco Motors or Duly Motors (authorised Ford dealers for Ford Zimbabwe). www.nzira.co.zw Issue 39 11
12 Issue 39 www.nzira.co.zw Nzira Travel Join the WaveEle-CollectionArticle & Images: Ben Norton, Co-Founder, Ele-Collection
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 39 13Another Day In AfricaA TRAGIC BEGINNINGOn 8 October 2021, Clever Kapandura—a much-loved antipoaching ranger—was tragically trampled by an elephant. The shock was still fresh when, just two weeks later, my close friend Simon Teede and my father, Larry Norton, were attacked by a bull elephant during a run along the Batoka Gorge. They barely escaped. Days later, yet another resident of Victoria Falls lost their life in a separate elephant incident.Eventually, the bull was euthanised and an autopsy was performed. What the vets discovered was horrifying: the elephant’s stomach was full of plastic. Local herds were venturing into town, addicted to sugary food waste, and consuming plastics. The poisoning was driving them mad.That was the moment we knew we had to act.FROM CRISIS TO INNOVATIONIn the aftermath of these tragedies, we came together, determined to confront the growing threat of plastic pollution in our home. We brainstormed, researched, and debated, trying to find a solution that could pull the plastic out of our environment and lock it away for good.With a renewed sense of purpose, we discovered a groundbreaking solution—turning plastic waste into sustainable construction material. Ele-Collection was born. And today, our team stands ready with a scalable, circular solution to this crisis.A CITY DROWNING IN PLASTICVictoria Falls produces more than 100 tonnes of plastic waste every month. With nowhere safe or sustainable to send it, plastic waste spills out of the formal system—piling up in illegal dumps, blowing across neighbourhoods, and seeping into the surrounding bush.Animals, especially elephants, have become addicted to sugary food scraps in our bins and waste piles, ingesting deadly plastics in the process. What isn’t eaten is often burnt in open air, releasing CO and toxic fumes that drift across our high-density suburbs—impacting the health of our most vulnerable communities.And what does make it to the city dump is frequently blown straight back into surrounding national parks, polluting the wilderness we all depend on.A NEW PATH: PLAZROK & WOMEN-LED TEAMSWe knew from the start: it wasn’t enough to clean up—we had to find a permanent solution. That’s why we launched Plazrok, a revolutionary material made by converting plastic waste into strong, structural aggregate for the construction industry.Ele-Collection proudly operates Africa’s first Plazrok factory—and only the third in the world. We process locally collected plastic waste into durable building material, locking plastic away from the environment for good. Plazrok can be used in pavers, bricks and beams, displacing the need for virgin quarry stone and helping reduce the environmental cost of construction.Our cleanup teams are comprised of women from local communities, who are trained and equipped to collect plastic directly from hotspots throughout the town. These are dignified green jobs—addressing waste at its source while creating economic opportunity where it’s needed most.HOW TOURISM IS DRIVING THE CLEANUPTourism is the lifeblood of Victoria Falls—but it also contributes to the waste stream. That’s why we created a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme for the tourism industry: a clear, tangible way to give back to the environment that fuels the sector.2
14 Issue 39 www.nzira.co.zw Nzira Travel Here’s how it works:For every US$1 contributed, we remove 1 kilogram of plastic from Victoria Falls and its surrounding areas.These funds support our women-led collection teams, processing operations, and the scaling of Plazrok production. Participating tourism businesses receive impact reports, storytelling assets, and branding tools to engage guests—who increasingly want to support ethical, sustainable travel.It’s a win-win: you protect the natural beauty your guests come to experience, and you invest in the health of the destination for years to come.
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 39 15Another Day In AfricaJoin the WaveAt Ele-Collection, we’re not waiting for someone else to solve the problem. We’re doing it ourselves—with boots on the ground, hands in the waste, and vision for a cleaner tomorrow. But we can’t do it alone.If you’re a lodge, tour operator, hotel, activity provider or travel partner, you can help drive this clean-up by contributing through the 1kg: US$1 plastic recovery model. Embed the story in your guest experience and show your travellers that their trip is part of something bigger.Together, we can reclaim Victoria Falls from plastic pollution—cleaning up the city, parks, river, and the surrounding communities.The wave has already begun. Will you ride it with us?Ben NortonCo-Founder, Ele-Collection
16 Issue 39 www.nzira.co.zw Nzira Travel AND STENTING AT TRAUMA CENTRE BORROWDALE & CRITICAL CARE HOSPITAL – HARARE, ZIMBABWEOPEN HEART SURGERYArticle & Images: Wendy Oliviert the heart of Trauma Centre’s advanced medical services lies its renowned Cardiac Catheterisation Laboratory, in short CathLab unit, where heart stenting procedures are performed successfully with exceptional skill and precision. Adding to this, is the brand-new open heart surgery theatre. Trauma Centre has become a trusted centre for patients requiring cardiac care, combining modern technology, highly trained specialists, and compassionate support to deliver life-saving interventions.Open heart surgery remains one of the most intricate procedures in modern medicine, requiring not only technical expertise but also a deeply coordinated team effort. At Trauma A
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 39 17Another Day In AfricaCentre Borrowdale, these surgeries are carried out in state-of-the-art theatres equipped with advanced monitoring and surgical systems. Each case is managed by a multidisciplinary team that includes cardiothoracic surgeons, anesthetists, and specialised nurses. From coronary artery bypass grafting to valve replacements and congenital defect repairs, the focus is always on restoring optimal heart function and improving quality of life for patients.For individuals who require less invasive intervention, Trauma Centre offers coronary stenting—an advanced procedure used to open narrowed or blocked arteries. This minimally invasive treatment is performed through a small puncture, using a catheter guided by imaging technology. Once positioned, a stent is placed to keep the artery open, ensuring improved blood flow to the heart muscle. Patients often benefit from shorter recovery times, less discomfort, and quicker return to daily activities compared to open surgery.Trauma Centre’s cardiac team places a strong emphasis on patient safety and post-operative care. Every patient undergoes a thorough pre-surgical evaluation to determine the most appropriate treatment plan. After surgery or stenting, patients are closely monitored in ICU, followed by a structured rehabilitation programme aimed at supporting full recovery. Continuous follow-up and lifestyle guidance are integral to maintaining long-term heart health.What distinguishes Trauma Centre from other clinics is its commitment to combining world-class expertise with personalised care. This advanced set-up is known as a hybrid theatre, equipped with the latest technology and design — one of only five of its kind across the entire African continent. A holistic approach ensures that patients and their families feel supported at every stage of their journey.With the latest high-tech equipment, Trauma Centre Borrowdale has the capabilities to perform complex surgeries in Zimbabwe—not just the routine, bread-and-butter cases. With an increasing burden of heart disease across Africa, Trauma Centre’s investment in advanced cardiac services represents a vital step towards improving regional access to specialised healthcare. Whether performing complex openheart surgery or precise coronary stenting, the clinic continues to uphold its mission of excellence, innovation, and compassionate patient care—helping hearts beat stronger and lives last longer.TRAUMA CENTRE B’DALE &CRITCAL CARE HOSPITAL1 Borrowdale Lane Borrowdale, HarareEnquiries: [email protected]
