Experience magical Africa
We’re privileged to be located on a private concession that has amazing scenery and landscapes and an abundant array of animals, birds, insects, trees and other plant life.
Wildlife on the Kavinga concession
During the rainy season, wildlife disperses across Mana Pools National Park and the Zambezi Escarpment. However, as water sources shrink and the grass starts to thin, more and more animals flock to our permanent waterhole. From April onwards, animal numbers begin to increase, reaching their peak in the dry months of August, September, and October. During this time, up to 1,000 buffalo and 500 elephants can drink at our waterhole within a 24 hour period.
Throughout the day, baboon troops and warthog families frequent the waterhole. Meanwhile, just in front of camp, you can often see zebra and a wide range of antelope grazing peacefully in the riverbed. These include impala, kudu, eland, bushbuck, waterbuck, nyala, duiker, and grysbok.
Predators are never far. Our camp is regularly visited by leopard, lion, wild dog, and spotted hyena, offering thrilling encounters for guests. Over the years, we’ve also been fortunate to witness a few cheetah sightings.
Smaller yet equally fascinating creatures add to the diversity. It’s common to spot jackals, civets, servals, mongooses, honey badgers, and porcupines around camp. On rare occasions, some of our experienced guides have even caught glimpses of elusive species like the brown hyena, aardvark, and pangolin.
Bird species found at camp
Set in one of Zimbabwe’s richest and most diverse birding regions, Kavinga Safari Camp offers exceptional birdwatching opportunities in the heart of the Zambezi Valley.
Raptors are a frequent and exciting sight. You’ll often spot Martial Eagles, Bateleurs, Western Banded Snake Eagles, and several species of vultures circling above or perched nearby, scanning the bush for prey.
At the start of the rainy season in November, the concession becomes a prime location to spot one of Africa’s most sought-after birds — the elusive African Pitta. This vibrant, secretive species is a dream sighting for any birder. It’s just one of many lifers that you can tick off on a safari here.
There is always birding activity around camp. Colourful bee-eater colonies visit the waterhole regularly, while the dazzling Broad-billed and Lilac-breasted Rollers flash by in bursts of colour. Whether you’re a dedicated birder or just discovering the joys of birdwatching, Kavinga Safari Camp offers a unique and unforgettable birding safari experience in the heart of Mana Pools.
Around the concession
Apart from the abundant wildlife, we’re lucky to be surrounded by beautiful scenery and a variety of biomes and habitats. Whether it’s the majestic baobabs, stunning river cliff faces, dense riverine vegetation, or dry riverbeds and scrublands, there’s sure to be a vista that captures your heart during your visit to Kavinga.
“We had the most wonderful stay – yet again – with daily double doses of leopards and lions, not to mention all the other wonderful creatures. Fantastic guiding, and we have been made so welcome. Can’t wait to be back next year. Many thanks for an unforgettable stay.”