Get in touch with us and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.
Why Choose Us
Here's what sets us apart from the competition
Value for Money
We deliver exceptional experiences at fair, transparent prices, ensuring every journey offers genuine quality, comfort, and unforgettable adventure without unnecessary costs.
Personalized Itineraries
Your journey is crafted around your interests, pace, and travel style, giving you a custom-made adventure that feels authentic, meaningful, and entirely your own.
Here for You
From planning to your final day of travel, our dedicated team is available to guide, assist, and ensure your trip runs smoothly and stress-free.
Pack lightweight, neutral-coloured clothing, a warm layer for early-morning drives, sturdy shoes, sun protection, insect repellent, a good camera/binoculars, and any required medications or vaccinations after consulting your healthcare provider and local travel advice.
We work with a curated network of vetted lodges, camps, guides, and ground operators selected for local knowledge, safety standards, experience, and suitability to the traveller’s interests and budget.
Yes; itineraries can be tailored for wildlife photography, birding, family-focused activities, honeymooners, and adventure travel, with appropriate accommodations, vehicle options, and guide specialisations arranged on request.
Zimtrek specialises in safaris across Southern and East Africa, with core destinations including Zimbabwe, Botswana, Zambia, South Africa, Namibia, Kenya, and Tanzania.
Zimtrek designs tailor-made safaris including game drives, walking safaris, mobile tented camps, photographic safaris, and combined wildlife-and-cultural itineraries to suit solo travellers, couples, families, and small groups.
In This Article
Winter Safari Advantage
Discover why winter is ideal for Big Five sightings.
Seasonal Safari Insights
Explore how each season affects your safari experience.
Tailored Safari Planning
Choose the best season based on your preferences.
Understanding the Big Five
The term 'Big Five' originally referred to the five most challenging animals to hunt on foot in Africa, but today it represents a dream list for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. The Big Five includes the lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo. South Africa is one of the most accessible places to see these magnificent animals in the wild.
Tip: To maximize your chances of spotting the Big Five, plan your safari during peak viewing seasons.
Why Season Matters
Different seasons bring unique challenges and opportunities for viewing wildlife. Factors like rainfall, foliage density, and water availability can significantly affect your safari experience. Understanding these seasonal changes can help you plan the perfect trip.
Seasonal Overview for Big Five Viewing
South Africa's climate varies greatly across regions, influencing the availability and behavior of wildlife. Each season offers distinct benefits and challenges.
Season
Months
Highlights
Summer
December - February
Lush landscapes, young animals
Autumn
March - May
Mild weather, thinning vegetation
Winter
June - August
Best for Big Five, dry season
Spring
September - November
Wildflowers, active wildlife
Winter: The Prime Time
Winter is often considered the best time for a Big Five safari. The dry season from June to August makes it easier to spot animals as they congregate around waterholes. The sparse vegetation also provides clearer viewing conditions.
Info: Winter mornings can be chilly, so pack warm layers.
Summer: A Different Experience
Summer in South Africa, from December to February, presents a lush, green landscape teeming with life. This is an excellent time to see young animals and experience the vibrancy of the bush. However, the dense foliage can make spotting the Big Five more challenging.
Autumn: Transition and Balance
Autumn, from March to May, offers a balance between the lushness of summer and the dry conditions of winter. As vegetation begins to thin, wildlife becomes more visible, and temperatures are more moderate than in the summer months.
Spring: Blooming Opportunities
From September to November, spring offers a spectacular display of wildflowers and increased wildlife activity. This period is excellent for photographers and those interested in more than just the Big Five, as the entire ecosystem comes alive.
Tip: Consider a spring visit to enjoy the diverse flora and fauna, adding another layer to your safari experience.
How to Choose the Best Time for You
Choosing the best time for your safari depends on what you wish to experience. If your goal is to see the Big Five with ease, winter is your best bet. If you prefer vibrant landscapes and the chance to see young animals, summer may be preferable. For a balanced experience, consider autumn or spring.
Get in touch with us and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.
Why Choose Us
Here's what sets us apart
Value for Money
We deliver exceptional experiences at fair, transparent prices, ensuring every journey offers genuine quality, comfort, and unforgettable adventure without unnecessary costs.
Personalized Itineraries
Your journey is crafted around your interests, pace, and travel style, giving you a custom-made adventure that feels authentic, meaningful, and entirely your own.
Here for You
From planning to your final day of travel, our dedicated team is available to guide, assist, and ensure your trip runs smoothly and stress-free.
What Our Clients Say
Don't just take our word for it
“I had a perfect Christmas holiday in vicfalls, best Christmas ever!!!Very special thanks to zimtrack travels for helping me out with the booking and accommodation, you came in handy your service great,I had a wonderful Stay at Victoria falls Oasis, the place is breathtaking, full of life and warm,their hospitality is top notch 10 out of 10 minus nothing!!!! I'm surely doing this again with you!!”
TM
Tafadzwa Mucheche
Tafadzwa Mucheche
“Zim Trek Travels were great. They sorted our trip to Victoria Falls which was fantastic. The contact and feedback with Peter was amazing. Jim Mc Sorley Harare.”
JM
Jim Mc Sorley
Jim Mc Sorley
“They've planned trips local and abroad and they have become my trip planner!!! Absolutely impressed.”
RM
Rudo Mudzura
Rudo Mudzura
“Zimtrek Travel looked after our family so well. Peter planned and organised our trip to Namibia to perfection. He listened well and selected the best fit accomodation for our needs/requests. I will highly recommend this company.”