18 Issue 39 www.nzira.co.zw Nzira Travel CENTRE FOR REGENERATIVE MEDICINERegional Medical Tourism ZimbabweZIMBABWEAFRICAN TOUCH – GOLD STANDARDS – LOCAL CARETrauma Centre Borrowdale & Critical Care Hospital1 Borrowdale Lane, BorrowdaleHarare, Zimbabwe+263 786 200 900 - for further informationwww.traumazim.comMedical Tourism ZimbabweRegenerative Medicine:Autologous Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)(With or Without Goldic®)Chronic Pain ManagementJet Fuel IV Infusions (Vitamins, Amino Acids, Minerals)Gynae Aesthetic and Rejuvenation TherapiesHyperbaric Oxygen ChamberOzone & Cryo Chamber TherapiesChronic Neurological Ailments and Autoimmune disordersChronic Inflammatory DisordersMetabolic & Adipose DisordersAesthetic Services:All aesthetics procedures with the latest equipment and injectables
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 39 19Another Day In Africawww.nzira.co.zw Issue 37 3DISCOVER THEMAJESTY OF ZIMBABWEEmbark on a Safari Adventure through Mana Pools & Hwange National Park with Machaba SafarisMACHABASAFARIS.COM | [email protected] TEL: +27 (0) 10 446 7691 | WHATSAPP +27 (0) 82 579 5249
20 Issue 39 www.nzira.co.zw Nzira Travel A PRACTICAL, REWARDING SAFARI WITH HEARTVerney’s Camp, HwangeArticle: Rudo NhamoinesuImages: Machaba Safaris
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 39 21Another Day In Africaf you’re looking for a Zimbabwe safari that balances comfort, serious guiding, and reliable wildlife viewing, Verney’s Camp under Machaba Safaris is an easy recommendation. It sits on a private concession near Hwange National Park’s Main Camp, close enough for smooth logistics but far enough to feel properly wild. I spent a weekend there at the end of the dry season—prime time in Hwange—and came away impressed by how much the camp delivers without overcomplicating the experience.WHY TIMING MATTERS: GOBEFORE THE RAINSHwange really shines in the late dry season, roughly July through October, with the weeks before the first November storms being the sweet spot. It’s not just a cliché—the changes are obvious on the ground. Bush thins out, so you see more and see further. Pans and pumped waterholes become focal points, drawing elephants, plains game, and predators through the day.Animal movement becomes more predictable, which helps guides plan routes and increases your odds of good sightings.THE CAMP: CLASSIC TENTSVerney’s is a tented camp done right: 10 large, en-suite tents spaced for privacy and positioned with views over open country and the pan. Inside, you get kingsized beds, good linen, hot showers, flush loos, and practical touches such as charging points and very good lighting. There’s a family tent option—handy if you’re traveling with kids—though walking activities have age limits, so check ahead.Shared areas are open-sided and relaxed: a lounge and dining deck overlooking the pan, a small pool for midday heat, and a bar. Service is friendly and efficient, and staff are switched on about safety, especially with elephants moving around camp after dark. Power is largely solar, and Wi-Fi, when available, is for light use only—enough for messages, not streaming.WHAT THE DAYS ACTUALLY FEEL LIKEThe daily rhythm makes sense. Wake-up comes early with a 5:30 am wakeup call and a light snack and coffee before heading out for a walk or drive while it’s cool. Mid-morning you’re back for a generous breakfast, followed by downtime—pool, siesta, or simply watching the waterhole. Afternoon tea leads into the second activity, with sundowners in the field and a return to camp after dark for dinner.I
22 Issue 39 www.nzira.co.zw Nzira Travel On our first morning, I joined a guided walk of just over three kilometers. It wasn’t a boot camp; more like a slow-moving classroom in the bush. Our guides, David and Lou, walked us through the basics of tracking, including an easy way to read elephant spoor—compare the rounded front footprint to your hand shape and the hind to your foot, then look at spacing and moisture to judge direction and speed. We also saw fresh bark stripping where elephants were tapping the nutrient-rich cambium because the dry season had pushed them off easier food. If you like understanding how and why animals move, walking adds context that a vehicle can’t.Game drives stick to open 4x4s with rows of seats and a guide who watches tracks, listens for alarm calls, and works a circuit of productive pans. Some outings bring headline sightings—lions at dawn near water, wild dogs passing through, cheetahs on higher ground—while others are steady, with elephants, zebra, giraffe, and antelope moving in and out around the pans. Birding is strong year-round: rollers, hornbills, raptors, secretarybirds, and waterbirds all show well here.THE WATERHOLE ADVANTAGEHwange’s dry-season safaris revolve around water. Verney’s location near a reliable pan means there’s often something happening without leaving camp. Elephants dominate the scene, sometimes in numbers, with calves practicing their awkward trunks and older females managing the flow. Impala and zebra come and go, jackals pass by at a clip, and raptors circle when there’s a hint of a carcass in the area. It’s a good place to practice patient photography and to see natural behavior without chasing it.CONSERVATION YOU CAN SEEOne thing that sets Hwange apart is its network of pumped pans, which keep wildlife going when natural sources run dry. Operators like Machaba Safaris support fuel and maintenance, working with park authorities and partners to keep the system running. If you’re visiting around a full moon late in the dry season, you might overlap with the annual game count, when volunteers sit at waterholes for 24 hours to record everything that comes to drink. It’s not a spectator event, but it’s a practical, longrunning citizen science project that feeds into real management decisions.FOOD, SERVICE, AND SMALL DETAILSMeals are straightforward and well executed: cooked breakfasts after morning activities, light lunches, and a three-course dinner. The kitchen handles dietary requests with notice. Staff are attentive without hovering, and guiding is a clear strength—calm, confident, and focused on reading the bush rather than performing. Nights are dark and starry; you’ll be escorted to and from your tent after dinner as a standard safety measure.
