Dreamz

This adventure begins with the train’s departure from Vacation Dreamz to Pretoria. Travel north through Warmbaths (Bela-Bela), so named for its mineral waters, and Nylstroom (Modimolle), christened by the Voortrekkers as the source of the Nile River as the town’s river happened to be north flowing. Cross the Tropic of Capricorn and Limpopo River towards Bulawayo, second city of Zimbabwe, capital of Matabeleland and industrial capital of the country. Enjoy a game drive (4-night journey only) in Matobo National Park, a World Heritage Site with bushmen caves, rock art and dramatic granite hills. It is also the site of Cecil John Rhodes’ grave atop the summit of Malindidzimu – ‘hill of benevolent spirits’ with a ‘view of the world’. Travel along one of the world’s longest stretches of straight railway line – 114km – before traversing Hwange National Park, a rich and diverse wildlife sanctuary where a game drive excursion is enjoyed. Arrive at the incomparable Victoria Falls on the mighty Zambezi River where this sojourn ends. The surrounding areas offer travellers many recreational opportunities including cruises, whitewater rafting as well as superb game viewing and photo safaris. Available in reverse. Depending upon railway capacity, this journey could be routed through Botswana.

How to reach from New Delhi Durban:

By Air:

• Book a Flight: There are no direct flights from New Delhi to Victoria Falls. You will need to take connecting flights, usually with one or two stops.

Common Airlines and Routes:

• Emirates: New Delhi (DEL) to Dubai (DXB) to Lusaka (LUN) or Harare (HRE), then a connecting flight to Victoria Falls (VFA).
• Qatar Airways: New Delhi (DEL) to Doha (DOH) to Johannesburg (JNB), then a connecting flight to Victoria Falls (VFA).
• Ethiopian Airlines: New Delhi (DEL) to Addis Ababa (ADD) to Victoria Falls (VFA).
• Kenya Airways: New Delhi (DEL) to Nairobi (NBO), then a connecting flight to Victoria Falls (VFA).

Steps:

• Search for Flights: Use flight search engines like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or visit airline websites to find suitable flights.
• Book Tickets: Choose the best option based on price, duration, and layover time. Book your tickets in advance to secure the best deals.

Prepare Travel Documents:

• Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
• Visa: Check visa requirements for Zimbabwe or Zambia (depending on your arrival airport) and apply if necessary.
• Packing: Pack according to the weather and activities planned at Victoria Falls. Adhere to airline baggage policies.
• Health and Safety: Check for required vaccinations or health advisories.

Arrival at Victoria Falls:

• Victoria Falls Airport (VFA): The main airport serving Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.
• Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI): Another option, located in Livingstone, Zambia, close to Victoria Falls.

Transportation from Airport to Victoria Falls:

• Airport Transfers: Many hotels and lodges offer airport transfer services.
• Taxis and Shuttles: Available at both airports for transport to Victoria Falls.
• Car Rentals: Available if you prefer to drive yourself.

Tips:

• Time Zone: Zimbabwe and Zambia are 3.5 hours behind India (IST to CAT).
• Currency: The local currencies are the Zimbabwean Dollar (ZWL) and Zambian Kwacha (ZMW). US Dollars are widely accepted.
• Local SIM Card: Consider purchasing a local SIM card for easier communication and internet access.