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7 Reasons Why Zimbabwe & Botswana Are Must Visit 2018 Destinations

Stunning scenery, incredible wildlife, and so much more...

While we technically have a summer each year, it's hard to predict whether it'll actually be a'summer', you know?

So with 'who-knows-what-we're-gonna-get' weather on the way, there's no better time to plan your big blowout trip of 2018.

Thankfully, we're here to tell you Zimbabwe and Botswana are must-visit destinations - and you can even take a tour with Africa Albida Tourismthat takes you through both countries' best bits in one ridiculous trip.

'WATCH ZIMBABWE AND BOTSWANA'S BEST BITS IN ONE HANDY VIDEO BELOW...'

Here are seven reasons why you need to jet off to Africa tomorrow...

1. The scenery is STUNNING

Whether you’re a budding amateur photographer,or a master of the 'gram, the scenery found in Zimbabwe and Botswana is parallel to none. From the breathtaking Victoria Falls to the Chobe National Park, you'll need to pack your oxygen tank, because you are going to be'permanently'out of breath.

2.World-class hospitality

To experience Zimbabwe in all its glory, look no further than the award winning Victoria Falls Safari lodge (its been the proud recipient of the AZTA Award for Best Safari Lodge for 21 consecutive years). Built on the natural boundary of the Zambezi National Park, this seven-floored luxury open-planned tree house (yes, treehouse!) will offer all the comfort and extravagance you could possibly wish for whilst giving a true immersive safari experience.

Guests’ rooms all overlook the National Park with many facing an on-site waterhole where local Elephants, Buffalo and Hyena can be easily spotted from the comfort of your personal balcony.

Zimbabwe Safari

Africa Albida Tourism

Zimbabwe Safari

Be sure to take a short wildlife-filled drive over the border to neighboring Botswana to visit the Ngoma Safari Lodge. Situated in the Chobe Forest Reserve, Ngoma Safari Lodge features a valley-facing dining area, bar and plunge pool so whatever you’re doing you won’t miss any of the spectacular wildlife activity the park has to offer.

Each room comes with personal plunge pool and outdoor shower (as well as indoor facilities).

3. Inspiring conservation work

In the short time we spent in Zimbabwe and Botswana, we managed to spot: Elephants, Lions, Hippos, Crocodiles, Baboon, Giraffe, Zebras to name a few.

Most of these incredible animals have tragically faced extinction and sorely on local communities to support with conservation projects.

Botswana-Safari

Rex

Botswana-Safari

Luckily, organisations like AAT host annual fundraising events to fight poaching in Victoria Falls, which is sadly an ongoing problem in the region.

The Ngoma Safari Lodge uses annual profits to help fund the conservation of the national parks and vast wetlands as well as the local communities by offering training and a wide range of job opportunities to multiple local villages.

It's incrediblyinspiring to see such forward-thinking, and a sense of community from the safari lodges, local communities and mutual respect for the incredible wildlife.

4. The food is incredibly NOM

If you're after a dining room with a view, then why not try amazing local a la carte food at the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge whilst watching the local Hyenas enjoy their dinner from the safety of your dining table. While you're there, you can taste everything from mouthwatering Zambezi River Bream to a Warthog Steak roll, all cooked to perfection by local chefs; the adventurous will not be disappointed.

Zimbabwe Safari

Africa Albida Tourism

Zimbabwe Safari

A long day on safari really builds up an appetite, and a great way to wind down is to head to The Boma-Dinner and Dance show, where you're given the opportunity to watch a traditional African drum and dance show whilst you dine on locally sourced barbecued meats, vegetarian dishes and local drinks.

If you're a little bit more YOLO, you can even try eating a Mopane Worm (a delicacy in Southern Africa) for a chance win a certificate of braveness!

5. Awe-Inspiring Safaris

Heading into the African wilderness and not going on safari is near sacrilege.

From the Ngoma Safari Lodge we ventured out on an once in a lifetime all-day safari through the Chobe National Park. We had barely entered the park when we spotted hordes of Impala, Zebra and Giraffe.

Botswana Safari

Calum Glenday

Botswana Safari

After several hours animal spotting we stopped to enjoy a gourmet picnic and drinks, and had the pleasure of being joined by several (cheeky) monkeys that were more than happy to assist with eating any unfinished food.

Keep your eyes peeled, and you'll see the Big Five before you know it.

6. Amazing adventure activities

When you're not dragging your jaw off the floor from all the animals you've been bumping into, thenthe more adventurous amongst you should dive headfirst (literally) into a host ofone-in-a-lifetime activities, including...

Botswana-Safari

Rex

Botswana-Safari

Zambezi River tours, Helicopter Tours, White Water Rafting through Vic Falls, Canopy Tours, Bungee jumping and much much more!

7. You can do all the above in a long weekend (really)

Probably the most incredible thing we found was how much you can pack into a short period of time in Zimbabwe and Botswana.

Botswana-Safari

Rex

Botswana-Safari

From incredible wildlifeto luxury accommodation and unique exploration opportunities, the region truly has something for everybody - and while you can spend weeks bouncing around the continent, you can also find tours that allow you to see all the above in just four short nights.

'MTV Travelled With... AAT- African Albida Tourism, who offer The Long Weekend Safari package - priced from US$1,620/GBP1,149* per person sharing in the 2018 Green Season, staying in Victoria Falls Safari Lodge Standard Room on a bed and breakfast basis for one night, and on fully inclusive basis with activities at Ngoma Safari Lodge for two nights. Price includes a sunset cruise on the Zambezi Explorer's signature deck, dinner at The Boma - Dinner and Drum Show, a Guided Tour of Victoria Falls (excludes National Park fees) and all road transfers. *Prices in Pound Sterling are according to today’s exchange rate.'

'Ethiopian Airlines operates 4 weekly flights from Heathrow to Vic Falls via Addis Ababa with a modern fleet.Lead in return fares from London start at £499 economy and £1962 business class, inclusive of all taxes, bookable online at www.ethiopianairlines.com; telephone 0800 016 3449 or via travel agencies.'

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