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 39 23Another Day In AfricaPLANNING THE TRIPBy air: Light aircraft from Victoria Falls or Bulawayo to a Hwange airstrip, then a game drive transfer to camp.By road: Transfers from Victoria Falls typically take 2.5–3 hours to Main Camp, plus time into the concession depending on sightings along the way.Pack neutral layers, a warm jacket for winter mornings (June–August), sunscreen, a brimmed hat, sunglasses, lip balm, and comfortable closed shoes for walking. A soft-sided duffel is usually required for light aircraft, with allowances around 15–20 kg including hand luggage. Hwange is a malaria area, so speak to your travel clinic about prophylaxis, and stick to the filtered water provided by the camp.Families should confirm age limits for walks (often 16+). A private vehicle can be arranged for more flexibility with children, subject to availability.
24 Issue 39 www.nzira.co.zw Nzira Travel Article : Rudo Nhamoinesu Images: Wild HorizonsAN INDULGENT NEW CHAPTER FROM WILD HORIZONS“There are places that make you feel instantly lighter. The Waterfalls Lodge is one of them—sun‑washed, artful, and serenely close to the world’s greatest curtain of water..”The Waterfalls Lodge, Victoria FallsWild Horizons has been curating journeys in Victoria Falls for well over three decades, and their signature mix of polish, purpose, and place is on full display at their newest address: The Waterfalls Lodge. When sales executive Jess White extended the invitation to experience the property, I did what any devotee of good design and great hospitality would do—packed sunscreen, grabbed a Fastjet ticket, and headed north.From the moment I landed, the Wild Horizons team smoothed every step. A swift airport welcome gave way to a gentle drive through Msasa-dotted avenues until the lodge revealed itself: a contemporary sanctuary whose very name comes alive in the water features that ripple beside the entrance. The concept nods to the nearby Victoria Falls—fluid lines, a sense of movement, and light that shifts across textured stone.Inside, the mood is modern-African and wonderfully open. The double-volume lobby frames a sweep of lawn and two pools, while sculptural light fixtures and a striking Victoria Falls mural bring a sense of place into the interiors. The main level flows between reception, a chic lobby lounge, a signature restaurant, and a convivial bar; upstairs, a meeting room serves intimate conferences or private dining with a view of the gardens.24 Issue 39 www.nzira.co.zw Nzira Travel
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26 Issue 39 www.nzira.co.zw Nzira Travel The gardens themselves are immaculate—indigenous plantings layered with aromatic herbs and flowering borders—and pathways wind toward the guest rooms, shaded by original trees preserved during construction.ROOMS AND SPACESGuest rooms are studies in calm: king-size beds dressed in high-thread-count linens; a soft palette of whites and sage green set against pale timber; and generous sliding doors that draw in the Zimbabwean light.Thoughtful comforts: temperature control; blackout drapes; Nespresso and tea station; fast Wi-Fi; bedside USB-A/USB-C; a curated local art piece in every room.The bath ritual: twin vanities; a deep soaking tub; a rain shower; plush robes and slippers; botanically infused amenities sourced from regional producers.Private outdoor space: most rooms open onto a terrace or balcony overlooking landscaped gardens or the pool.Accessibility: select rooms include step-free access and adapted bathrooms (confirm availability when booking).Turn-down is quietly attentive—on my first evening, a beautifully wrapped gift awaited: a Libby White volume on David Livingstone, a thoughtful prelude to days spent in the explorer’s old haunts.
