Extraordinary Africa>Zimbabwe>Lake Kariba and Matusadona>Bumi Hills
Beautiful Bumi Hills is one of the most luxurious lodges overlooking Lake Kariba, with a whole range of activities for guests who like plenty of variety.
What’s Bumi Hills really like?
Bumi Hills is definitely more solid feeling and lodge-like than many of Zimbabwe’s more rustic safari camps. It has a gym, spa and a stunning infinity pool overlooking the lake, so it’s an ideal choice if you’d like a little dose of luxury or a chance to relax at the end of a more intensive safari. The main lodge is built around the pool, with several cosy places to sit, and an indoor dining room, though meals are often eaten outside on the deck.
Stretching away from the main lodge, each of the ten suites looks out over the lake, famous for its thunderstorms crackling across the water. All of the rooms are air conditioned, and have a private balcony. Beds look out towards the lake with the bathroom set back behind. There’s also the two-bedroomed Baobab Villa which has its own living room, dining deck and private vehicle, making it an excellent option for a family safari.
What can I do at Bumi Hills?
While we think it’s probably fair to say that wildlife densities around Matusadona don’t compare to the big-name parks elsewhere in Zimbabwe, game drives in Bumi’s private conservation area are still worthwhile, especially for elephant lovers. With the top-notch reputation of Zimbabwean guides, walking safaris are a great way to explore the area up close, though for safety reasons these are for over 16s only. But what makes Bumi Hills really special is the range of activities you can do on the water. Birding is always rewarding, there are gorgeous afternoon boat safaris, and catch and release fishing for tiger fish or bream is ever popular on Lake Kariba. You also have the chance to visit the local communities who live outside the wildlife area.
Family safaris at Bumi Hills:
Bumi Hills has a special programme of activities for children called the Ngwana Club. These include nature walks around the camp, cooking classes, crafts and storytelling. All far more interesting than sitting in a vehicle with adults looking at animals!
Giving back at Bumi Hills:
For every night that you spend at Bumi Hills $10 goes to support the running of the African Bush Camps Foundation. Amongst other projects, the Foundation is working to reduce human-wildlife conflict around Mola Village, where the community suffer from predator attacks on farm animals and poaching remains a concern. They’re also fundraising to improve conditions in the local primary and secondary school.
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