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Home>Zimbabwe>Activities | 
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| Zimbabwe: Activities | ||||
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Birding > see photographs > send me birding holiday options Zimbabwe's range of habitats include open savannah, grasslands, deep river gorges and the misty mountains of the Eastern Highlands. This diversity make the country an ideal destination for birdwatchers. While Southern Africa boasts 10% of the worldÕs population of birds in 920 species, it is not unusual for a visitor in summer months to see over 400 of these over a period of 2–3 weeks. In Hwange National Park 413 species exist, dominated by hornbills and francolin. The deep booming call of the large Ground Hornbill are indicative of the area. Lake Kariba and the Zambezi River are the homes of the waders especially egrets, herons, plovers and Egyptian geese. In contrast the more secretive birds of the Eastern Highlands can be found in the Bvumba and include the Chirinda Apalis and Robert's Prinia while in Chipinge you have a good chance of spotting Livingstone's Loerie. The Matobo National Park has high concentrations of Black Eagle which have been studied and researched there for many years. Requirements A mild degree of fitness as birding will probably be combined with a guided nature walk. Variety There are over 500 species of birds, both resident and migratory. Included are kingfishers, storks, bee eaters, egrets, herons, and numerous raptors including eagles, buzzards and vultures. Special sightings may include the rare Narina Trogon, Pel's Fishing owl and the Black Eagle. Tailormade birding safaris can be arranged with a few renown local ornithologists at top birding locations around the country or in other Southern African countries. Recommended lodges and camps which have excellent birding: Bvumba: Leopard Rock Chipinge: Kiledo Lodge Hwange National Park: The Hide Safari Camp, Makalolo Plains Lake Kariba: Musango Safari Camp, Rhino Island Mana Pools: Chikwenya Safari Camp, Ruckomechi Safari Camp Matobo National Park: Big Cave Camp, Camp Amalinda Best time to go The warmer months of October to March are best, as resident as well as migrant birds are in the country. However it must be noted that there hundreds of resident species, so the dry winter months are also prolific. Prices per person Included with the accommodation rates for the recommended camps above, which are priced from US$100 a night. Tailormade birding safaris with renown ornithologist from US$240 per day (excludes travelling and accommodation expenses of the specialist and excludes your own accommodation and other expenses). The above rate is just for the ornithologist to accompany your group. Please contact Julie for further details and current rates. TOP Bungi Jumping > see photographs > send me holiday options that include bunji jumping The Victoria Falls Bridge has, until recently, held the record for the highest and best bungi jump in the world at 111 metres. (a higher jump is now operated over the Storms River in South Africa). This breathtaking feat with the spectacular backdrop of the Victoria Falls turbulent gorge below has turned many a brave man back. Over 60 000 people have jumped to date, all safely. Certificates are given for your feat and photos or videos can be purchased on the same day. Safety and Requirements One licensed operator exists, who exercises excellent safety standards and have vast experience. The webbing attached to your cord has a 2 000 kg breaking strain and cords are made to last 1 000 jumps but are changed after 500 jumps. To date no fatalities have occurred. You must inform the operator beforehand if you are/have ever suffered from any of the following: pregnancy, high blood pressure, heart conditions, neurological disorders, epilepsy, acute or chronic knee or back injuries or knee and ankle dislocations. Variety of jumps Although jumps have been made in kayaks and other colourful vessels, only tandem jumps are generally open to the public as an alternative to jumping alone. Best time to go All year round. Prices Please contact Julie for further information and current rates. |
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