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 39 27Another Day In Africamade-to-order plates—my eggs benedict was faultless. The quiet luxury here is the pace: unhurried, observant, golden.Stop 3: Victoria Falls Wildlife TrustThis conservation and wildlife veterinary hub sits on the edge of town and anchors real, measurable impact: treating injured animals, training rangers and vets, monitoring disease, and advancing community coexistence with wildlife.The experience: A guided visit through the lab and rehabilitation areas; insights into human-wildlife conflict mitigation; stories of rescue and release.Why it matters: Your visit supports fieldwork that protects species from vultures to elephants.Tip: Bring respectful curiosity and leave with an understanding of how tourism can fund science.Stop 4: Sundowners at The Elephant Camp ConcessionAs afternoon softened, we traded the bus for open game viewers and swept into the concession. Giraffe tilted through acacia, elephants ghosted across the track, and a cluster of wildebeest flared dust in the last light. At Gorge 3, a pop-up bar with lots to drink and canapés awaited. It’s that signature Wild Horizons touch: the wild, framed with finesse.DAY 3: STEEL, SUNRISE, AND A FAREWELL LUNCHThe Bamba TramWe were collected before dawn and soon clip-clopping through the quiet town aboard the vintage-style tram to the Victoria Falls Bridge—Cecil Rhodes’ audacious dream forged in rivets and romance. Sunrise pooled over the gorge as an expert guide traced the bridge’s 1905 construction, its role in linking Cape to Cairo ambitions, and the feats of engineering that still awe more than a century on.Back at The Waterfalls Lodge, a leisurely checkout flowed into a last, lingering lunch at the restaurant—fresh, seasonal plates and a final toast to days stitched with detail.PRACTICALITIESGetting there: Multiple daily flights connect via Harare or Johannesburg; Fastjet operates efficient hops to Victoria Falls. Private transfers with Wild Horizons are seamless.Seasons: High-water spectacle roughly Feb–May; low-water clarity and geology on show Sep–Dec. Shoulder months are often ideal.What to pack: Neutral layers; breathable fabrics; a light rain shell; sun hat and high-SPF sunscreen; closed walking shoes; a compact binocular.Health and formalities: Check visa requirements and vaccination guidance before travel; consider travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage.DAY 1: CONSCIOUS CRAFT AND SUNSET DRAMAStop 1: The Ele CollectionPurpose and design intersect at The Ele Collection, a forward-thinking initiative in Victoria Falls that is tackling plastic waste while unlocking income for local women. Collected plastics are processed into a durable aggregate used by builders—diverting waste from the environment and shrinking the carbon footprint of construction.A guided walk-through with Ben Norton offered a candid look at the innovation behind the process and the ripple effects across the community. It’s the kind of visit that leaves you both informed and optimistic.Why go: Behind-the-scenes insight into circular-economy solutions.What you’ll see: Sorting, shredding, and aggregate production; artisanal products; community impact in numbers.Insider tip: Wear closed shoes; bring questions—they love a good Q&A.Stop 2: The Lookout CaféPerched on the rim of the Batoka Gorge, The Lookout Café is Wild Horizons’ much-loved open-air restaurant where the drama is all around you: the spray plume in the distance, the historic bridge arcing between Zimbabwe and Zambia, the Zambezi carving through basalt far below.We lingered over sundowners and hearty canapés on the deck as the gorge slowly turned amber. Dinner followed upstairs—my opening act, a silken butternut soup, gave way to flame-grilled mains and a finale of dark chocolate decadence. The kitchen riffs on African ingredients with global technique; the service is warm, paced, and intuitive. Put simply: it’s a must.Back at the lodge, turn-down complete, I slipped between cool sheets with Libby White’s Livingstone in hand—a meticulously researched, an elegant tribute to the explorer’s grit and contradictions—then surrendered to sleep.DAY 2: MIST, RIVERLIGHT, AND FIELD NOTESStop 1: The Victoria Falls (Mosi‑oa‑Tunya)At first light, the rainforest trail is perfumed and hushed, and the Falls unfurl in a sequence of viewpoints that build suspense. Our Wild Horizons guide stitched geology, Tonga legend, and colonial lore into a narrative as we moved from Devil’s Cataract toward Main Falls and Horseshoe, mist drifting like breath from the gorge.Best moments: Rainbows in the spray; the thunder at Main Falls; quiet corners between Viewpoints 9–11.Essentials: A light rain jacket for the spray; non-slip shoes; waterproof cover for your phone.Time it right: The light is sublime early morning; on full-moon nights, ask about lunar rainbow tours.Stop 2: Breakfast Cruise on the ZambeziMorning on the river feels like being let into a secret. With the day still cool and the channels empty of boats, we drifted past reedbeds alive with bee-eaters and fish eagles. A buffet of flaky pastries and jewel-bright fruit gave way to
28 Issue 39 www.nzira.co.zw Nzira Travel 0242 782 720 /1/2/7/8 | Whatsapp +263 772 443 635 37 Victoria Drive, Newlands, Harare [email protected] | www.softrite.co.zw
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 39 29Another Day In AfricaArticle : Rudo Nhamoinesu Images: Chamabondo Tented CampZambezi National Park, Victoria FallsChamabondoTented Camp hen travellers dream of Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls inevitably takes centre stage—the spray, the thunder, the legend. But beyond the world’s most famous waterfall lies a softer roar: the wilderness. Tucked within the Chamabondo section of Zambezi National Park, less than an hour from Victoria Falls town, Chamabondo Tented Camp offers that rare pairing—easy access to an icon with a true, old-world safari in its backyard.THE JOURNEY INAfter two days soaking up the energy of Victoria Falls town, we traded pavement for Kalahari sand tracks, climbing into an open game-viewer and setting course for the park’s southern reaches. The first stretch unfurled through mopane woodland—leaves leathery and sparse in the dry season, the ground the colour of toasted paprika. Dry season here is nature’s high drama: food thins out, water pulls life into predictable congregations, and sightings spike.Minutes in, the road tilted toward a waterhole and the scene opened like a stage. Elephants—dozens, then hundreds—cycled through in family groups, queueing with surprising order to drink, bathe, and dust, calves wedged like commas between matriarchs. We lingered long enough for the light to slide, the air buzzing with doves and cicadas, before our guide smiled: “I hope you’ve had your fill. Wait until we get to Chamabondo.”As we pushed deeper, the character of the land shifted. Mopane ceded to dappled teak woodland and open vleis—broad depressions that hold water longer than the uplands. Giraffe ghosted through the trees; a stern line of buffalo lifted their heads in unison. By the time the camp’s silhouette appeared, we were tuned to the frequency of the bush.Chamabondo Tented Camp sits inland with a clear, commanding view over a vlei and its attendant waterhole—a magnet for wildlife in the dry months. Our welcome was choreographed by the wild: a dust-clouded herd of buffalo arriving to drink as we were handed cool towels and a first, crisp sip. The signature here is not spectacle built by people, but the kind only nature can supply—ebb and flow, quiet then crescendo.Lunch arrived with the hush of a boutique property: attentive but unfussy service and plates anchored in fresh, seasonal flavours. Between courses, sable antelope appeared in the heat shimmer, followed by zebra skirting the shoreline, their reflections striping the water. This rhythm—feast, watch, exhale—would become the thread of our days.A SETTING FOR SERIOUS GAME VIEWINGThe wider protected area around Victoria Falls encompasses tens of thousands of hectares of wild land, and the Chamabondo section has a reputation among guides for its combination of woodland and open vlei systems—habitats that suit both browsers and grazers. W
30 Issue 39 www.nzira.co.zw Nzira Travel Four of Africa’s Big Five are present: elephant, buffalo, lion, and leopard. Dry season concentrates movement; mornings often reveal a braille of tracks printed across the road—spoor of hyena, lion, and the elegant calligraphy of kudu and impala.For connoisseurs of antelope, Chamabondo is rich country. Sable, kudu, and eland move through the teak forests; giraffes lean like punctuation marks against the sky; zebras bunch and scatter in photogenic herds. Birders, meanwhile, find a different kind of big game. More than 400 species have been recorded in Zambezi National Park. The wish list here is worthy of a lifetime: Pel’s fishing owl on shadowed riverine perches, African skimmer cutting water like a scalpel, collared palm thrush, lanner falcon, goliath heron, African finfoot, rock pratincole, and long-toed lapwing among the specialties.WHAT TO EXPECT ON YOUR DAYS HEREGame drives: Morning and afternoon excursions reach into the Chamabondo sector’s mix of teak woodland and open vlei, guided by seasoned guides who know which pans are drawing life as water recedes. Dry season drives are about patience rewarded.Birding: Dedicated outings focus on watercourses, floodplains, and woodland edges where specialty species are most reliably found. Bring binoculars, an open mind, and extra time—you’ll want it.Victoria Falls excursions: One of Chamabondo’s rare luxuries is proximity. Drives to Victoria Falls town and the falls themselves add a dose of grandeur between your game activities—no long transfers required.Zambezi River forays: Morning or afternoon drives to the riverbanks shift the palette to reedbeds, channels, and slow water, changing the cast of birds and mammals you’ll see and offering magnificent sunset light.Local Chamabondo game viewing: Even short, local drives deliver the sort of encounters that turn firsttime safari-goers into lifelong devotees—and remind veterans why they keep returning.Between activities, the camp’s lounge and deck become a theatre. The waterhole is the lead actor; you’re seated in the front row.
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 39 31Another Day In AfricaDESIGN AND ATMOSPHEREChamabondo’s canvas suites draw on the comforting grammar of a classic tented camp: textures that age well, careful sight-lines, and a colour palette that echoes the land—teak browns, river-grass greens, dust-soft neutrals. The interiors favour quality over ostentation, with thoughtful touches that travellers notice: quietly efficient charging points, good reading lights, deep shade on hot afternoons, and beds that coax real sleep after the night chorus of owls, hyenas, and distant lions.What stands out most is restraint. Rather than impose itself on the view, the camp frames it. Breakfast might drift into late morning if elephants arrive; dinner pauses for a chorus of nightjars. Staff carry that same easy grace—warm, professional, and proudly Zimbabwean.SEASONALITYDry season (typically May to October): Prime game viewing as wildlife concentrates at water. Days are bright and warm; nights can be cool—pack layers for early drives.Green season (roughly November to April): The bush transforms—emerald grasses, dramatic skies, and a surge in birdlife with migrants arriving. Game viewing shifts from waterhole congregation to more dispersed sightings, but photographic opportunities can be superb.Both windows hold magic; your choice is a question of mood. Do you want the concentrated intensity of the dry months, or the color-saturated intimacy of the rains?PRACTICALITIESLocation: Approximately 34 km from Victoria Falls, within the Chamabondo area of Zambezi National Park. Transfers are typically 45–60 minutes, depending on sightings en route—don’t be surprised if the road to camp becomes your first game drive.Park fees: Conservation fees apply for entry into the park; your operator or camp will advise current rates and settle permits in advance where possible.What to pack: Neutral-toned clothing, a warm layer for mornings, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, binoculars, and a camera with spare batteries or power bank. Closed shoes are useful for walks around camp.Connectivity: The camp has fast Wi-Fi which allows you to stay connected from your tent or the main area.WHY CHAMABONDO, NOWLuxury travel often balances remoteness with ease. Chamabondo Tented Camp nails the equation. It delivers a full-bodied safari—the kind defined by patience, knowledge, and a front-row seat to a working waterhole—within easy reach of the world’s most storied waterfall. It’s a place where lunch pauses for sable, where dusk brings an orchestra of doves and francolins, and where you fall asleep knowing that, just out there in the dark, something wild is drinking under the stars.
32 Issue 39 www.nzira.co.zw Nzira Travel Where the Wild Meets the Water, AgainTiger Bay(Article & Images: Desmond Tapfumaaybe it’s the electric thrill of the tigerfish biting at dawn. Maybe it’s the way the sun melts into Lake Kariba, casting gold across the water as elephants drink at the edge. Or maybe, it’s that deep, grounding stillness, the kind that only comes when you’re somewhere raw, remote, and real.For years, Tiger Bay was a beloved hideaway on the banks of the Ume River, known best by anglers and adventurers chasing the fierce tigerfish and stories worth retelling. It was rustic, honest, and full of heart. A fishing camp with soul.But time passed. And like many places stitched into memory, Tiger Bay paused.Until now.We’ve brought Tiger Bay back, not just as it was, but reimagined for those who crave both wilderness and luxury. Still hectares of raw Kariba beauty. Still framed by Matusadona’s peaks and Africa’s untamed charm. But now, with carefully crafted lodges, immersive safaris, gourmet dining, and the kind of comfort that lets you stay wild and sleep well.It hasn’t been easy. Renovation meant more than just building. It meant unearthing the spirit of this place and shaping it for today’s traveller. There were delays, overruns, and days when we questioned if the vision was too bold. But every change we made, from the plunge pools to the stargazing decks, the spa to the bush dinners, was a step toward doing this place justice.We’ve kept the name. We’ve kept the view. We’ve kept the tigerfish.And now, we welcome you to experience it all again, or for the very first time.THE NEW TIGER BAY LODGEPerched on the banks of the Ume River, Tiger Bay Lodge combines authentic Kariba wilderness with refined contemporary design.Accommodation:7 Executive Chalets and 1 Riverfront Villa, each with a private plunge pool, outdoor shower, and panoramic lake views.Facilities:Onsite restaurant and bar, infinity pool, gym, and spa.Experiences:• Sunrise and sunset game drives• Lakeside cruises and tiger fishing• Bush dinners, stargazing, birdwatching, and safari cruisesM
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 39 33Another Day In AfricaAccess:By air transfer, 4x4 road, or boat transfer.Every detail of the lodge is crafted to immerse guests in nature while offering refined relaxation, from organic bath amenities to locally inspired cuisine and eco-conscious architecture powered by renewable solar energy.CHURU EXPEDITION CAMP — THE ADVENTURER’S ISLANDA short ride from the lodge Churu Expedition Camp, for travellers who crave the untamed.Accommodation Options:•Luxury Safari Tents (2-sharing): $75 per person per night• Standard Safari Tents (single): $45 per person per night• Bring Your Own Tent: $25 per person per nightFacilities:Lounge deck, pool, campfire pit.Experiences:Walking safaris, fishing, birdwatching, bush dinners, sundowners, and safari water cruises.Access:Via Tiger Bay Lodge transfer boats or air transfer.Here, the nights hum with wild calls and campfire laughter, a reminder that adventure is still alive and well on Lake Kariba.Sustainability at HeartTiger Bay is powered by a solar farm, a model for eco-sensitive tourism on Lake Kariba. Guests can take part in tree-planting initiatives through our Friends of the Environment partnership, beekeeping experiences with local families, and cultural storytelling sessions that connect you to the heart of Zimbabwe.Your travel footprint is light, but your impact is lasting.Retreat. Restore. Renew.Tiger Bay — brought back to life by Sahwira Africa Safaris.
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www.nzira.co.zw Issue 39 35Another Day In AfricaThe Change from Dry to Green Season in Zimbabwe and Southern AfricaFrom Dust To Emeraldhere’s a particular hour in late October when Zimbabwe holds its breath. The air feels charged, like a radio signal tuned between stations. Mopane leaves flip their pale undersides to the wind. A faroff rumble turns over the sky. Then comes the hiss — first on granite, then grass, then wide and generous — and the dust loosens its grip. It’s not just the weather. It’s a turning of the page, the return of colour. Southern Africa’s dry season yields to the green.From May to October, the dry months are all sharp edges and amber light. Rivers retreat to strings of pools. Elephant paths etch through acacia groves to the last pumping pans in Hwange. In Mana Pools, Zambezi sandbanks lie exposed and warm under the kind of sky that turns photographers greedy. Game viewing is effortless then: animals concentrate around water, grass is cropped low, and the bush opens like a theatre.But even at peak safari perfection, the land is waiting. Granite kopjes hold heat deep into the night. Dust hangs like lace in the air, blurring the horizon. In villages, maize meal is carefully rationed and seed is set aside. Guides read the season like a story in tracks and clouds. Everyone looks up more often.The first rains arrive with theatre. The Intertropical Convergence Zone slides south and draws moisture in. By November, afternoons can bloom into anvils of cloud, blue-black and magnificent. Thunder rolls like a drumline. The smell of petrichor — that delicious perfume of wet dust — is everywhere. Termites erupt from the ground in a mad, shimmering tide, and children race with buckets beneath the lights to catch them.The transformation is fast. Grasses spear up. A thousand shades of green unspool across the bush. Bare ebony trees leaf overnight; sausage tree blossoms drop thick and sticky for antelope to nose through. Victoria Falls, which thins to veils in late winter, begins to fatten again, each week louder, wilder.
36 Issue 39 www.nzira.co.zw Nzira Travel THE GREEN SEASON’S QUIET DRAMAFor travellers, this is a different kind of safari — softer at the edges, but rich with secrets. The bush may be denser, but life is blooming:Baby boom: Impala lambs wobble through the thickets, warthog piglets learn to kneel and root, and giraffe calves peer with exaggerated eyelashes. Predators shadow this baby wave; cheetahs and wild dogs hunt with purpose on the short grass after a burn.Birds in spectacle: Migrants arrive en masse — carmine bee-eaters, cuckoos, pallid harriers — and the bush fills with new songs. At Lake Kariba and along the Zambezi, fish eagles duet with thunder. Birding in the green is simply sensational.Electric skies: Afternoon storms paint skies that photographers dream about. After the downpour, the light turns syrupy and clean; termite mounds steam; rainbows bow across valley floors.Crowds thin too. Camps drop shoulderseason rates; guides have more time to linger. You’ll share a horizon with elephant and cloud, not convoys of vehicles.WHERE THE CHANGE FEELS MOST ALIVEHwange National Park, Zimbabwe: In October, elephant gather in their thousands at pumped pans — raw, moving, sometimes chaotic. By December, water spreads and herds wander; wild dogs crisscross the open vleis, and raptors hawk termite flights against storm-light skies.Mana Pools, Lower Zambezi: The Albida forests green up into a cathedral of shade. Canoe the channels as the river rises, watching for skimmers and beeeaters. Expect fewer vehicles and long, quiet watches with aquatic birds and laidback bull elephants.Matobo Hills: The granite world responds subtly — lichens flare, rock pools brim, and rhino tracks ribbon the damp earth. Cultural tours to rock-art sites feel even more elemental in the smell of wet stone.Victoria Falls: From thin, lacey drifts in September to thundering smoke-andthunder by late January through May, the Falls offer two shows. Green season brings spray and power; pack a rain shell and a sense of awe.Beyond Zimbabwe: Across Southern Africa, the Okavango’s first pulses arrive; the Kalahari grasses bloom and draw in oryx and springbok; Zambia’s Luangwa valleys turn emerald and neon with carmine bee-eater colonies.
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38 Issue 39 www.nzira.co.zw Nzira Travel CHOOSING YOUR SEASONThink of Southern Africa as offering two masterpieces in the same gallery. The dry months are spare, graphic, and precise — animals on the stage, every movement clear. The green months are lush oil paintings — saturated colour, hidden dramas, layered sound. Neither is less. They simply tell different truths about the same land.If you crave intensity — elephants ghosting through golden dust, lions on open pans, cold nights around a mopane fire — choose the dry. If your heart leans toward rebirth — thunderheads, birds in riotous plumage, the shock of new grass and newborns — come for the green.
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 39 39Another Day In AfricaArticle : Postcard AfricaThe Art Of Dressing For The WildSafari Packing Masterclass This is your field guide to packing with purpose: what to bring, which fabrics actually work, and why colour is far more than a fashion call.There’s a moment on every safari when the bush hushes—just wind in the grass, a flick of an impala’s ear, the breathy cough of a lion somewhere in the thorn. That’s when your packing either disappears into the landscape or distracts from it. The right kit keeps you comfortable, unobtrusive, and ready for the small miracles: a leopard melting into shade, a lilac-breasted roller taking flight, the first ember glow over the pans.START WITH THE PLANE, NOT THE PLAINSBush flights define your packing before you’ve seen a single track. Most camps connect via light aircraft with strict limits—15–20 kg total, including camera gear. Soft-sided duffels slide into narrow cargo pods where hard-shell suitcases simply won’t. Think dense, not bulky. A compact layering system beats a heavyweight hoodie every time. Packing cubes help: one for game drives, one for camp. You’ll be repacking in dawn light; make it easy.DRESS THE TEMPERATURE SWINGSSafari days are a study in extremes. Winter mornings in Southern Africa can nip at your fingers; by lunchtime the sun has the energy of a heat lamp. Build a modular wardrobe:• A breathable base layer that wicks at dawn and doesn’t cling by noon.• A light fleece or merino midlayer—quiet on the move, warm without bulk.• A windproof shell or softshell you can shrug on in the vehicle when the air bites.Two or three long-sleeve shirts with roll tabs and ventilation will do most of the work. Pair them with two quick-dry trousers that have a bit of stretch and don’t swish as you walk. Zip-offs are fine if they’re quiet. Footwear is simple: one pair of broken-in, closed-toe shoes with grip, and something easy for camp, like sandals. After dark, a packable puffer and a beanie earn their space. The bush has no sympathy for the unprepared.
40 Issue 39 www.nzira.co.zw Nzira Travel CHOOSING FABRICSNot all textiles travel well under African sun and dust. Choose materials with intent. Technical synthetics—nylon and polyester blends—bring durability and quick-dry performance. Look for ripstop weaves in trousers, UPF ratings in shirts, and a touch of elastane for freedom of movement without that plastic rustle. Cotton has its place. A soft cotton tee feels right at the firepit, but cotton is slow to dry and heavy when damp. Keep it for camp and evenings, not for six hours of sun and dust. On walking safaris, silence matters. Avoid loud fabrics; you’ll hear them before you hear the birds. COLOURS TO PACKClothing colour on safari is not an aesthetic afterthought; it’s a strategy. In open savannah and mopane woodland alike, the palette that works is the one that disappears. Olive, khaki, taupe, muted green, and brown dissolve into the landscape, letting your silhouette soften at the edge of the vehicle. Bright white glares in the harsh light and records every dust swirl by lunchtime. Black looks sharp in the lounge and behaves like a solar panel on the vehicle; it also shows dust and leaf lint with enthusiasm.There’s a practical entomological angle too. In regions where tsetse flies roam—think Tarangire, Ruaha, parts of the Serengeti, Kafue, the Lower Zambezi—blue and black are beacons. Tsetses are drawn to these shades; so are some biting horseflies. Give them less reason to investigate. And leave camouflage at home. In several countries, camo patterns are restricted for civilians. Even where they’re not, they can cause unnecessary friction at checkpoints and don’t provide any advantage in a vehicle.
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 39 41Another Day In AfricaWHAT YOU ACTUALLY WEAR, HOUR BY HOURAt dawn, when the guide pours coffee and the air has bite, you’ll want the full stack: base layer, long-sleeve shirt, midlayer, windproof shell, long trousers, and a warm hat. As the sun climbs, the midlayer and shell can disappear into your daypack, sleeves can roll, and your hat takes over. Afternoons on the move call for breathable shirts, sun protection, and long trousers that guard shins against thorns when you hop out to look at tracks.On walking safaris, muted colors and quiet fabrics are your etiquette. Long sleeves, long pants, closed shoes, and a brimmed hat with a chin strap are non-negotiable. You carry less than you think: water, a small camera or phone, and respect for the wind’s direction. Dinner is smart-casual comfort: a clean shirt, lightweight trousers. Camps are relaxed; leave the blazer to city breaks.Field note: A wide-brim hat that stays put in a moving vehicle is worth more than three caps that don’t. Add polarized sunglasses and mineral sunscreen; your future self will thank you.TOOLS FOR SEEING (AND SAVING) THE MOMENTA good pair of binoculars turns a trip into a revelation. For most travelers, 8×32 offers a sweet spot—light enough to carry, bright enough at first and last light. If you’re steadyhanded, 10×42 provides reach. One pair per person avoids the “my turn” shuffle when a cheetah lifts its head.Photographers thrive on reach: a 100–400mm or 150–600mm lens covers most sightings. A simple beanbag beats a tripod for vehicle stability. Dust is inevitable—embrace it, but manage it. Keep gear in zip-top bags, carry a blower, and avoid lens changes when the vehicle is moving or the wind is up. Your future editing hours will be kinder.THE SMALL THINGS THAT MATTER MORE THAN YOU THINKToiletries play a quiet but vital role: mineral sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, and insect repellent top the list. Toss in a compact first-aid kit—plasters, antiseptic wipes, antihistamine, pain relief, blister care, and rehydration salts. Camps are well-equipped but remote; it’s liberating to fix a hotspot or a headache in the moment.Some camps won’t launder underwear. Pack quick-dry pairs and a travel-sized laundry soap. A travel line in the bathroom and your wardrobe resets overnight. A headlamp with a red mode keeps your night vision (and doesn’t blind your guide). A slim power bank keeps phones and e-readers alive between the generator’s evening hums. As for plugs, a universal adapter removes a world of uncertainty across East and Southern Africa’s mixed sockets.Documentation is its own packing list: passport, visas, travel insurance, and any required vaccination certificates. If malaria prophylaxis is recommended for your route, consult a travel clinic and pack accordingly.
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www.nzira.co.zw Issue 39 43Another Day In AfricaConservation and Community Causes to Support in Zimbabwe This Festive SeasonGive Where You Goimbabwe’s festive season coincides with the first rains—a time of renewal for landscapes and livelihoods. If you’re visiting between November and January, your trip can directly support wildlife conservation and community development in meaningful, ethical ways. Below is a practical guide to reputable causes, how to engage, and what to bring.Z
44 Issue 39 www.nzira.co.zw Nzira Travel HOW TO CHOOSE A CAUSE (FAST)• Align with place: Support projects near your itinerary (e.g., Victoria Falls, Hwange, Mana Pools, Matobo, Gonarezhou).• Favour locally rooted organisations with transparent reporting.• Think “capacity building”: support training, equipment, and local enterprises over short-term fixes.• Ask about festive-season needs: many groups run year-end drives or have gear wish-lists.PRIORITY CONSERVATION INITIATIVESThese organisations operate on the ground in Zimbabwe and welcome visitor support, donations, or pre-arranged visits.Tip: Email ahead for current wish-lists, customs-friendly packing notes, and possible visit times.
www.nzira.co.zw Issue 39 45Another Day In AfricaNote: Many lodges in Zimbabwe are “Pack for a Purpose” partners—check your lodge’s page for specific school and clinic needs. https://www.packforapurpose.org/destinations/africa/zimbabwe/WHAT TO PACK (BY REQUEST LISTS ARE BEST)Field gear: durable binoculars, headlamps, rechargeable torches, power banks, GPS units, SD cards, camera traps (only if pre-approved).Ranger kit: sturdy boots, socks, quick-dry uniforms, hydration packs, first-aid kits.Education: exercise books, scientific calculators, solar lamps, age-appropriate reading material.Health and dignity: reusable menstrual kits, latex/nitrile gloves, wound dressings.Tech: refurbished laptops/tablets with chargers; load opensource offline learning content (get approval).Customs tip: Pack donations in original packaging with an inventory list; avoid restricted items (e.g., drones, certain meds) without approvals.RESPONSIBLE GIVING: DO’S AND DON’TS• Do buy local: baskets in Lupane, Tonga crafts in Binga, stone sculpture in Tengenenge, beadwork in Victoria Falls markets.• Do book community-led experiences: village visits run by local committees, guiding by certified community guides.• Do avoid orphanage tourism and unvetted short-term volunteering.• Don’t hand out sweets or cash to children; donate through schools or registered groups.• Ask about monitoring and reporting—good projects share outcomes.FESTIVE-SEASON IDEAS YOU CAN ACTION RIGHT NOW• Sponsor a ranger patrol or aerial hour with ZEF, Tashinga, or BHAPU as a “gift in someone’s name.”• Pre-order a hamper of vetted school supplies for delivery via ABC Foundation or Jafuta.• Book a conservation-focused activity in Vic Falls: a behind-thescenes visit at VFWT or a VFAPU briefing walk.• Offset (and reduce) your trip’s carbon via accredited schemes; add a tree-planting contribution with Environment Africa.• Plan a “conservation stocking”: a set of field socks, headlamp, water filter bottle—gifted to a ranger unit on arrival.Here’s to travelling with purpose!Community Development PartnersSupport livelihoods that reduce pressure on wildlife and improve community resilience.
46 Issue 39 www.nzira.co.zw Nzira Travel Visit Land Rover Zimbabwe, Premier Auto, BB House, 125 Leopold Takawira Street, Harare, Zimbabwe landrover.co.zw
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